Planning a trip to Normandy? Why not visit Caen? The capital of Basse-Normandie has a lot to offer: a rich historical and artistic heritage, entertainment of all kinds, fine dining and plenty of green space – there’s something for everyone!
The city of William the Conqueror is also an ideal starting point for discovering the Côte Fleurie, the D-Day Beaches and charming Normandy towns like Bayeux!
In this article, you’ll find a list of 12 ideas for th best things to do in Caen, our opinions and our practical tips for organizing your trip.
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.
Video: The best things to do in Caen
1. Visit the Memorial
Why visit the Memorial?
Caen was a martyred city during the Liberation: 1/3 of its surface area and 2/3 of its built volume were destroyed by Allied bombing raids. So it’s only logical that it should be given a memorial site of the utmost importance on a European scale: the Peace Memorial. Inaugurated in 1988, it is one of the region’s emblematic tourist and cultural sites, welcoming an average of 400,000 visitors a year. We were not disappointed by this must-see museum, which traces the history of 20th-century conflicts from 1914 to the fall of the Berlin Wall.
What you will see
The museum features a permanent tour, divided into 2 main sections:
- “The world before 1945″: you’ll find general explanations of the 2 world wars, with a more specific section on D-Day and the Battle of Normandy. We particularly enjoyed the film on D-Day, and the 360° immersive room on the history of Europe from 1900 to 1991.
- “The world after 1945″: this section focuses on the Cold War.
You’ll also visit the temporary exhibition area, and the memorial gardens (Canadian, American and British), in memory of the Allied soldiers who took part in the D-Day landings.
How much time to allow
The Memorial offers a rich tour of its many rooms. Allow at least 2 hours, but more like 3 hours to fully enjoy the museum.
More information about the Memorial
In high season (July and August), the museum is open daily from 9am to 7pm. For the rest of the year, opening hours vary, but are generally from 9.30am to 6pm, with a weekly closing on Mondays. To check the latest opening times, visit the official website here.
You can eat at the Memorial bistro. The museum is accessible to people with reduced mobility. Parking facilities, especially for motorhomes, are available. Audioguides are available in 7 languages.
Due to the popularity of this site, we recommend that you book your tickets now.
Read our article dedicated to the Caen Memorial.
2. Stroll through the Vaugueux district
Why stroll through the Vaugueux district?
We were won over by the Vaugueux district, a picturesque and touristy part of Caen. It’s a very pleasant place to walk around. In fact, it’s one of the few places in the city where the medieval heritage has been preserved despite the 1944 bombings!
What you will see
In this lively district, stroll along cobbled streets and admire medieval houses built of Caen stone. We almost felt like we were in Montmartre when we saw these lively little squares lined with bars and restaurants! It’s one of the key features of this iconic Caen landmark. In fact, Edith Piaf herself used to visit her grandparents who owned a café here!
How much time to allow
Caen is a city on a human scale, so it won’t take you more than 1 hour to stroll through this district. We’re planning for 1 hour, as you’re likely to stop for a break on the terrace, don’t you think?
More information on the Vaugueux district
As the alleys in the Vaugueux district are cobbled, they can be difficult to access for people with reduced mobility.
We advise you to visit this area at lunchtime or in the evening for a meal, to take full advantage of the lively atmosphere!
The district is served by several bus lines (2, 23, Vaugueux stop). It is, however, within easy walking distance of the city’s main points of interest (20min from Abbaye-aux-Hommes, 5min from Château de Caen…).
WHERE TO STAY IN Caen
Option 1: in the old town center
We recommend..:
- Hotel Best Western Plus Le moderne not far from the castle – see prices, photos and availability
- Hotel La Fontaine also near the castle – see prices, photos and availability
- B&B Les Chambres de L’Abbaye, near Abbaye-aux-Hommes – see prices, photos and availability
Option 2: to Ouistreham
To sleep more in the countryside or near the beach (15 to 20min from Rouen). We recommend..:
- Hotel Manoir Hastings and its stone houses – see prices, photos and availability.
- Hotel La Mare Ô Poissons and its swimming pool – see prices, photos and availability
Option 3: near the port or station
We recommend..:
- Campanile hotel next to the station – see prices, photos and availability.
3. Visit Caen Castle
Why visit Caen Castle?
The Château de Caen is an iconic landmark in the capital of Lower Normandy. Built from 1060 onwards, it is one of the largest fortified enclosures in Europe! We highly recommend a visit to this monument, which bears witness to the city’s power in the time of William the Conqueror. This Duke of Normandy and King of England made it his principal residence. Over the centuries, the château has been transformed into a royal fortress, then into a military barracks, reflecting the city’s entire history!
