Cruise stop in Cherbourg

Welcome aboard this ultimate guide to your “Cruise stop in Cherbourg”!
My name is Sarah (aka Miss Tatane 😛), and I’m a cruise enthusiast here to share my tips and personal insights so you can make the most out of every port visit.

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Cruise stop in Cherbourg

How to get out of the cruise port

Once you disembark at the Port of Cherbourg, there are several easy ways to get around and explore the town.

Getting out of the port:

• On foot: If you’re up for a walk, it’ll take you about 30–45 minutes to reach downtown Cherbourg from the port.
• By shuttle: A shuttle bus is available right at the dock and drops you off directly at the main square in downtown Cherbourg-en-Cotentin. It’s a quick and comfy option. Tickets cost €4 per person and can be purchased from the driver at the port.
• By taxi: Taxis are waiting right next to the ship. It’s a fast and convenient way to get downtown. A ride typically costs around €10.

Getting to the train station from the port

Cruise stop in Cherbourg

A shuttle also runs between the ferry terminal and the Cherbourg SNCF train station.

• To the train station: Departs 1 hour after the ferry arrives.
• Back to the terminal: Leaves from “Cherbourg – Gare” about 2 hours before ferry departure.

Fares & ticket info

• Single ride (valid for 1 hour): €1.50
• Available onboard:
  • From the driver (cash only, no bills over €20)
  • Via the onboard card reader (accepts bank cards, smartphones, and smartwatches)

Top things to do in Cherbourg during your cruise stop

Cruise stop in Cherbourg

Cherbourg-en-Cotentin is a charming blend of sea, history, and culture. Here are a few ideas to make the most of your visit:

• Visit the Cité de la Mer: The must-see attraction in Cherbourg! This maritime museum dives deep into ocean wonders. Explore a real nuclear submarine, stunning aquariums, and a Titanic exhibit. Just a 15-minute walk from the terminal.
• Stroll through the historic town center: Discover local shops, beautiful architecture, and a warm, welcoming vibe. If you’re there on a Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday morning—don’t miss the local market!
• Wander along the marina: A peaceful walk along the docks with scenic views of moored boats—perfect for a café break.
• Climb up to Fort du Roule: Perched above the town, this site offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Cherbourg’s bay. It’s also home to the Liberation Museum.
• Taste some Norman specialties: Take advantage of your stop to try local oysters, creamy camembert, or a classic crêpe at a traditional French crêperie.

La Cité de la Mer

Cruise stop in Cherbourg

Located in the former transatlantic maritime terminal, La Cité de la Mer is one of Cherbourg’s most iconic cultural sites. During your cruise stop, this unique venue immerses you in maritime history, underwater exploration, and the fascinating world of the deep sea.

A true reference in Europe, La Cité de la Mer attracts thousands of visitors each year, eager to discover the ocean’s secrets and the technological feats of submarines.

A place rich in history and discovery

Just a short walk from the cruise terminal (under 10 minutes on foot), La Cité de la Mer offers an exceptional immersive experience:

• A tour of Le Redoutable, the largest nuclear submarine open to the public in the world.
• An impressive gallery of underwater vehicles, tracing the evolution of deep-sea exploration.
• A dedicated space for the Titanic, for which Cherbourg was the last continental stop before its 1912 voyage.
• The Ocean of the Future: an interactive and sensory exhibit to better understand marine biodiversity and the future of the oceans.

Each exhibit is designed to spark curiosity, stir emotion, and deepen visitors’ knowledge—no matter their age.

Why visit la Cité de la Mer during your Cherbourg cruise stop

• A major cultural site in Normandy with international recognition
• A captivating visit at the crossroads of history, science, and emotion
• An extraordinary architectural setting, a legacy of the transatlantic era

Practical information

Recommended visit duration: 2 to 3 hours
Admission tickets:

• Adults: €21.00
• Children (ages 5–17): €15.00
• Under 5 years: Free
  → Please note: for safety reasons, children under 5 are not allowed aboard Le Redoutable submarine.

🧭 How to reach the city center from la Cité de la Mer

After your visit to La Cité de la Mer, you have several options to reach the historic center of Cherbourg:

• On foot:
  It’s about 1.4 km, or less than 20 minutes walking. A lovely stroll along the harbor, perfect for a relaxed introduction to the city.
• By bus:
  From the COMMISSARIAT stop (4 minutes from La Cité de la Mer), take line C toward Cherbourg-Gare. Get off at Alexandre III (opposite the Umbrella Factory). Bus ride: 3 minutes + 1-minute walk.
• By cruise shuttle from the port:
  A paid shuttle service (€4) goes directly from the port to downtown.

