Cité de la Mer
Explore a real submarine, the Titanic's Cherbourg connection, and a vibrant aquarium at this unique maritime museum.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Cité de la Mer
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a real submarine, the Titanic's Cherbourg connection, and a vibrant aquarium at this unique maritime museum.
"A must-see attraction! It encompasses three different attractions in one: the submergables, the Redoutable submarine, and the aquarium."
Audio Guide is Key
Highly recommended, especially for kids! It makes exhibits interactive and engaging. :iphone:
Book Tickets Online
Save time and guarantee entry, especially during peak season. :admission_tickets:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Redoutable Submarine
Explore an immense, real submarine. An unforgettable journey into naval history and life beneath the waves.
Titanic Exhibition
A poignant and impressive tribute to the Titanic, highlighting its connection to Cherbourg.
Aquarium
Discover diverse marine life in a beautiful, interactive aquarium with a stunning deep tank.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Don't Miss the Submarine!
Three Attractions in One
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Recommendations around Cherbourg
Audio Guide is Key
Highly recommended, especially for kids! It makes exhibits interactive and engaging. :iphone:
Book Tickets Online
Save time and guarantee entry, especially during peak season. :admission_tickets:
Quel coin de la Normandie est a découvrir absolument?
Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, especially on the submarine. :athletic_shoe:
Allow Ample Time
With three main attractions, dedicate at least 3-4 hours to fully enjoy it. :clock1:
Tips
from all over the internet
Audio Guide is Key
Highly recommended, especially for kids! It makes exhibits interactive and engaging. :iphone:
Book Tickets Online
Save time and guarantee entry, especially during peak season. :admission_tickets:
Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, especially on the submarine. :athletic_shoe:
Allow Ample Time
With three main attractions, dedicate at least 3-4 hours to fully enjoy it. :clock1:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cité de la Mer for its unique combination of attractions, particularly the immersive Redoutable submarine and the moving Titanic exhibition. The aquarium is noted for its engaging interactive elements. While some find the audio guide a bit long, its informative nature is highly valued, especially by families.
"Great museums with lots to do. Would recommend hiring the audio guide especially if you've kids - it has great interactive features & had our son really engaged in the exhibits.
The submarine is so cool! Fascinating to see inside & the audio guide is really informative. The Sounds of the Ocean section is lovely & chilled out. The Titanic museum is really interesting and the quest for the kids (on the audio guide) is fun. The aquarium is small but has a fantastic big/deep tank with lots and lots of interactive features."
Ailís Ní Chofaigh
"Definitely worth a visit if you are either staying in Cherbourg or just visiting for the day! Make sure this a stop on yourself visit. It encompasses three different attractions in one, this being the submergables and vehicle museum, the redoutable submarine and the aquarium. And not forgetting the Titanic museum."
Andrea moulton
"Another well worth to visit museum!
Highest recommendations!
Submarine-that’s unreal!
Aquarium-very nice!
Titanic experience!
That’s 3in1 location.
21€ adult ticket, big parking.
Must see attraction !"
Karolis Steponavicius
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cité de la Mer is located at the Gare Maritime in Cherbourg. If you're arriving by car, there's a large parking area available. Public transport options include local buses that stop nearby. It's also a pleasant walk from the town center if you're staying locally.
Yes, there is a large parking lot available for visitors, which is very convenient if you're driving.
Absolutely! It's a scenic walk from the city center, taking around 15-20 minutes. Enjoy the coastal views along the way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Adult tickets are around 21€, with concessions available for children and families. It's always a good idea to check the official website for the most up-to-date pricing and any special offers.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid queues and ensure entry.
A standard ticket typically grants access to the Redoutable submarine, the Titanic exhibition, and the aquarium. Some special exhibitions might require an additional fee.
Opening hours vary seasonally. It's best to consult the official Cité de la Mer website for the current schedule, as they often open later in the morning and close in the early evening.
Yes, discounts are usually available for children, students, and families. Look out for special promotions or group rates on their website.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The audio guide is highly praised for its informative content and interactive features, making the exploration of the submarine truly engaging.
Absolutely! Visitors find it very impressive, especially given Cherbourg's historical connection to the Titanic. The storytelling is particularly moving.
The aquarium is described as small but features a fantastic, deep tank with a wide variety of marine life and interactive elements.
Yes, the audio guide often includes quests for children, and the interactive features throughout the exhibits are designed to keep them engaged and entertained.
While there are many stairs, particularly on the submarine, elevators are available to assist with access to different levels.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant on-site offering meals and snacks. It's a convenient option if you plan to spend several hours exploring the attractions.
Picnics are generally not permitted inside the exhibition areas, but there might be designated outdoor areas where you can eat. It's best to confirm this with the venue.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the exhibits and marine life.
The exterior of the Redoutable submarine, the deep tank in the aquarium, and the historical displays of the Titanic exhibition offer great photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚢 History Buffs
💡 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Redoutable Submarine Experience
Many visitors find the experience surprisingly immersive, with the confined spaces and authentic equipment creating a powerful sense of being aboard a working submarine. It's a unique opportunity to understand the technological advancements and the human element of underwater warfare. Be prepared for a lot of stairs and narrow passages, as this is an authentic exploration of a real submarine.
Tips for Exploring the Submarine
* Utilize the audio guide: It's highly recommended for understanding the technical details and historical context.
* Wear comfortable shoes: You'll be navigating various levels and tight spaces.
* Allow ample time: Exploring the entire submarine can take over an hour, depending on your pace.
The Titanic Connection
Visitors often describe the exhibition as very impressive and emotionally resonant. The use of multimedia, including screens detailing the lives of passengers and crew, can be quite moving. It provides a poignant reminder of the human stories behind the disaster and Cherbourg's role in that history.
Key Aspects of the Titanic Exhibition
* Cherbourg's role: Understand the significance of Cherbourg as a departure point.
* Personal stories: Connect with the experiences of passengers and crew through compelling narratives.
* Historical context: Learn about the ship's construction and the events leading up to its sinking.
Marine Life and Oceanography
The aquarium offers a chance to explore the wonders of the ocean, from colorful fish to fascinating invertebrates. It's a refreshing contrast to the historical exhibits, providing a moment of calm and wonder. The 'Sounds of the Ocean' section is noted for being particularly lovely and relaxing.
Aquarium Highlights
* Deep Tank: A visually stunning centerpiece with abundant marine species.
* Interactive Features: Engaging displays that appeal to all ages.
* Relaxing Atmosphere: The 'Sounds of the Ocean' area offers a tranquil experience.


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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit