Honfleur - Monet's Garden & Calvados - Mon 14th Sept 2026

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One of our most popular destinations anywhere, Honfleur is a picturesque harbour town nestled on the Normandy coast. Famous for its narrow, cobblestone streets, beautifully preserved half-timbered houses, and vibrant waterfront, the town has long inspired painters, poets, and travellers alike. Whether you're looking to explore its rich maritime past or simply soak in the beauty of its serene surroundings, Honfleur offers a perfect getaway for relaxation and cultural immersion.

We return to the excellent Ibis Styles Honfleur Centre Historique - friendly service, comfortable modern bedrooms and a fantastic location just around the corner from the heart of Honfleur, the stunning Vieux Bassin, a bustling harbor lined with tall, narrow houses painted in soft pastel colors. It’s the perfect place to stroll, enjoy a coffee, or admire the yachts and fishing boats docked along the quay.

We include excursions to Claude Monet’s remarkable House & Gardens at Giverny and also visit one of the regions Calvados Distilleries plus the towns of Trouville & Deauville. On our return to Cherbourg, before boarding our return ferry, we also visit Bayeux, site of the famous tapestry. 

DAY 1
After being collected from your local pick up point (5.30/6.30am approx.) we board the 8.30am ferry from Poole to Cherbourg. Superb facilities on board - relax and enjoy an amazing choice for lunch and onboard shopping. Arriving in France at 2.00pm local time - continue to Honfleur, arriving around 4.30pm. Settle into your bedroom and head round for our first view of the port - stunning! There is a wide choice of restaurants around the harbour plus more choice in the roads away from the main tourist area. 

DAY 2
After a long day yesterday, a completely free day at leisure. Enjoy a leisurely self serve breakfast at the hotel before heading out to enjoy exploring the town. There is an excellent land train which winds its way through the town - may be worth pre booking your place. The typical French architecture around the town is stunning with plenty of gift shops and galleries to pass the time.  

DAY 3
Enjoy another breakfast buffet at the hotel before we head off for todays excursion. Enjoy the passing scenery as we head to the picturesque village of Giverny, which is around 1 1/2 hours away. The remarkable Claude Monet's House & Garden offers a glimpse into the life and work of one of the most famous Impressionist painters in the world. Monet lived here for over 40 years, from 1883 until his death in 1926, and his home and gardens served as the inspiration for many of his most iconic works, including his famous Water Lilies series. A great experience and hugely popular with our customers. Entrance fee included in holiday price. 

DAY 4
Lovely day out today as we board the coach for the short journey to the town of Pont-l'Evêque. Here, we have included a tour and tasting at the brilliant Pere Magloire Distillery. This immersive and experiential museum on the production of Calvados and its history includes a 40-minute interactive tour followed by a tasting of 3 exceptional Calvados of the largest houses from the Pays d'Auge. 

Afterwards we head back to the Côte Fleurie and the towns of Trouville and Deauville. These two towns straddle the Touques estuary and offer charming centres to discover. Deauville is particularly known for its grand casino and American Film Festival and has a wide sandy beach backed by a 1920s boardwalk and traditional bathing cabins. Trouville offers much too! Plenty of time here to find somewhere for a snack or more before returning to Honfleur for a final evening to enjoy the atmosphere.

DAY 5
Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel before we leave Honfleur and head for Bayeux - a lovely Norman town. Usually, there is the opportunity to see the famous Bayeux Tapestry, but this is due to be in London at this time! Bayeux has much more to offer the visitor - a lovely place to stroll around and enjoy some lunch before reboarding the coach. Heading back to Cherbourg in good time for the 6.15pm Brittany Ferries crossing - arriving back in Poole at 9.45pm. After disembarkation, returning to your local pick up point.

Meal plan - Bed & Buffet Breakfast


Ibis Styles Honfleur Centre Historique

Delighted to be returning to the Ibis Styles Honfleur Hotel, where we have been staying successfully for many years.

Decorated in a modern continental style, it is superbly situated in the heart of the charming centre of Honfleur, with the picturesque harbour a 2 minute walk away. The helpful reception staff are on hand if you need any assistance or advice. There are many excellent and friendly restaurants dotted around the harbourside and around the side streets - something for everyone. 

The 48 sound proofed, air conditioned bedrooms are comfortable with en suite bathrooms - all rooms have separate showers, Satellite TV, and hair dryer. 

For breakfast, head down to the bar area on the ground floor - excellent help yourself buffet breakfast with plenty of choice. Passenger lift to all floors.

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