Good to know: You’ll arrive in the heart of the historic center, just steps from shops, the covered market, Place de la Fontaine, and the famous umbrella stores.

Napoleon square

Cruise stop in Cherbourg

Located just 13 minutes on foot from La Cité de la Mer (about 1 km along the docks), Napoleon Square is a must-see during a cruise stop in Cherbourg. It’s a large open plaza by the sea where history, heritage, and local life meet.

At its center, you can’t miss the statue of Napoleon I, proud and commanding, gazing out to sea. It’s been here since 1858, inaugurated by Napoleon III to highlight Cherbourg’s strategic role in the Empire’s maritime ambitions.

Directly opposite stands the elegant Town Hall, lending distinction to the square. It hosts the city’s political life and various public events throughout the year—concerts, military parades, cultural celebrations, and more.

Bordered by the Green Beach, the docks, and several shopping streets, Napoleon Square is both a place to relax and a key point in the city. Continue your stroll and you’ll be just steps from the old town, the pedestrian street, and the Alexandre III quay where the famous Umbrella Factory is located.

Downtown Cherbourg

Cruise stop in Cherbourg

The historic downtown of Cherbourg invites you to enjoy a peaceful and enriching discovery. Wander through charming old streets, admire remarkable landmarks, and explore local shops—this city center reveals an authentic atmosphere shaped by maritime history and Normandy elegance.

A heritage on a human scale

As you stroll through the downtown streets, you’ll discover a variety of architectural styles blending Valognes stone, 19th-century bourgeois facades, and more modern buildings. Far from the hustle and bustle, the historic center offers a relaxing walk dotted with highlights such as:

• Place Napoléon and its iconic statue facing the sea
• The Italian-style theater, a 19th-century cultural gem
• Sainte-Trinité Basilica, one of the city’s oldest churches
• The Thomas-Henry Museum, home to an impressive collection of French and Italian paintings
• The public garden, a protected green haven right in the heart of the city

Cherbourg umbrella factory

Right in the city center, on Place de la Fontaine, you’ll find one of Cherbourg’s most iconic addresses: the Cherbourg Umbrella Factory. This unique spot offers an immersive dive into renowned Norman craftsmanship through its workshop, museum, and boutique.

A story of gray skies and elegance

Born in a region shaped by wind and rain, the tradition of umbrella making in Cherbourg is deeply rooted in local identity. But it’s cinema and artisanal excellence that elevated this everyday item to iconic status.

No mention of Cherbourg would be complete without referencing the classic film “The Umbrellas of Cherbourg”, directed by Jacques Demy and starring a young Catherine Deneuve. Released in 1964, the film made cinematic history with its entirely sung dialogue and Palme d’Or at Cannes. Inspired by this fame and a family know-how dating back to 1800, Jean-Pierre Yvon founded the brand Le Parapluie de Cherbourg in 1986. Today, his son Charles Yvon continues the legacy.

A refined visit in a unique location

Located in the former Banque de France, a grand Haussmann-style building on Quai Alexandre III, the factory provides a prestigious backdrop for a one-of-a-kind tour.

Here’s what you’ll discover:

• The museum, showcasing the history of the brand and its creations
• An immersive video presentation on the birth and evolution of the Cherbourg umbrella
• A dedicated room explaining each step of the manufacturing process
• Private salons, tastefully decorated for an intimate and refined experience
• The boutique, featuring flagship models like the Ville, Milady, Millord, and the must-have Anti-bourrasque

Visitor info

📍 Address: Place de la Fontaine, downtown Cherbourg-en-Cotentin
Opening hours:

• Monday to Saturday: 10 AM to 7 PM
• December Sundays: 10 AM to 6 PM
  🎟️ Tour Prices (about 1 hour):
• Adults: €5
• Students (under 26) and children ages 6–18 (with an adult): €3
• Free for children under 5
  → Free access to the boutique, no tour required

Sainte Trinité Basilica

Cruise stop in Cherbourg

Located in the heart of Cherbourg-en-Cotentin, the Sainte-Trinité Basilica is a must-visit for history and architecture lovers. Just an 8-minute walk from the Cherbourg Umbrella Factory, this Gothic church is one of the city’s oldest and most iconic landmarks.

Built into the old city ramparts, the church dates back to the 13th century and is recognized as a Historic Monument. It reflects the evolution of Gothic style in Normandy, with unique features that make it a historic gem worth visiting.

What to see inside:

• The sculpted altarpiece high altar: a masterpiece by Armand Fréret (1758–1816) known for its artistic detail
• 14th-century baptismal fonts: a rare glimpse into medieval liturgical practices
• Nave bas-reliefs: featuring powerful scenes like the Dance of Death and moments from Christ’s life
• 15th-century alabasters: brought from Nottingham, these intricate works add elegance to the church’s décor

Why visit Sainte-Trinité Basilica?

