7 Hidden Coastal Towns in Normandy You Need to Visit Before Everyone Else Does

Normandy is a region where history and natural beauty meet. Stand atop dramatic cliffs, stroll through medieval streets, and relax on wide, sandy beaches. It’s the land of landscapes that inspired Impressionist painters. You’ll also find lively markets, fresh seafood, and quiet, picturesque villages that feel untouched by time.

1. Deauville

Deauville is where the seaside meets luxury. It boasts long stretches of golden sand lined with the town’s iconic bright parasols. It’s also home to one of the world’s most glamorous film festivals – Le Festival de Deauville, chic boutiques, and top-notch horse racing events. Strolling along the boardwalk, “Les Planches,” you can feel the charm of this stylish town. The Riviera of the North.

2. Granville

Granville, though less famous than Deauville or Étretat, offers a unique experience with its rich maritime history and cliffside views. It’s also home to the Christian Dior Museum, housed in the designer’s childhood home. Granville’s harbor is always buzzing, and it hosts one of France’s biggest annual carnivals. But the real hidden gem is the nearby Chausey Islands, the largest archipelago in Europe. These islands are perfect for day trips, with its pristine beaches and a peaceful vibe.

3. Étretat

Étretat is famous for its dramatic white cliffs and natural rock arches, making it one of the most scenic spots along the Normandy coast. The cliff paths offer incredible views, with landmarks like the Needle and the Arch standing tall over the sea. Artists like Monet once captured these landscapes in their paintings. The town itself has a quiet, laid-back vibe, with cozy cafés and small shops.

4. Honfleur

Honfleur is one of Normandy’s most picturesque towns, with a beautiful harbor lined with tall, narrow houses painted in soft pastels. The waterfront is full of cafés and restaurants where you can have local seafood while watching the boats. The cobbled streets are nice for wandering, with plenty of art galleries. The 15th-century wooden church of Sainte-Catherine, built by local shipbuilders, is quite unique.

5. Barfleur

Barfleur is a small fishing village with a peaceful atmosphere, and granite houses that line the harbor. In the Middle Ages, it was one of Normandy’s key ports, and it was from here that William the Conqueror set sail for England in 1066. The village has kept its authentic charm, with fishing boats still bringing in fresh catches daily. You can enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants or enjoy the scenic coastal paths. The lighthouse, Gatteville, is one of the tallest in France.

6. Cabourg

Cabourg is a seaside town known for its Belle Époque charm and long sandy beach. Once a favorite summer retreat for the elite, the town is still filled with grand villas and elegant buildings from that era. Cabourg’s promenade stretches along the coastline. Marcel Proust spent his summers here, and his presence is felt throughout the town. Cabourg also hosts an annual film festival.

7. Fécamp

Fécamp is a coastal town rich in history, once a major port for the Dukes of Normandy. Its most famous landmark, the Benedictine Palace, is a striking building that blends Gothic and Renaissance styles. Inside, you can learn about the creation of the famous Benedictine liqueur and even sample it. Fécamp is also known for its towering cliffs that offer breathtaking views of the sea. The town has an attractive pebble beach and a lively marina.