Étretat 5 Day Itinerary – Follow this ultimate 5-day guide to explore Normandy’s most enchanting coastal town. Marvel at chalk cliffs, enjoy local cuisine, and walk in the footsteps of Impressionist masters.Marvel at the world-famous chalk cliffs, walk in the footsteps of Impressionist masters, and immerse yourself in the sea breeze mixed with rich history and culture.
📅 Day 1 – Étretat 5 Day Itinerary: Arrival & Cliffs First Impressions
🚆 Getting There
- From Paris Saint-Lazare, take a TER regional train to Le Havre or Bréauté-Beuzeville (approx. 2h15min, €25–35).
- Transfer to bus X50 or 118 to Étretat (45 min, approx. €8–10).
🌊 Afternoon: Seaside Stroll & Cliff Views
Stroll along the pebble beach and take in the breathtaking view of the iconic “Natural Arch” (Porte d’Aval) and the sharp “Needle Rock” (Aiguille).
These chalk cliffs were formed during the Late Cretaceous period, about 75 million years ago. Their pristine white layers, dotted with tiny fossil shells, are a geological time capsule. In the 19th century, Impressionist master Claude Monet painted them repeatedly, capturing the play of sunlight and mist that inspired countless artists.
📸 Photo Tip: At sunset, the natural arch and the glowing sky form a heart-shaped silhouette – perfect for couples.
🍽 Dinner Suggestion
- Le Galion: Try fresh oysters, scallops, and Normandy cream-braised fish (€40–60) paired with local cider (Cidre).
📅 Day 2 – Étretat 5 Day Itinerary: Clifftop Hikes & Sea Views
🚶 Morning: Hike Along the Clifftops
Follow the Falaise d’Aval trail, a 6 km round-trip along the dramatic cliff edges. The paths wind through chalk and moss-covered sections, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic.
Geological Highlight
The chalk cliffs are ancient sedimentary layers carved by wind and waves over millennia. Their striking arches and pillars are the result of centuries of erosion.
⛪ Afternoon: Chapel of the Sea
Visit Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde, a small chapel built in 1901 atop the cliff. Sailors once prayed here before setting out to sea, hoping for safe returns. Inside, model ships and nautical carvings reflect Étretat’s deep connection to the ocean.
📸 Photo Tip: The chapel’s terrace offers one of the best panoramic views of Étretat Bay.
🍽 Dinner Suggestion
- La Flottille: Taste the classic Sole Meunière (butter-fried sole) (€35–50).
📅 Day 3 – Arts & Legends on Your Étretat 5 Day Itinerary
🖤 Morning: Step into a Legend
Tour Le Clos Arsène Lupin, the former home of Maurice Leblanc, creator of the gentleman thief Arsène Lupin. The museum recreates Leblanc’s study and garden, and in the evenings you can join an immersive “Mystery Night” experience where visitors play detective.
🎨 Afternoon: The Impressionist Coast
Wander through town galleries showcasing works by Monet, Boudin, and Courbet, who were captivated by Étretat’s changing light and tides.
Experience Tip
Join a half-day “Artist Experience” class to sketch or paint the cliffs just as the Impressionists once did.
🍽 Dinner Suggestion
- L’Huitrière: Try a traditional Normandy buckwheat crêpe (Galette) with Livarot cheese (€15–20).
📅 Day 4 – Nature & Modern Art in the Étretat 5 Day Itinerary
🌿 Morning: Gardens on the Cliffs
Visit Les Jardins d’Étretat (€12), where modern sculptures blend seamlessly with wave-shaped hedges and the cliff’s natural contours.
🚴 Afternoon: Coastal Cycling
Rent a bike (€15/day) and ride along the clifftop paths to Petit Aiguille. Along the way, discover mossy sand dunes and hidden photo spots perfect for capturing dramatic sea views.
🍽 Dinner Suggestion
- Le Donjon: End the day with a classic Normandy apple tart (Tarte Normande) served with vanilla ice cream (€10–15).
📅 Day 5 – Wrapping Up Your Étretat 5 Day Itinerary
🚤 Morning: Boat Tour of the Cliffs
Take a boat tour (€30–50) to see the arches and sea caves up close. In spring and summer, watch seabirds like kittiwakes and guillemots nesting in the cliffs.
☕ Afternoon: Relax Before Departure
Enjoy a coffee at a beachside café, then shop for cider (€8–15) and handmade cheese (€5–10) to take home as souvenirs.
🚗 Transportation Summary
- Paris ↔ Étretat: Train + bus round trip €40–60
- Around town: Walking and bike rentals (€15/day)
- Boat tour: €30–50
🍽️ Food Highlights & Budget Overview
| Category | Budget (€) |
|---|---|
| Breakfast | 5–10 |
| Lunch | 12–25 |
| Dinner | 30–60 |
| Accommodation (mid-range) | 80–150/night |
| Attractions & Activities | 50–90 (5 days total) |
| 5-Day Total | €600–950 |
🎯 Immersive Travel Tips
- See: Study the intricate chalk layers and sculpted sea arches.
- Hear: Listen to the crash of waves and the chorus of seabirds.
- Touch: Feel the coarse chalk rock and soft moss under your fingers.
- Taste: Savor the contrast between sweet cider and salty cheese.
For more information on Étretat’s attractions, hiking trails, and local events, visit the Normandy Tourism Official Website for up-to-date details.
If you’re looking for another breathtaking mountain escape, check out our The Ultimate Zakopane 5 Day Itinerary: Mountains, Culture & Hidden Gems for inspiration.