Cherbourg is a charming stopover for discovering the Cotentin peninsula. Hard hit by the bombings of the Second World War, this industrial port town still retains some traces of its past history. It's worth taking the time to stroll through its historic center, but also to enjoy the most beautiful views of its harbor and stroll along its port. Cherbourg boasts a number of restaurants where it's a pleasure to take a break after discovering its museums or its unmissable boëls. During a weekend or vacation in this city on a human scale, don't miss the chance to discover some of the treasures of the surrounding area, from its heritage to its wild beaches. Here are 15 must-do activities for a visit to Cherbourg-en-Cotentin.
1. Discover the boëls of Cherbourg
Despite the tragic events of the Second World War, Cherbourg has preserved its small courtyards, passageways and alleyways, offering a glimpse of what the city was like before the 20th century. Although the vestiges of the Middle Ages are less visible than in other French towns, we are delighted to discover here and there the narrow passages known as boëls. They lead to courtyards and pretty stone houses. It's worth noting that the Tourist Office has set up an itinerary allowing travelers to stroll and stop to admire Cherbourg's little-known historic buildings.
2. Visit Cherbourg harbor
The largest artificial harbor in Europe, Cherbourg harbor was built in the 18th century. Covering an area of 1,500 hectares, the harbor's defensive system is built around a succession of fortified works and warships that have remained petrified forever. They are clearly of exceptional historical interest. Today, Cherbourg harbor is home to 4 ports: military, fishing, pleasure and commercial. The best way to discover the harbor is by boat during the summer months. Guided tours provide a better understanding of its history and challenges. We learn, for example, that the Titanic called at the port of Cherbourg, before the terrible event we all know about.
3. Admire the view from Montagne du Roule
Montagne du Roule is a rocky promontory 117 m high. It is home to Fort du Roule, a complex of French and German fortifications built in the XIXᵉ and XXᵉ centuries. Locals and visitors alike love to go there to enjoy the breathtaking views over Cherbourg-en-Cotentin and its harbor, one of the most imposing in the world. If you're feeling sporty, you can make the ascent on foot. The panorama is well worth the effort. The Montagne du Roule is also home to the Musée de la Libération. All good reasons to visit Cherbourg on vacation!
4. Getting to the Cité de la Mer
La Cité de la Mer is a wonderful place to discover on a family outing to Cherbourg. It is housed in the former transatlantic station, where many passengers embarked for the New World during the 20th century. The building remains France's largest art deco structure. A true marvel. The site traces the links between man and the sea for millennia. There are several aquariums and fun multimedia areas. Not to be missed is the great gallery of machines and men, with submarines that have made history, and a visit to the Redoutable, the first and largest nuclear submarine to be visited. An area is also dedicated to the Titanic.
5. Follow in the footsteps of Les Parapluies de Cherbourg
Cherbourg was the location for Jacques Démy's cult film Les Parapluies de Cherbourg, starring Catherine Deneuve. To follow in the film's footsteps, visitors can follow the pedestrian trail to the locations where several scenes were shot. They can also visit the Cherbourg umbrella factory, where guided and self-guided tours explain the manufacturing process of this emblematic local object. The factory is located in the former Banque de France building on Quai Alexandre III. Of course, you can also visit the boutique.
6. Stroll through Cherbourg's museums
Cherbourg is home to several museums. The Muséum Emmanuel Liais is devoted to natural history, archaeology and ethnography, including a perfectly preserved Egyptian mummy. The Musée Thomas Henry is the Musée des Beaux-Arts, with a rich collection of 400 paintings and sculptures, including an important collection of works by Jean-François Millet. Not forgetting the Liberation Museum located in the Fort du Roule, offers a glimpse of life in Cherbourg under the German occupation. It houses some very fine period photos.
7. Take a stroll in the Parc Emmanuel Liais
Cherbourg is a destination with many lush parks and gardens. The town has been awarded the 4-flower label. Many exotic plants brought back by explorers in the 19th century thrive in the city's mild climate. One of the most beautiful settings is the Parc Emmanuel Liais, which has been awarded the "Jardin Remarquable" label. Here, you'll discover an exotic plant heritage, with exotic species brought back from South America by Emmanuel Liais, a Lambert cypress over a hundred years old and tree ferns from Tasmania. The greenhouses, too, bring their share of exoticism, taking us through a tropical rainforest or a cactus desert. Magnificent!
8. An evening at the Théâtre à l'Italienne
The Théâtre à l'Italienne is one of Cherbourg's most beautiful monuments. Located on Place Général de Gaulle, it is inspired by the Renaissance and boasts a beautifully sculpted facade. It is listed as a Historic Monument. Inside, the auditorium follows the U-shaped layout of Italian theaters. It is richly decorated. This is one of Cherbourg-en-Cotentin's leading theaters. Don't hesitate to consult the diary before planning a visit to the town, with its many concerts, dance and theater events.
