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Paris is the famous excursion from Le Havre, but it means 5 to 6 hours on the road for 3 or 4 hours in the city. For many cruise passengers, the better port day is right next to the ship: the white cliffs of Étretat, 35 to 45 minutes away, and the old harbor of Honfleur, 30 minutes across the Normandy Bridge. With a private driver you see both, take your time for lunch and photos, and are back on board with a comfortable margin.
This guide is part of our Normandy Private Tours Guide.
Key Takeaways
- Étretat: about 35 to 45 minutes from the cruise terminal.
- Honfleur: about 30 minutes, across the Normandy Bridge.
- Relaxed timing: about 6 to 7 hours for both, with lunch.
- Ideal for short port calls when a Paris day trip is too tight.
Why Choose Honfleur and Étretat Over Paris?
| Honfleur and Étretat | Paris | |
|---|---|---|
| Time on the road | About 2 hours in total | 5 to 6 hours |
| Time on site | 4 to 5 hours | 3 to 4 hours |
| Minimum port call | About 7 hours | 10 to 11 hours |
| Stress about all-aboard time | Low | Higher, traffic in Paris |
| Best for | Scenery, photos, Normandy food | First visit to Paris, landmarks |
Still want Paris? Read our Le Havre cruise port to Paris guide.
Book your Le Havre shore excursion
Send us your ship and port times. We plan the day and get you back on board with a safety margin.
Étretat: The Famous White Cliffs
Étretat’s chalk cliffs, arches and needle rising from the sea inspired Monet and Courbet. Two easy walks give the best views:
- Falaise d’Aval: the Porte d’Aval arch and the Needle, the classic postcard view.
- Falaise d’Amont: the small chapel of Notre-Dame de la Garde and the view over the whole bay.
The paths are grassy and can be steep in places. Your chauffeur drops you close to the start of the walk you choose.
Honfleur: Normandy’s Most Charming Harbor
Honfleur’s Vieux Bassin, the old harbor lined with tall slate-covered houses, is one of the most painted places in France. Walk the cobbled streets, visit Sainte-Catherine Church, the largest wooden church in France, and stop for seafood, galettes or a Calvados tasting. Honfleur is also full of art galleries, a reminder that it was a cradle of Impressionism.
Recommended Port Day Itinerary
- 8:30 AM Pickup at the Le Havre cruise terminal, Pointe de Floride.
- 9:15 AM Étretat: walk to the Falaise d’Aval and the Needle viewpoint.
- 11:00 AM Drive to Honfleur across the Normandy Bridge (about 1 hour).
- 12:00 PM Lunch on the Vieux Bassin.
- 1:30 PM Free time in Honfleur: Sainte-Catherine Church, galleries and shops.
- 3:00 PM Return to the ship (about 30 minutes).
- 3:30 PM Back at the cruise terminal, well before all-aboard time.
We adapt the schedule to your ship’s times. With a longer call, add a stop at Deauville’s boardwalk or a cider farm in the Pays d’Auge countryside.
Tips for Your Shore Excursion
- Send us your ship’s name and arrival and departure times when you book.
- Wear good walking shoes for the cliff paths in Étretat.
- Bring a windbreaker: the coast is windy even on sunny days.
- Honfleur is busy at lunchtime in summer: we can suggest restaurants to book.
- The return is planned with a safety margin before all-aboard time.
Which Car for Your Shore Excursion?
| Vehicle | Passengers | Suitcases | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mercedes V-Class (luxury van) | Up to 7 | Up to 7 | Families and groups of cruise friends, up to 7 passengers |
| Mercedes S-Class (luxury sedan) | Up to 3 | Up to 2 | Couples who want a luxury sedan |
| Mercedes-Maybach GLS (ultra-luxury SUV) | Up to 4 | Up to 4 | Special occasions and VIP guests |
| Cadillac Escalade (full-size SUV) | Up to 6 | Up to 5 | Groups of up to 6 who prefer a full-size SUV |
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Étretat from the Le Havre cruise port?
About 35 to 45 minutes by car, depending on traffic leaving Le Havre.
How far is Honfleur from Le Havre?
About 30 minutes by car across the Normandy Bridge.
Can I see Honfleur and Étretat in one port day?
Yes. With a private driver, about 6 to 7 hours is enough to see both with lunch, which fits most port calls.
What if the ship’s schedule changes?
Tell us as soon as you know. We follow your ship’s times and always plan the return with a safety margin.
Is the excursion suitable for older travelers?
Yes. Your chauffeur drops you close to each site, and you choose how much you want to walk on the cliffs.
Docking in Le Havre?
Private driver at the cruise terminal, English-speaking chauffeur, fixed price and a safe return to your ship.