Discover the Top 10 Must-do Attractions in Honfleur, France

Honfleur, France, is a charming port town known for its picturesque harbor, historic architecture, and vibrant arts scene. This short stop (just one night!) won me over and was my favorite part of our France 2024 itinerary. It’s a cozy, tiny town — you can complete most of the things on this list in one day—maybe two.

Here are the top 10 things to do in this city that’s sure to win you over in one evening.

1. Vieux Bassin (Old Harbor): Stroll along the waterfront of the Vieux Bassin, lined with colorful 16th to 18th-century buildings and bustling with cafes, restaurants, and art galleries.

2. Marché aux Poissons (Fish Market): Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Honfleur's fish market, located near the old harbor. Experience the hustle and bustle as local fishermen and vendors display their fresh catches of the day, including an array of seafood delights such as fish, shellfish, and crustaceans. Browse the stalls, engage with the friendly sellers, and perhaps purchase some fresh seafood to enjoy a taste of the sea during your visit to Honfleur.

3. Musée Eugène Boudin: Explore the museum dedicated to the works of Eugène Boudin, a renowned French landscape painter who was born in Honfleur. The museum also showcases works by other artists associated with the town.

4. Maison Satie: Discover the eccentric world of composer Erik Satie at Maison Satie, a museum dedicated to his life and work. The museum offers a multimedia journey through Satie's music and artistic influences.

5. Naturospace: Immerse yourself in the tropical oasis of Naturospace, a unique botanical garden and butterfly sanctuary located in Honfleur. Wander through lush vegetation, surrounded by colorful butterflies fluttering freely in a controlled environment. It's a perfect spot for nature lovers and families alike, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the town.

6. Glaces de la Ferme: Treat yourself to artisanal ice cream made from locally sourced ingredients at Glaces de la Ferme. Indulge in a variety of flavors, from classic favorites to inventive combinations, all crafted with care and attention to quality.

7. Walk along Quai Sainte-Catherine: Take a leisurely stroll along Quai Sainte-Catherine, a charming street that runs alongside the harbor and offers stunning views of the boats and buildings.

8. Sainte-Catherine's Church: Visit the picturesque Sainte-Catherine's Church, situated on the hill overlooking Honfleur. This unique church features nautical decor, with its separate bell tower designed to resemble an upturned ship's hull. Explore the interior adorned with maritime motifs and discover the rich history of this architectural gem, offering panoramic views of the town and harbor from its elevated vantage point.

9. Pont de Normandie: Drive or walk across the Pont de Normandie, an impressive cable-stayed bridge that spans the Seine River and offers panoramic views of the estuary and surrounding countryside.

10. Enjoy Local Cuisine: Indulge in the delicious cuisine of Normandy at one of Honfleur's many restaurants. Don't miss out on specialties like seafood, Camembert cheese, cider, and Calvados, a regional apple brandy.

Whether you're interested in history, art, or simply soaking up the picturesque atmosphere, Honfleur offers a wealth of experiences for visitors to enjoy.