What you will see
We found the tour of the château to be very rich, and with good reason! You’ll see St. George’s Church, which was intended for the inhabitants living within the castle walls, then the keep, but also a garden and artillery rooms. The Old Palace and the Exchequer Hall were the residence of William the Conqueror and his court. This is also the site of the Musée de Normandie and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, which we’ll mention later.
How much time to allow
Allow 1 to 2 hours to visit the castle. You can visit the enclosure at your own pace, as there is no obligation to follow a particular route.
More information about Caen Castle
The castle grounds are open to the public every day. Only the museums (Musée de Normandie and Musée des Beaux-Arts) are chargeable. The Château and its ramparts are closed at night.
The château is easily accessible by public transport (tramway, bus: stops Château-Quatrans, Université or Saint-Pierre). You’ll find 3 self-service Vélolib stations nearby. On the other hand, access to the site is forbidden to cars.
Please note: the site is being redeveloped until 2037, including a redevelopment of the castle grounds until 2025, which may have an impact on your visit experience.
Discover our article on the Château de Caen.
4. Explore Bird Hill
Why explore Colline aux Oiseaux?
Adjacent to the Memorial, the Colline aux Oiseaux is a 17-hectare floral park much appreciated by Caennais residents and tourists alike. We were won over by this free-access green setting, which offers a magnificent view of the city!
What you will see
You won’t get bored at Colline aux Oiseaux! Inaugurated in 1994, this park, built on a former landfill site, includes an animal park, French and world gardens, a playground, a labyrinth and, above all, a splendid rose garden with nearly 600 varieties of roses! We found the variety of plants very interesting, as well as the showcasing of Norman animals.
How much time to allow
It will take you 2 hours to visit the entire park and enjoy the panoramic view over the city. If you have time and the weather is fine, we even recommend spending an afternoon relaxing in the sun at the tearoom, and why not play a round of miniature golf nearby?
More information on Colline aux Oiseaux
Admission to Colline aux Oiseaux is free. Dogs are not allowed in the park. Picnic areas, bicycle parking and free parking are available.
Park opening times vary:
- May 1 to August 31: Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm, weekends 10am to 8:30pm.
- September 1 to October 31: Monday to Friday 8am to 7pm, weekends 10am to 7:30pm.
- November 1 to December 31: Monday to Friday 8am to 5:30pm, weekends 10am to 6pm.
For full opening times, please contact the tourist office.
USE OUR GUIDE TO PLAN A
DREAM TRIP TO Normandy
All the information you need for your trip:
- 8 maps that make planning easier
- 160+ pre-selected locations
- Practical advice
- 300+ photos to help you choose
5. Discover the Abbaye-aux-Hommes and Saint-Étienne Church
Why discover the Abbaye-aux-Homme and its church?
In addition to the castle, William the Conqueror built a number of religious edifices, including the impressive Abbaye-aux-Hommes, in which he is buried. This monastic complex enabled William the Conqueror to regain the support of the Church, which he had disobeyed by marrying his cousin Matilda of Flanders. Today, part of the building is occupied by the Town Hall, making it a must-see in Caen!
What you will see
The tour begins in the chauffoir, the only room with a fireplace where monks could keep warm in winter. You’ll then discover a superb Tuscan-style cloister, a grand staircase and our favorite room, the chapter house, where Caen weddings take place. Occasionally, the scriptorium hosts temporary exhibitions. You’ll then visit the Church of Saint-Étienne, a model of Norman architecture!
How much time to allow
Allow 1h to 1h30 maximum for your visit. If the direction of travel is not compulsory, we recommend that you follow it. The entrance to the church is through its chevet.
Further information on Abbaye-aux-Hommes and Saint-Étienne Church
Abbaye-aux-Hommes is open all year round:
- October 02 to April 02: Monday to Thursday 8am to 6pm, Friday 8am to 5pm, Saturdays, Sundays during school vacations and public holidays 9am to 1pm and 2pm to 5:30pm.
- April 3 to May 30: Monday to Thursday 8am to 6pm, Friday 8am to 5pm, weekends and public holidays 9:30am to 1pm and 2pm to 6pm.
- June1 to October 1: Monday to Friday 8am to 7pm, weekends and public holidays 9:30am to 7pm.
- Closed December 25, January 1, January weekends and May 1.
The monument is accessible to people with reduced mobility. This visit is included in the city’s City Pass, which offers discounts for a period of 24 to 72 hours (restaurants, shops, leisure sites, Caen’s cultural sites…).
