Cruise port Les Andelys
Port information & tips for Les Andelys
Les Andelys is a picturesque jewel in Normandy and one of the most charming stops along the magnificently winding Seine. The town captivates with its idyllic location on a prominent river bend and combines medieval romance with an impressive backdrop of white chalk cliffs. Visitors can explore the imposing ruins of Richard the Lionheart's Château Gaillard, which towers majestically over the valley, while also admiring the historic Saint-Sauveur church in the tranquil district of Petit-Andely. River cruise ships dock directly at the Quai de Seine in Petit-Andely, from where the picturesque half-timbered houses, inviting riverfront promenades, and the ascent to the fortress are all easily accessible within just a few minutes' walk.
Les Andelys, a charming commune on a picturesque bend of the Seine in Normandy, is a popular stop for river cruises. The port is idyllically situated on the riverbank, close to the historic old town and below the imposing ruins of Château Gaillard. There is no specific, large terminal here; instead, ships dock right in the heart of the town.
Car
Thanks to good highway connections, Les Andelys is easily accessible by car. From the direction of Paris, take the A13 motorway towards Rouen and take exit 17 (Gaillon, Les Andelys), then follow the signs. Alternatively, the N14 leads directly into the region from Paris (via A86, A15) or Rouen. In Les Andelys, free parking is available in Grand and Petit Andely, including spaces near the river and at Château Gaillard. The drive from Paris takes about 1 hour 30 minutes, and from Rouen about 45 minutes.
Train
The nearest SNCF train stations are Gaillon-Aubevoye and Vernon-Giverny, both located on the important Paris-Rouen line. Regular direct connections run from Paris Gare Saint-Lazare to Gaillon-Aubevoye. From Gaillon-Aubevoye station, which is about 10 to 15 kilometers from Les Andelys, you can easily reach the port by taxi in about 12 minutes (cost approx. 25-31 €). Additionally, bus lines 290 or 209 run several times a day between the station and Les Andelys (travel time approx. 20 minutes, ticket approx. 2-3 €).
Airplane
For international guests from the DACH region, the Parisian airports are ideal arrival points. Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) is about 104 kilometers away, as is Paris Orly Airport (ORY). The travel time by car or private transfer from both airports is approximately 1 hour 20 to 1 hour 30 minutes. Another option is the more regional Paris Beauvais-Tillé Airport (BVA), which is closer at approximately 56 kilometers. Due to travel times, an overnight stay in Paris or the surrounding area of Les Andelys is often recommended on the day before embarkation for air travelers to start your river cruise experience relaxed.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents usually provide a fixed time slot for check-in, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually about one hour before the scheduled departure.
The same applies during the trip: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times may change at short notice.
Les Andelys, a charming commune on a picturesque bend of the Seine in Normandy, is a popular stop for river cruises. The port is idyllically situated on the riverbank, close to the historic old town and below the imposing ruins of Château Gaillard. There is no specific, large terminal here; instead, ships dock right in the heart of the town.
Car
Thanks to good highway connections, Les Andelys is easily accessible by car. From the direction of Paris, take the A13 motorway towards Rouen and take exit 17 (Gaillon, Les Andelys), then follow the signs. Alternatively, the N14 leads directly into the region from Paris (via A86, A15) or Rouen. In Les Andelys, free parking is available in Grand and Petit Andely, including spaces near the river and at Château Gaillard. The drive from Paris takes about 1 hour 30 minutes, and from Rouen about 45 minutes.
Train
The nearest SNCF train stations are Gaillon-Aubevoye and Vernon-Giverny, both located on the important Paris-Rouen line. Regular direct connections run from Paris Gare Saint-Lazare to Gaillon-Aubevoye. From Gaillon-Aubevoye station, which is about 10 to 15 kilometers from Les Andelys, you can easily reach the port by taxi in about 12 minutes (cost approx. 25-31 €). Additionally, bus lines 290 or 209 run several times a day between the station and Les Andelys (travel time approx. 20 minutes, ticket approx. 2-3 €).
Airplane
For international guests from the DACH region, the Parisian airports are ideal arrival points. Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) is about 104 kilometers away, as is Paris Orly Airport (ORY). The travel time by car or private transfer from both airports is approximately 1 hour 20 to 1 hour 30 minutes. Another option is the more regional Paris Beauvais-Tillé Airport (BVA), which is closer at approximately 56 kilometers. Due to travel times, an overnight stay in Paris or the surrounding area of Les Andelys is often recommended on the day before embarkation for air travelers to start your river cruise experience relaxed.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents usually provide a fixed time slot for check-in, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually about one hour before the scheduled departure.
The same applies during the trip: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times may change at short notice.
From the pier in Les Andelys, you can reach the historic alleys of the town directly thanks to its central location. The distances are short and simultaneously offer beautiful views of the Seine and the striking limestone cliffs of Normandy.
On Foot
The port is located directly in the charming Petit-Andely district, which you can easily reach in just a few steps. A walk to the Grand-Andely district, located a bit further inland, takes about 15 to 20 minutes; additionally, a well-marked hiking trail leads directly up to the imposing ruins of Château Gaillard.
Regional Buses (Nomad)
The regional bus network Nomad reliably connects the port with the surrounding towns of the Eure region. The stops in the town center allow for easy and affordable onward travel to destinations such as Rouen or the nearby train station in Gaillon-Aubevoye.
Taxi
Local taxis are available for individual trips and are primarily found at the central bus station or by advance telephone booking. They offer a particularly comfortable option for excursions to the famous gardens of Claude Monet in Giverny or for a relaxed transfer to the castle ruins.
To make the most of your stay in Les Andelys, we recommend a combination of a relaxed stroll through the charming harbor district and an exploration of the imposing historic fortifications high above the Seine.
Château Gaillard
The majestic ruins of the fortress built by Richard the Lionheart tower proudly over the valley and, thanks to its exposed location, offer one of the most spectacular panoramic views over the picturesque meanders of the Seine.
Le Petit-Andely
This idyllic district directly on the riverbank impresses with its well-preserved half-timbered houses and the historic church of Saint-Sauveur, and is perfect for a relaxed stroll in an authentic Norman atmosphere thanks to its immediate proximity to the pier.
Giverny and Monet's Garden
The world-famous former home of Claude Monet is only a short drive away and, thanks to its iconic lily ponds and magnificent gardens, is an ideal destination for art lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Château Gaillard
The majestic fortress ruins of Château Gaillard are located only about a twenty-minute walk from the pier in Petit-Andely and, thanks to their elevated position, offer one of the most spectacular panoramic views over the picturesque bend of the Seine. Built by Richard the Lionheart, the structure is also a fascinating testament to medieval architecture and provides perfect photo opportunities of the glowing chalk cliffs. After the tour, the charming cafes directly on the riverbank invite you to enjoy the French flair with a glass of regional cider. Ideally, start your excursion early in the morning to explore the site in peace, and plan your return to the harbor about ninety minutes before departure to stroll relaxed through the historic half-timbered alleys.
The journey back to the banks of the Seine in Les Andelys is very relaxed and straightforward thanks to the town's compact structure. Simply allow a little time for the descent from the Château Gaillard ruins to ensure you are back on board your ship punctually and stress-free.
On Foot
Since your ship docks directly at the quay in the picturesque Petit-Andely district, you can walk back to the pier from the riverside cafes in just a few minutes. If you have visited Château Gaillard, a well-marked hiking trail with firm ground leads directly down to the harbor basin, offering fantastic views of your ship and the loop of the Seine throughout the descent.
Taxi
Taxis can be found at the central Place Nicolas Poussin in the Grand-Andely district and can also be easily called via the reception of the Hôtel de la Chaîne d’Or directly in Petit-Andely. Thanks to the short distances within the twin town, you will reach the pier in a very short time and enjoy a comfortable ride right up to the gangway of your cruise ship.
Shuttle Service
For the return journey from the hilltop castle ruins, many cruise lines and local providers provide a shuttle bus that departs regularly from the parking lot above the fortress. This service takes you directly to the harbor square and allows for an effortless return journey, so you can enjoy the historical atmosphere of Les Andelys to the very last minute.
