Travel to Cherbourg with travel insurance from Essential Travel

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Information on Cherbourg with single trip travel insurance from Essential Travel

Travel to Cherbourg

The historic seaside town of Cherbourg is nestled between a huge artificial harbour and the 125-metre Roule Mountain. Cherbourg’s location on the English Channel and its variety of historical attractions make it an ideal holiday destination.

Getting there

Cherbourg has its own airport, and there is also one in nearby Caen. However, many international flights arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris. From Paris, you can catch a connecting flight to Cherbourg or continuing the journey by road or rail. Cherbourg is a three-hour drive from Paris. Follow the A13 for approximately 240kms until you reach Caen, and then follow the RN13 for a further 120kms to reach Cherbourg. Alternatively, getting to Cherbourg by train from the UK via the Channel Tunnel takes approximately three hours. Ferries arrive regularly from the UK several times daily. From Portsmouth in Britain, P&O Ferries operates standard ferries and the Superstar Express, which makes the crossing in less than three hours. From Poole, the ferry trip is about four hours. Ferries also run from Rosslare in Ireland.

Information on Cherbourgs key attractions

Cherbourg’s harbour walls are magnificent feats of engineering, constructed over the 18th and 19th centuries with modifications and additions until 1922. The central dyke with its three forts is the main attraction. Also around the harbour area is the site of the great château which was destroyed in 1689. Other sights include the Bassins, where you can witness the port as it was in the 19th century; the Queens of the Atlantic - ocean liners that ferried emigrants to the Americas; Voeu Abbey; and Emmanuel Liais Park. There are several signposted historic walks through the harbour area as well. Historic churches in Cherbourg include: Notre-Dame du Voeu, Saint Clement, and the ancient Saint Trinity Basilica. The 16th century Ravelet-Tourlaville Castle and surrounding landscaped park are also worth seeing.

Out and about

Cherbourg is a convenient base from which to explore the surrounding Normandy region, which is host to gems such as the lovely Val de Saire and the intriguing Hague. The region around Cherbourg is renowned for its striking châteaux. Château Ravalet is an Italian Renaissance structure situated in the nearby town of Tourlaville. With original construction dates from the 16th century, the château is now a national monument. Château Nacquaville, in Urville-Nacquaville, is a 16th century mansion surrounded by a stunning English garden. Domaine de Beurepaire, six kilometres from Cherbourg, is home to another château, Martinvaast.

Leisure options

Cherbourg has plenty of quality restaurants and quaint cafés for those looking for some quiet time. In the evening, a variety of night spots bring the town to life.

Safety

when travelling to an unfamiliar environment, remain alert for potential hazards. Tourists are more susceptible to pickpocketing, theft or loss of personal effects. Water sports, outdoor activities and driving place you at greater risk of having an accident. Strange routines can also result in missed travel arrangements. We strongly recommend you take out travel insurance for you and your family.

Weather in Cherbourg

Travelling to Cherbourg for a sunny break is ideal through the months of June to September, with temperatures reaching mid - high 20sc. October through to May are the cooler months of the year with tempretaures mild at 18c but lowering to 3c. The rainiest periods of the year are between October and January

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