Perfect One Day in Étretat (5 Top Things You Can’t Miss + Practical Tips)

If you’re dreaming of dramatic sea cliffs, sweeping ocean views, and a charming seaside village, then a perfect one day in Étretat might just be the highlight of your Normandy adventure.

This small but spectacular town in northern France is world-famous for its stunning white chalk cliffs and natural arches, especially the iconic Falaise d’Aval and the Manneporte. They’re the kind of views that leave you speechless, which is why artists like Monet couldn’t resist painting them again and again.

But Étretat isn’t just about jaw-dropping scenery. From peaceful pebble beaches and scenic coastal trails to the whimsical Jardins d’Étretat, where art, nature, and panoramic views come together, this village has a quiet magic all its own.

It’s the kind of place where you slow down, take it all in, and feel like you’ve uncovered a hidden gem of France.

In this Étretat travel guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to plan one unforgettable day here, from how to get there to the best things to do in Étretat, to insider tips that will help you make the most of your visit.

We drove to Étretat from Mont Saint-Michel, and it was a beautiful, relaxing road trip through the Normandy countryside. If you’re planning your own visit, here are the best ways to get to Étretat—whether you’re driving or relying on public transport.

By Car:
Driving to Étretat is one of the easiest and most flexible options, especially if you want to explore more of Normandy along the way.

• From Paris, take the A13 toward Rouen, then follow the A29 toward Le Havre. From there, the D940 coastal road leads you straight to Étretat. The drive takes about 2.5 hours.
• From Rouen, it’s roughly 1.5 hours via the A150, A29, and D940.
• From Mont Saint-Michel, the drive took us just under 3 hours—and honestly, it was worth every scenic minute.

By Train and Bus:
Étretat doesn’t have its own train station, but it’s still possible to reach by a combination of train and bus.

• From Paris or Rouen, take a train to Le Havre, and get off at Breauté-Beuzeville station. From there, catch Bus Line 17 to Étretat (about 30 minutes).
• If you’re already in Le Havre, hop on Bus Line 24, which takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour to reach Étretat.

If you’re planning to drive, here’s the honest truth: parking in Étretat can be a bit of a challenge, especially during weekends or peak travel months. We arrived by car and quickly realized that having a few backup parking options makes all the difference.

The main parking lot near Place Maurice Guillard is the closest and most convenient, just steps from the town center and beach. But it fills up fast. If you’re visiting in summer, try to get there early in the morning to snag a spot.

Another great option is Parking du Grand Val at 23 rue Guy de Maupassant. It’s about a 10-minute walk to the seafront, open 24/7, and feels a bit more relaxed and secure than the lots right in town. We parked here without any hassle and enjoyed the short stroll into Étretat.

You can also try Place du Général de Gaulle (14 Rue Mathurin Lenormand)—a central and popular choice that puts you within easy walking distance of the cliffs and gardens. Just know that its prime location means it fills up quickly, too.

GOOD TO KNOW: Most parking areas in Étretat are paid from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, even on weekends and public holidays. To make life easier, download the PayByPhone app. It’s accepted in most central lots and lets you pay and extend your time, right from your phone.

With a little planning, you can spend less time circling the block and more time soaking up those unforgettable cliffside views.

Étretat isn’t just a postcard-perfect seaside town; it’s a place layered with stories. Its roots stretch back to Roman times, when it was a fishing port. You can still spot old capstans on the beach and caloges, the traditional boats once thatched like cottages. Legend even says Vikings landed here in the 9th century, and a spring once named Fontaine Olive still whispers of that tale.

In the 19th century, artists like Monet were drawn to Étretat’s wild cliffs and changing skies. His paintings of the Falaise d’Aval helped make these chalk formations iconic.

Then came aviation history, in 1927, two French pilots disappeared mid-flight after taking off from Étretat in The White Bird, attempting the first nonstop Paris–New York flight. A monument now honors their mysterious journey.

Étretat – part of the Alabaster Coast / One Day in Étretat

World War II scarred the town, including the destruction of the original chapel on the cliffs. Rebuilt in 1950, it now watches over the sea, offering one of the best views in town.

Today, Étretat is part of the Alabaster Coast, known for its luminous white cliffs shaped by centuries of wind and water.

Even the town’s artistic legacy continues; just visit the Jardins d’Étretat, created in 1905 by actress Madame Thébault and later reimagined as a sculpture garden where art and nature meet.

Once you’ve parked, a great way to start your day in Étretat is with a walk along the Perrey, the town’s main seaside promenade. It runs right along the water and gives you amazing views of the cliffs and rock formations on both sides.

To the left, you’ll see the famous Falaise d’Aval and L’Aiguille, a tall, needle-shaped rock sticking out of the sea. To the right, the cliffs stretch the Falaise d’Amont (with the chapel and viewpoint).

West Side (to the left) – Falaise d’Aval and L’Aiguille / One Day in Étretat

East Side (to the right) – Falaise d’Amont / One Day in Étretat

If the tide is low, you’ll be able to explore more of the rocky shoreline, but be careful, the tide comes in fast, and the beach can disappear quickly.

Also, don’t walk too close under the cliffs. Falling rocks and rising water make it dangerous. Stick to the main areas, and you’ll still get to enjoy the view and snap some great photos.

After exploring the beach, it’s time to head up the Western Cliffs, home to Étretat’s most iconic sights: the Falaise d’Aval and the dramatic L’Aiguille.

The trail starts near the beach and gently climbs up the hill. It’s not a tough walk, and you’ll find plenty of spots to stop, catch your breath, and enjoy the views.

