Day trip to Etretat France

Just a few hours from Paris is France’s best-kept secret. A coastal escape with glistening turquoise waters, and stunning cliffside views!

A day trip to Etretat France is the perfect getaway from Paris. A serene place to get away from it all, complete with some French charm.

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Day trip to Etretat France

Etretat is a town on the north coast of France in the Normandy region.

It is known for the striking rock formations carved out of its white cliffs, similar to the White Cliffs of Dover in England. 

Erosion has created these extraordinary arches in the chalk cliffs, forming its three natural arches and a pointed formation called the needle, which rises 230 ft. above sea level. 

The natural beauty of Etretat has long attracted artists such as Monet and Boudin, and it’s no wonder, this place is absolutely stunning!

Discover Etretat France on your next trip to Paris and be prepared to be amazed at the Natural beauty of this coastal town in France.

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How to get To Etretat 

Etretat is a popular weekend destination from Paris, but can easily be explored on a day trip from Paris as well.

The easiest way to get to Etretat is by car. It’s about a 3-hour drive from Paris, and I highly recommend the drive as the scenery getting here is amazing!

There are a few car parks in Etretat, but they can all get busy, especially on weekends.

We parked by the beach at Place du Général De Gaulle, and it was already crowded by mid-morning.

I highly suggest getting there early to ensure you have space. You can also get here by train from Paris to Le Havre, and take the bus from there. 

Etretat is an easy day trip when exploring the Normandy region, and the best way to explore is on foot as it is quite compact.

READ NEXT: Road trip through Normandy

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Best way to admire the White Cliffs of Etretat

The best way to enjoy the Cliffs of Etretat is on a coastal walk, just make sure the tides are low before you make your trek for safety!

You can also hike up the cliffs to get the most spectacular views. There are staircases that lead up on either side but end in a moderate walk.

Once you make it up, be sure to keep an eye out on the kids as there are no barriers for protection.

Day trip to Etretat France: Etretat Beach 

When you think of Northern France, blue waters don’t really come to mind. We were surprised to find turquoise waters in Etretat, it was absolutely stunning!

After strolling through the White cliffs, a dip in the water was the perfect way to end the day.

We were here in the summer and the water was still quite cold but was perfect to soothe our tired feet.

We enjoyed a stroll through the pebble beach, which was quite interesting. We’ve never been to a beach with thick pebbles! You can still lounge on the rocks as they were quite smooth.

For the kiddos, there is a small playground just a short walk away from the beach, and lots of cafes and restaurants as well.

Where to stay in Etretat 

Etretat is a popular weekend destination. If you plan to stay, make sure to book your hotel in Etretat in advance, or stay at the nearby towns in the area.

We used Honfleur as our base when exploring the Normandy Region. You can also use Rouen, Caen, or Le Havre as your base when you visit Etretat.

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We enjoyed our day trip to Etretat France. It’s such an amazing coastal town that should be on everyone’s bucket list.

When you plan your trip to Paris, make sure to add Etretat to your itinerary, and explore the Normandy region. It’s one of the most beautiful places in France and so worth the trip.

READ NEXT: Best day trips from Paris

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