About
Seine-Maritime is a department in the Normandy region of northwestern France. Its prefecture and largest city is Rouen, and its coastline runs along the English Channel, where the land rises into the chalk cliffs that give the area much of its character.
Coast and cliffs
The best-known sight is the chalk cliffs of Étretat, which draw visitors along the Channel coast. The coastline is a natural place for walks, with views that change with the light and the tide. Dieppe and the historic port of Le Havre also sit on this shore, so a visit can combine cliff scenery with time by the sea.
Ports and maritime heritage
- Le Havre, a major port city on the coast
- Dieppe, a historic harbour town
- Rouen, the regional centre, set on the Seine
The department's history is tied to the sea and to the river Seine, and its ports remain central to its identity. Visitors interested in maritime life will find the coast and its towns a fitting focus.
Industry and commerce
Seine-Maritime plays a significant part in French industry and commerce, and its ports and cities reflect that working role alongside their scenic and historic appeal. Rouen, as the prefecture, offers a base for exploring the wider department, while the coastal towns make good stops for a day's outing or a longer stay.
