The city of Bayeux is a city full of resources: between cultural, gastronomic, historical, botanical heritage… There are many possibilities, whether you spend only a weekend or several days!
Are you more into art and history, or gastronomy and long walks? Discover the famous Bayeux Tapestry; stroll through the Botanical Garden, a landscaped park and Norman jewel; walk through the narrow streets of Old Bayeux after a visit to the traditional tea room… Bayeux is also known as the first city liberated by the British army during the Normandy landings in World War II.
In this article, you will find 12 best things to do in Bayeux and, a little further down, what to do when it rains, in the surroundings and with your family. Enjoy your visit!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the area anonymously, making our own choices, and paying all our bills in full.
1. Stroll through the alleys of the historic center
Why visit the historic heart of Bayeux?
Bayeux is a town that offers a warm and authentic setting. We were seduced by the charm of its historic heart where the medieval architecture is well preserved. Walking in the small streets of the center remains very pleasant whether it is grey or sunny.
What you will see
We advise you to take good shoes because there is a lot to see while walking in the Old Bayeux. The traditional half-timbered houses, mansions or manor houses with turrets cover the paved and sometimes narrow streets. We strolled through them, sometimes stopping in front of the windows of craftsmen and delicatessens before falling for local products!
Also, the municipality has set up a route to facilitate the visit of the main points of interest of the heritage of Bayeux and discover the secrets of the city: the circuit of Old Bayeux. To join this circuit, you can follow the bronze nails in the image of the Bayeux Tapestry and discover the wonders of the city that remained intact despite the Second World War.
How much time to allow
Indeed, the circuit of the Old Bayeux on foot is spread over 2.5 km with 23 explanatory markers. Allow 1h30 to 2h depending on your pace and if you want to admire the details at every corner!
More information on the historic heart of Bayeux
The majority of the streets are paved. Therefore, remember to take walking shoes and comfortable clothes. Don’t forget that in Normandy, it can be sunny several times a day, so a raincoat and/or rain gear will not be a luxury.
The streets of Vieux-Bayeux are accessible for people with reduced mobility and strollers.
Finally, parking is not free in most of the downtown area.
You can also take the “Petit train touristique de Bayeux” which will make you discover the jewels of Bayeux’s heritage, with several stops at the city’s points of interest. Information on the Little Tourist Train is available on the official website of the Bayeux town hall.
Here is our little video, to give you an overview of the visit of Bayeux:
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.
2. The Bayeux Tapestry Museum
Why visit the Bayeux Tapestry?
Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Bayeux Tapestry tells the story of the conquest of England in the 11th century by William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy. This embroidered work on linen canvas is on display at the former Major Seminary of Bayeux (a former institution of Catholic higher education).
What you will see
The Bayeux Tapestry is actually an exceptional embroidery of woolen threads on linen canvas. It illustrates the Conquest of England in the 11th century by William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy who became King of England in 1066 after the Battle of Hastings. The visit of the museum is organized in 3 steps:
- the discovery of the original Tapestry on the 1st level,
- the exhibition room where many art objects and works of art content the secrets of realization of this Tapestry but also the medieval historical context,
- and finally, the 3rd level where the projection room is located.
The Bayeux Tapestry, 68m long and about 70cm wide, of which 50cm is devoted to the embroidery itself, is a true narrative in 58 scenes on the model of stained glass. Historically, the design of this narrative embroidery was commissioned to adorn the nave of the Cathedral of Notre Dame in Bayeux. The hands of the artist or artists behind this embroidery remain unknown to this day.
How much time to allow
We advise you to allow 1h30 to 2h depending on the time you will take at each level. This is especially true if you opt for the audioguide (free and very informative!) when visiting the original Tapestry on the 1st level.
More information on the Bayeux Tapestry
The Bayeux Tapestry Museum is open:
- March to October: 9am to 6:30pm (7pm from May to August).
- November to February: 09:30 to 12:30 and 14:00 to 18:00.
The museum is closed on the afternoon of December 24 and 31, on December 25, and from January 1 to 31 inclusive.
The last entrance to the Tapestry Museum is 45 minutes before the museum closes. Want to discover this historical jewel? Tickets are only available on site.
Alternatively, you can book a one-day guided tour here that includes several visits to historical sites (Falaise castle, Saint-Pierre-sur-Dives, medieval castle of Crevecoeur) in Normandy before ending the day with the Bayeux Tapestry.
Please note:
- pets are not allowed in the museum,
- the place is accessible to people with reduced mobility.
With children in strollers or baby carriers, you can easily enjoy the museum!
Discover our article dedicated to the Bayeux Tapestry with many photos and tips to make the most of your visit to the museum.
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.
3. Notre-Dame de Bayeux Cathedral
Why visit the Notre-Dame de Bayeux Cathedral?
A must-see place if you’re visiting the city! In the historic heart, the centerpiece of the Old Bayeux circuit, you will be dazzled by the Notre-Dame de Bayeux Cathedral. The famous Bayeux Tapestry would have been embroidered in the 11th century to decorate its nave. And it is also one of the stops of the Bayeux tourist train!
What you will see
Its medieval architecture from the 11th century, its numerous stained glass windows from different periods and styles as well as its imposing and elegant organs will leave you speechless. Not to be missed: you can go down into the crypt of the cathedral, look up and see the frescoes of the musical angels from the Renaissance period.
In order to discover this monument from all angles, we walked inside and around it, by day and by night. A real show!
How much time to allow
If you like to take your time to admire every architectural and historical detail, it is best to allow 1 to 1.5 hours. In fact, apart from different kinds of stained glass windows, many statues, mouldings and historical explanations are installed in the cathedral.
More information about Notre-Dame de Bayeux Cathedral
The Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Bayeux is open every day except during religious services:
- From January 1st to March 31st from 9am to 5pm.
- From April 1st to June 30th from 8:30 am to 6 pm.
- From July 1st to September 30th from 9am to 7pm.
The access and the visit are free.
For people with reduced mobility, the accesses are in work. Please note that the floor is not completely smooth, so take comfortable shoes for the visit as there are also some stairs.
And if you go to see the crypt:
- the stairs are quite steep,
- the steps are not quite straight or smooth.
With children, opt for a baby carrier if your little ones are not yet walking and avoid the crypt.
Find all our tips to prepare your visit to the Cathedral Notre-Dame de Bayeux in pictures.
4. The Baron Gérard Museum of Art and History
Why visit the Baron Gérard Museum in Bayeux?
The Palais des évêques in Bayeux, a listed historic monument, houses the Baron Gérard Museum of Art and History. Why do we think this museum is a must-see in Bayeux?
- The chronological tour mixes art and history, from prehistory with the appearance of the first human beings, to the contemporary period.
- The architecture of the episcopal palace where the museum is located is worth a visit.
- For art lovers, several kinds of ancient works and objects are exposed in this museum: paintings, ceramics, relics, fabrics…
This museum is included in the tours of Old Bayeux and the Little Tourist Train.
What you will see
The Baron Gérard Museum of Art and History is a reference in Normandy:
- 600 works of art,
- 1,000 pieces of porcelain and lace from Bayeux,
- several hundreds of archaeological and ethnological remains.
The visit is organized around 14 stages to retrace, in this sumptuous episcopal palace, the different eras from prehistory to the 20th century.
How much time to allow
We advise you to allow 1h30 to 2h depending on your passion for art and history. Each stage dedicated to a particular era may consist of several rooms with numerous pieces of art.
More information about the Baron Gérard Museum
The Baron Gérard Museum of Art and History is open:
- February to April: from 10am to 12:30pm and from 2pm to 6pm.
- May to September: 9:30 am to 6:30 pm.
- October to December: 10am to 12:30pm and 2pm to 6pm.
The museum is closed on the afternoon of December 24 and 31, on December 25, and from January 1 to 31 inclusive.
Like the Bayeux Tapestry, the last entrance to the Baron Gérard Museum is 45 minutes before closing time. And tickets are also only available on site. Open from February 1 to December 31, details of opening times and prices are available on the museum’s official website.
Finally, the museum is accessible to people with reduced mobility with a ramp and elevators.
With children: in a stroller, in a baby carrier or on foot, the visit will be easy with your little ones.
Discover our article dedicated to the Baron Gérard Museum of Art and History in which you will find our tips and our experience in pictures.
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
5. Battle of Normandy Memorial Museum
Why visit the Battle of Normandy Museum?
Are you passionate about the history of D-Day and the Second World War? Then you can’t miss the Battle of Normandy Museum. The only museum that tells the story of the military operations of the summer of 1944 in detail, it is also quite close by car to the D-Day landing beaches.
What you will see
Nearly 2300 m2 are dedicated to the exhibition of the military operations carried out for the Battle of Normandy during the Landing in the summer of 1944.
Thanks to its chronological tour, the museum invites you to go back in time with:
- illustrated stages from June to the end of August 1944 and showcases featuring Allied and German soldiers and their equipment,
- the broadcasting of the archive film “Normandy 44, Decisive Victory in the West”,
But also:
- a life-size reconstruction of one of the most famous episodes of the Battle of Normandy: the Falaise-Chambois pocket in August 1944, the decisive moment when the Allied troops succeeded in encircling the German soldiers.
