Le Havre’s Art & Culture: Top 5 Must-See Spots
Le Havre, sometimes written as “Le Harve”, a city in Normandy, France, is possibly more than just a port town; it’s very much a spot where art meets life at every corner. Very, very different to many other places, the area really sings with culture. You see, the area actually recovered from wartime destruction and carries within it a great spirit of reinvention which seems to have affected how creatives design and curate the city. I mean, what is not to love?
1. Musée d’Art Moderne André Malraux (MuMa)
The Musée d’Art Moderne André Malraux, almost universally referred to simply as MuMa, is pretty much your first stop when exploring art here. This museum, you see, isn’t just there; it rather stands right by the sea, it gives breathtaking views while also presenting collections of impressionist art. As a matter of fact, a good number of artworks of Monet, Renoir, and Degas find their home here. So, for a peek into the masters, that could be a fantastic way to begin!
Highlights:
- A vast collection featuring Impressionist masterpieces
- In a way, there are temporary exhibitions throughout the year
- The location, by the water, is lovely
Read our full review: Musée d’Art Moderne André Malraux Full Review and Details. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Book Now)
2. Appartement Témoin Perret
You know, Appartement Témoin Perret is not your common museum; instead, it provides a time capsule to the 1950s. This apartment, you see, is set up in what’s often called the “Perret style,” known rather specifically for its concrete construct. And so, as you step inside, you’ll get a genuine peek at what modern living looked like at the time and that tends to offer visitors an individual glance at postwar designs.
Highlights:
- Unique peek at post-war modern living
- Finds itself inside of a Perret building, naturally
- Displays household goods, too, of that era
Read our full review: Appartement Témoin Perret Full Review and Details. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Visit)
3. Saint-Joseph Church
Saint-Joseph Church, I mean, that structure isn’t just there; it’s a bold declaration in the skyline of Le Havre. Designed, as a matter of fact, to memorialize civilian casualties of World War II, its architecture could be a symbolic light beaming up high, marking peace and restoration. Pretty remarkable, right?
Highlights:
- You’ll notice distinct architecture
- Stained glass offering many colors
- Symbolic importance about WWII restoration
Read our full review: Saint-Joseph Church Full Review and Details. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Plan a Visit)
4. Le Volcan (Oscar Niemeyer Cultural Center)
Le Volcan, in other words, the Oscar Niemeyer Cultural Center, almost looks like its straight from an science fiction story! Envisioned and made real, by Oscar Niemeyer, you know, this place holds shows and performances of varied kinds. As I was saying, from the external appearance right through its program offers, this location seems to be all about expressing yourself via many unique channels.
Highlights:
- Designed rather specifically by Oscar Niemeyer
- All sorts of stage shows
- Known rather widely as a symbolic landmark within Le Havre
Read our full review: Le Volcan (Oscar Niemeyer Cultural Center) Full Review and Details. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (See a Show)
5. Japanese Garden
Oh, the Japanese Garden! Found almost quietly at the outskirts, the area offers peace far from what is generally city life. Really a spot perfect to relax, it also offers one of those peaceful locations, which blends design and nature; I mean, what better way could you find calm and something truly picturesque?!
Highlights:
- Really, pretty much Japanese plants everywhere
- Places that lend themselves perfectly for calm moments
- It could just give inspiration with art at different points, also
Read our full review: Japanese Garden Full Review and Details. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Explore Now)