The coastal city of Cherbourg-Octeville, on the north of the Cotentin peninsula, possesses a rich maritime heritage. Created in the 18th century, Cherbourg-Octeville harbour is the biggest artificial harbour in the world. The best way to explore the harbour and its forts is on one of the boat trips on offer. The city also has several ports: a fishing harbour, a marina, a commercial port and a naval port.
Not to be missed is the Cité de la Mer ("sea town"), a vast scientific, tourist and cultural complex dedicated to the marine world, particularly the ocean and the underwater environment.