To find out more, read our article dedicated to Abbaye-aux-Hommes.
6. Discover the Abbaye-aux-Dames
Why discover the Abbaye-aux-Dames?
As you can see, the Abbaye-aux-Dames is the female counterpart to the Abbaye-aux-Hommes. Located north of Caen, it was built in the 11th century by William the Conqueror’s wife, Matilda of Flanders. She is also buried in the church of her abbey, Église de la Trinité. While less impressive than the Abbaye-aux-Hommes, the Abbaye-aux-Dames is well worth a visit!
What you will see
We found the visit to the Abbaye-aux-Dames very enjoyable. You’ll see the conventual buildings, which house the regional council, including the salon des élus, but also the abbesses’ living quarters, such as the cloister. The abbey also includes the former Hôtel-Dieu de Caen, whose portico is still visible. The ensemble is completed by a formal garden, known as the “Parc d’Ornano”. The church features the tomb of Mathilde of Flanders.
How much time to allow
A visit to the Abbaye-aux-Dames lasts approximately 1 hour. Some parts are only accessible on guided tours, such as the crypt dating back to the year 1000.
Further information on Abbaye-aux-Dames
Abbaye-aux-Dames is open Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 12:30pm and 1:30pm to 6pm, and at weekends, 2pm to 6pm. Closed on January 1, May 1 and December 25. The park is open from 8am to 6.30pm (8pm in summer).
Take advantage of our free tours of the abbey!
Stay tuned for our article on the Abbaye-aux-Dames.
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7. Admire the masterpieces of the Musée des Beaux-Arts
Why admire the masterpieces at the Musée des Beaux-Arts?
The Musée des Beaux-Arts is one of our favorites in Caen! He has a very rich collection. While considered a benchmark museum for 17th- and 18th-century European painting, it will also delight contemporary art lovers with its avant-garde galleries and sculpture park!
What you will see
We were impressed by the works we admired in this museum: Perugino, Monet, we didn’t know where to turn! The first floor features paintings from the 17th and 18th centuries (Italian, French and Northern schools). Level -1 features a regularly changing print cabinet, portraits and landscapes from the 18th and 19th centuries, a cubist room, and a space dedicated to contemporary art.
How much time to allow
You’ll need 1 hour to visit the museum, or even 2 hours if you’re an art lover. The duration will be longer during temporary exhibitions. We recommend that you follow the chronological tour.
More information on the Musée des Beaux-Arts
The museum is open:
- September to June: Tuesday to Thursday, 9:30am to 12:30pm and 1:30pm to 6pm, and Saturday and Sunday, 11am to 6pm.
- July to August: regular opening hours, with additional opening on Mondays from 9:30am to 12:30pm and from 1:30pm to 6pm.
- Closed: January 1, Easter Sunday, May 1, Ascension Day, November 1, December 25. The museum closes at 4pm on December 24 and 31.
The site is accessible to people with reduced mobility. It includes a restaurant and store. A visit to the Musée des Beaux-Arts is included in the Caen city pass, which you can find here.
Take a look at our article on the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Caen.
8. Stroll around St. Peter’s Church
Why walk around Saint Peter’s Church?
Built between the 13th and 16th centuries, Saint-Pierre Church really impressed us. It stands out from the rest of the city, in this neighborhood of modern buildings. Radiant and flamboyant Gothic, with Renaissance elements, this church appears to be very refined, all lacy stonework! With its 14th-century bell tower rising to a height of almost 80m, it dominates the city of William the Conqueror.
What you will see
There’s a lot to see inside this church! What struck us most, however, was the choir, with its beautiful vaulted ceiling. The apse features splendid flamboyant ornamentation, enhanced by artificial lighting. Pay close attention to the flamboyant Gothic chapels in the ambulatory, with their carved capitals, and to the streamlined organ built in 1997.
How much time to allow
Allow 30min to 1h to admire this church. The length of your visit will depend on how well you read the few explanatory panels you come across on your way around the building.
More information on Saint Peter’s Church
St Peter’s Church is open:
- Monday to Friday: 7.15am – 7.30pm.
- Saturday and Sunday: 8:30am – 7:30pm.
Masses are held Tuesday to Friday at 4pm and Sunday at 11am. We advise you to avoid times of worship for your visit.
DISCOVER Caen
- What to do in Caen
- Where to stay in Caen: our best hotels
- Where to eat in Caen: our best restaurants
- Caen’s best museums
- Itineraries: 1 day – 2 days
- Caen Castle
- Caen Memorial Museum
- Rent a car in Caen: our tips
9. Take a magical break at the Moon & Sons bar
Why take a break at the Moon & Sons bar/restaurant?
