Bayeux is a Normandy town with a plethora of things to see and do in the surrounding area. Its ideal location at the gateway to the D-Day landing beaches makes it an excellent starting point for visiting these must-see places. Nature, beaches, historic sites, gastronomy, with the family… There’s something for everyone!
In this article, we have selected for you the 10 best day trips from Bayeux , with all our advice and opinions in pictures to help you make your choice.
This review is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the area anonymously, making our own choices, and paying all our bills in full.
Our tips for choosing the right excursions
Our selection of favorite day trips from Bayeux (D-Day tours and more)
For those of you who don’t want to read all our detailed advice on these 10 selected excursions, we’ll give you a quick answer with our impressions right now of our favorite excursions from Bayeux:
- Mont-Saint-Michel: A French heritage site for centuries, Mont-Saint-Michel is just a 1h20min drive from Bayeux! Its abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage site, its narrow streets, the charm of its bay… A magical place with a wealth of architecture and history. Not to be missed – see details, availability and booking.
- D-Day beaches: bunkers, sculptures, fine sand, cliffs… World War II historic sites in Normandy are numerous and unmissable. Each beach has its own special features: cemeteries, batteries, memorials, museums… And they are all more fascinating to discover than the others – see details, availability and booking.
- Calvados tasting, a taste of Normandy: experience an interactive journey through the history of Normandy and Calvados, before rounding off your visit with a delicious Calvados tasting – see details, availability and booking.
WHERE TO STAY IN Bayeux
Option 1: Central and close to downtown
Within 5 to 10 minutes’ walk of the historic center, you’ll find beautiful mansions transformed into welcoming hotels and B&Bs. We recommend..:
- Hotel Domaine de Bayeux installed in an 18th century mansion – see prices, photos and availability.
- Hôtel le Lion d’Or in a former 18th-century post office building – see prices, photos, availability.
Option 2: in the countryside
The Normandy countryside is very green and inspiring. At the bend in the forest or in the fields, pretty villages with beautiful buildings transport you to another world, or even another era.
- Hotel Domaine de la Rançonnière, only 20 minutes from Bayeux – see prices, photos and availability.
Option 3: By the sea
The seaside is just 15 minutes drive from Bayeux. Breathe the sea air while enjoying easy access to Bayeux and the D-Day beaches.
- Hotel Villas d’Arromanches – see prices, photos and availability.
Getting around with or without a car?
Bayeux is a town served by train lines, with an SNCF railway station. You can get there by train and then decide to book excursions with transport included, or rent a car on the spot.
If you opt for organized tours with transport, the advantage is that you can rest on the way and admire the scenery along the way!
It’s worth mentioning that parking in Bayeux is possible, with a number of both free and paid parking spaces. There are also several cycle paths in and around town, should you choose to cycle.
Depending on whether or not you are motorized, we recommend that you choose your accommodation in Bayeux itself or in the surrounding area for greater convenience. Remember to book your accommodation as early as possible to take advantage of the best prices and, above all, to have plenty of choice!
How to get to Bayeux
Bayeux is located in Normandy, close to the D-Day landing beaches.
The easiest way to get to Bayeux is by car. In fact, you can find our 35 practical tips for renting a car in Bayeux here. Prefer to travel by train? You can also get to Bayeux by train, with regular services every day.
See available timetables and book your train and coach tickets now.
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN Normandy
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that is comfortable enough (distances can be long) but compact (some parking lots and villages are narrow).
- Think of thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
1. D-Day tour from Bayeux to the Normandy landing beaches
What you will see
On this immersive day tour, you’ll relive D-Day from D-Day to the Allied troops’ (re)conquest of freedom. You can also choose shorter excursions on this theme in a WWII sidecar, jeep or Dodge truck, for a truly total immersion experience!
Head for the charming village of Sainte-Mère-Église, which owes its fame to American parachutist John Steele. Hanging from the bell tower of Sainte-Mère-Église on June 4, 1944, he inspired the famous film The Longest Day.
