Cherbourg, one of France’s great Channel ports, is closely linked to French naval history, and to transatlantic adventures – the Titanic even made its final stop here on its fateful journey, as recalled at the Cité de la Mer, one of the port town’s main tourist attractions.
Why should you visit Cherbourg?
Known to the British above all as a ferry port, Cherbourg has a gritty history as a naval harbour. It also has glamorous connections with cruise ships and major yacht races. Located at the top of Normandy’s substantial, western Cotentin peninsula, the deep natural harbour here is backed by steep wooded hillsides. It was an obvious place for a fortified port.
Cherbourg prides itself on a vibrant local lifestyle and culture with its Italian-style theater, art and history museums, its basilica, the Ravalet castle and, of course, the Cité de la Mer. Set on the green slopes of the Cotentin, the city hosts the second largest artificial harbour in the world, part of the legacy of the 18th century.
Things to see and do in Cherbourg
01
La Grande Rade
One of the most ambitious works of the Age of Enlightenment period is a 4km rampart thrown into the sea, with no connection to the coast. Interrupted during the Revolution, works resumed under Napoleon who ordered the construction of a war port. It was not until 1853 that the central dike was completed.
02
The Cité de la Mer
set in the spacious former Art Deco transatlantic terminal building (Gare Maritime) where ocean liner passengers embarked and disembarked, this major museum opened in 2002 and offers a wide variety of themed areas. There are parts dedicated to underwater exploration, aquariums full of sea creatures, and an exhibition devoted to the Titanic. The topic of immigration from Cherbourg is also covered. The highlight for many visitors is boarding the disused French nuclear submarine, Le Redoutable, which is the world’s largest submarine open to the public.
03
Les Parapluies de Cherbourg
If you loved Jacques Demy’s film ‘Les Parapluies de Cherbourg’, you must visit this factory! It gives some of its secrets during a live guided tour of the site, allowing the privileged visitor to find out in real time the making of a genuine Cherbourg umbrella, which is obviously unique!
04
Thomas Henry Museum
His art museum in the centre of town reopened in 2015 after undergoing renovations. It contains works by celebrated international figures, the paintings given to the town in the 1830s by Thomas Henry, a native of Cherbourg who became a leading art expert at the Louvre. Talented local artists are also well represented, including Millet, who lived near Cherbourg and painted memorable scenes of rural life in the Cotentin in the 19th century.
05
Liberation Museum
At the Fort du Roule, it shows the decisive role played by the port of Cherbourg during its liberation from the summer of 1944 to the winter of 1945.
As well as…
- Basilica of Sainte-Trinité: Cherbourg’s major church, the Holy Trinity Basilica, displays a whole mix of styles, as it was added to down many centuries.
- Château des Ravalet in Tourlaville: on the outskirts of Cherbourg, visit these magnificent gardens laid out beside a 16th century castle.
- La Maison du Littoral et de l’Environnement: in Tourlaville, this environmental centre organises hiking tours of the area, among other things.
A different way to discover the Cotentin
Our selection of Normandy Experiences
Normandy Experiences are local gems that add meaning to your trip. You’ll meet Normandy people who are truly passionate about what they do.
Coasteering on the wild shores of Cotentin
Surtainville
Private Boat Tour in the marshes of Cotentin
Carentan-les-Marais
Fly an Aeroplume and Soar like a Bird!
Écausseville
The local speciality
Cherbourg is home to France’s only open sea farmed salmon. 100% Norman, these salmon are farmed in the Cherbourg roadstead and smoked on site. Muscled by the currents, their flesh is tender and generous!
How do I get to Cherbourg?
- By train: from Paris Saint-Lazare, direct line via Caen.
- By ferry: there are links to Cherbourg from England (Portsmouth and Poole) and Ireland (Rosslare and Dublin).
- By coach: Route 301 of the Nomad Car network serves Cherbourg en Cotentin. Some Cap Cotentin buses also serve the town.
- By bike: Cherbourg is crossed by the VéloMaritime, a route between Roscoff and Dunkirk.
Market days in Cherbourg
The main markets in Cherbourg-en-Cotentin are the Thursday and Saturday morning markets on the Place De Gaulle and the Sunday morning market on the Avenue de Normandie.
By train, by bike or on foot
Our ideas for your stay in Cherbourg
Explore Normandy at your own pace and enjoy a more responsible holiday. You’ll also find some of our best addresses: hotels, restaurants and places to visit, all accessible without a car.