It offers not only a fascinating historical perspective but also the solemn and majestic atmosphere typical of grand Gothic basilicas. A must for anyone interested in religious heritage and medieval architecture.

Fort du Roule

Cruise stop in Cherbourg

Perched 117 meters above sea level, Fort du Roule towers over Cherbourg from its rocky promontory. This emblematic site, both strategic and full of history, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, its vast artificial harbor (one of the largest in the world), and the entire Cotentin Peninsula. On clear days, the view is simply stunning—a true balcony over the sea and Norman countryside.

You can reach Fort du Roule on foot, by bike, by car, or by taxi.

• On foot: It’s about a 50-minute uphill walk from downtown. It’s a lovely, slightly challenging hike—best if you’re in decent shape.
• If steep climbs aren’t your thing, or you want to save energy during your cruise stop, consider taking a taxi—the ride is quick and usually costs under €10 from the train station.
• You can also drive or bike up, with parking available near the fort.

Honestly, if you love scenic views or want a timeless experience, this is a must-do. It’s one of the best ways to see Cherbourg from a different perspective—literally and figuratively.

The Liberation museum

Memory and history above Cherbourg

Located in the heart of Fort du Roule, the Liberation museum tells the story of Cherbourg during World War II, especially its liberation by allied forces on June 25, 1944, just weeks after D-Day.

This municipal museum is housed in a site steeped in history: a former Second Empire military fort that was later occupied by the German army during the Occupation. Today, it offers a unique setting to understand the strategic importance of Cherbourg in the liberation of France and the success of the Allied operations in Normandy.

Through period artifacts, uniforms, photographs, eyewitness accounts, and historical recreations, the museum offers a powerful dive into wartime life, the local Resistance, bombings, and the reconquest of the city. Everything is presented in an accessible, educational, and respectful way.

The visit ends on a high note with a breathtaking view from the heights of the fort, adding an extra dimension to what you’ve just explored—where history and landscape meet.

Practical information

The museum is closed during the winter season:

• Closed from November 6, 2024
• Reopens on February 8, 2025

Opening hours (in season):

• Tuesday to Friday: 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
• Saturday and Sunday: 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
• Closed on public holidays, except May 8 and November 11

Admission

• Full price: €5 – Reduced price: €3 (groups of 10 or more)
• Free admission for visitors under 26

How to get there from downtown Cherbourg

If you’d like to get to Fort du Roule without a car, here’s a public transport + walking option:

🚌 Recommended public transit route

• Departure: Place de la Fontaine, downtown Cherbourg
• Cap Cotentin – Line 4 bus, direction La Glacerie Marettes
• Get off at: Jardin Public

⚠️ After getting off at Jardin Public, you’ll need to walk about 20 minutes (1.2 km) uphill to reach the top of Fort du Roule. The path is accessible but steep—make sure to wear good shoes.
If walking long distances or uphill is difficult for you, a taxi is a good alternative (less than €10 from the train station or city center).

The Thomas Henry museum

Cruise stop in Cherbourg

Just a 2-minute walk from the Umbrella Factory, the Thomas Henry museum welcomes you into a bright, modern space right in the heart of the city. It houses one of Normandy’s richest fine arts collections, with over 300 works from the 15th to 19th centuries, including Italian, Flemish, and French paintings — even works by Millet and Courbet.

A perfect cultural stop to deepen your Cherbourg experience in a peaceful and elegant setting.

Admission:
→ Full price: €6
→ Free for visitors under 26

Emmanuel Liais park

Cruise stop in Cherbourg

Just a 10-minute walk from the Thomas Henry Museum, Emmanuel Liais Park is a true oasis in the heart of Cherbourg. Listed as a “Remarkable Garden”, it combines botanical heritage and a complete change of scenery thanks to rare and exotic species brought back from South America and Asia by Emmanuel Liais — an astronomer, explorer, and plant enthusiast.

Stroll along winding paths to discover century-old trees, Tasmanian ferns, and greenhouses filled with tropical forests and cactus deserts. It’s the perfect green escape, just steps from the buzz of downtown.

🕒 Open every day, all year round, including holidays
Greenhouses open Monday to Friday, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Ravalet castle

Located 6 kilometers from downtown Cherbourg, Ravalet Castle is tucked away in a green setting in Tourlaville. Built in the 16th century in Renaissance style, this stunning castle impresses with both its architecture and its landscaped park, officially recognized as a “Remarkable Garden.”

