✓ Handpicked Luxury Stays in Budget on 🏡 booking.com
There are great many things to do in France, and so are in Le Havre.
Le Havre is a treasure trove waiting to be explored with its charming sights and rich cultural offerings.
Discover the city’s hidden gems and immerse yourself in its vibrant atmosphere.
From strolling through picturesque streets to indulging in delicious gastronomic delights, Le Havre has something for everyone.
So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey through this magnificent destination!
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Le Havre:
1. MuMa – Museum of Modern Art André Malraux
The MuMa – Museum of Modern Art André Malraux is a contemporary art museum located in Le Havre, France.
What to see or do: The museum boasts an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art from the 20th and 21st centuries. Visitors can view works by renowned artists such as Monet, Dufy, Braque, and Friesz, among others.
Additionally, the museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, film screenings, lectures and events related to contemporary art and culture.
Don’t miss: The museum’s impressive collection of Impressionist, Fauvist and Cubist works, which showcase the evolution of modern art movements. The museum’s collection of Eugene Boudin’s paintings, a local artist who influenced the Impressionist movement, is also worth checking out.
Insider travel tips: – Plan your visit on Sundays when the museum offers free entrance to visitors.
2. Saint Joseph Church
Saint Joseph Church is a modernist Catholic church situated in the city center of Le Havre, France. It was built between 1951 and 1957 and designed by architect Auguste Perret.
What to see or do: The church’s impressive bell tower is 107 meters high, making it the tallest in France. Visitors can climb to the top for stunning views of the city and the English Channel.
The interior of the church is also worth exploring, with beautiful stained-glass windows and a unique cylindrical design.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to witness the church’s impressive light show, which takes place every night from sunset until midnight. The tower is illuminated with colorful lights, creating a stunning spectacle both inside and outside of the church.
Insider travel tips: – Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and long waits to climb the tower.
3. Appartement témoin Perret
The Appartement témoin Perret is a reconstructed apartment unit designed by Auguste Perret, an influential architect known for his work on the rebuilding of Le Havre after it was destroyed during World War II.
What to see or do: Visitors can tour the reconstructed apartment unit and admire Perret’s innovative use of concrete as a building material. The apartment’s interiors are furnished with period pieces to create an authentic setting.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the building’s facade, which features Perret’s signature style of exposed concrete in a grid-like pattern.
The building’s design is considered a landmark in the history of modern architecture.
Insider travel tips: – The Appartement témoin Perret is part of a larger architectural trail through Le Havre, which visitors can explore to see more examples of Perret’s work.
4. Jardins Suspendus
Jardins Suspendus, also known as Hanging Gardens, is a stunning botanical garden situated atop the city of Le Havre in Normandy, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the beautiful garden with over 17,000 different plant species and enjoy panoramic views of the city and the sea.
There are also several walking trails to discover the diverse flora and fauna.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the garden is the view of the city from the terrace, especially at sunset. It is also a great spot for picnics with friends and family.
Insider travel tips: – The garden is best visited during the summer months when most of the plants are in full bloom.
5. Maison de l’Armateur
Maison de l’Armateur is a 18th-century shipowner’s house that has been turned into a museum in Le Havre, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the rooms of the museum, which are decorated in a period style to show how the shipowner would have lived.
There are also exhibits that showcase the history of Le Havre and the importance of shipping to the city’s economy.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of Maison de l’Armateur is the collection of model ships that are on display. These intricate models show the types of vessels that were used for trade and exploration during the age of sail.
Insider travel tips: – Plan to spend about an hour at the museum to see everything.
6. Vauban Docks
A historic dockyard in Le Havre, France, built in the 17th century by military engineer Vauban.
What to see or do: Take a stroll around the restored docks and enjoy the stunning views of the harbor and the city. Visit the Maritime Museum and the Museum of Natural History, both located within the Docks.
Don’t miss: The Hanging Gardens, located on the roof of the Docks. This urban park offers a beautiful oasis with panoramic views and a wide variety of plants.
Insider travel tips: Visit the Docks during sunset for an unforgettable experience. Make sure to stop by the nearby Saint Joseph Church, a unique modernist structure that is worth checking out.
7. Le Havre Cathedral
Le Havre Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, is a Catholic cathedral located in the city of Le Havre, France.
It is a national monument of France and showcases an innovative architecture style.
What to see or do: The cathedral features modern stained glass windows, a massive organ, and a beautiful choir. It is known for its unique architecture as it was designed by Auguste Perret in the 1950s.
