Le Havre & Honfleur – A Taste of France.

Created by 3GoExploring.

Nestled in the heart of Normandy, Le Havre is a bustling port city perched at the mouth of the River Seine. Before venturing further, we took some time to explore this unique city, one that tells a story of resilience and reinvention. Le Havre was largely rebuilt in concrete after World War II, and today, its striking post-war architecture, designed by Auguste Perret, has earned it a UNESCO World Heritage status.

Among its many landmarks, St. Joseph Church stood out the most, a towering concrete structure that dominates the skyline, yet inside, thousands of colourful stained-glass windows cast an enchanting glow, transforming the space into a kaleidoscope of light.

Beyond its history and architecture, Le Havre also delights the senses with its vibrant food markets. We wandered through bustling stalls overflowing with fresh seafood, fragrant cheeses, and freshly baked breads. The catch of the day port was a highlight, with glistening fish and shellfish ready to be transformed into a delicious meal. The market was a true feast for the eyes.

While Le Havre has its own charm, for us, it was a gateway to even more of France’s beauty. Many travellers use it as a stepping-stone en route to Paris, but for us, Honfleur was at the top of our must-see list. We had pre-booked a coach to this picturesque town, and the journey itself was a treat—passing over the stunning Pont de Normandie, a magnificent cable-stayed bridge stretching 856 meters across the Seine Estuary. As we neared Honfleur, we were welcomed by rolling apple orchards, famous for producing the region’s beloved cider and Calvados.

Honfleur is pure magic. One of the most visited towns in France, it immediately captivates you with its serene charm. The Vieux Bassin, lined with beautifully preserved half-timbered houses, shimmers in the reflection of the harbour, while winding cobbled alleyways invite you to step back in time. 

Wandering through these narrow streets felt like stepping straight into Diagon Alley—with their mysterious, twisting passageways, timber-framed architecture, and hidden nooks, it was easy to imagine stumbling upon a secret wizarding shop.

It’s no wonder Claude Monet and other Impressionist painters found endless inspiration here. We couldn’t resist sitting on one of the many harbourside benches, simply soaking in the atmosphere.

A visit to Honfleur wouldn’t be complete without stepping inside Église Sainte-Catherine, the largest wooden church in France.

Built by 15th-century shipbuilders, its striking timber design resembles an upturned boat, a testament to the town’s rich maritime history. The warm wooden interior, bathed in soft natural light, adds to its charm, making it one of the most unique and breathtaking churches we’ve ever seen.

For a breathtaking perspective, we highly recommend the short walk up to Mont-Joli Viewpoint. From here, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of the Seine and the charming rooftops of Honfleur.

Just a little further lies the historic Chapelle Notre-Dame de Grâce, a peaceful spot steeped in history and well worth the visit.

Honfleur felt like a place where time slows down—a town meant to be savoured, a picture-perfect slice of Normandy that feels like stepping into a painting.

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