Le Havre Ferry Port
The busy port of Le Havre, situated at the mouth of the River Seine in the heart of Normandy, less than 200 km from Paris, offers tourists unique architecture, great nightlife and close proximity to magnificent beaches and picturesque countryside.
The city dates back to 1517, and was the principal trading post of France's northern coast, becoming particularly affluent during, and after the American War of Independence from importing goods such as cotton, sugar and tobacco.
The Ferry Port:
Le Havre ferry port is the second largest in France in terms of traffic, and benefits from direct motorways, linking to Rouen, Paris and the north of France, but also - via the famous “Normandy Bridge” - Honfleur, Deauville and the beaches of Normandy, Cotentin, and Mont Saint-Michel. It is a multi-purpose commercial port with a wide range of terminals, equipped to process all types of cargo along with providing the traditional passenger services as well.
An ultramodern “Citadelle” terminal is especially reserved for LD Lines, which is close to the city centre and its bustling boutiques.
The Le Havre ferry terminal is equipped with a wide range of passenger facilities,including:
- Cafeteria
- Reception desk
- Toilets
- Seating Area
- Satellite Television
- Baby Changing Facilities
- Facilities for disabled persons
- Tourist information kiosk
The terminal provides both short and long term parking facilities, and also provides conveniently located spaces for disabled drivers.
For any further information regarding the car parking facilities, please call 0 825 304 304 or (+) 33 140 66 1717.
Things to do/visit:
The city was totally destroyed during World War II; however it was rebuilt by Auguste Perret known as the “poet of reinforced concrete” between 1945 and 1964.
A stroll through the city centre, which is close to the LD Lines terminal, has visitors admiring the diversity of colour and form in this decidedly modern city. Le Havre as a seafront resort offers a range of water sports, or you can simply enjoy a walk along the beautiful beach. Le Havre transforms itself by night, with the whole city centre draped in lights, which makes it even more beautiful and a fantastic holiday destination.
André Malraux Museum:
A magnificent collection of Impressionist paintings are on show.
Saint Joseph Church:
Built in 1957, the church towers up at 106 metres. It stands like a light house in the city centre and is dedicated to the memory of the victims of the World War II bombings. The inside is decorated by 6500 coloured windows.
Maison de l’Armeteur:
This building is one of the many architectural masterpieces with its octagonal centrepiece.
Natural History Museum:
Located in the former courthouse dating back to the 18th century, it has an exceptional collection of naturalistic drawn art, mainly from the 19th century. There is also a lot on offer to keep the kids busy too.
Notre-Dame Cathedral:
Built in 1575, it represents some of the architectural grandeur of the 16th century.
Le Volcan:
The more modern addition is Le Volcan, built in 1982; it’s a work of art from a Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer. This represents a volcano and houses a theatre and a cinema.
Places to eat and drink:
Le Havre being the city which is open to foreign cultures because of the numerous ships that arrive every day, offers a variety of cuisines to suit everybody’s taste. Along with regional specialities like the creperies and the Provencal cuisine, you will also find restaurants offering Caribbean, North African, American, Asian, Middle East and Mediterranean cuisines. Just a short walk along the city centre opens up various avenues you can explore.
Places to stay:
Le Havre offers a wide range of accommodation from small and intimate B&B’s to more luxurious hotels whether you’re looking for a short break or a longer stay.
For more details, or to book your accommodation please visit LD Lines Holidays.
> www.ldlinesholidays.co.uk
For more information about Le Havre, please visit:
> www.lehavretourisme.com
See also:
Portsmouth Snapshot of a city
Newhaven snapshot of a city
Dieppe snapshot of a city
Rosslare snapshot of a city