We really appreciated this total immersion and the attention to detail in each room of the museum to immerse us in this historical period.
How much time to allow
Allow 1 to 1.5 hours maximum if you want to take the time to visit each stage of the museum.
More information on the Battle of Normandy Museum
Like the Tapestry and Baron Gérard museums, the last entrance is 45 minutes before closing time. Find the details of the schedules and prices on the official website of the museum.
With children: in a stroller, in a baby carrier or on foot, the visit will be easy with your little ones.
The Battle of Normandy Museum is also part of the tour of the Little Tourist Train which makes you discover the heritage of the city.
Finally, a parking lot is located right next to the museum.
Find all our tips and our experience of visiting the Battle of Normandy Museum in Bayeux.
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6. The Botanical Garden of Bayeux
Why visit the Botanical Garden of Bayeux?
Do you know the Botanical Garden of Bayeux? This magnificent landscaped park is a true Norman jewel dating from the 19th century. Indeed, it is a place not to be missed if you like plant species, large trees or simply if you like walking in large green spaces. With a surface area of 2.6 hectares, this garden is a landscaped park created in 1859 by the Bülher brothers, famous French landscape architects of Swiss origin. The Botanical Garden is home to over 400 trees.
What you will see
The centerpiece of the Bayeux Botanical Garden is without a doubt the weeping beech in the heart of the park. Moreover, this 140 year old tree has been classified as a natural monument since 1932 and labeled “remarkable tree of France” since 2000.
Moreover, if you follow the botanical circuit, you will freely discover the wonders sheltered by this garden and its main plant species. We particularly appreciated this invitation to travel and to take the time to contemplate the flowers, the Japanese carp pond, the bee hotel or the horse chestnut tree and the purple beech trees.
How much time to allow
You can plan on 1 to 1.5 hours if you go all the way around the park and take the time to admire each species along the way.
More information about the Botanical Garden
Want to have a picnic before, during or after your tour of the Bayeux Botanical Gardens? It is possible! Tables and benches are set up in several places in the park to enjoy a break or a snack.
The self-cleaning toilets are also very clean. And with a changing table too!
Access to the Botanical Garden of Bayeux is free and the park is open:
- From April 1st to September 30th: from 9am to 8pm.
- From October 1st to 31st: from 9am to 7pm.
- From November 1st to February 28th: from 9am to 5pm.
- From March 1st to 31st: from 9am to 7pm.
Bicycles and cars are not allowed in the park. However, pets are accepted.
Would you like to go for a walk in the Botanical Garden of Bayeux? Read all our tips to prepare your visit in our dedicated article here.
7. The D-Day landing beaches
Why visit the D-Day landing beaches?
Bayeux is really close to the D-Day landing beaches. The city can be a good starting point to visit them. Bunkers, sculptures, museums, fine sand, cliffs… Our complete guide to prepare your itinerary of the 5 D-Day beaches is available by clicking here.
What you will see
Note that each beach has its specificities: cemeteries, batteries, memorials, museums… These beaches are all more fascinating to discover than the others.
Here are our opinions to help you choose among these 5 beaches:
- Utah Beach for its fun side: an open air museum, a battery and the new D-Day Experience not far away.
- Omaha Beach Beach theemotion it arouses: the magnificent sculpture on the beach, the intensity of the American cemetery. We were very moved by all these crosses lined up above the soldiers’ graves.
- Gold Beach is visually fascinating: the remains of the temporary port appear at low tide, the view from the cliffs took our breath away…
- Juno Beach is easy to visit – the beach and the museum are right next to each other, so you can kill two birds with one stone when you visit!
- Sword Beach for its strategic dimension – no beach experience here, but the Antlantic Wall Museum in the Bunker is a unique immersive experience. It is one of the very few bunkers preserved after the Second World War.
How much time to allow
It really depends on how many beaches you hope to see in one or more days. It is quite possible to get an overview in one day.
But for a more complete view and to fully immerse yourself in history, we recommend 3 to 5 days, or even a week if you are passionate about the Second World War!
More information about the D-Day landing beaches
The most practical way to visit the D-Day landing beaches is obviously by car.
However, tours are also organized to these beaches from Bayeux:
- to theOmaha Beach Beach area – see availability, conditions and prices,
- to the American landing sites in Normandy – see availability, conditions and prices,
- a full day on the American beaches and the US Airborne – see availability, conditions and prices,
- a full day visit to the D-day 44 sites in Normandy – see availability, conditions and prices,
- a half-day trip in a Vintage Sidecar along the D-Day landing beaches – see availability, conditions and prices.
