Le Havre is a surprisingly versatile port for shore excursions. Thanks to its strategic location on France’s Normandy coast, it offers a wealth of options for history lovers, art enthusiasts, and those wanting a quick taste of Paris. We’re particularly fond of tours like the D-Day Beaches Shore Excursion with Packed Lunch for its in-depth WWII history and thoughtful logistics, and the Private 10-hour Shore Excursion to Paris from Le Havre for those craving a personalized city experience. Both offer immersive, well-organized ways to make the most of your time ashore.
Le Havre’s proximity to Normandy’s historic sites makes it ideal for WWII history buffs, while its easy access to Paris enables a full day of iconic sights. Whether you want to explore beaches and cemeteries or walk along the Seine, there’s a day trip designed for your interests.
1. D-Day Beaches Shore Excursion from Le Havre with Packed Lunch
For those eager to walk in the footsteps of history, this full-day tour takes you to Normandy’s D-Day landing sites. From Omaha Beach to the American Cemetery, you’ll get a comprehensive look at the pivotal events of June 6, 1944. The tour includes stops at the Cimetiere Militaire Allemand de La Cambe, where you can pay respects amidst peaceful surroundings. A highlight is the complementary lunch, featuring a classic French baguette — a simple but meaningful gesture that adds authenticity to your day.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on history and logistics. The guide explains complex WWII events clearly, ensuring you leave with a richer understanding. The 10-hour itinerary is designed to match your ship’s schedule, so no need to worry about missing the boat. Reviews consistently praise the expert guides, with one stating, “This was a worry-free, moving experience for history lovers.”
Bottom line: If you want a detailed, respectful, and accessible way to learn about D-Day, this tour offers excellent value and a heartfelt journey through history.
2. From Le Havre: Paris with River Cruise Shore Excursion
This tour is perfect for those wanting a taste of Paris without the hassle of navigating on their own. For around $197, you’ll enjoy a comfortable coach ride followed by a scenic 1-hour Seine river cruise. The cruise passes by main sights like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, offering great photo opportunities. You’ll also visit iconic landmarks such as the Arc de Triomphe and Notre Dame, with a passionate local guide sharing stories along the way.
The itinerary emphasizes ease and visual highlights, with stops at key locations for photos and brief visits. The Seine cruise is a standout feature — it bypasses the heavy Paris traffic and provides a relaxing way to see the city’s most famous monuments. Guests note that this tour is well-organized, with many saying it’s a “great way to fit Paris into a single day,” especially when tied to your cruise schedule.
Bottom line: For travelers who want a straightforward, comfortable overview of Paris’s most famous sights, this tour hits the mark and offers excellent value for the price.
3. From Le Havre Breathtaking Honfleur and Deauville Shore Excursion
Ideal for cruise passengers eager to explore charming seaside towns, this 6-hour tour visits Honfleur and Deauville. Honfleur’s artistic roots and picturesque harbor are complemented by the historic Church of Saint Catherine. Then, Deauville dazzles with its luxury boutiques, sandy beaches, and famous racecourse.
The guided tours of both towns are balanced with free time for personal exploration. Visitors love the scenery, with one reviewer calling Deauville “the jewel of the Norman coast.” The tour offers a great mix of guided insights and relaxed wandering, making it suitable for those who appreciate small towns with big character.
Bottom line: If you want a well-paced day in Norman coast towns with a mix of sightseeing and free exploration, this tour offers excellent value and memorable scenery.
4. Private 10-hour Shore Excursion to Paris from Le Havre (official guide in Paris)
For the ultimate personalized experience, this private tour offers 10 hours of bespoke sightseeing in Paris. It includes a private vehicle and a dedicated guide, allowing you to customize your itinerary. You can visit the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, the Champs-Elysees, and more, with the guide tailoring the stops to your interests.
Guests rave about the flexibility and in-depth insights; one reviewer noted, “Our guide, Joanna, was extremely knowledgeable and flexible, making our day unforgettable.” The private nature ensures you spend more time at your chosen sites, and the hassle-free pickup and drop-off make it a perfect option for those who want a private, tailored tour.
While it’s pricier at around $1,406, this tour is ideal for first-time visitors or groups seeking exclusivity. Be aware that entry to sites like the Eiffel Tower is not included, so plan accordingly.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who prioritize a personalized, flexible Paris experience and are willing to invest in comfort and customization.
5. Deluxe Paris Shore Excursion from Le Havre with Seine Cruise
This tour combines a scenic coach ride with a relaxing Seine river cruise, making it perfect for those wanting a comprehensive yet comfortable Paris experience. Starting with the Eiffel Tower, you’ll then cruise past Notre Dame and the Louvre, with stops at Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Elysees for photos and free exploration.
The biggest draw is the Seine cruise, which offers a different perspective of Paris without the walking. Many reviewers praise the smooth organization and friendly guides, emphasizing how well this tour fits into a ship’s schedule. The tour costs about $102 per person, offering good value for a full day of sightseeing.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for travelers who want a stress-free, scenic overview of Paris with the bonus of a relaxing Seine cruise.