As you go up, you’ll pass two amazing lookout points. From there, you can see the whole beach, the rooftops of the village, and across the bay to the cliffs on the other side.

If you look closely down by the water, you might spot the remains of an old 18th-century oyster farm—Marie-Antoinette was apparently a fan of Étretat oysters!

At the top, you’ll get a close-up view of the natural arch and L’Aiguille, the tall, needle-shaped rock rising out of the sea.

The Natural Arch and L’Aiguille / One Day in Étretat

The Natural Arch and L’Aiguille / One Day in Étretat

Keep following the path and you’ll come to Manneporte, another huge arch carved by the sea, with maybe the best view in all of Étretat. On a clear day, you can even spot the Antifer lighthouse on the horizon.

If you’re up for a little adventure, keep walking and you’ll pass places tied to legends, like the Aiguille Creuse (famous from the Arsène Lupin stories) and the Damsel Room cave, where local tales speak of ghosts and hidden treasure. Whether or not you believe the stories, this part of the coast has a wild, untamed beauty that really sticks with you.

Manneporte / One Day in Étretat

If you’ve explored the western cliffs and are ready for a different view, head up to the eastern side of Étretat. This is where you’ll find the Falaise d’Amont and the little Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde chapel, perched right above the sea.

Falaise d’Amont and Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde Chapel / One Day in Étretat

You have two ways to get there. If you don’t mind stairs and want to get there quickly, take the path at the far end of the promenade—it’s steep but scenic. If you’d rather skip the stairs, you can walk up via Jules Gerbeau Street and Avenue Damilaville. It’s still uphill, but much easier and less crowded.

At the top, you’ll get one of the best panoramic views of Étretat. You’ll see the whole town, the curved pebble beach, and the dramatic Falaise d’Aval and L’Aiguille on the other side.

If you’re visiting in spring or summer, the trail is often lined with wildflowers, and you might see seabirds riding the winds along the cliffs. It’s a beautiful, peaceful way to end your cliff walks.

Sitting high above Étretat on the eastern cliffs, the Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde is hard to miss.

It was originally built in 1855, dedicated to the Virgin Mary as a protector of local fishermen and sailors who faced the rough waters of the Channel.

Sadly, the original chapel was destroyed during World War II, but the current one was rebuilt in 1950 in a simple, modern style.

One fun detail: the gargoyles on the chapel are shaped like fish, a small but meaningful nod to Étretat’s fishing past.

Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde / One Day in Étretat

Even if you’re not into history, the view from here is incredible. You’ll see the pebble beach below, the village tucked into the cliffs, and straight ahead, the famous arch and needle rock formations of the western cliffs. It’s a great spot to pause, take some photos, or just enjoy the moment.

Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde / One Day in Étretat

Just a few minutes’ walk from the chapel, the Gardens of Étretat are definitely worth a visit.

Originally created in 1905 by actress Madame Thébault, a friend of Claude Monet, the gardens were inspired by the beauty of the cliffs and sea around them. Today, they’re a mix of sculpted greenery and modern art, perched right on the edge of the cliffs.

The Gardens of Étretat / Perfect One Day in Étretat

What makes the gardens special is how they blend nature and creativity. You’ll see dramatic topiary designs, native plants, and stunning views of the coastline around every corner. They also focus on eco-friendly gardening, using sustainable techniques to protect the local environment.

Don’t miss the “Raindrops” sculptures by Samuel Salcedo, giant reflective human faces tucked into the landscape. They’re strange, beautiful, and oddly emotional, changing with the light and weather. It’s one of the most surprising and memorable spots in town.

“Raindrops” sculptures by Samuel Salcedo / Perfect One Day in Étretat

If you’re planning to spend the night in Étretat, you’re in for a treat. This charming seaside town offers a variety of places to stay, each with its own unique vibe.

Here are two top picks that I think you’ll love:

If you’re looking for a spot with a view that’ll knock your socks off, Dormy House is a must. Perched right on the cliffs, it offers stunning views of the sea. You can literally step outside and find yourself on a private path leading to the beach—how cool is that? It’s the perfect place to escape and unwind, surrounded by nature. The rooms are cozy, and the food at the on-site restaurant is amazing, especially if you love fresh seafood.

For something a bit more intimate but still close to everything, Hôtel Le Rayon Vert is an excellent choice. Located just steps from the beach, you’ll have the ocean right at your doorstep. The rooms are cozy, with plenty of natural light, and some even offer amazing views of the cliffs. What really makes this place special is the welcoming vibe; you’ll feel right at home here. The terrace is the perfect spot for a peaceful breakfast or evening drink, letting you enjoy the view while you relax.

Both of these hotels offer something unique, so whether you want to be right on the cliffs or have easy access to the beach, you’ve got great options for your stay in Étretat.

If you’re spending time in Étretat, you’ll definitely want to explore the local food scene. Here are three great spots to try, along with some must-have dishes to make your visit extra special:

Le Bel Ami is perfect if you’re looking for something fresh and a bit refined. The menu changes with the seasons, so everything is made with the freshest local ingredients. One dish I’d highly recommend is their mezze platter. It’s a mix of hummus, beef tataki, kefta, citrusy ceviche, and other tasty bites, basically, a little flavor tour on a plate.

La Flottille has been a go-to spot in Étretat for years, and it’s easy to see why. They’ve mastered the art of catering to all tastes while keeping things authentic. One thing you should definitely try here is their wood-fired grills. The smoky flavor of the meats is irresistible.

Le Bistretatais is a cozy little spot with a relaxed vibe, perfect if you’re exploring Étretat with family or friends. They’ve got this great Menu Gourmand that lets you sample some regional dishes for under €30.