Things To Do
in Dieppe
Dieppe is a historic port town on the Normandy coast facing the English Channel. It blends a charming, walkable old town with a working harbor and cliff-top viewpoints. Its seafront offers fresh seafood, pebble beaches, and a lively maritime heritage.
From chalky cliffs to wartime echoes, Dieppe serves as a convenient gateway to the Alabaster Coast and a savory stop for travelers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Dieppe and settle into your charming coastal accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll along the pebble beach, soaking in the fresh sea air while admiring the stunning views of the English Channel. Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby café, savoring local pastries and freshly brewed coffee.
Explore the historic old town, with its half-timbered houses and quaint boutique shops. Visit the fascinating Dieppe Castle, which offers a glimpse into the city's rich maritime history. Take some time for a leisurely lunch at a seafood restaurant overlooking the harbor.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot by the beach to watch the changing colors of the sky. Experience the local nightlife by visiting a bar or bistro in the heart of the city, filled with laughter and chatter. End your evening with a delightful dinner of regional specialties.
Start your day with a visit to the Dieppe Aquarium, where you can marvel at the diverse marine life from the region. Afterward, head to the local market to pick up fresh produce and artisanal products, immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy a traditional French breakfast at a café nearby, choosing from an array of delicious options.
Spend your afternoon at the Château de Dieppe, appreciating the various exhibits that showcase the art and history of the area. Wander through the surrounding gardens, taking in the peaceful surroundings and breathtaking sea views. For lunch, opt for a picnic in the gardens with your market finds.
As night falls, indulge in a culinary experience at one of Dieppe's renowned restaurants. Sample exceptional local wines paired with your meal, allowing the flavors to enrich your dining experience. Conclude the night with a relaxed walk along the waterfront, listening to the soft sound of waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🍷Two-course dinner for two | $40-70 |
| 🫖Coffee and pastry | $4-8 |
| 🚌One-way public transit ticket | $2-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $90-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal charm and compact size make Dieppe easy to explore on foot.
- Rich maritime heritage with seafood and Norman cuisine.
- Access to scenic clifftop walks and the Alabaster Coast.
- Can be busy in peak summer with limited large-scale nightlife.
- Some attractions have limited English-language information.
- Distance from major cities means planning for transport.
- "Bonjour" - Hello (good day)
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est…?" - Where is…?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Dieppe
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful boats, historic quays, and the arcades create a classic Normandy maritime scene.
Castle grounds and vantage points offer wide-angle views over the harbor and cliffs.
Dramatic sea stacks and sweeping panoramas along the Alabaster Coast.
Bright white chalk cliffs contrasting with blue sea, especially during golden hour.
Food in Dieppe
Dieppe Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy, mushroom- and herb-rich scallop dish baked in a shell or gratin, showcasing the fresh catch from nearby waters.
Must-Try!
Fish cooked with cream, leeks, and sometimes mussels, showcasing the region’s seafood-and-cream tradition.
Apple tarte with cream and sometimes Calvados, a classic Normandy dessert perfect with a cup of coffee.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The harbor market near the old port offering fresh fish, shellfish, cheeses, bread, and seasonal produce.
Seasonal seafood stalls along the harbor where you can buy ready-to-eat seafood or ingredients for a seaside picnic.
Several local creperies and snack stalls offer savory and sweet crêpes perfect for a casual lunch.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say 'Bonjour' (hello) or 'Bonsoir' when entering shops; please use polite phrases and greetings.
Keep voices moderate in public spaces; show patience in queues and markets.
Respect local instructions for tides if you join coastal paths; observe safety warnings near cliffs.
Safety
Tipping in Dieppe
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is often included; if not, a small tip (5-10%) for good service is common and appreciated.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is fine for markets and smaller shops; some places may take cheques on request.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder days with buds on the trees; sea breeze can be fresh; great for walking and outdoor markets.
Warm days with lively harbor life; beaches and terraces fill up; expect longer daylight and calm seas.
Sea air turns cooler; the sea can be rougher; fewer crowds but rich coastal colors.
Cool and potentially stormy weather; city lights and indoor dining offer cozy refuges; short daylight hours.
Dieppe at Night
Hiking in Dieppe
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hike along the chalk cliffs with sea views and photo stops.
Cliff-edge paths with gardens and panoramic outlooks along the shoreline.
Airports
How to reach Dieppe by plane.
About 100 km from Dieppe, good for domestic and international flights via Paris connections.
Approximately 75-90 minutes by road from Dieppe, small regional flights and car hire.
A larger hub about 150-180 miles away, with frequent connections to major European cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-standing families and retirees who live in Dieppe year-round.
Visitors in spring and summer who come for the coast and seafood.
People affiliated with commerce, maritime industry, and education.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Strong maritime tradition; local sailing clubs and water-based activities.
Harbor and coast provide opportunities for rowing and sea kayaking.
Common local recreational sports on weekends and in parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dieppe.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for plates with seasonal vegetables, cheese, and legumes. Ask for no meat and you’ll usually be offered a vegetable or cheese-focused dish or a pasta dish with vegetables.