🪨 Normandy, France
Things to do in Étretat
The alabaster cliffs and natural arches Monet loved to paint
Étretat is a small Normandy seaside town famous for its dramatic white chalk cliffs, sea arches and the needle-like Aiguille rock — a scene painted again and again by Monet and the Impressionists. Clifftop walks lead to the arches and a hilltop chapel and gardens, and the pebble beach and town below make an easy, scenic day from the Normandy coast or a stop on a wider road trip.
Time needed
Half a day to a day
Best time
May–September for the warmest, driest weather and long days on the cliffs; golden hour is the loveliest light
Region
Normandy, France
Don’t miss
The cliffs and arches walk
Walk up from the beach onto the cliffs for the classic views of the Porte d’Aval arch and the Aiguille needle on one side, and the Porte d’Amont and the clifftop chapel on the other. Golden hour is magical, and the Étretat Gardens on the cliff add a quirky, art-filled finish.
Top things to do in Étretat
- The Porte d’Aval arch and the Aiguille (needle) rock — the iconic view.
- The clifftop walk to the Chapelle Notre-Dame de la Garde.
- The Étretat Gardens (Les Jardins d’Étretat), a contemporary cliff-top art garden.
- The pebble beach and seafront promenade in the town below.
- Following the Impressionist trail — Monet painted these cliffs repeatedly.
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How to get to Étretat
Étretat is on the Alabaster Coast, best reached by car (about 30 minutes from Le Havre, under an hour from Honfleur). Without a car, take a train to Le Havre or Bréauté-Beuzeville and a connecting bus. It pairs well with Honfleur and the wider Normandy coast; many visit as a half- or full-day trip.
Hire a car in Normandy
Compare rental deals — handy for reaching Étretat at your own pace
Best time to visit
May–September for the warmest, driest weather and long days on the cliffs; golden hour is the loveliest light. Spring and autumn are quieter; the cliffs are exposed, so avoid windy, wet days when the paths are slippery.
Étretat tips
- Wear proper shoes for the cliff paths and keep well back from the (unfenced) edges, especially in wind.
- Come at golden hour for the best light on the arches and the Aiguille.
- Combine it with Honfleur or the Alabaster Coast for a fuller day.
- A car is much easier than public transport for reaching Étretat.
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