Located in the north of the Cotentin peninsula in the Normandy region, Cherbourg is a commune in the Manche département. With a population of over 70,000, it welcomes many tourists every year.
Cherbourg is one of the Normandy region's leading cultural centers. That's why it's so well known in France, and why it's one of France's favorite destinations.
Cherbourg is famous for its tourist attractions. Would you like to find out more about this town and plan to visit soon to discover Cherbourg's specialties? Here are the essentials of what Cherbourg has to offer during your stay.
If Cherbourg is perceived as an ideal getaway for a weekend or a few days' vacation with family or friends, it's thanks to its many cultural assets. There are many emblematic sites linked to umbrellas, Cherbourg's specialty, which are a must-see in this town.
If you come to Cherbourg, you absolutely must visit the famous Manufacture Le parapluie de Cherbourg.
Awarded the "Qualité Tourisme" label, this is a museum devoted exclusively to the umbrellas that are a Cherbourg specialty. Here, you'll discover the different models of umbrella that exist, their history and the different stages in the manufacture of a Cherbourg umbrella.
The town of Cherbourg had the honor of being the location for Jacques Demy's cult film Les Parapluies de Cherbourg, starring Catherine Deneuve.Why is Cherbourg so famous? It's largely thanks to the fame of this film. If you've enjoyed the film, you can discover the iconic locations where it was made.
The town council has taken advantage of the success of this film, which is now one of Cherbourg's specialties, to set up a pedestrian route to follow. It's an opportunity to take a quick tour of the town and some of its most beautiful spots.
If you're still wondering what Cherbourg is known for, you should know that there are many monuments to visit in this city. This makes it a prime tourist destination. Here are just a few not to be missed:
The Basilica of the Holy Trinity is a remarkable masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Dating from the 15th century, it was built on the ruins of an earlier church that was completely destroyed during the Hundred Years' War.
The Italian-style theater, inaugurated in 1882, is certainly one of Cherbourg's finest monuments. Located on Place Général De Gaulle, in the heart of the town, it's a must-see heritage site when visiting Cherbourg.
Guided tours of the Italian-style theater, a Cherbourg specialty, provide an insight into the building and its history. You can also attend a performance to admire the interior. However, you'll need to reserve seats in advance.
Cherbourg enjoys a privileged geographical position in the Manche department. It hosts a number of nautical events. This is one of the reasons why Cherbourg is so well known. What's more, the city boasts a number of maritime infrastructures that attract tourists from all over the world every day. Here are some of the most emblematic:
La Cité de la Mer is the most visited museum in Cherbourg. Since 2002, it has been housed in the former transatlantic ferry terminal, Cherbourg's specialty. This huge, impressive museum features an exhibition on the Titanic.
You'll discover the depths of the sea, and have the opportunity to see the world's largest visitable nuclear submarine: "Le Redoutable". The Gare Maritime and Le Redoutable were voted France's favorite monument in 2002. Once again, this is why Cherbourg is so famous.
Cherbourg's specialty, the Grande Rade, is a must-see in this city. It is, along with many other buildings, what Cherbourg is known for. It's the world's largest artificial harbor, and was a bulwark against English attacks. It extends 4 kilometers out to sea.
Construction of this harbor was launched by Louis XVI and completed in the 19th century. Many liners have passed through here, including the Titanic. Cherbourg was the Titanic's last and only stopover in France before it sank. And that's why Cherbourg is so well known in France and around the world.
All in all, Cherbourg is one of France's top tourist destinations. What are you waiting for?
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