Located on the Normandy coast, Granville promises to immerse you between land and sea. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover or looking for family activities, this dynamic town has something for everyone. From the famous Christian Dior house to the magnificent Pointe du Roc, every corner of Granville is full of treasures. Enjoy cruises to the Chausey Islands, explore the fortified old town, or be surprised by the charm of its UNESCO-listed carnival. Here's a guide to make sure you don't miss a thing during your visit!
1- The Christian Dior Museum
Visit Christian Dior Museumlocated in the childhood home of the famous couturier, is a must for fashion and history lovers. Perched on the cliffs of Granville, this museum plunges you into the world of Dior through exhibitions on his career, his emblematic creations and the influence of haute couture. You can stroll through the magnificent gardens surrounding the villa, offering panoramic sea views. The museum regularly organizes temporary exhibitions, so be sure to ask before your visit to make sure you don't miss out. Don't forget to visit the boutique to take home a souvenir of this unique place.
2- La Pointe du Roc
The Pointe du Roc is one of Granville' s best spots for admiring exceptional panoramic views of Mont-Saint-Michel Bay. Located at the western end of the upper town, the Pointe du Roc is a perfect walking trail to discover the Granville lighthouse, the remains of German blockhouses and a monument dedicated to missing sailors. Along the way, take time to observe the sea and, on a clear day, you may even spot the islands of Chausey and Jersey on the horizon. It's an ideal spot for hikers and photographers.
You can also reserve your admission card for the 3 museums located in the heart of Saint-Michel!
3- Le Roc des Curiosités
Le Roc des Curiositéslocated in Granville, is a unique museum-aquarium that will amaze young and old alike. This atypical place takes you on a journey through four fascinating universes: the marine world, paleontology, mineralogy and animal art. You can discover an impressive collection of shells, fossils and precious stones, while enjoying a creative and immersive setting. Ideal for families, Le Roc des Curiosités guarantees a fun and educational visit. Don't forget to stop by the aquarium to observe a variety of marine species!
4- The Chausey Islands
Visit Chausey Islandsa veritable natural paradise just a few kilometers from Granville, are a must for lovers of nature and the great outdoors. This archipelago is made up of 365 islets at low tide and 52 at high tide, offering wild, unspoilt landscapes. Departing from Granville, you can take a cruise to explore these islands, perfect for a day trip. Stroll along the white sandy beaches, observe the exceptional marine fauna and, for the more curious, discover the history of the Chausey forts. Don't forget your camera to capture this jewel of the Normandy coast!
5- The Upper Town and its ramparts
Granville's Upper Town is a place steeped in history, ideal for a stroll through its cobbled streets and ramparts. Accessible via the Grande-Porte, an ancient fortified gateway, this district is a must for lovers of medieval architecture. As you stroll along, admire the granite houses of the Chausey islands and visit theChurch of Notre-Dame du Cap Lihou, home to the tombstones of great Granville families. The ramparts offer spectacular views of the port and the Breton coast. It's the perfect place for a cultural outing while enjoying an exceptional panorama.
6- Port de Hérel
Le Port de Hérellocated in the heart of Granville, is the place to be if you want to enjoy the town's maritime atmosphere. Built in 1975, this marina is now France's largest shellfish port, with ships supplying the whole of Europe with fresh shellfish and fish. It's also a departure point for excursions to the Chausey and Channel Islands. Take a stroll along the quayside and watch the fishing boats and pleasure craft, or even embark on a sea excursion. The port is ideal for a stroll with panoramic views of the coastline.
7- Granville Carnival
Le Granville Carnivallisted as an intangible cultural heritage site by UNESCO, is one of the biggest festive events in western France. Every year in February, it attracts over 150,000 participants who come to admire the satirical floats and brass bands, and take part in the famous confetti battles. The carnival dates back to 1875, when it marked the departure of sailors for the great fishing campaigns. Today, it's a time for conviviality, with concerts, parades and a festive atmosphere. Don't miss this explosion of color and good cheer if you're visiting Granville in winter.