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.
8. The British military cemetery
Why visit the British Cemetery?
The British war cemetery of Bayeux is the largest in France: more than 4,000 soldiers are buried there. A memorable place of recollection indeed, where we did not expect to feel so many emotions!
Also, the independent authority of the Commonwealth War Grave Commission is in charge of the maintenance of this cemetery.
What you will see
Completed in 1952, the Bayeux British War Cemetery is near the Battle of Normandy Museum and has over 4,000 Allied soldiers buried. Specifically, these are:
- 4,648 soldiers buried at Bayeux, including 4,100 from the Commonwealth and more than 300 unidentified,
- more than 500 graves of German soldiers killed during World War II.
This cemetery also has the Memorial Cross in honor of those who gave their lives for the Liberation. Finally, on the other side of the boulevard where the cemetery is located, we advise you to visit the Commonwealth Soldiers’ Memorial. This place certainly invites to meditation.
How much time to allow
You can expect to spend about 45 minutes to 1 hour maximum if you walk through the entire cemetery and also go to the memorial on the other side of the boulevard.
More information on the British Military Cemetery
The Bayeux British Military Cemetery is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Access is free for everyone.
Remember to take good shoes if you walk around afterwards, near several points of tourist interest:
- 3min walk from the Battle of Normandy Museum,
- 15min walk from the Bayeux Tapestry Museum,
- 20min walk from the Botanical Garden of Bayeux.
Find our article dedicated to the British Military Cemetery of Bayeux with all our tips, opinions and photos if you plan to visit this place of history and memory.
9. Visit the Comptoirs des Saveurs in Bayeux
Why visit the Comptoirs des Saveurs in Bayeux?
Do you like regional products? The delicatessen Aux Comptoirs des Saveurs in Bayeux is a business not to be missed if you want to bring back some culinary souvenirs from the region. From homemade chocolates to perry, almond paste and calissons, you’ll find plenty to please you!
What you will see
The delicatessen store is very well stocked. The shelves offer a very large choice of sweet and savoury local products:
- perry, cider, whisky, calvados, craft beer, wine…
- home-made chocolates and confectionery (caramels, calissons…),
- teas, coffees, jams,
- shortbread, madeleines, cookies with Isigny butter,
- condiments, salted local products (foie gras, sardines…),
- and more on site!
Among these local delicacies, you will surely find some gift ideas!
How much time to allow
You can plan between 30 and 40 minutes on the spot to take the time to choose the products and sweets that you will take as a souvenir of your stay in Bayeux.
More information about Comptoirs des Saveurs in Bayeux
The delicatessen Aux Comptoirs des Saveurs is located at 45 rue Saint-Martin in downtown Bayeux:
- 2min walk from the Baron Gérard Museum of Art and History,
- 3min walk from the Notre-Dame de Bayeux Cathedral,
- 5min from the Bayeux Tapestry Museum.
The delicatessen is closed for annual vacations from mid-January to the end of February.
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10. Morgane Thomassin’s ceramic art workshop
Why visit this ceramic art studio in Bayeux?
With its royal blue front, we were intrigued by this workshop store and its ceramic art showcase. In the historical heart of the city, a few steps away from the Baron Gérard Museum of Art and History and the Bayeux Cathedral, we were seduced by this boutique workshop. Take the time to discover the world of Morgane Thomassin, ceramist of art.
What you will see
The creations of the craftswoman Morgane Thomassin invite us to travel through time, between past and modernity. We wanted to scrutinize every object. Morgane, an art ceramist, creates one-of-a-kind pieces, from porcelain jewelry to stoneware tableware to magical printed illustrations.
In a word, we really liked the authenticity and originality of the place because Morgane’s workshop is located… right behind the cash register of the store! So open to the curious public! She was also very kind in explaining to us a little about her daily life and her work method.
The finesse of the creations subjugated us. So we ended up falling for a beautiful stoneware tea ball infuser and a pair of porcelain earrings.
How much time to allow
You can plan 30 to 40 minutes if you want to take the time to look at all of Morgane Thomassin’s unique creations, talk with her about her work and see her studio.
More information about Morgane Thomassin’s ceramic art workshop in Bayeux
In a concern of transmission of the know-how, Morgane Thomassin organizes sessions of initiation to ceramics for the small ones from 6 years and the adults.
You can find all the information on the schedules of the initiation sessions, on his creations, the points of sale and his art workshop on his official website.
Morgane Thomassin’s ceramic art studio is located at 5, rue de la Chaîne in Bayeux:
- 1min walk from the Baron Gérard Museum of Art and History,
- 1min walk from the Notre-Dame de Bayeux Cathedral,
- 5min walk from the Bayeux Tapestry Museum.
