Le Havre’s neighborhoods: Discover the best places to live

The city center: The heart of life in Le Havre

Welcome to the core of Le Havre, where everything happens! The city center is the beating heart of the city, with constant energy, buzzing nightlife, and endless activities. Rebuilt by Auguste Perret after World War II, its modern concrete architecture is so unique that it’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you love being at the center of everything, with restaurants, bars, shops, and cultural venues just steps away, this is the place for you!

• Les Halles Centrales – The ultimate meeting point! With a covered market full of fresh local products and stylish independent boutiques, this district has a village-like feel in the heart of the city. Whether you’re looking for a cozy café to study or a cool bar for afterwork drinks, you’ll find it here.
• Saint-François – The go-to neighborhood for food lovers and night owls. Start your day with fresh seafood at the market, enjoy a terrace lunch in the afternoon, and discover trendy bars and restaurants at night. The portside atmosphere, cozy eateries, and lively vibes make it a student favorite.
• Le Perrey – The perfect balance between city life and the beach. Just a five-minute walk from the shore, this area offers stunning seaside views and a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you love skateboarding, watching sunsets, or just chilling by the water, this is the ultimate spot for unwinding.

The best neighborhoods for students and young professionals

If you’re a student or young professional, these neighborhoods offer affordable housing, vibrant social scenes, and easy access to everything you need.

• Danton – One of the fastest-growing student hotspots! With trendy cafés, stylish coworking spaces, cool bars, and even organic grocery stores, this area is full of energy and great deals. If you want a lively neighborhood with a creative vibe, Danton is your place.
• Massillon – Affordable rent, convenient transport, and proximity to universities make this area perfect for students. With plenty of green spaces, it’s also great for taking study breaks in the sun or just relaxing after class. Everything is within reach, making life easier.
• Niemeyer – The cultural hub of Le Havre. If you’re into art exhibitions, concerts, and creative events, Niemeyer is the place to be. With its futuristic library, constant artistic happenings, and a thriving creative community, it’s ideal for students who want to be inspired.

The trendiest and most modern neighborhoods

If you’re looking for a modern and dynamic area, these neighborhoods are where things are happening!

• Les Docks Vauban – A massive district featuring a shopping center, trendy restaurants, a multiplex cinema, and year-round events. From art exhibitions to open-air concerts and designer markets, there’s always something going on here. Plus, our student residence Fleep Le Havre isn’t far from this hotspot!
• Quartier de l’Eure – A former industrial area turned into a hip urban district. Think modern lofts, coworking spaces, and waterfront cafés—giving off serious Brooklyn vibes, but in Normandy. This area is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after places in Le Havre.
• Tourneville – The alternative culture HQ. This former military fort is now an artistic hub with festivals, concerts, galleries, and exhibitions year-round. Musicians, street artists, and creative minds gather here, making it one of the coolest neighborhoods for artsy and alternative vibes.

The most peaceful neighborhoods for a relaxed lifestyle

If you prefer a quieter environment, green spaces, and a strong sense of community, these neighborhoods are perfect for families, young professionals, and those seeking a laid-back lifestyle.

• Sanvic – A small village within the city, where everyone knows each other. No high-rise buildings, just charming old houses, quiet streets, and a friendly neighborhood feel. If you love a peaceful setting close to the city center, Sanvic is ideal.
• Aplemont – The perfect blend of city and nature. Families love this area for its parks, well-placed schools, and strong community spirit. But it’s not just a quiet residential zone—there are also local shops, community events, and an active neighborhood life.
• Rouelles – Le Havre’s green lung. This neighborhood is all about fresh air, nature, and relaxation. With a huge park perfect for walks, picnics, and outdoor sports, it’s an ideal spot for nature lovers who still want quick access to the city center.

The up-and-coming neighborhoods in transformation

If you’re looking for an area on the rise, with new developments and modernized spaces, these neighborhoods are undergoing major transformations.

• Caucriauville – Also known as Cauc’, this area is reinventing itself with urban renewal projects. The tramway now connects it quickly to the city center, and new modern housing is popping up. Public spaces are being redesigned, making it a great place for students and young professionals.
• Mare Rouge – A neighborhood undergoing a total transformation. With new housing developments, revamped green spaces, and modern infrastructure, Mare Rouge is attracting a diverse and growing community.
• Dollemard – The perfect mix of city and nature. Located on the edge of the city, it has a village-like charm, while still being well connected to Le Havre’s amenities. Dollemard is steadily gaining popularity as one of the best places to settle down.

The best seaside neighborhoods

One of the biggest perks of living in Le Havre? The ocean lifestyle! If sea breezes, sunsets over the water, and coastal walks sound like your dream, these neighborhoods will give you direct access to the beach.

• La Plage – With seafront restaurants, water sports, charming villas, and a relaxed beach-town vibe, it feels like you’re on vacation all year round. But La Plage isn’t just for tourists—locals enjoy daily walks along the promenade, coffee breaks with ocean views, and endless beach days.
• Port de Plaisance – Ideal for sailing enthusiasts, water sports lovers, and those who enjoy a waterfront lifestyle. With modern marina facilities, lively cafés by the docks, and a prime location near downtown, it’s a vibrant yet peaceful spot to live.
• Sainte-Adresse – One of Le Havre’s most beautiful and prestigious neighborhoods. With historic shipowner mansions, scenic coastal trails, and a calm, elegant atmosphere, Sainte-Adresse is a dream location for those looking for a high-quality living environment with breathtaking sea views.

Why choose Le Havre for your studies?

Le Havre is the perfect city to fully experience student life. With over 15,000 students, the atmosphere is vibrant and packed with events, from festivals and parties to cultural gatherings. Everything here is designed to help young people find their place, with modern infrastructure, dedicated student spaces, and a real community where it’s easy to fit in.

Beyond being a lively city, Le Havre offers a much more affordable lifestyle compared to larger metropolises like Paris or Rouen. Rent is significantly cheaper, as well as going out, dining, and transport. No need to make sacrifices to fully enjoy daily life.

Getting around is effortless, thanks to a tram and bus network that connects all neighborhoods in just a few minutes. And for those who want to explore beyond the city, the train station provides quick access to Paris, Rouen, and Caen.

When it comes to housing, UXCO Student offers the Fleep student residence. Everything is designed to provide a comfortable and friendly environment, with modern, well-located apartments. A place where you can study, meet new people, and make the most of your university experience—without any hassle.

So, ready to move to Le Havre and make the most of your year?