9. Enter the Basilique de la Sainte-Trinité
While in Cherbourg, fans of religious heritage can visit the Basilique Sainte-Trinité. It's a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Its history is tumultuous, and it has undergone several episodes of demolition and reconstruction since the Middle Ages. After taking time to contemplate the details on the outside, head inside to admire its riches: the nave's bas-reliefs featuring a danse macabre and scenes from the life of Christ, 15th-century carved alabaster from Nottingham, the organ and the 14th-century baptismal font.
10. Spend some time at Plage Verte
Mind you, this is not a beach in the strict sense of the word, but a green space located opposite the Chantereyne marina. Today, it's a popular spot for those wishing to enjoy the fresh air after a stroll along the harbour. Play ball with the kids or enjoy a kite-flying session. Plage Verte is especially lively in summer. Numerous events are held here, including concerts and open-air cinema. In fine weather, you can also relax in the sun on footstools, deckchairs, books and board games.
11. Visit the ruins of Voeu Abbey
Another great discovery for fans of religious architecture. Theabbey was founded in 1145. It has served in turn as an abbey, a military barracks and a hospital. You have to head for La Saline to discover this fabulous complex, which is partly in ruins. The refectory and chapter house were restored shortly after the Second World War, followed by the west gable of the abbey church in 1995. In the abbey dwelling, a small museum houses the flat tomb of Brother Guillaume, one of the most beautiful in Normandy. Guided tours of the abbey are offered every summer. It also hosts several exhibitions.
12. Beaches and water sports
How can you imagine a stay in Cherbourg without spending some time at the beach? To the east of the town, Collignon beach is bordered by a long seawall. It's a stretch of fine sand where it's great to stroll and set up your towel in summer. It's a popular spot for water sports enthusiasts, who come here to practice kite surfing, sand yachting or kayaking. Querqueville beach is another option. It's perfect for families, with fine sand and a clear, calm sea. In summer, groups of friends enjoy the beach volleyball and beach soccer courts.
13. Taste Cotentin specialties
As in the rest of France, the Cotentin region has no shortage of culinary specialties. You'll find the Normandy standards on the land and sea side, with camembert, which is also used to make a sauce to accompany meat, and the unmissable fish and seafood. Cherbourg salmon is the only salmon in France to be raised at sea. Also worth trying are Demoiselles de Cherbourg, small lobsters cooked in court-bouillon in their own juices. For those with a sweet tooth, Café Pompon concocts a succulent lemon cake. As for drinks, you'll be tempted by a glass of cider, calvados, pommeau or local beer.
14. Discover the history of Château des Ravalet
South-east of Cherbourg, the château des Ravalet is a sublime edifice of blue schist stone. Renaissance in style, it boasts several towers and numerous windows. Although the interior cannot be visited, it is possible to stroll through the lovely park, with its formal and English gardens. The building and gardens are listed as Monuments Historiques. The building is also famous for the tragic story of Julien and Marguerite de Ravalet. Brother and sister, in love with each other, they lived a secret love affair before being beheaded by sword in Paris, on what is now the Place de l'Hôtel de Ville.
15. Explore Cap de la Hague
It would be a real shame to discover Cherbourg without escaping to Cap de la Hague for a few hours. The place is just sublime, with its steep cliffs interspersed with small coves. The best way to enjoy the seascapes is to follow the GR223. You'll discover a succession of splendors, including Landemer, Baie de Quervière and Port Racine. It's the smallest port in France, and as picturesque as it gets. Also not to be missed are the bay of Ecalgrain, the Goury lighthouse and the small hamlet of Gruchy. Its houses are all built of old stone, typical of the region.
Where to stay in Cherbourg?
In Normandy, Cherbourg offers a wide range of accommodation options for discovering the town and its surrounding sites. There's something for every type of traveler.
- The Shelder Hôtel, for quick access to the beach
Welcome to the Shelder Hotel, 2 km from Cherbourg. The rooms are simple and comfortable, and can be booked here. Breakfast is a good way to fill up before setting off on your excursions. The restaurant welcomes guests for dinner, with a menu featuring local produce. The pretty Normandy beaches are just a 10-minute walk away.
- Hôtel Chantereyne, close to the marina
The Hôtel Chantereyne is much appreciated for its modernly decorated rooms overlooking the Cherbourg marina. Both the marina and the town center are within easy walking distance. Good value for money is guaranteed in this establishment where the welcome is irreproachable: go here to book your stay!
- Hôtel Napoléon, for valuable advice
This hotel boasts softly-colored rooms that you can book in just a few clicks here. Perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. It's housed in a pretty bourgeois mansion, just a few yards from the marina. We appreciate the good breakfast and the staff's availability and good advice on how to get the most out of your visit.
What to do in Cherbourg when it rains?
Is it raining during your stay in Cherbourg? Don't panic, there are plenty of options to keep you entertained without getting wet. Take the opportunity to visit the Cité de la Mer and learn more about marine expeditions and the rich aquatic world. The Thomas Henry and Libération museums are also waiting for you to discover their collections. The rain won't stop? The Le Parapluie factory in Cherbourg lets you discover the history and manufacturing secrets of this iconic object. Cherbourg also boasts several cinemas where you can catch the latest films.
Did you enjoy your stay in Cherbourg? Don't wait any longer to discover the must-sees of the Normandy region!