Looking for an unusual bar/restaurant? We’ve got just the place for you! Moon & Sons is inspired by the world of Harry Potter. The food is homemade and 100% vegan. From the decor to the menu, it’s all magic! In fact, we’ve listed it among the 15 best restaurants in Caen.
What you will see
Antique furniture, witches’ hats, black-and-white photos, books and pumpkins are all part of the Moon & Sons décor. In a subdued atmosphere, you can enjoy local beers, signature cocktails or hot drinks, which we found very original. Their specialty is vegan burgers, but they also offer a wide range of snacks, whether you prefer savory or sweet.
How much time to allow
Allow 1 hour to fully enjoy the bar’s atmosphere and what you’ve ordered!
More information on Moon & Sons bar/restaurant
Monday is the weekly closing day at Moon & Sons. Otherwise, it’s open:
- Tuesdays and Wednesdays: 3pm – 12am.
- Thursdays: 3pm – 1h.
- Fridays and Saturdays: 12pm – 1am.
- Sunday: 11am – 11pm.
Home delivery is not available. The Moon & Sons is located in the center of Caen, next to the Saint-Pierre church and the château, and less than a 10-minute walk from the marina.
Our article on Moon & Sons bar/restaurant will be available soon!
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10. Visit the Musée de Normandie
Why visit the Musée de Normandie?
The visit to the Musée de Normandie was a pleasant surprise. As its name suggests, the museum presents the changing way of life of the region’s inhabitants, from prehistory to the High Middle Ages. It also shows the impact of the upheavals of industrial society on the rural landscape. We enjoyed rediscovering the heritage of our region through period objects!
What you will see
The tour is divided into 2 main sections. One is devoted to archaeology, the other to history and society. You’ll see, for example, 2nd-century coins and flints. Our favorite part was the section on Norman architecture, which showed us how half-timbered houses were built. But we were also seduced by the textiles on display: we felt like we were stepping back in time!
How much time to allow
It will take you around 1 hour to visit the Musée de Normandie. The direction of the tour is not compulsory, so you can easily retrace your steps. We do, however, recommend that you follow the chronological route.
Further information on the Musée de Normandie
Here are the opening times for the Musée de Normandie:
- open Tuesday to Friday, 9:30am to 12:30pm and 1:30pm to 6pm,
- open weekends from 11am to 6pm,
- closed Mondays except July and August,
- closed January 1, May 1, Ascension Day, November 1 and December 25,
- exceptionally closed from 4pm on December 24 and 31.
The visit is included in the Caen city pass, which you can find here. It is accessible to people with reduced mobility.
The museum is easily accessible by public transport, whether by streetcar, bus or vélolib. However, as the museum is located within the grounds of Caen Castle, you can’t get there by car.
To find out more about the Musée de Normandie, read our dedicated article!
11. Strolling through the Jardin des Plantes
Why stroll through the Jardin des Plantes?
Want to relax? Stop off at the Jardin des Plantes! We really liked this little 3.5-hectare haven of peace in the heart of Caen. With its playground and picnic tables, it’s an ideal spot for families. Gardening enthusiasts can also ask the gardeners for advice!
What you will see
We were very interested in the variety of plants grown in the garden. You’ll see regional flora, a collection of horticultural plants and exotic greenhouses. There’s also a medicinal garden, a rock garden and a landscaped park. Don’t miss the giant sequoia!
How much time to allow
Allow 1 hour for your visit, 2 hours if you’d like to have a picnic or take your children to the playground!
More information on the Jardin des Plantes
Jardin des Plantes opening times vary according to the season:
- May 1 to August 31: Monday to Friday 8am to 7:30pm, weekends 10am to 7:30pm.
- September 1 to October 31: Monday to Friday 8am to 6:30pm, weekends 10am to 6:30pm.
- November 1 to December 30: Monday to Friday 8am to 5:30pm, weekends 10am to 5:30pm.
For full opening times, please contact the tourist office.
USE OUR GUIDE TO PLAN A
DREAM TRIP TO Normandy
All the information you need for your trip:
- 8 maps that make planning easier
- 160+ pre-selected locations
- Practical advice
- 300+ photos to help you choose
12. Enjoy the port of Caen
Why take advantage of the port?
Caen’s marina is a lively place, both during the day and in the evening. In fact, you’ll find plenty of bars and restaurants in the area. In our opinion, it’s a pleasant place to take a stroll.