About 15 minutes after this 1st stopover, you’ll embark for Utah Beach. We really enjoyed the playful side of this D-Day beach: an open-air museum, a battery and the new D-Day Experience not far away.
After 2 hours on site, a visit to the Pointe du Hoc is a must. Take time to admire the soothing sight of the cliffs and the immensity of the English Channel before you.
Finally, a stop at the famous Omaha Beach, where we were moved by the magnificent sculpture on the beach and the intensity of the American cemetery. We were deeply moved by all the crosses lined up above the soldiers’ graves.
How long does the tour last?
Plan a full day for this activity, with pick-up in the morning and drop-off at the end of the day at Place de Québec, a 5-minute walk from Notre-Dame de Bayeux Cathedral.
Why did we choose it?
This tour has several highlights:
- A small-group excursion for a more intimate tour experience,
- A full day with several major D-Day sites,
- Easily accessible from downtown Bayeux,
- An English-speaking guide.
Is the tour family-friendly?
As the day is quite intense, with many points of interest to visit, children under 4 are not allowed. Strollers are not allowed either. However, from the age of 4 upwards, your children will be able to appreciate the variety of landscapes between beaches and countryside, as well as the charming village of Sainte-Mère-Église, the main parachutist drop zone on D-Day in June 1944.
Visit D-day 44 sites: see details, availability and bookings.
Vintage sidecar tours of the D-Day landing sites: find out more and book.
By World War II jeep or Dodge truck: see details and book.
2. Excursion to the American and British landing sites on D-Day
What you will see
For half a day, climb aboard this minibus to (re)discover the major historic sites where American and British troops played a major role on D-Day 1944! You’ll start at Pointe du Hoc and its majestic cliffs, the symbolic site of the D-Day landings.
You’ll then visit a number of sites around Omaha Beach, including the American cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer and the Mulberry port at Arromanches.
How long does the tour last?
Allow half a day for this organized tour, with pick-up in downtown Bayeux at 1pm.
Why did we choose it?
We see several advantages to this excursion:
- a full half-day visit if you don’t want to devote a full day to an organized tour,
- an English-speaking guide,
- PRM access.
Is the tour family-friendly?
Absolutely, you can go there with your little ones, who will enjoy visiting places steeped in history, seeing harbors, beaches, statues and tanks from the Second World War! You can bring your own stroller or baby carrier, and request a baby seat when you book.
See details, availability and book this tour!
3. Excursion to Canadian landing sites on D-Day
What you will see
Are you fascinated by the liberation of Europe by Canadian troops during the Second World War? Then this is the tour for you! Embark on a full-day tour of major sites such as the Juno Beach Regiment North Shore, the village of Courseulles-sur-Mer and the Canadian military cemetery at Beny-sur-Mer.
To round off this emotionally-charged tour of the heroic exploits of the Canadian army during the D-Day landings, you’ll stop off at the Canadian Memorial to the Abbaye d’Ardenne Massacre in Caen, where many Canadian soldiers were executed a few days after the landings. Finally, you’ll end your tour at Caen Carpiquet airport, liberated by Canadian troops in 1944.
How long does the tour last?
This activity lasts a full day, from your pick-up around 8:30 a.m. in downtown Bayeux to the end of the afternoon.
Why did we choose it?
This excursion has many assets:
- A small-group tour for a more intimate experience,
- A full day at several Canadian D-Day sites in June 1944,
- Easily accessible from downtown Bayeux,
- An English-speaking guide,
- PRM access.
Is the tour family-friendly?
This tour is perfectly suited to families, even with small children. You can bring your own stroller and request a child seat when you book your tour.
See details, availability and book this tour!
4. Explore Mont-Saint-Michel
What you will see
Listed as aUNESCO World Heritage Site, this Wonder on the Mount is a real jewel in the region. Mont-Saint-Michel is home to one of Christendom’s most important pilgrimage sites: its abbey, perched more than 50 metres above sea level.
The abbey’s rooms, some of which were built in different eras, the originality of its rooftop cloister and its breathtaking views over the bay and surrounding area will leave you speechless.
We were captivated not only by the history of the place, but also by the architectural feat that the abbey represents.
Before heading back down to the village’s cobbled streets in an almost fairytale setting, take time to admire the breathtaking views over the Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel from the abbey.
You’ll also have free time to eat on the Mont, as meals are not included in this tour. Find out more about our best places to eat at Mont-Saint-Michel.
How long does the tour last?
Allow a full day for this excursion. If you prefer to go to Mont-Saint-Michel on your own, remember to reserve your time to visit the abbey and avoid queuing!
Why did we choose it?
We see this activity as having a number of advantages:
- a full day to take time out to visit the village on the Mont and its main attraction, the listed abbey,
- an English-speaking guide,
- a confidential excursion with a maximum of 8 participants.
Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, the day trip to Mont-Saint-Michel is suitable for families. There are a lot of steps in the village, and therefore a lot of stairs. We don’t recommend taking a stroller at all, but a baby carrier depending on your child’s age might be more practical. Your toddlers will also be delighted to discover the treasure hunts for all ages organized by the Mont-Saint-Michel Tourist Office. More information on the official website.
See details, availability and book this tour!
5. Tasting Calvados, a taste of Normandy’s terroir
What you will see
Head for Pont-l’Évêque, just 1h15 drive from Bayeux, to sample one of the pillars of Normandy’s terroir: the famous Calvados. In the oldest Calvados House, Calvados Père Magloire, your visit to the Calvados Experience will take you on an interactive journey through the history of Normandy and Calvados. The visit ends with a delicious tasting of this PDO apple brandy.
How long does the activity last?
Allow around 1h30 on site, excluding transportation. Please note that transportation is not included when booking this activity. A good half-day will be needed if you include the round trip and time on site.
Why did we choose it?
In our opinion, this activity offers a number of advantages:
- see for himself the transformation of apples into Calvados brandy,
- enjoy a guided tour in French or English,
- enjoy an immersive experience in Pont-l’Évêque to discover Normandy’s terroir,
- end your visit with a tasting session.
Is the activity family-friendly?
This activity is open to all ages (except for the tasting), but it should be noted that it’s an immersive visit in rooms with dim lighting, smoke and noise pollution that can be disturbing for children.
See details, availability and book this activity!
6. Visit the charming port town of Honfleur
What you will see
Honfleur, a city of painters but also a fishing, commercial and yachting port, remains one of the prettiest towns in Normandy in our opinion. Visiting Bayeux? Luckily, Honfleur is only 1 hour away by car! Don’t miss out on all the great things to do in this pretty Normandy town, and check out our 21 ideas for things to do in Honfleur here.
In one day, you can enjoy:
- Sainte-Catherine Church: France’s largest wooden church with separate bell tower – see our article,
- Jardin des Personnalités: a splendid natural setting overlooking the Seine,
- its narrow streets and art galleries: the best way to discover the city’s architecture is on foot,
- of Honfleur’s Vieux Port: a postcard setting, with its swirl of colors and the reflection of lined-up masts.
How much time should I allow?
Plan to spend a full day in Honfleur to make the most of this charming port town and enjoy lunch at one of its excellent restaurants. Honfleur is also famous for its restaurants. To help you make the most of your trip from Bayeux, check out our reviews and tips for the 15 best restaurants in Honfleur.
Why did we choose it?
We’ve been there several times and never tire of its charm! In our opinion, Honfleur is one of the most beautiful towns in Normandy. Its port, narrow streets, lights and wooden church have inspired many artists!
Is the activity family-friendly?
Honfleur is a pleasant town to discover with the whole family, with its harbor and many docked boats to please young and old alike. The town also boasts a number of green spaces and parks. Note, however, that the streets are cobbled. Stroller access is not always practical, so you may prefer to use a baby carrier if possible.
USE OUR GUIDE TO PLAN A
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7. Visit Caen and its Memorial
What you will see
Discover one of the major historical sites of the Second World War: the Caen Memorial. This is one of the towns in France where bombing raids were devastating, destroying a large part of the buildings in 1944. One of the rooms is entirely dedicated to the Battle of Normandy.
Immerse yourself in the spiral of history that retraces the key events of the 2 World Wars, from the European conflict that began in the 20th century to the Cold War, via the Normandy Landings in June 1944.
International conflicts of the twentieth century are put into context, and you’ll be able to admire collector’s items such as the Soviet MIG-21, a post-1945 warplane pictured above. Since its development in the mid-1950s, this aircraft has been regarded as the symbol of the Eastern Bloc’s strike force.
How long does the tour last?
You can allow a full day to visit the Caen Memorial, including a 1-hour round trip depending on traffic conditions. Caen is also a city renowned for its fine dining, and we’ve listed our top restaurants for eating out in Caen.
Why did we choose it?
We see several advantages to this activity:
- PRM access,
- an immersive place,
- access to the Caen Memorial and the current temporary exhibition,
- a place to visit open from 9am.
Is the tour family-friendly?
It’s an interesting place to visit as a family with your children. Interactive guided tours, adapted to the youngest visitors, are available with mediators. Don’t hesitate to ask when booking your visit. Please note, however, that the subject of war can be a sensitive one, especially for young visitors. A free drop-in center is available in the museum for the youngest visitors. Strollers are welcome.
Book your ticket for the Caen Memorial now!
8. Balleroy Castle and Cerisy Abbey
What you will see
In the 17th century, the famous architect François Mansart built the Château de Balleroy in Calvados, just a 20-minute drive from Bayeux. Did you know that this château and the village’s town-planning inspired royal cities such as Versailles?
Created in the 19th century during the heyday of Romanticism and landscape architecture, the château’s park is a true marvel. If you have time for a stopover, a gourmet break in the château’s tearoom is also very pleasant. The visit is fairly accessible, with a few steps up into the château and an easy stroll through the park.
Less than 15 minutes by car from the château, we suggest a visit to Cerisy-la-Forêt Abbey. Founded in the 6th century, the abbey’s original monastery was destroyed by Viking invasions 300 years later. In the 11th century, a period when Norman abbeys were taking advantage of the monastic construction boom in the Middle Ages in the region, a new building was erected.
We were captivated by this example of Norman Romanesque architecture, with its high lantern tower and 13th-century chapel. We really loved this abbey and its authenticity!
How long does the outing last?
Château de Balleroy is about a 25-minute drive from Bayeux and less than 15 minutes from Cerisy-la-Forêt Abbey, depending on traffic density. You can allow a good half-day for this outing, including travel time.
Why did we choose it?
These medieval monuments surrounded by gardens are majestic enough to take you on an idyllic stroll through this corner of Normandy. For lovers of architecture, these are also beautiful buildings that are well worth a visit, inside and out!
Is it family-friendly?
In fact, you can enjoy these beautiful monuments and gardens with your toddlers. In a stroller or baby carrier, as you prefer, as the sites are quite accessible. A family outing that’s both pastoral and historic! Relatively easy to visit for people with reduced mobility or accompanied by children, we have fond memories of these places.
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN Normandy
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that is comfortable enough (distances can be long) but compact (some parking lots and villages are narrow).
- Think of thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
9. Château Fontaine-Henry and Juno Beach
What you will see
You can also combine a visit to fortified buildings with a tour of the D-Day landing beaches, for a different kind of day out! Just under 30 minutes by car from Bayeux, make a 1st stop at Château Fontaine-Henry, built in the 13th century. Passed down from generation to generation since its foundation by the de Tilly family, its current owner is the Marquis d’Oilliamson. A listed family property, the château is a true architectural treasure.
