Etretat Normandy, France Travel Guide
Your journey to Etretat by air typically begins at one of The french republic's more substantial international airports, followed by ground transportation. Smaller local airports close to Etretat offer very limited flight options.
CDG/ORY are served by a vast network of major global airlines offering ways from nearly every major city worldwide. LEH/DOL have limited service, often from budget airlines, connecting to a few specific destinations.
Dollar Flight Club offers deals on international flights.
Skyscanner provides flight comparisons for international routes.
DiscoverCars.com for car rental comparisons.
Especially for high season, booking flights several months ahead often yields better fares and preferred availability.
While limited, consider A Unesco world heritage site (LEH) or Deauville (DOL) airports for specific regional connections if Paris is too distant.
Factor in ground transfer time and cost from major airports to Etretat when planning your overall journey.
Etretat does not have its own train station. The nearest large train station is Le Havre (Gare du Havre). Non-stop trains run frequently departing From paris Saint-Lazare station to Le Havre, with journeys taking approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.
Companies like FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus offer affordable long-distance bus routes to major French cities, including Le Havre. These services are often more budget-friendly than trains but may take longer.
A valid driving license is necessary. If your license is not from an EU country, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended to accompany your national license. You also need a credit card for the rental deposit.
Etretat is not a major port for large ferry services or cruise ships. However, nearby ports offer sea access to the region. This covers Dieppe (approx. ABOUT 37 miles, ferry to Newhaven, UK) and Le Havre (approx. 30 km, ferry to Portsmouth, UK).
No specific exit fees or taxes are collected for departing travelers from France. Any taxes are typically included in your flight or train ticket price. Prepare for adequate time at the airport or station.
Paris airports offer a full range of facilities, including duty-free shopping, restaurants, lounges, and baggage services for departing travelers. Le Havre Train Station provides basic facilities, including waiting areas and lavatories.
No specific exit fees or taxes are collected for departing travelers from France.
Plan for 2-3 hours at Paris airports, 20-30 minutes for train departures.
Confirm your onward transportation from Etretat the day before you go.
Taxis offer a convenient, albeit more expensive, option for getting around Etretat and for transfers to nearby towns or train stations. Ride-sharing services are less prevalent. Licensed taxis are identifiable by their "Taxi" sign on the roof and a meter inside.
Hiring a car is a popular option, especially if you plan to explore beyond Etretat. Major international companies like Hertz, Europcar, and Avis have offices in Le Havre (often by the railway station or city center).
The main public transit in Etretat is the local bus network operated by LIA.
LIA Bus Line 13 connects Etretat directly to A Unesco world heritage site (train/bus station).
Single tickets from driver (approx. €1.50-€2). Buses are generally accessible for mobility needs.
Etretat's town center is very pedestrian-friendly. The most popular walking routes are paths along the cliffs: Falaise d'Amont (North Cliff) and Falaise d'Aval (South Cliff). The Sentier des Douaniers (GR21) long-distance coastal path passes through Etretat, offering options for shorter or longer hikes. Dedicated cycling paths are limited directly within Etretat. Cyclists share roads with cars. The main cliff paths are mainly for walking and are not suitable for by bicycles due to steep sections, stairs, and uneven terrain. Road cycling trails are available in the wider area around Etretat, offering scenic rides through the countryside. Always stay on marked paths on the cliffs. Do not climb down cliffs unless with a certified guide. Avoid walking directly under cliffs on the beach, especially during high tide or after heavy rain, due to rockfall risk. Always heed warning signs and barriers for your safety.
