This pretty port town inspired some of France’s greatest Impressionist artists with its picturesque harbour and traditional Normandy charm.
Honfleur is a quaint seaside town that is renowned for its scenic harbour and for being one of the important sites in the development of the Impressionist movement. Discover its charming narrow cobbled streets, historic slate-fronted houses and fascinating maritime-themed museums.
Walk around the Vieux-Bassin (Old Dock) and note the tall, narrow old houses surrounding the harbour on three sides. The harbour was immortalized by painters such as Gustave Courbet, Eugène Boudin and Claude Monet and inspired a style that contributed to the Impressionist movement.
A short walk from the harbour you will find Sainte-Catherine Church, the largest wooden church in France. Admire its two naves and the striking roof, which is partially covered in chestnut shingles. The first nave was constructed in the second half of the 15th century using naval construction techniques and resembles an upside-down ship’s hull. Stop by the Musée de la Marine located in the former Church of Saint-Étienne, where exhibits provide insight into Honfleur’s history as a busy port and the explorations of French mariners.
Visit the Eugène Boudin Museum, which is named after the town’s most famous painter and is located in a 19th-century chapel. See paintings by Boudin as well as works by other 19th- and 20th-century artists, including Dubourg, Monet and Courbet, who lived and worked in Honfleur and the surrounding area.
Honfleur is also the birthplace of musician and composer Erik Satie. Learn more about his life and works at Les Maisons Satie.
Take a tour of the Greniers à Sel (Salt Granaries). These immense stone buildings were built around 1670 and are able to store up to 11,200 tons (10,000 long tons) of salt. Today, the buildings are used for exhibitions and concerts.
Honfleur is the perfect starting point for exploring the Pays d’Auge, the agricultural area around the basin of the Touques River. Embark on the route du cidre (cider trail) or the route des fromages (cheese trail) and sample locally produced camembert and apple cider.
Honfleur is a 2-hour drive from Paris. Catch a ferry to the port at Ouistreham and make the 1-hour drive to town. The nearest airport is Deauville-Saint Gatien Airport, a 15-minute drive from Honfleur.