Discover our article dedicated to our experience at Morgane Thomassin’s ceramic art studio in Bayeux (tips + photos).
11. A gourmet break at Les Volets Roses
Why try the Volets Roses tea room?
Would you like to experience an enchanted interlude outside of time in an authentic old-fashioned tea room? A gourmet break in this friendly place run by mother and daughter will transport you to a storybook setting. Not to mention the homemade pastries, the 1001 types of tea and the old-fashioned hot chocolate that delighted our taste buds! And this charming place is also a canteen.
What you will see
Thus, the canteen tea room Les Volets Roses plunges you into a exotic setting, decorated with taste. We felt like characters in a novel, sipping their china teacups as if we were at home. Every detail caught our eye: the dishes, the accessories and tea boxes, the colors, the paintings, the wallpaper, the knick-knacks, the postcards pinned on the wall…
Then comes the moment to taste our order:
- the homemade pastries melt in your mouth,
- the balance between the ingredients is perfect,
- the mixture of flavors is refined.
In a word, we had a great time in this nice intimate place and we will return without hesitation!
How much time to allow
You can plan 45min to 1h on site depending on whether you have lunch or a snack.
More information about the tea room and canteen Les Volets Roses in Bayeux
Les Volets Roses does not accept reservations outside of Sunday brunches. During the week or on Saturdays, it is sometimes necessary to wait a little before having a table because the place being intimate, it can quickly fill up. But the very welcoming team in the dining room will find a place for you.
You can also take a little walk in the neighborhood and come back, the Cathedral Notre-Dame de Bayeux is just in front of this tea room canteen, whose shutters are really pink.
Les Volets Roses are closed on Wednesdays.
Find out all our tips and advice for a gourmet break at Les Volets Roses tearoom in Bayeux.
12. Vintage vehicles on the Place Saint-Patrice
Why go to classic car events?
Passionate about vintage cars and passing through Bayeux? So you can’t miss the events that bring together collectors of old vehicles, 4 or 2 wheels! Indeed, the club of collectors of old vehicles Bayeux Rétro Auto Club organizes its traditional meeting on the Place Saint-Patrice in the north-west of the city.
What you will see
Ford Mustang, Citroën, Austin, Corvette Stingray but also Vespa and Harley-Davidson… What beautiful models on the Place Saint-Patrice, nice discovery when we were walking on the way to the Botanical Garden of Bayeux!
This way, you can take the time to admire each of the vehicles, each one more elegant than the other. Or to discuss with the private collectors and visitors who regularly gather to talk about their passion and unveil their collection.
How much time to allow
You can plan 30min to 1h depending on your interest in vintage vehicles and your willingness to discuss with collectors on site.
More information about classic cars in Bayeux
Every 3rd Sunday of the month, the Bayeux Rétro Auto Club organizes its traditional gathering of 2 and 4 wheels enthusiasts from another era.
Meet at Place Saint-Patrice near the fountain, in the northwest of the city, only 10-15min walk from the following points of interest
- the British Military Cemetery,
- the Botanical Garden,
- the Battle of Normandy Memorial Museum,
- Notre-Dame de Bayeux Cathedral.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Normandy
Inspiration destinations
- Deciding where to go in Normandy – the best destinations
- Our weekend ideas: best-of, romantic, unusual, seaside, luxury, family
- 16 seaside hotels in Normandy
- The most beautiful charming hotels in Normandy
Best of
Practice
- Where to stay in Normandy – best places and hotels
- See our tips for renting a car at CDG airport, Orly airport, Beauvais airport, Caen, Rouen, Bayeux…
Best things to do in Bayeux: other ideas
Reporters’ Memorial
This place of memory is dedicated to reporters and freedom of the press, in the rue des Cordeliers in Bayeux in Normandy. During this landscaped walk, you will discover several white steles which include more than 2000 names of journalists killed around the world in the exercise of their function since 1944. The city of Bayeux has designed this Reporters’ Memorial in collaboration with the association Reporters Without Borders.
Cidrerie Viard
Located in the town of Guéron, about 3km from Bayeux, the Viard cider house is one of the oldest family cider houses in Normandy. It has been producing cider since 1932 on about twenty hectares of cider apple yards. A trip out of the ordinary if you visit the area and taste local products.
Stroll on the banks of the Aure
Would you like to get a little closer to nature? The nature trail of the Aure valley, a river in Normandy, is located at the gates of the city of Bayeux. In the middle of streams, ditches, water bodies, ponds, wet meadows and reed beds, you will be able to admire an exceptional fauna and flora.