Visitors can admire the cathedral’s concrete exterior and the large bell tower. The cathedral also features art exhibitions throughout the year.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the view from the cathedral’s bell tower as it offers a panoramic view of the city of Le Havre.
Insider travel tips: – Visit the cathedral during the daytime to fully appreciate the stained glass windows.
8. Les Bains des Docks
Les Bains des Docks is a modern aquatic and wellness center in the port city of Le Havre, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a range of activities in the state-of-the-art facilities, including swimming in the 50-meter Olympic-sized pool, relaxing in the sauna and steam rooms, or indulging in one of the many spa treatments on offer.
Don’t miss: The unique architectural design of the center, created by renowned French architect Jean Nouvel.
The striking building features a transparent roof that allows natural light to flood the space, creating a serene environment for relaxation.
Insider travel tips: – Check the schedule before your visit, as some areas of the facility may be closed for maintenance or private events.
9. Volcano
Volcano is a cultural center located in the heart of Le Havre, France.
What to see or do: The center hosts a variety of events such as theater performances, concerts, exhibitions, and dance shows. Discover the beautiful and modern architecture of the building, designed by renowned Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer.
Don’t miss: Check out the impressive central staircase, which is made of bright red steel and leads to a rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the city.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to book your tickets in advance for any shows or events that interest you. Additionally, consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the history and design of the Volcano building.
10. Place des Halles Centrales
Place des Halles Centrales is a bustling square in the heart of Le Havre, France.
What to see or do: The square is home to the city’s central market, where locals gather to buy fresh produce and seafood. Visitors can explore the indoor market and admire the colorful displays of fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, and baked goods.
Don’t miss: In addition to the market, the square is surrounded by restaurants, cafes, and shops.
Visitors can take a break from shopping and enjoy a coffee or glass of wine at one of the outdoor terraces.
Insider travel tips: The market is open daily, but the best time to visit is early in the morning when the vendors first set up their stalls.
If you’re interested in trying the local seafood, look for the stalls selling fresh oysters, clams, and shrimp.
Keep in mind that many of the restaurants and shops in the area close for a few hours in the afternoon, so plan accordingly.
11. Le Portique Contemporary Art Centre
Le Portique Contemporary Art Centre is a museum in Le Havre, France that features contemporary art exhibits.
What to see or do: Visitors can see various exhibits showcasing contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, installations, and multimedia installations. The museum is dedicated to showcasing contemporary artists from France and around the world.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the permanent exhibition at the museum, which displays works from previous exhibits and offers a glimpse into the contemporary art scene in France.
Insider travel tips: – If you are looking to save money, the museum offers free admission on the first Sunday of every month.
12. Musée d’histoire naturelle du Havre
The Musée d’histoire naturelle du Havre (The Natural History Museum of Le Havre) is a museum dedicated to natural history and biodiversity.
What to see or do: The museum exhibits a collection of over 1,000 specimens from around the world, including skeletons of large mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish.
Visitors can also admire the impressive collection of shells, minerals and fossils, as well as the interactive exhibits on evolution, geology and ecology.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the impressive skeleton of a sperm whale hanging from the ceiling, one of the highlights of the museum.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is closed on Mondays.
13. Théâtre François-Victor-Hugo
Théâtre François-Victor-Hugo is a historic theater located in the heart of Le Havre, France.
What to see or do: Catch a live performance at this historic theater. The programming includes everything from plays and musicals to concerts and comedy shows.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the stunning architecture of the theater, which was originally built in the 19th century and has been renovated multiple times throughout the years.
Insider travel tips: – Book your tickets in advance to secure the best seats.
14. Le Havre Beach
A long pebble beach located in the city of Le Havre, France.
What to see or do: Enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach promenade, take a dip in the English Channel, or sunbathe on the smooth pebbles.
Don’t miss: The view of the sunset over the sea is a must-see.
Insider travel tips: Bring water shoes to make it easier to walk on the pebbles. Also, consider visiting during the weekdays when it’s less crowded.
15. Square Saint Roch
Square Saint Roch is a charming public park located in the heart of Le Havre, France.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll around the park while admiring its beautiful fountains, lush greenery, and colorful flowers. Relax on one of the benches and soak up the peaceful atmosphere.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the statue of Saint Roch, the patron saint of the sick, which is located in the center of the park.
Insider travel tips: This park is a great place to take a break from the bustling city and enjoy a picnic or a book.
The park is easily accessible by foot or by public transportation.