The estate spans over 18 hectares, featuring woods, ponds, greenhouses, flower beds, and endless lawns. It’s an ideal spot for strolling, relaxing, or simply admiring the diverse plant life. In summer, the grounds also host cultural events and temporary exhibitions.

How to get there from downtown

From Place Napoléon or Quai Alexandre III, it’s easy to get there by bus:

• Take Line 2 toward Églantine Château from the Alexandre III stop (just 1 minute from downtown)
• Get off at Les Flottes stop (approx. 17 minutes)
• From there, enjoy a pleasant 10–12-minute walk (around 940 meters) through a residential neighborhood to the castle entrance

The site is also accessible by car or taxi (about a 10-minute drive from downtown).

Cherbourg’s beaches

Collignon beach

Looking to enjoy the seaside during your stop in Cherbourg? Two main beaches await just a few kilometers from downtown, offering a refreshing natural escape.

Located on the city’s east side, Collignon Beach is perfect for thrill seekers and water sports lovers: kite surfing, sailing, land sailing, sea kayaking, diving, or simply swimming and relaxing. It’s lifeguarded from July 1 to August 31, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and features a launch channel for boats and windsurfers.

→ Water quality: rated “excellent” by ARS Normandie
→ Stunning views of the breakwaters and forts in the outer harbor

How to get to Collignon beach

Located in eastern Cherbourg, Collignon Beach offers a great seaside escape, though there is no direct public transportation from downtown. Here are your options:

By Taxi

The fastest and easiest option:
→ About 10 minutes by car
→ Cost: approx. €13 from the train station or city center

By Bus (Line C)

A more affordable, though longer, alternative:

• Depart from Cherbourg train station
• Take Line C toward Valognes SNCF station
• Get off at Le Becquet stop (approx. 20 minutes)
• Walk 700 m (about 9 minutes) to reach the beach

On Foot

For avid walkers:
→ Approx. 50-minute walk from the train station or downtown
→ A lovely stroll if the weather is nice!

Querqueville beach

Cruise stopover in Cherbourg

Located west of Cherbourg, Querqueville beach is an ideal family-friendly spot. Fully equipped and supervised during summer, it offers a wide range of amenities:

• Playground and natural rock pool for children
• Pétanque (French bocce), volleyball, and unguided water activities
• Picnic tables and a seasonal refreshment stand
• Large free parking area

How to get to Querqueville beach

From the Cherbourg Umbrella Factory, here are the different options to reach Querqueville Beach:

By Bus (Line A – Cap de la Hague)

1. Start at the Alexandre III bus stop
2. Take Line A – Cap de la Hague
3. Get off at Querqueville Port after 11 stops
4. Walk 6 minutes (about 450 meters) to reach the beach

Total travel time: Around 20 minutes by bus + 6 minutes on foot.

By Taxi

• Travel time: 15 minutes
• Estimated cost: €20
• Fast and convenient if you’re short on time.

On Foot

Too long – not recommended. Walking to the beach will take well over an hour.

D-Day beaches from Cherbourg

Follow in the footsteps of D-Day

During your Cherbourg cruise stop (from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM), take part in an unforgettable shore excursion directly from the Cherbourg Cruise Terminal. For those lucky enough to join, this tour offers a powerful journey through the iconic sites of the Normandy Landings—a moving and deeply emotional experience.

Explore major historical locations such as Pointe du Hoc, the sands of Omaha Beach, and the Normandy American Cemetery, final resting place of thousands of brave soldiers. With a passionate guide by your side, you’ll go beyond historical facts to experience heartfelt stories and living history. It’s a rare chance to walk these sacred grounds, pay tribute, and deeply connect with the past that shaped the world.

This exclusive tour is an opportunity to understand, feel, and honor the sacrifices that secured our freedom—within the respectful and solemn atmosphere of Normandy. Reserve your spot now for this unique, emotional, and historically rich experience: a true tribute to memory.

→ Departures at 9:30 AM or 10:00 AM – perfectly timed for your cruise stop

From Cherbourg cruise port

D-Day beaches from Cherbourg

How to book?

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

You need to be a group of 7 people! Price → €1902

Don’t miss your chance – Book now! 😌

See availability – Reservation 👈

Want to visit the legendary D-Day beaches during your cruise stop in Cherbourg?

This is your chance to walk in the footsteps of history. From Omaha Beach to the Pointe du Hoc, experience the emotion of the Normandy landings and honor the courage of the American paratroopers who changed the course of the world.

Take advantage of your stopover to explore our exclusive catalog of unforgettable tours, including the “American Paratroopers in Normandy” private battlefield tour — an immersive journey guided by passionate local experts.

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MTT wishes you a wonderful cruise stop in Cherbourg!