Car Hire Le Havre - Mini guide to Le Havre

The busy port of Le Havre, located on the Seine estuary, offers tourists unique architecture, great nightlife and close proximity to magnificent beaches and picturesque countryside.

The city dates from 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. It was also the port for the great luxury liners like the Normandie, Île de France and France. The most interesting aspect of the city is that it was almost totally rebuilt after WWII by one single architect, Auguste Perret, who went to great lengths to ensure that the new development complemented the ancient architecture of the old harbour town. The main feature of his work is the low skyline, which makes the sea visible at the end of almost every street and creates an atmosphere of spaciousness. Strolling around the town and discovering the remnants of the original harbor town is both exhilarating and rewarding.

The surrounding area of Seine Maritime provides endless recreational and touring opportunities. Normandy's dramatic northern coastline stretches to the east and west of Le Havre, and includes such scenic treasures as Dieppe and Étretat. Dieppe in particular impresses with the massive white cliffs of the aptly named Côte d'Albâtre (Alabaster Coast) stretching away to either side of its harbour. The shore all the way east from Le Havre to Dieppe is full of enchanting seaside resorts and villages.

A worthwhile inland excursion is along the meandering course of the River Seine, where traditional rural villages are located upstream and downstream of the provincial capital of Rouen. Taking the D982 you will come across interesting sights including the medieval abbeys of Jumièges and St-Wandrille. Rouen itself, synonymous with the execution of Joan of Arc, is a prime destination. Further upstream are Monet's charming house and garden at Giverny and the magnificent Château Gaillard at Les Andelys.

Paris’ Charles de Gaulle International Airport is the closest international airport to Le Havre, and connections can easily be made to the harbour town.