8- Notre-Dame du Cap Lihou Church
TheÉglise Notre-Dame du Cap Lihou, located in Granville's Upper Town, is one of the town's most emblematic monuments. Built in the 17th century of granite from the Chausey Islands, it features a sober yet imposing Gothic style. Inside, you'll discover tombstones belonging to important Granville families, as well as rich furnishings. The church also has a unique historical dimension: it hosted the baptism of the famous fashion designer Christian Dior in 1908. Finally, from the church, enjoy a panoramic view of the sea, a spiritual and visual setting not to be missed during your visit.
9- Plat-Gousset beach and seawater pool
Plage du Plat-Gousset is Granville's main beach, ideal for a summer swim or a stroll along its pleasant pedestrian promenade. As well as enjoying the fine sand and spectacular tides, you can cool off in the seawater pool, a natural basin built in 1960, which allows you to swim all day long, even at low tide. The water is filtered directly from the sea, without chlorine, for an authentic experience. This beach is perfect for families, and the pool is supervised from June to September to ensure safe swimming.
10- Richard Anacreon Museum of Modern Art
Visit Richard Anacréon Museum of Modern Artlocated in Granville's Upper Town, houses a collection of works by major 20th-century artists such as Cocteau, Derain and Dufy. Founded thanks to a donation from collector Richard Anacréon, the museum focuses on modern art and literature. You'll also find temporary exhibitions, often dedicated to themes such as the Granville carnival or the relationship between art and writing. With its intimate setting, this museum is perfect for an enriching cultural visit, just a stone's throw from the town's ramparts.
11- Sailing on the Granvillaise
Sailing on the Granvillaise is the perfect way to discover Granville's maritime tradition. This old rig is a faithful replica of the bisquines once used for shellfishing in Granville Bay. When you come aboard, you'll have the chance to take part in navigation maneuvers, such as hoisting the sails, alongside the crew. This adventure takes you back in time, while offering exceptional views of the Normandy coast and the Chausey Islands. It's an ideal activity for sea lovers and those looking for an authentic maritime experience.
You might also like to read our 21 must-sees in Normandy!
Discover here the most popular activities in Granville at the moment:
What to do in Granville when it rains?
- Visit the Christian Dior Museum: Enjoy a cultural visit inside the childhood home of the famous couturier. The museum presents temporary exhibitions on fashion and the Dior legacy.
- Explore the Roc des Curiosités: This museum-aquarium is perfect for a family outing. Discover collections of shells, minerals and animals in a fun and educational atmosphere.
- Discover the Musée d'Art Moderne Richard Anacréon: This museum houses works by 20th-century artists and offers temporary exhibitions on art and literature.
Where to stay in Granville?
- Hôtel des Bains
Located a stone's throw from the Plat-Gousset beach, this 3-star hotel offers comfortable, modern rooms with sea views. Ideal for a relaxing stay in the heart of the town.
Book now for a waterfront experience.
- Mercure Granville Le Grand Large
Nestled on the cliffs, this 4-star hotel offers elegant rooms and direct access to the beach. Perfect for a seaside getaway with breakfast offering stunning views.
Discover our special offers and enjoy a luxurious stay.
- Ibis Granville Port de Plaisance
This 3-star hotel, ideally located near the port of Hérel, offers practical, affordable accommodation. Ideal for those wishing to explore the Chausey Islands and the town center.
Book your room for a hassle-free stay in Granville.
What to do in Granville at the weekend
Saturday:
- Morning: Explore the Haute-Ville
Start with a stroll through the fortified Haute-Ville, with its cobbled streets, ramparts, and theChurch of Notre-Dame du Cap Lihou. Enjoy panoramic sea views from the ramparts. - Afternoon: Visit the Christian Dior Museum
Discover the famous couturier's childhood by visiting the Villa Dior and its magnificent gardens overlooking the sea. - End of the day: Relax at the Plat-Gousset beach
End the day with a stroll along the Plat-Gousset promenade, and enjoy the seawater pool tide permitting.
Sunday :
- Morning: Excursion to the Chausey Islands
Take a boat from the Port de Hérel and spend the morning exploring the Chausey Islands, a wild and unspoilt archipelago perfect for a short getaway. - Afternoon: Roc des Curiosités
Returning to the mainland, visit Roc des Curiosités, a fun and fascinating aquarium-museum for the whole family.
