Things To Do
in Granville

Granville is a charming coastal town located in Normandy, France, known for its rich maritime history and beautiful beaches. The town boasts a picturesque old town with narrow streets, vibrant local markets, and stunning views of the English Channel. Granville is also famous for its annual carnival and as the birthplace of the renowned fashion designer Christian Dior.

Visitors can enjoy a blend of cultural experiences, seaside leisure, and delicious cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Granville
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Granville Museum, where you can learn about the town's history and maritime heritage.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the historic old town, visiting the Notre-Dame church and enjoying lunch at a local café.

evening
:

End the day with a scenic walk along the beach and dinner at a seafood restaurant overlooking the harbor.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Take a boat trip to the nearby Chausey Islands for some stunning views and a chance to explore the natural beauty.

afternoon
:

Return to Granville and visit the local market to sample fresh produce and local delicacies.

evening
:

Head to a local bar to experience Granville's vibrant nightlife with live music and a friendly atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15-$30
Coffee$3-$5
🍞Baguette$1.50
🍺Local Beer$5
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches.
  • Rich cultural history and local cuisine.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation can be infrequent.
  • Weather can be unpredictable, especially in winter.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Où est...?" - Where is...?
  • "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please

Places to Visit in Granville

Visit one of these nice places.

Mont Saint-Michel View

Capture breathtaking shots of Mont Saint-Michel from various viewpoints along the shore.

Granville Lighthouse

A picturesque lighthouse located at the edge of the harbor, perfect for sunset photography.

Old Town Streets

Photograph the charming cobblestone streets and colorful facades of the historic district.

Culinary Guide

Food in Granville

Granville's culinary scene is a delightful representation of Normandy's rich flavors, featuring fresh seafood, local cheeses, and traditional pastries.

Granville Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Seafood Platter

A selection of fresh oysters, clams, and shrimp, served with lemon and sauces.

Must-Try!

Cider

A traditional drink in Normandy, made from fermented apple juice, often enjoyed with meals.

Tarte Normande

A delicious apple tart made with fresh local apples and a creamy custard.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Granville Market

Open every Wednesday and Saturday, offering fresh produce, cheeses, and local specialties.

Climate Guide

Weather

Granville experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 5°C (41°F) in winter to 22°C (72°F) in summer. Rain is common throughout the year, so packing a light raincoat is advisable. The coastal location results in occasional strong winds.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Always greet people with 'Bonjour' during the day and 'Bonsoir' in the evening.

Dining Etiquette

It's customary to wait for the host to start eating before you begin.

Politeness

Politeness is key; saying 's'il vous plaît' (please) and 'merci' (thank you) is expected.

Safety Guide

Safety

Granville is generally a safe destination for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and securing personal belongings. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Granville

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated, but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit cards, but it's good to carry some cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm temperatures attract tourists; it's perfect for beach activities and festivals.

Autumn

Enjoy cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, ideal for photography.

Winter

Cold weather with occasional snowfall; a quieter time to explore the town's indoor attractions.

Nightlife Guide

Granville at Night

Granville's nightlife offers a laid-back yet vibrant atmosphere, with a mix of bars, pubs, and occasional live music. The harbor area is particularly lively, where many establishments stay open late. You can enjoy everything from quiet cafes to bustling dance clubs, catering to various tastes and preferences.

Hiking in Granville

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentier des Douaniers

A scenic coastal trail offering stunning views of the cliffs and sea, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.

Val de Sée

A picturesque trail that winds through forests and alongside rivers, suitable for all skill levels.

Airports

How to reach Granville by plane.

Dinard-Pleurtuit-Saint-Malo Airport

Located about 85 km from Granville, this small airport offers seasonal flights and serves as a convenient entry point for visitors.

Getting Around

Walkability

Granville is quite walkable, with many attractions and amenities located within a short distance of each other. The historic old town features cobblestone streets and is best navigated on foot. However, some areas may have steep inclines, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population consists mainly of French locals who are proud of their heritage and traditions.

Tourists

During the summer months, Granville sees a significant influx of tourists, particularly from other parts of France and Europe.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is a popular sport in Granville, with local clubs and a strong community following.

Sailing

With its coastal location, sailing is a favored activity, and the local marina hosts various sailing events.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Granville is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transportation includes buses connecting to nearby towns, but services may be limited on weekends. Walking and cycling are popular options for getting around town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Granville.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's good to check in advance.

Gluten-Free Options

Some restaurants can accommodate gluten-free diets; inquire when making reservations.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Granville is accessible, with a local hospital and several clinics available for residents and visitors. Emergency medical services can be reached through the European emergency number 112. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide