From Port to Promenade: A Travel Log of Le Havre

#citystroll #100waysoftravel Le Havre, a bustling port city in Normandy, France, offers a unique blend of history, modernity, and coastal charm. Known for its post-war architecture, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site that has managed to reinvent itself while preserving its rich maritime legacy. Start your journey at **Perret’s City Center**, a masterpiece of modernist architecture. Designed by Auguste Perret after the destruction during World War II, the grid-like layout and concrete buildings give the city a distinct look. Don’t miss the towering **St. Joseph's Church**, whose concrete spire serves as a lighthouse for both sailors and visitors alike. For art lovers, **Musée d'Art Moderne André Malraux (MuMa)** is a must. It boasts one of the largest collections of impressionist paintings outside Paris, with works by Monet, Boudin, and Dufy. The museum’s glass walls offer stunning views of the sea, adding to the immersive experience. Le Havre’s seafront is perfect for a relaxing stroll. The **Les Jardins Suspendus**, perched on a hill, provide panoramic views of the city and harbor. These botanical gardens, located in former military fortifications, offer a peaceful retreat with plants from around the world. End your day at **Le Havre Beach**, where you can enjoy the pebble shore and colorful beach huts. As the sun sets, the horizon is dotted with ships entering and leaving the harbor, a perfect reflection of the city’s maritime soul. Le Havre’s charm lies in its contrasts: the modernity of its architecture with the timelessness of the sea. It’s a city that has turned its turbulent past into a vibrant and welcoming future.