Bernay is a charming Norman village that has preserved its rich medieval heritage. We were seduced by its narrow streets lined with half-timbered houses, its canals, its thousand-year-old abbey and its peaceful gardens. The town, classified as a Remarkable Heritage Site, boasts typical Normandy architecture.
Here’s our guide to the must-see sights in Bernay, Normandy, and useful tips for planning your visit.
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Is the village of Bernay worth a visit?
Yes, Bernay is well worth a visit. Its well-preserved historic center is a fine example of Norman architecture, with half-timbered houses and a remarkable Romanesque abbey. We were charmed by the authenticity of this small town, which has preserved its medieval character. In our opinion, it’s one of the most beautiful towns in Normandy.
1. Visit Notre-Dame Abbey
Notre-Dame Abbey is a jewel of Norman Romanesque architecture. We were impressed by its majestic nave and 11th-century carved capitals. Admire the stone vaults and massive columns that testify to the skill of the builders of the time.
- Opening hours: May 2 to September 30: Tuesday to Sunday, 2 – 6 pm
- Free admission
- See the latest news on the official website here
2. And admire the rear of the abbey church
The abbey church was built between 1013 and 1050 by the monk-builder William of Volpiano. In a way, it symbolizes the flowering of Romanesque art in Normandy. Unfortunately, over the centuries, the edifice was ravaged by fire, the Hundred Years’ War and a peasant revolt in the 16th century… The back of the church is particularly striking. The 3 levels are clearly visible, giving it an exceptional height for its time.
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.
2. Follow the “Water, stone and wood” tour
To discover Bernay, you can follow a walking tour that takes you past the city’s most beautiful monuments. It takes you past the best-preserved half-timbered houses, along the Charentonne River, from the river banks to the medieval alleyways. In the rest of this article, we’ll share with you some of our favorite passages from this walk.
3. Explore Rue Gaston Folloppe
Rue Gaston Folloppe is home to some remarkable examples of half-timbered houses from the 15th and 16th centuries. We were fascinated by the sculpted details and corbels adorning the facades. Admire the geometric patterns formed by the exposed beams and the traditional building techniques perfectly preserved in this historic street.
4. Le Cosnier
At one end of the promenade, you’ll pass a charming square called Rue du Pont de l’Étang. Here we discover the Le Cosnier river surrounded by greenery, with transparent waters and a short walk that generates a light sound ambiance.
Walkways allow you to stroll along the water’s edge and admire the city’s mix of architecture.
The Cosnier is a tributary of the Charentonne (left bank) and a sub-tributary of the Seine via the Risle. Its length is 13.2 km.
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5. Relax along the Charantonne
The Charentonne River, a tributary of the Risle, also flows through the town of Bernay. It rises in the Saint-Évroult forest and flows for more than 62km. Several streets run over this river. We particularly liked the bridge on rue de l’abbatiale.
6. Recharge your batteries in the Abbey Garden
The Jardin de l’Abbaye is a haven of peace at the foot of the monastic buildings. We enjoyed strolling through the well-kept gardens, which combine flowerbeds and century-old trees. Enjoy the view of the abbey’s facades. It’s an ideal place for a relaxing break during your visit to the historic center.
7. Discover the Musée des Beaux-Arts
Housed in the abbey dwelling, the museum presents collections of local art and history, from Antiquity to the present day. You’ll discover earthenware, furniture from the 17th and 18th centuries, paintings, Egyptian archaeology, Gallo-Roman art, contemporary art… with its 19th-century museography. You’ll discover regional works of art, archaeological objects and evidence of daily life through the centuries.
- Opening hours: May 2 to September 30, 2pm to 6pm, closed on Mondays
- Admission: €5
- See the latest news on the official website here
WHERE TO STAY IN Normandy
We particularly appreciate staying in Normandy:
- Bayeux – our hotels selection
- Honfleur – our hotel selection
For more ideas, take a look at our article on the best places to stay in Normandy.
And if you already have an idea, take a look at our selections:
8. Admire the Boucheville Gate
The Porte de Boucheville was a historic structure in Bernay. Built around 1380, it was part of the medieval fortifications. It was demolished in 1813 as part of town-planning works. Today, although the gate itself is no longer visible, its location is associated with Bernay’s historical heritage and remains a point of interest for local history buffs. It’s a charming place, with its bridge and buildings of varying architectural styles.
9. Visit Holy Cross Church
The Eglise Sainte-Croix is a fine example of Norman Gothic architecture. You’ll see colorful stained glass windows, exposed roof timbers, a sculpted portal and side chapels. The building, which dates mainly from the 15th century, displays a remarkable architectural unity.
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Things to do in Bernay: other ideas
In and around Bernay, you can also discover..:
- The traditional Saturday morning market
- Laundries
- Notre-Dame de la Couture church
- …
Excursions around Bernay
The region around Bernay offers other discoveries that can be combined with a visit to the town. We suggest less than 30 minutes away:
- Château d’Harcourt and its magnificent park
- The charming village of Bec-Hellouin and its abbey
- The city of Lisieux
How to get to Bernay + parking
Where is Bernay and Map
- In the Eure department in Normandy
- From Paris: 2h15 drive
- From Rouen: 1h drive
- From Caen: 1h15 drive
How to get there
Bernay is not often on the tourist itinerary. No organized tours from the main towns.
The easiest way to get there is by car.
There are buses from Lisieux.
Parking in Bernay
Several free parking lots are available in the town center, notably near the abbey, Place Gustave Héon, or Place des Hauts-Penteurs.
Useful tips for visiting Bernay
How long and when?
Allow a full day to explore the historic center and its main monuments. The town is particularly pleasant in spring and summer when the gardens are in bloom.
Tour directions, map and difficulty
The historic center is easily accessible on foot. Start at the abbey, then follow the “Water, stone and wood” trail to the main points of interest. The city is very easy to visit on foot.
Visiting with children
Children will particularly enjoy the bridges and rivers. The abbey garden is perfect for a picnic break.
Visiting in winter
Bernay retains its charm in winter thanks to its picturesque streets and historic monuments. Unfortunately, the museum and abbey church close in winter.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Normandy
Inspiration destinations
- Deciding where to go in Normandy – the best destinations
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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…