Also, the walking route is of a relatively easy level of difficulty. However, remember to bring good shoes, comfortable clothes, a bottle of water and a snack!
Conservatory of lace in Bayeux
The Bayeux Lace Conservatory is a production workshop for needle lace and bobbin lace, embroidery being a real tradition in Normandy. Since the end of the 1980s, the association that runs the Conservatory has aimed to revive Norman lace.
Creation, diffusion of knowledge but also transmission of a lace-making know-how are an integral part of the missions of the Bayeux Lace Conservatory.
Go to rue du Bienvenu in downtown Bayeux to discover this workshop where tradition and creativity are mixed. More info on the official website of the Conservatoitre.
Looking for your next accommodation for your stay in Bayeux? Old house in the historical heart, castle near the city center, charming hotel or luxury establishment, seaside or countryside… You will be spoilt for choice! Find all our tips and opinions on where to sleep in this city of art and history.
What to do near Bayeux
The abbey of Cerisy-la-forêt
Founded in the 6th century, the original monastery of Cerisy-la-Forêt Abbey was destroyed during the Viking invasions 300 years later. In the 11th century, a period when the Norman abbeys took advantage of the monastic construction period in the Middle Ages in the region, a new building was reconstructed. Only 25 minutes from Bayeux by car, we were transported by this example of Norman Romanesque architecture with its high lantern tower or its 13th century chapel. The wonder is guaranteed, we really loved this abbey and its authenticity!
It is a relatively easy abbey to visit for people with reduced mobility or accompanied by children, with only one staircase to access the museum room. We have fond memories of it.
Port-en-Bessin-Huppain, charming village near Bayeux
Charming commune on the seaside, 15 minutes drive from Bayeux, Port-en-Bessin-Huppain is the first artisanal fishing port in Normandy. If you like scallops, you will be served! Port-en-Bessin-Huppain is a very famous place for this exquisite seafood. Stroll along the marina’s pontoon, enjoy a fresh seafood platter or attend the festival Le Goût du Large… In short, you will have something to occupy you a good day in solo, in family or in couple in this pretty harbor city. Guided tours are also offered by the cultural center Léopold Sédar Senghor and fishing returns by the tourist office.
Finally, you can get there with bus 120 from the Vallée des Près district in Bayeux, the journey also takes about fifteen minutes.
The Castle of Balleroy
In the 17th century, the famous architect François Mansart built the castle of Balleroy in Calvados, 20 minutes drive from Bayeux. It is worth mentioning that this castle and the urban plans of the village inspired royal cities such as Versailles.
Its structure has been preserved identically since its construction: its facades are a mixture of brick and stone and sculptural plants at the entrance. Inside, look up slowly as you make your way up the steps of its suspended staircase and finish with its impressive wooden ceiling. The interior furniture dating from the 19th century also gives it a certain cachet.
The park of the castle was laid out in the 19th century during the period of romanticism and the height of the creations of landscape architects. If you have time to stop by, a gourmet break in the castle’s tea room is also very pleasant. The visit is quite accessible with a few steps in the castle and an easy walk in the park. The castle of Balleroy closes all winter from the beginning of November.
The Castle of Creully
A former medieval fortress, the Château de Creully is only a 15-minute drive from downtown Bayeux. You can easily access its wooded and flowery park to admire the castle from the outside. Guided tours are organized in this mythical place of the feudal era where we had the chance to visit some rooms.
This beautiful building also played a role in the success of the D-Day landings and the Liberation. Indeed, in June 1944, the British channel BBC was broadcasting from the square tower of the Château de Creully to provide news of the Battle of Normandy during the Second World War.
In short, a visit is a must if you like history, castles and large parks!
4 excursions from Bayeux
Going to Mont-Saint-Michel
High place of the French heritage for centuries, the Mont-Saint-Michel is only 1h20min by car from Bayeux! Its abbey, classified as a historic monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its narrow streets, the charm of its bay… Mont-Saint-Michel is a magical place because of the richness of its architecture and its history. Not to be missed under any circumstances!
Several day trips can be organized from Bayeux – see availability, conditions and prices.
Want to go by yourself? Reserve your time to visit the Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel now!
Visit Caen and its memorial
Another medieval city in the region, Caen is nicknamed “the city of William the Conqueror”, Duke of Normandy. Its castle, its Abbeys of Men and Ladies, but also its Memorial dedicated to the Battle of Normandy, to the Cold War and to Peace in Normandy. Passionate about the history of the Second World War and what followed? So go ahead, it’s only 25 minutes by car from Bayeux!
Remember to reserve your ticket to visit the Caen Memorial.
