Practical Information: Le Havre

Local SIM Cards & Mobile

Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom, and Free Mobile are the main operators. Coverage is good throughout Normandy.

Acquiring a SIM

Purchase at airport kiosks, phone stores, supermarkets, or tabacs.
A valid ID, like a passport, is typically for registration.
ESIM options are available for activation without a physical card.

Internet Access & Wi-Fi

Most hotels in Le Havre offer free Wi-Fi. Many cafes and restaurants also provide complimentary Wi-Fi.

Staying Connected

Look for Wi-Fi signs or ask staff for network details.
A Portable Wi-Fi device secures constant internet.
Limited public Wi-Fi hotspots appear in some city areas.

Language & Translation

French serves as the official language. English is generally spoken in tourist-oriented businesses. Proficiency outside these areas may be limited.

Translation Resources

Google Translate or DeepL Translate apps are helpful.
Rosetta Stone for language learning.
A Berlitz French Phrase Book is useful.

French Phrases

Effort to speak some French phrases is appreciated by locals.

Common Expressions

Bonjour (bon-ZHOOR): Hello/Good day
Merci (mehr-SEE): Thank you
S'il vous plaît (seel voo PLEH): Please

More Essential Phrases

Basic Interactions

Au revoir (oh ruh-VWAHR): Goodbye
Oui (wee): Yes
Non (nohn): No
Excusez-moi (ex-koo-zay MWAH): Excuse me

Asking Questions

Parlez-vous anglais? (par-lay voo zahn-GLEH?): Do you speak English?
Je ne comprends pas (zhuh nuh kohn-PRAHN pah): I don't understand
Combien ça coûte? (kohm-BYAN sah koot?): How much does it cost?
L'addition, s'il vous plaît (lah-dee-SYOHN, seel voo PLEH): The bill, please.

Communication Tip

Learning a few basic French phrases goes a long way. Locals appreciate the effort, even if you do not speak fluently.

Business Hours & Schedules

Familiarity with typical operating hours for businesses, banks, and public holidays.

Shop Hours

Generally open Mon-Sat, 9:00 AM/10:00 AM to 7:00 PM/7:30 PM. Some smaller shops may close for lunch (12:30 PM-2:00 PM). Sunday openings are less common.

Restaurant Hours

Lunch service 12:00 PM-2:30 PM. Dinner service starts 7:00 PM/7:30 PM. Many restaurants close between lunch and dinner service.

Cafes & Bakeries

Open early (6:00 AM-7:00 AM) and close in the evening. Many close one day a week, often Monday.

Banking & ATMs

Banks typically open Monday to Friday. ATMs are widely available for 24/7 access.

Financial Access

Bank branches: 9:00 AM-12:30 PM & 2:00 PM-5:00 PM.
ATMs (DAB) outside banks and in shopping centers.
Some banks open Saturday mornings.

Public Holidays

France observes numerous public holidays. During these days, many businesses may close or have reduced hours.

Holiday Impact

Banks, post offices, and many shops may close.
Restaurants and attractions may alter schedules.
Check opening hours in advance if visiting around these dates.

Seasonal Schedules

Low Season Adjustments

Smaller attractions may close or reduce hours in winter.
Beachside establishments often have limited operation.
Confirm specific hours for winter visits.

Summer Vacations

Many French businesses may close for annual summer vacation.
This often occurs in August.
Check ahead for specific closures.

Planning Ahead

Verify opening hours for specific attractions or restaurants you plan to visit, especially on Sundays or public holidays.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Greeting Customs

Always use "Bonjour" or "Bonsoir" when addressing someone or entering a business. Add "Madame" or "Monsieur."

Polite Introductions

Handshakes are common for formal introductions.
Close friends may exchange kisses on cheeks (la bise).
Say "bonjour" before asking a question.

Appropriate Attire

Dress is generally casual. Smart casual is appropriate for dinner. Modest dress is respectful in religious sites.

Dressing Respectfully

Casual dress for daily activities.
Shoulders and knees covered for churches.
Comfortable shoes for walking.

Dining & Tipping

Meals are unhurried social occasions. Service is included in the bill.

Restaurant Practices

Avoid rushing your meal.
Wait to be seated by staff.
A small additional tip for good service is a gesture, not an obligation.

Photography Ethics

Photography is generally permitted in public spaces. Be mindful of privacy and restrictions.

Respectful Photo Taking

Seek permission for close-up photos of individuals.
Look for signs indicating photography restrictions in museums.
Respect people's privacy.

Sensitive Topics & General Conduct

What to Avoid

Avoid direct comparisons between France and other countries.
Maintain quiet in public spaces.
Punctuality is good, but a slight delay for social occasions is generally fine.

Social Norms

France is generally progressive.
Same-sex marriage is legal.
Discretion may be advisable in more conservative areas.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Information

Legal Landscape

Same-sex marriage is recognized by law.
France is secular and generally progressive.
Le Havre is a diverse city.

Local Environment

Generally welcoming atmosphere.
Discretion may be prudent in smaller, more conservative towns.
As with any location, be aware of local context.

Greeting Advice

When addressing someone, always begin with "Bonjour Madame" or "Bonjour Monsieur." This small gesture conveys respect.

Accessibility Information

Le Havre dedicates effort to be accessible for travelers with various mobility needs.

Infrastructure & Mobility

The UNESCO Perret city center is generally flat with wide sidewalks, aiding mobility. Public buildings usually feature accessibility provisions.

City Design

Flat terrain supports wheelchair and stroller use.
Newer public buildings feature ramps and lifts.
Accessible restrooms are typically present.

Accessible Transport & Attractions

Le Havre's tramway system is modern and fully accessible. Many attractions also accommodate mobility needs.

Easy Access

Tramway offers level boarding.
Many LIA buses are low-floor with ramps.
MuMa (Musée d'Art Moderne André Malraux) has lifts to all floors.

Sensory Impairments

Some public transport provides audio announcements. Information at major tourist sites may cater to sensory needs.

Support Services

Tram has audio announcements for stops.
Information in Braille or large print may exist at sites.
Audio guides can assist.

Resources & Planning

The Le Havre Tourist Office website may contain accessibility details. Direct contact with providers is also an option.

Information Sources

Le Havre Tourist Office website for specific features.
Contact individual attractions or hotels to confirm.
Confirm specific needs for a comfortable visit.

Airport Services for Travelers

Airport services can greatly improve travel comfort and security.

Lounge Access

Access independent airport lounges globally with Priority Pass for comfort during layovers.

Flight Compensation

Seek compensation for flight delays or cancellations through services like Compensair.

Accessibility Support

Airports typically provide dedicated assistance for travelers with mobility needs. Inquire upon booking or arrival.

Accessibility Contact

For specific accessibility requirements, reach out to the Le Havre Tourist Office or the LIA public transport network in advance. They offer tailored information and assistance.

Practical Information