Honfleur is a charming port town that feels like stepping into a painter’s canvas, with its colorful houses, bustling quay, and historic streets. What makes it especially appealing for city tours is the town’s compact size combined with its rich maritime and artistic heritage. Walking through its alleys or enjoying panoramic views from high points reveals a picture-perfect setting that’s both lively and peaceful. Our favorite experience? The private guided sidecar tour — it’s a stylish way to see the city’s alleys, heights, and scenic countryside all at once. And if you’re traveling with family or friends, the scavenger hunt offers a playful, interactive experience to uncover Honfleur’s treasures.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up two of the best city tours in Honfleur, each with its own appeal. Whether you want a personalized, scenic ride or a fun, self-guided exploration, these options highlight what makes Honfleur unique. Read on to find the perfect match for your travel style.
1. Honfleur: Private Guided City Tour by Vintage Sidecars
For those craving a truly special experience, the Honfleur: Private Guided City Tour by Vintage Sidecars stands out. Costing $291 for a private group of up to two, this tour combines style, comfort, and a dash of adventure. It lasts from 1.5 to 3.5 hours, making it a flexible choice for a half-day outing. The tour kicks off with pickup in Honfleur and takes you through the city’s streets in vintage sidecars — yes, those classic, open-air motorbikes with sidecars. This setup allows you to enjoy the breeze and scenic views without sacrificing comfort or commentary.
What makes this tour special is its focus on personalized sightseeing. You’ll explore alleys, panoramic viewpoints like Mont-Joli, and visit Notre-Dame-de-Grâce, a church with 1400 years of stories. The visit to Villerville, a village famous as a filming location, adds a cinematic touch. The experience peaks with a cider and calvados tasting at Manoir d’Apreval, giving you a taste of Normandy’s famed spirits. Reviewers praise the tour for its unique style and scenic stops, with an overall 5/5 rating from 31 reviews. Guests love the mix of historical sites, beautiful vistas, and the chance to ride in a vintage sidecar, making it a standout activity.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a memorable, stylish way to see Honfleur with a private guide, this tour offers an exclusive experience that’s both fun and informative — perfect for couples or small groups craving something special.
2. e-Scavenger hunt Honfleur: Explore the city at your own pace
For travelers who prefer flexibility and a dash of competition, the e-Scavenger hunt Honfleur provides a fun way to discover the city’s most iconic spots. Priced at $35.86 for groups of up to six, it’s a budget-friendly option that lasts around three to four hours. Instead of a guided tour, you get a digital game that guides you through Honfleur’s highlights, from the Le Vieux Bassin and the timber Sainte-Catherine church to the historic houses and salt warehouses.
This scavenger hunt is designed for families or groups of friends who enjoy solving clues and completing challenges. You decide when to start, pause, and finish your adventure, allowing you to tailor the experience to your pace. Along the way, you’ll learn about the Impressionist origins of Honfleur and explore hidden corners like the St Leonard quarter and the old Saint-Léonard church. Participants have praised it for its interactive approach and the chance to explore at their leisure, making it a perfect choice for those who want to combine sightseeing with some lighthearted fun.
Bottom Line: If you’re traveling with a group that enjoys a game and wants to see the main sights without a rigid schedule, this scavenger hunt offers a lively, self-paced way to explore Honfleur’s essence.
How to Choose Between These Tours
Picking the right tour depends on what kind of experience you’re after. If you want a private, scenic ride that covers a lot of ground in style, the vintage sidecar tour is ideal — especially if you enjoy unique transport and personalized attention. On the other hand, for a more flexible, budget-friendly option that’s also interactive, the scavenger hunt works well, particularly for families or groups who like a bit of friendly competition.
Consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. The guided sidecar tour offers a more in-depth, panoramic experience, while the scavenger hunt provides a playful way to uncover Honfleur’s treasures at your own pace. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred schedule.
In summary, Honfleur offers diverse ways to explore its artistic streets, historic sites, and scenic views. The private vintage sidecar tour is perfect for those seeking a stylish, guided adventure, while the scavenger hunt suits travelers who prefer a relaxed, interactive exploration. Whether you opt for a guided ride or a self-guided game, both tours deliver a memorable glimpse of this picturesque Normandy port. For an authentic and enjoyable visit, consider your travel style and book your preferred tour early — Honfleur’s magic doesn’t wait.