Visit Honfleur
Honfleur, a city of painters but also a fishing, commercial and yachting port, remains one of the prettiest cities in Normandy in our opinion. Visiting Bayeux? Luckily, Honfleur is only 1 hour away by car! So don’t miss out on all the great things to do in this charming harbor town, find our 21 ideas of things to do in Honfleur here.
In one day, you can enjoy:
- Sainte-Catherine Church: the largest wooden church in France with its separate bell tower – see our article,
- of Honfleur’s Old Port: a postcard setting with its swirl of colors and the reflection of the aligned masts,
- of its Jardin des Personnalités: a splendid corner of nature facing the Seine,
- of its alleys and art galleries: the best way to discover the architecture of the city is to visit it on foot!
Honfleur is also known for its very good offer of restaurants. To treat yourself during your trip from Bayeux, find our reviews and tips on the 15 best restaurants in Honfleur.
A gastronomic day in Normandy
As you probably know, Normandy is also very famous for its gastronomy. And for us, the journey also includes culinary discoveries. Eating well when traveling as well as at home is sacred!
Cheeses, foie gras, cider, perry, shortbread with Isigny butter, sweets… So many delights that the region where Bayeux is located offers.
Good news, a day trip dedicated to Norman gastronomy from Bayeux is now available on our favorite platform – see availability, conditions and prices.
Practical tips and map: Bayeux, Nomandie, France
Where is Bayeux?
Bayeux is located in the department of Calvados in the region of Normandy, near the D-Day beaches.
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.
How to get there
The easiest way to get to Bayeux is by car. By the way, you can find our 35 tips for renting a car in Bayeux here. Do you prefer to travel by train? It is also possible to reach Bayeux by train with regular trips every day.
See available timetables and book your train and coach tickets now.
Tips for visiting Bayeux
Remember that the alleys in the historic heart of Bayeux are paved, so we recommend that you bring comfortable shoes and something to protect you from the rain.
Parking in Bayeux is possible, with several free and paid parking spaces. However, we think that the best way to visit the city is on foot or by bus. Bayeux is served by 3 bus lines.
And if you’re going to ride your bike, Bayeux has built several bike paths to make it easier to get around downtown and the surrounding area!
Finally, no matter what day of the week you visit the city, another tip: reserve your table at the restaurant well in advance (especially on a Sunday)! The restaurant offer is very qualitative in Bayeux, at noon and in the evening. Visitors sometimes come from other towns in the area to eat on site because of the quality of the food in Bayeux.
Visit Bayeux in 1 day
You are visiting Bayeux and you have only planned one day in the town, but you don’t know where to start? Don’t panic, we’ll give you our tips on how not to miss the city’s essentials in one day:
- Start your morning by visiting the Notre-Dame de Bayeux Cathedral in the historic heart, a jewel of history and architecture.
- Continue with the Baron Gérard Art and History Museum, a 1 minute walk from the Cathedral, an artistic retrospective from prehistory to the present day.
- Lunch break? Bayeux has a very good offer of restaurants for all tastes. You will have the choice for example between a lunch at the Alcôve, one of the best restaurants of the city according to us behind the Cathedral, and the Moulin de la Galette a little higher, a friendly crêperie which revisits the classics, on the banks of the river Aure.
- After lunch, the visit continues with the Bayeux Tapestry Museum, an exceptional embroidery classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site that tells the story of the conquest of England in the 11th century by William the Conqueror.
- It’s snack time! Go to the Volets Roses in front of the Cathedral for a snack in a fairy-tale setting and homemade pastries like at Mamie’s.
- End your day with a visit to the famous Battle of Normandy Museum, a 10-minute walk away.
Visit Bayeux in 2 days
A medieval city, Bayeux is also known for being the first city to be liberated during the Second World War. It served as a base for the British army from June to August 1944. In two days, you can have a broad overview of the city’s heritage.
Day 1:
- Start with a visit to the Notre-Dame de Bayeux Cathedral, a majestic building in the heart of the city.
- Then, take the time to stroll through the alleys of the historic center. Moreover, you can take the Old Bayeux circuit with the bronze nails and the explanatory posts to admire the medieval architecture but also to know the secrets of the city. It is also an opportunity to stroll between delicatessens and artisan stores.
- It’s time for lunch. Bayeux has a wide range of restaurants to choose from, but remember to reserve a table as soon as possible. Depending on your tastes and desires, we recommend the Alcôve, one of the best restaurants in the city; the Moulin de la Galette, a riverside crêperie that revisits the classics; or the Maison B, a traditional brasserie in a memorial setting.