6. Mont Saint Michel Shore Excursion from Le Havre Cruise Ship Port
This full-day trip is perfect for those eager to see one of France’s most iconic landmarks. The visit includes a scenic bus ride through Normandy, a guided tour of Mont Saint Michel, and free time to explore the medieval streets and abbey. The spectacular views as the island rises from the tidal bay make for memorable photos.
Rated highly, one reviewer wrote, “The trip was fast and comfortable, with a fantastic guide, Ash.” The tour is suitable for those wanting a comprehensive visit without the hassle of planning, but be aware it’s a long day, and vertiginous climbs are optional if you visit the abbey.
Bottom line: If Mont Saint Michel has been on your bucket list, this tour offers a reliable, enjoyable way to see it without stress.
7. Normandy D Day Landing Shore Excursion Customized Private Tour from Le Havre
This private, customizable tour is for those who want to tailor their WWII sites visit. You choose whether to explore Omaha, Utah, or Juno beaches, and can include museums and memorials that interest you most. Your private guide ensures a personalized experience, with the flexibility to spend extra time at key sites.
Rated highly, one reviewer said, “Our guide Ange was excellent at sharing detailed background, making this a very meaningful trip.” The private setting makes this perfect for families, history enthusiasts, or groups wanting a dedicated experience.
Bottom line: If you have specific sites in mind and want a flexible, private way to see Normandy, this tour is hard to beat.
$0.00 per group (up to 8)
8. From Le Havre: D-Day Beaches Private Shore Excursion
This private tour focuses on the most iconic WWII sites. Starting with a visit to Pointe du Hoc, where U.S. Army Rangers scaled cliffs, and Omaha Beach, this tour emphasizes personalized attention. The highlight is the American Cemetery, where you can pay respects.
Rated at 5 stars from one review, it’s ideal for those seeking an intimate, high-end experience. The tour’s private nature allows for longer stops at sites that resonate most with you.
Bottom line: Best for history aficionados who want a bespoke, private experience with meaningful stops.
$1,710 per group up to 2
9. Paris Shore Excursion from Le Havre Cruise port
This is a straightforward guided overview of Paris, including major landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, and Notre Dame. It’s designed for those who want to see Paris quickly and efficiently, with guided visits and some free time.
Rated 2/5 from a handful of reviews, it might be less reliable but still offers a quick snapshot of Paris. The 10-hour duration makes it suitable for those with limited time but high energy and interest in the city’s highlights.
Bottom line: If your goal is a brief, guided glimpse of Paris, this tour provides a structured, no-frills experience.
$216 per person
10. Le Havre Giverny and Honfleur Private Shore Excursion
An excellent choice for art lovers and those who appreciate scenic villages, this private tour visits Monet’s garden in Giverny and the picturesque Honfleur. In Giverny, you’ll walk through Monet’s house and garden, with its famous lily ponds and the iconic bridge. Honfleur’s charming harbor and historic streets cap off the day.
Rated the full value for its personalized experience, this tour is ideal for those seeking an in-depth, relaxed day filled with art and scenery. It’s a longer, more intimate way to connect with Normandy’s cultural charm.
Bottom line: Best suited for art enthusiasts and travelers who want a private, immersive experience in Normandy’s most picturesque spots.
$2,025 per group up to 8
11. Mont Saint-Michel: Guided Shore Excursion From Le Havre
This comprehensive guided tour focuses on Mont Saint Michel’s architecture and medieval streets. The walk through the lower village is guided, with options to visit the abbey (additional cost). The scenic bus ride and walking tour make it suitable for travelers wanting a guided, in-depth visit.
Rated without reviews, it’s aimed at those who prefer a structured, guided experience, with the convenience of transportation included. The 11-hour duration suits travelers wanting to explore without rushing.
Bottom line: An excellent choice if you prefer a guided exploration of one of France’s most iconic landmarks.
$300 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Shore Excursion
When deciding among these options, consider your interests, pace, and budget. If WWII history appeals most, the D-Day Beaches Tour or the private Normandy private tour provide rich, personalized experiences. For art and scenic villages, the Giverny and Honfleur private trip offers a peaceful, artistic retreat.
If you’re short on time but want a taste of Paris, the Deluxe Seine cruise or the Paris city highlights get you iconic sights without a fuss. Budget considerations are important — tours like the Honfleur and Deauville are very affordable and include charming towns, while private tours are better suited for those seeking exclusivity.
Planning ahead and booking early ensures you secure your preferred experience, especially for popular sites like Mont Saint Michel or private Paris guides.
Final Thoughts
Le Havre offers a diverse array of shore excursions, from profound WWII sites to lively city explorations. For history lovers, the D-Day Beaches and private Normandy tours stand out. Art and scenery enthusiasts will appreciate Giverny and Honfleur, while urban explorers will enjoy the Paris tours.
No matter your interest, the key is to choose a tour that matches your pace, budget, and curiosity. Early booking is advisable, especially for private and popular trips. With so many options, you’ll find a memorable way to make your port stop in Le Havre truly special.