Honfleur — the painters' harbour.

Why go

Honfleur's Vieux Bassin (old harbour) is one of Normandy's prettiest sights — tall, narrow houses reflected in the water, fishing boats, and cafés spilling onto the quay. The light here inspired Boudin, Monet and the early Impressionists, and it still feels like a painting.

What to see

• The Vieux Bassin & Quai Sainte-Catherine — the iconic harbour and its leaning houses.
• Église Sainte-Catherine — France's largest timber-built church, made by shipwrights.
• The Lieutenance — the old harbour gate at the entrance to the basin.
• Seafood — oysters and the day's catch, right by the water.

Getting there from Rouen

Honfleur is about 1 hour by car from Rouen, crossing the spectacular Pont de Normandie over the Seine estuary. There's no direct train, so driving or a guided tour is easiest. It pairs naturally with the closing days of the Armada, when the fleet heads down toward this very estuary.

Combine it with the Armada

Honfleur sits near the mouth of the Seine — the same waters the fleet sails into during the Grande Parade. Pair it with Étretat or Le Havre for a full coastal day.

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