Continue on to one of the emblematic sites of the 1944 D-Day landings, Juno Beach near Courseulles-sur-Mer. This is one of the D-Day beaches that’s easy to visit. In fact, the beach and the museum are right next to each other, so you can kill two birds with one stone! In fact, it’s the only Canadian museum on one of the D-Day beaches.
Above, you’ll see the tribute paid to the 45,000 Canadian soldiers who gave their lives to liberate Normandy in June 1944. A place steeped in history and emotion!
How long does the tour last?
You can devote just half a day to these 2 visits before heading back to Bayeux. The Château Fontaine Henry can be visited in about an hour. At Juno Beach, you can allow 45min to 1h30, depending on the activities you plan, between a stroll on the beach, the museum, the British Memorial or, a little further on, the Canadian Military Cemetery at Beny-sur-Mer.
Why did we choose it?
These 2 places are located on the same road and are relatively easy to get to. Whether in the Château Fontaine-Henry or on Juno Beach, you’ll learn a lot about a part of Normandy’s history.
Is the activity family-friendly?
Absolutely, these 2 activities are suitable for children and families. Château Fontaine Henry organizes “investigations” in the park, “Petits meurtres entre amis” (Little murders between friends), suitable for youngsters to play detective for an afternoon of 2 hours. Immersed with your children in this exceptional setting, neither you nor your little ones will soon forget the experience!
As for the Juno Beach Centre, a children’s trail has been designed with children and teenagers in mind. Thanks to interactive modules and touch screens, the “Explore Juno with your family” tour makes discovering the museum with the whole family even easier and more accessible. It should be noted, however, that the subject of the Second World War can be sensitive for some children.
DISCOVER Bayeux
- Best things to do in Bayeux
- Where to sleep in Bayeux: our best hotels
- Rent a car in Bayeux
- Where to eat in Bayeux: our best restaurants
- Visit the Bayeux Tapestry Museum
- Visit the Baron Gérard Museum of Art and History
- Visit the Battle of Normandy Museum
- Discover the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Bayeux
- Discover the British Military Cemetery
10. Château de Creully and Gold Beach
What you will see
An ancient medieval fortified castle, Château de Creully is just a 15-minute drive from downtown Bayeux. During our visit, we entered its wooded, flower-filled grounds to admire the Château from the outside. Guided tours are organized in this mythical feudal site, where we were lucky enough to visit some of the rooms.
This beautiful building also played a role in the success of D-Day and the Liberation. Indeed, in June 1944, the BBC broadcast from the Château de Creully’s square tower, broadcasting news of the Battle of Normandy during the Second World War. In short, a visit is a must if you love history, castles and large parks!
A 15-minute drive from the château takes you to Gold Beach at Arromanches-les-Bains on the Normandy coast.
It’s a pretty impressive and interesting place to visit.
The remains of the artificial harbour (Mulberries) used during the D-Day landings appear on the beach at low tide, and you can approach them.
We were also overwhelmed by the view from the cliffs, which made us feel very small in the face of such immensity.
There are also several remains of equipment at the entrance to the beach near the museum.
How long does the outing last?
Allow a good half-day to visit these 2 sites, which are fairly close to one another. You’ll need just an hour to visit the interior of Château de Creully, but you’ll need more time to enjoy the surrounding wooded and flower-filled park!
The Arromanches part of Gold Beach is one of the most interesting, with many D-Day relics left untouched on the beach for you to see with your own eyes.
Why did we choose it?
Château de Creully and Gold Beach are relatively close by. They’re also eye-catchers. Whether it’s in this feudal castle surrounded by magnificent parkland, or on this beach where remnants of equipment and pieces of the artificial harbour appear, you’ll have plenty to keep you busy!
Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, completely. Your little ones will be able to frolic happily through the château’s wooded park and feel closer to nature. In Arromanches-les-Bains, your children will enjoy strolling along Gold Beach at low tide and seeing the relics of this turning point in history. World War II can be a sensitive subject for some children.
Pre-trip preparation: our tips
Before you set off on your excursion from Bayeux, here are a few tips to ensure you have an enjoyable and hassle-free day!
Check the weather
Known for its changeable climate, it can be sunny several times a day in Normandy, as the saying goes! We always consult the weather forecast to choose the right clothes and comfortable shoes for the day.
Charging your cell phone
Before leaving your accommodation, make sure your phone is fully charged. A portable rechargeable battery may be useful if you need to recharge your phone en route. The same goes for your camera, if you’re using special equipment. Ready to capture lots of beautiful memories?
Pack a snack in your backpack
To avoid hunger pangs, don’t forget to pack a small snack. Dried fruit and a flask of water, for example, are practical and healthy options for quickly regaining your strength and staying well hydrated.
Search for restoration options
If your tour doesn’t include a meal (remember to check when you book), it’s a good idea to look in advance for places to eat. Here’s a selection of the best places to eat in and around Bayeux.
Organizing your documents
Take all the necessary documents with you: tickets for the places you’ll be visiting, identity card or passport, and transport card if necessary or car rental documents if applicable.
Now all you have to do is enjoy the moment! Take time to admire the scenery, absorb the atmosphere and enjoy every moment of this unique experience in one of France’s most beautiful regions: Normandy.
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Other excursions in Bayeux
Hiking and nature outings
Want to get a little closer to nature? There are several options from Bayeux:
- Sentier naturel de la vallée de l’Aure: located on the outskirts of the town of Bayeux, amidst streams, ditches, ponds, wet meadows and reedbeds, you’ll be able to admire exceptional flora and fauna. The walk is relatively easy. But remember to bring good shoes, comfortable clothes, a bottle of water and a snack!
- Jardin des Sources: this 5,000 m2 green space will appeal to all botanical enthusiasts. The ever-present watercourses provide a natural backdrop for perennials, grasses, roses and numerous shrubs. Colors and blooms follow one another through the seasons.
- Hiking around Bayeux: do you enjoy walking or cycling? There are a number of routes within Bayeux itself, via the Botanical Gardens and the stadium, with wooden footbridges across marshy areas (13km). Or to Vaux-sur-Aure through the Aure loop (7km), then on to the orchards of the Fumichon farm and back along the Bessin country paths (12km).
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN Normandy
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that is comfortable enough (distances can be long) but compact (some parking lots and villages are narrow).
- Think of thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
Gourmet breaks around Bayeux
The area around Bayeux also offers a number of charming places to discover, if the length of your stay allows and you’re only 20 minutes from Bayeux by car:
- La ferme de la Sapinière – in the Omaha Beach area, a cider farm where you can sample regional products.
- A shortbread tasting in Asnelles – an authentic and simple snack, shortbread with semi-salted butter that melts in the mouth and has also been awarded the “Saveurs de Normandie” label.
- La Grange au Mohair – a country setting, sweet little goats and an authentic knitting workshop.
A walk in the Bessin
Other beautiful places are just a few kilometers from Bayeux:
- Port-en-Bessin-Huppain: a charming seaside town 15 minutes by car from Bayeux and accessible by bus 120 from the Vallée des Près district, this is Normandy’s 1st artisanal fishing port. If you like scallops, you’re in for a treat! Stroll along the marina’s pontoon, enjoy a platter of fresh seafood or attend the Le Goût du Large festival… In short, there’s plenty to keep you busy all day, whether you’re alone, with your family or as a couple in this pretty port city.
- Parc régional du marais du Bessin et du Cotentin: this natural area is home to storks and frogs. The park becomes a veritable sea in winter, which is quite impressive. You can also cycle, walk or hike here. even in a kayak!
So, have you made your choice? We hope you’ve found what you were looking for in this article, and that you’re already dreaming of your future excursions and discoveries around Bayeux!
All our tips in this article were put into words with the help of Myriam.
