Honfleur is a lesser known French town with a mighty history. Located in Normandy, this area
made a tempting target for Viking invasions, and was the launching pad for the Norman conquest
of England in 1066 CE, however, it’s along the coast where the darker contours of Normandy
emerge with reminders of the greatest ever amphibious landing.
From where your ship docks it’s just over 2km into town. Depending on your choice of cruise line,
a shuttle bus service may be offered. Taxis are not readily available at the port, and most drivers
do not speak English. Prepare and download a Honfleur walking map.
Honfleur is an inviting little town, with a u-shaped harboured lined with all manner of boats, with
a promenade of cafes and seafood restaurants. The town is closely linked to the founding of
Quebec City in Canada and the naming of Louisiana in the USA. There is churches, a maritime
museum, and displays of art from Boudin, Monet, Dufy & Dubourg. Honfleur offers a pleasant
distraction with its narrow streets.
Shops close for lunch between 12 & 3pm and you’ll need Euro or credit card.
For most, an emotional visit to the D-Day landing beaches, the largest military operation in
history, is their priority.
On the morning of June 6, 1944, swarms of landing craft hit the beaches and tens of thousands of
soldiers from the USA, UK, and other countries, invaded the coast of France. On sea and land,
Australians commanded, piloted and fought their way forward, however, our main contribution
was in the air above.
Your cruise line will offer tours to the Normandy beaches, with visits to Omaha Beach and the
Invasion Museum.
Also easily accessible from Honfleur is the town of Bayeux, the first French town to be liberated
in WWII and thankfully undamaged, where you can see the Bayeau Tapestry. Perhaps make your
way to Deauville, or one of the 100 most picturesque villages in France, Beuvron en Auge. You’re
in Calvados country, which you’re sure to sample, along with incredible cheeses.
Roger’s Quick Tips
Best Months: June – September
Don’t Miss: Normandy beaches
Tour or Not: For most, take a tour to make the
most of your day
Sightseeing: D-Day Normandy beaches
Food: Calvados and Normandy cheeses
Language: French
Currency: Euro
Shopping: Calvados and cheese, and everything French
Cash or Card: Euro and credit cards are widely accepted
By Roger Condon, cruise sales manager, Discover the World Marketing – with 15 years at sea.
