Trouville sur Mer was here before Deauville. It's easy to forget when you see the chic neighboring town, but Trouville was the first resort on this coast to attract artists and writers. Flaubert stayed here, Monet painted the beach. The fish market from 1935 is now a historical monument. You can still feel that past in the villas along the coast, in the fishing boats in the harbor, and in the wooden boardwalks on the beach that have been in the same place for over a century and a half. Trouville isn't about glamour. It's a genuine seaside resort (slightly comparable to Knokke), making it just as interesting as Deauville across the river.
What to Do in Trouville sur Mer
1. Visit the Fish Market
The Halle aux Poissons in Trouville is the heart of the town. Every morning, fresh fish and seafood are sold here, directly from the boat. The building itself is worth a look: an art deco facade that was listed as a historic monument in 1992. Order the best Fruits de Mer here and sit down at one of the stalls.
2. Rent a Bike
The area around Trouville is perfect for a bike ride. The Vélomaritime, a coastal bike route running from Roscoff to Dunkirk, passes close to Deauville. You can also ride along the coast towards Cabourg in the west, through a mix of dunes, villages, and apple orchards that's typically Norman. Bikes can be rented left of the Casino at the harbor.
3. Beach and Les Planches
Trouville's sandy beach is wide and long. Les Planches, the wooden boardwalk along the beach, has existed since 1867 and was the first of its kind on the Normandy coast. Walk along it on a sunny morning before the beach fills up, look at the villas that stand directly on the beach, and understand why painters came here for the light.
4. A Day in Deauville
Deauville is a five-minute walk from Trouville, separated by the River Touques. The two towns are as different as neighbors can be. Deauville is chic, expansive, and built for show. The Promenade des Planches with its famous beach cabins named after Hollywood stars, the racecourse, the casinos, and the luxury shops along Rue Saint-Honoré. A day in Deauville is a trip to another world, but you'll sleep better on the Trouville side.
5. A Day in Honfleur
Honfleur is a half-hour drive west and is one of the most beautiful harbor towns in Normandy. The narrow, crooked houses along the Vieux Bassin are so picturesque that you almost forget people live there. Impressionists came here for the light too, and that light is still there. The market on Saturday morning is the best reason to go early. Check it here.
6. Horse Racing in Deauville
The Deauville racecourse hosts one of Europe's most prestigious horse races, the Grand Prix de Deauville, each August. The atmosphere is elegant and accessible at the same time: you can simply go, place a bet, and enjoy an afternoon that feels like nowhere else. Even outside August, there are regular races.
7. Painting in a Studio
Trouville has a long tradition as an artists' town, reflected in the small studios and galleries scattered throughout the city. Some offer workshops where you can paint yourself, guided by a local artist. A unique way to experience the city and take home something you can't buy in a store.
Discover Deauville and Trouville-sur-Mer with an authentic guide on a bike. They’ll tell you all about the architecture of the most beautiful villas. They will show you the beaches, casinos, hotels, and the racecourse.
Dining in Trouville sur Mer: From Fish Market to Harbor
Le Central is the classic of the town, right by the harbor, with a menu that revolves around seafood and fish. Large, lively, and always full, but never impersonal.
Bistrot Marcele is the spot for those seeking something more casual: a bistro menu with local products and an ambiance befitting a town that takes its traditions seriously.
Le Noroit is close to the fish market and serves what you've just bought there in a slightly more refined form. Great for lunch after a morning browsing the stalls.
Les Mouettes has a terrace overlooking the water and a menu full of classic Norman dishes. Perfect for those who want to dine slowly as the harbor drifts by.
Bouillon Morny is the most accessible choice on this list: affordable, quick, and good. For an evening without thinking, with a carafe of wine and a plate of mussels. This is located in Deauville.
Staying in Trouville sur Mer: Four Charming Places
Hotel Barrière Le Normandy is the iconic hotel of Deauville, within walking distance of Trouville. Belle-époque architecture, a pool, a spa, and rooms that reflect the past of this coast. For those who want to spend a night as it was in 1912. Prices from 500 euros per night.
Hotel Le Flaubert is located in Trouville sur Mer itself, named after the writer who stayed here. A good choice for those who want to feel the charm of the city without having to walk far. And it's directly on the beach. Prices from about 250 per night.
Townhouse Trouville is the most contemporary address on this list: a B&B (without breakfast) consisting of small apartments/suites and a communal patio. Downstairs, there's a small sauna. It's 100 meters from the sea. This is the cheapest option on this list, costing around 115 per night.
Hotel Les 2 Villas is a quieter address, also perfectly located near the town and the sea, for those who want the coast without the hustle of the harbor. Good for starting a day with a walk instead of immediately being in the city. Prices from 180 euros per night.
For more options or different price ranges, find here a comprehensive overview of hotels in Trouville sur Mer.
Parking in Trouville sur Mer (outside the center) on the street is usually free. But space is limited. The larger parking garage at the Casino is an option, though you will pay more there.
Who Is Trouville sur Mer Best For?
Trouville sur Mer is ideal for those looking for a seaside resort that's more than just a beach. For those who spend a morning at the fish market, drive to Honfleur in the afternoon, and dine at brasserie Le Central with a carafe of Normandy cider in the evening. The city is well-connected to Paris, making it suitable for a long weekend.
Anyone familiar with the Atlantic coast knows Trouville sur Mer is a very different kind of coast compared to Île de Ré or Arcachon. Rougher, greener, and with a history more oriented to the north than to the south. If you're considering a road trip along the French west coast and want to combine it with the Norman coast, these three destinations together make a beautiful route.
The best months are June and September: good weather, fewer crowds, and the fish is at its best. July and August are busier but more lively.
Trouville was the last stop of our road trip along the west coast of France. To see the full route from Île de Ré and Arcachon to Biarritz and back through Normandy: read my article on the road trip along the west coast of France.
Frequently Asked Questions About Trouville sur Mer
How do you get to Trouville sur Mer?
Trouville sur Mer has its own train station with direct connections from Paris Saint-Lazare. By car from Paris, it takes two to two and a half hours via the A13.
What is the difference between Trouville and Deauville?
Deauville is chic, expensive, and built for glamour. Trouville is the more authentic of the two: a real fishing town with its own character, cheaper restaurants, and a less pretentious atmosphere. They are a five-minute walk from each other.
Is Trouville sur Mer suitable for a day trip from Paris?
Yes, but a weekend is better. By train, it's two hours from Paris and there's enough to do for several days. The combination with Honfleur or Deauville quickly makes a long weekend too short.
Tip for combining with Paris: I made a Google Maps map of Paris with over 120 restaurants; from cafes to wine bars, and from breakfast spots to the best restaurants. Download it here.
