10 of the best breaks in France easily accessible by ferry

From Boulogne to Brittany, these jewels within striking distance of the northern ports offer a total immersion into French culture

One of the most picturesque spots on the Normandy coast, Honfleur’s picture-perfect harbour is lined with townhouses dating back to the 16th century. It’s just the place for long, sunlit lunches and dinners of fish and seafood pulled from the sea earlier in the day. Dip into the Eugene Boudin museum to discover the town’s rich artistic history, with works by artists including Monet, Dufy and Boudin, and take a walk across the breathtaking Pont de Normandie, a vast cable-stayed bridge, which reaches 7,000ft and has wonderful views across the Seine estuary. Stay at Le Manoir, a lovely 18th-century manor house with an excellent restaurant (doubles from £167 B&B, sawdays.co.uk). Ferry from Newhaven to Dieppe, dfds.com.