Is Le Havre Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Le Havre is an important city for the Impressionists.

Actually, they used the estuary where the Seine empties into the ocean as one of their great inspirations.

Le Havre is the major port of northern France and it has to offer a lot to its visitors.

One of the amazing landmarks of Le Havre is the St. Joseph’s Church which can be seen from almost anywhere in Le Havre.

The church also stands as a beacon for sea traffic at night.

Le Havre hired the modernist Auguste Perret to rebuild the center and his efforts have now been rewarded with UNESCO status.

Warnings & Dangers in Le Havre

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

Generally speaking, spending a holiday in Le Havre is a joyful experience for the majority of visitors. They remain watchful all the time, keep an eye on their belongings and act confidently so as to avoid getting into trouble.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: HIGH

When driving is in question, you need to take sensible precautions against car crime and you should not keep your passport, credit cards and other valuables in the car when leaving it. Choose to park in well-lit areas of the city.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

When pickpocketing is in question, you are suggested to use inside compartments in bags where possible, so that thieves cannot reach your money or passport easily. Also, you should carry your bag across your body.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

Forest fires can occur in France during the summer months, so do not get surprised if authorities evacuate areas that are dangerous and close roads for safety reasons.

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

There have been several victims of serious assault, so you need to pay attention to people around you and do not go to poorly lit and deserted areas of the city where dangerous people usually operate.

TERRORISM RISK: HIGH

Due to the high terrorism risk in France, which is prone to these kinds of attacks lately, it is forbidden to cover your face while walking the street. Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in France, so travelers need to remain vigilant.

SCAMS RISK: HIGH

There are some common scams in France which thieves use to obtain money from tourists. You need to avoid petition scams and gold ring tricks, as well as accepting drinks and food from strangers.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

Women should not go out alone at night, while during the day, it is suggested to be in a group or in the company of a male person. There have been incidents involving sexual assault and rape.

So... How Safe Is Le Havre Really?

As people would need to exchange their money or take it from ATMs, they need to take sensible precautions and remain alert when handling cash and credit cards in public areas and at cash machines, as those are places where pickpockets operate.

If you have a credit card, it is suggested to pay by it rather than take cash from ATMs.

If you need emergency medical assistance in France you should dial 112 for an English speaking emergency service and ask for an ambulance.

In case you are stopped by the police and asked to provide some kind of identity documentation, such as a passport, a photo driving license or ID card, you must be able to prove your identity and you are required to show it.

However, if you have doubts that those people are not real police officers, you have the right to ask them to identify themselves as officers and only then show them your documents.

This is due to the fact that thieves take advantage of these kinds of situations, dress up as police officers and distract people’s attention while the other thief is taking your valuables.

How Does Le Havre Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

French authorities are responsible for setting and enforcing the rules for entry, so people coming from Europe as tourists will not need a visa to enter the country.

Currency

The official currency of France is the Euro and people coming from European countries would not need to exchange their money, as it is the currency of the whole European Union.

Weather

Le Havre has a climate that is warm and temperate, with significant rainfall throughout the year. July is the warmest month while January is the coldest month of the year.

Airports

Visiting Le Havre is possible via Le Havre – Octeville Airport which is located in Octeville-sur-Mer, 5 km northwest of Le Havre.

Travel Insurance

During your trip, you might need medical treatment which is quite expensive for foreigners, and that is when travel insurance would come into play.

Le Havre Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

France - Safety by City