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Getting There & Away

Getting There & Away

Normandy, France

Air Travel

Major Airports

Le Havre does not host a large international airport. Travelers typically fly into major Parisian airports and then connect to Le Havre by train or bus.

Main Access Points

  • Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG).
  • Paris Orly Airport (ORY).
  • Beauvais-Tillé Airport (BVA) for low-cost carriers.

Airport Facilities & Flights

All major Parisian airports provide comprehensive facilities including duty-free shops, restaurants, car rental agencies, currency exchange, ATMs, and free Wi-Fi.

Flight Information

  • Major global airlines serve CDG/ORY.
  • Flight prices highest during peak summer and holidays.
  • Shoulder seasons (April-June, Sep-Oct) offer better airfare value.

Train Connections from Paris

Most efficient way to Le Havre from Paris airports. Take RER B to Paris Saint-Lazare, then direct TER Normandie train. Journey is about 2 hours 10 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes.

Bus Services from Paris

FlixBus/BlaBlaCar Bus offer direct services from Paris (La Défense or Bercy Seine) to Le Havre. Journey takes around 2.5-3.5 hours, often cheaper than trains when booked in advance.

Rental Car & Private Transfers

Car rental agencies available at Parisian airports. Driving to Le Havre 2-2.5 hours via toll motorways (A13 and A29). Private transfers offer door-to-door service.

Deauville & Le Havre Airports

Deauville Normandie Airport DOL

  • Regional airport, about 45 km from Le Havre.
  • Limited seasonal or charter flights, mainly from the UK.
  • Taxi/ride-share from DOL to Le Havre takes about 45 minutes.
  • Limited bus services connect DOL to nearby towns.

Le Havre Octeville Airport LEH

  • Mainly serves business aviation.
  • Very limited commercial flights.
  • Not a common entry point for tourists.
  • No direct flights from major global hubs land directly in Le Havre.

Paris Transfer Time

Peak Hour Travel

Allow extra time for transfers, especially during peak travel hours in Paris.

Land Transportation

Train Services SNCF

France is part of the Schengen Area. Land border crossings from neighboring Schengen countries (e.g., Belgium, Germany) are open with no routine passport checks. All travelers carry identity documents (passport or national ID card) at all times.

Train Routes & Booking

  • Main route: Paris Saint-Lazare to Le Havre (TER Normandie).
  • Connections to Rouen, Caen, Lisieux.
  • Book via SNCF Connect app/website, stations, or vending machines.

Long-Distance Buses

Bus travel offers an alternative for intercity connections.

Bus Companies & Station

  • FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus connect Le Havre to Paris, Rouen, other French cities.
  • Buses are generally cheaper than trains.
  • Main bus station is near Gare du Havre for straightforward connections.

Self-Driving Considerations

Driving on the right-hand side. France has an excellent road network. Most motorways are toll roads (péage). Payment by cash, credit card, or electronic tag.

Driving Requirements

  • Valid driving license; IDP recommended for non-EU licenses.
  • Carry reflective vest and warning triangle.
  • Strict speed limits: 50 km/h urban, 80 km/h rural, 130 km/h motorways.

Road Conditions & Parking

Roads are generally well-maintained. Be aware of roundabouts. Parking common in Le Havre city center.

Roads and Parking Details

  • Roads in and around Le Havre are generally in excellent condition.
  • Paid parking zones with parking meters are common in the city center.
  • Numerous secure paid underground car parks are available.

Offline Maps for Driving

  • Download an offline map of France or Normandy before your trip.
  • This helps with navigation even without cell service.
  • Familiarize yourself with French road signs.
  • Many signs are pictorial and universally understandable.
  • A basic knowledge of signs is useful.
  • Drink-driving laws are strict in France.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry Services & Cruise Ports

Le Havre is a significant status as a maritime hub, with connections by sea and river.

Maritime Connections

  • Brittany Ferries operates services to Caen (Ouistreham), near Le Havre.
  • Le Havre is a major cruise ship port of call at Pointe de Floride terminal.
  • Cruise lines or the city provide shuttle buses into the city.

River Transport & Procedures

Le Havre sits at the mouth of the Seine River. River cruises offer an unique way to experience the region. Immigration procedures apply at seaports.

River & Immigration Details

  • Some multi-day river cruises on the Seine start or end in Le Havre.
  • Standard passport control and customs procedures apply at ports.
  • Access taxis, local buses, or shuttle services from terminals.

Cruise Shuttle Confirmation

If arriving by cruise ship, confirm shuttle services to the city center with your cruise line. This saves time and simplifies your arrival.

Check Ferry Routes

While direct passenger services to Le Havre have been mainly freight-focused, check current routes with Brittany Ferries for any passenger options.

Maritime Hub Status

Le Havre's status as a significant maritime hub connects it by both sea and river, offering diverse travel experiences.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

Be aware of departure procedures and timing recommendations for a smooth exit from Le Havre and France.

Timing Your Departure

  • Air Travel: Arrive 2-3 hours before international flights (Paris airports).
  • Train Travel: Arrive 15-20 minutes before departure (Le Havre station).
  • Ferry Travel: Arrive 1-2 hours before departure (vehicles), 30-60 mins (foot passengers).

VAT Refund Process

Non-EU residents claim VAT refunds on eligible purchases over €100.01 from a single store. This process occurs at your final EU departure point.

Refund Steps

  • Keep all receipts and completed forms.
  • Forms ready for customs validation before checking luggage.
  • The process can take time; arrive early.

Airport/Station Facilities

Le Havre Train Station

Basic facilities: waiting areas, restrooms, small shop for last-minute needs.

Parisian Airports CDG/ORY

Extensive facilities: wide range of shops, restaurants, lounges, duty-free.

Travel Planning

Check in online for flights to save time at the airport.

VAT Refund Timing

Complete your VAT refund paperwork and have purchased items ready for inspection at your final EU departure point.