- Start your afternoon with one of the two museums in the historic center: the Bayeux Tapestry Museum, an exceptional embroidery classified as a UNESCO heritage site, or the Baron Gérard Museum of Art and History which will transport you through the ages from prehistory to the 20th century.
- Need a gourmet break? You can go to the tea room Les Volets Roses which is also a canteen. A place where you will feel like a character in a novel, sipping a good tea and enjoying a home-made pastry.
- The historic heart also houses artisan workshops and delicatessens. Looking for regional products and local creations? BetweenMorgane Thomassin’s ceramic art workshop, the delicatessen Aux Saveurs Gourmandes or the Conservatoire de la dentelle, you will be served. You can also visit all three!
- For dinner, the restaurant La Rapière, refined and generous cuisine, or the table de l’Angle Saint-Laurent, local in a contemporary and elegant style, will delight your taste buds!
- Whether you spend one or more nights in Bayeux, find our article with all our tips on where to sleep in Bayeux and the surrounding area.
Day 2:
- Get up in the morning and enjoy the calm and serenity of the city of Bayeux. Today, you can take the little tourist train near the tourist office, go by foot or by car.
- Visit the Battle of Normandy Museum, which retraces the stages of this pivotal moment in the Second World War that led to the Liberation.
- You then have the choice of starting at the British Military Cemetery (the largest in France) or at the Reporters’ Memorial, a place of remembrance for journalists killed in the line of duty.
- For lunch, in addition to the restaurants already mentioned, we also recommend the Alchimie or the Garde-Manger in the city center.
- A walk in the Botanical Garden of Bayeux to digest? Considered one of the most beautiful 19th century landscaped parks in Normandy, the Botanical Garden is home to more than 400 trees including the majestic weeping beech. You will be dazzled by the beauty of this large green space that invites you to travel!
- Continue this bucolic walk on the natural path of the Aure valley, a river that crosses the city of Bayeux. Indeed, the hike is of a relatively easy level.
Frequently asked questions
What to do in Bayeux when it rains?
Bayeux is rich in historical and artistic heritage. Between the museums and the majestic cathedral, you’ll be spoilt for choice if it rains:
- Bayeux Tapestry Museum,
- Baron Gérard Museum of Art and History,
- Battle of Normandy Memorial Museum,
- Notre-Dame de Bayeux Cathedral.
What to do with your family in Bayeux and surroundings?
The area around Bayeux also offers several charming places to discover if the length of your stay allows it and you are only 20min from Bayeux by car:
- La ferme de la Sapinière – in theOmaha Beach Beach area, a cider farm for tasting regional products.
- A shortbread tasting in Asnelles – an authentic and simple snack, semi-salted butter shortbread that melts in the mouth and has also obtained the “Saveurs de Normandie” label.
- La Grange au Mohair – a country setting, sweet little goats and an authentic knitting workshop.
Why is Bayeux famous?
Very good question! Often referred to as the “medieval city at the gates of the D-Day beaches”, Bayeux is truly a city full of surprises. Moreover, its museums, its preserved medieval architecture with a real Norman cachet between land and sea have seduced us. As a city of art and culture, you probably know that Bayeux is home to the famous tapestry, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, woven in the Middle Ages to decorate the nave of its majestic cathedral. Bayeux is also known as the first city liberated by the British army during the Normandy landings in World War II.
Bayeux or Caen: where to go
Bayeux and Caen are two cities located in Calvados in Normandy. They are also two medieval cities marked in the 11th century by William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy. More than a third of the city of Caen was destroyed during the Second World War while Bayeux remained intact.
In addition, Caen offers several points of tourist interest such as its historic city center, the Normandy Museum and its Fine Arts Museum, the Abbaye aux Dames, the Abbaye aux Hommes or the Saint-Pierre Church. You can also plan a day trip to Caen from Bayeux.
In another style, in Bayeux, you can take advantage of its good restaurants to (re)discover the gastronomy of the region, its museums, its cathedral, its old houses and the alleys of its historical heart. Finally, the Petit Train Touristique de la Ville is ideal for a tour of the main points of interest in Old Bayeux. The city is also home to one of the most beautiful 19th century landscaped parks in Normandy: the Botanical Garden of Bayeux.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Normandy
Inspiration destinations
- Deciding where to go in Normandy – the best destinations
- Our weekend ideas: best-of, romantic, unusual, seaside, luxury, family
- 16 seaside hotels in Normandy
- The most beautiful charming hotels in Normandy
Best of
Practice
- Where to stay in Normandy – best places and hotels
- See our tips for renting a car at CDG airport, Orly airport, Beauvais airport, Caen, Rouen, Bayeux…
All our tips in this article were put into words with the help of Myriam.