What you will see
As well as pleasure boats, bars and restaurants, you’ll see bridges along the Orne, as well as beautiful monuments. That’s why we recommend a stroll from the port along the banks of the Orne. Here you’ll find the start of the greenway linking Caen to Ouistreham. If you keep going, you’ll come across the Chapelle du Petit Lourdes, the Château de Beauregard and the Château de Bénouville! It’s also possible to take a walk on the right bank of the Orne, where you’ll find a number of hiking trails.
How much time to allow
How much time you need depends on what you want to do. If you just want to relax at the port and have a drink, allow 30min to 1h. If, on the other hand, you’d like to hike or stroll along the banks of the Orne, allow at least 2 hours. For example, it takes 1 hour to reach Château de Beauregard from the marina.
More information about the port
The port is alive at all hours. There are no particular difficulties.
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.
Best things to do in Caen: other ideas
Visit the Hôtel d’Escoville
If you have time to spare, we recommend a visit to Hôtel d’Escoville. This 16th-century mansion houses the tourist office. While the facade on the street side appears austere, the courtyard features magnificent Italian Renaissance elements: loggia, high roofs and dormer windows. You can get there during Tourist Office opening hours (Monday to Friday: 9am-7pm/ Sunday: 10am-5pm).
Other remarkable churches
As well as Saint-Pierre Church, Caen has other places of worship worth a visit:
- Saint-Jean Church: considered Caen’s Leaning Tower of Pisa! Built on marshy ground, this church leans slightly.
- L’Église du Vieux Saint-Sauveur: this church features a clever blend of Romanesque, Flamboyant Gothic and Renaissance styles, while a charming garden surrounds its chevet.
- Église Saint-Sauveur: built between the 14th and 16th centuries, this church has many special features: 2 adjoining naves that communicate with each other and a spiral staircase that leads to nowhere!
- L’Église Saint-Étienne-le-Vieux: disused since the Revolution and partly in ruins since the bombings of 1944, this listed church has nevertheless managed to retain its charm.
Excursions from Caen
Caen is an ideal starting point for many excursions! Here are a few ideas for your getaway:
- Discover the D-Day landing beaches: opt for a guided tour of the Caen Memorial and then the D-Day landing beaches such as Omaha Beach! See details, availability and book.
- Stroll along the Côte Fleurie: this part of Normandy is home to some of the most famous seaside resorts: Ouistreham, Cabourg and Deauville. Why not take a trip to Honfleur and the famous beaches of Deauville? See details, availability and bookings.
- Visit Mont-Saint-Michel: it’s only 1h30 from Caen, so this could be your chance to discover it on a private tour? See details, availability and book.
If you’re looking for cultural visits around the capital of Basse-Normandie, we recommend you visit the Bayeux Tapestry Museum and its famous cathedral.
If you’re an archaeology buff, check out Vieux-la-Romaine, just 15 minutes from Caen!
Look out for our article dedicated to the archeological site of Vieux-la-Romaine!
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.
What to do in Caen: sporting activities
Want to take advantage of your stay in Caen to do some sport? You’re right, here’s a selection of sporting activities:
- Take to the skies at Clécy: 40 minutes from Caen, you can opt for a giant zip-line or a via ferrata.
- Take the plunge at the Souleuvre viaduct: 50 minutes from Caen, embark on a bungee jump, a giant zip line or even a giant swing!
- Water sports on the Côte Fleurie: in the seaside resorts close to the city of William the Conqueror, a wide variety of water sports activities await you. Why not try kitesurfing lessons in Cabourg? It’s only 30 minutes from Caen!
What to do in Caen with children
Bringing the family to Caen? Your children will be delighted with their stay! There’s lots to do with the whole family in and around Rouen:
- Little murders between friends: this escape game in the heart of the city offers investigations specially designed for children! To find out more, visit the official website here.
- Festyland amusement park: Normandy’s largest amusement park is located 10 minutes from Caen, and boasts a host of child-friendly attractions. Find out more on the official website here.
- Parc Ornavik: this historic park takes us back to Viking times. Your children will love it. Find out more here.
- L’îlot Z’enfants: just a few minutes from Caen, this leisure park offers a wide range of games and attractions for toddlers. To find out more, click here.
- Lasergame: Caen’s lasergame is open to children aged 6 and over! Find out more here.
And don’t forget the playgrounds in the Jardin des Plantes and Colline aux Oiseaux!
For a culinary treat with the kids, you can go to Crêperie Gaby or Bouchon du Vaugueux. We’ve also included them as kid-friendly addresses in our article on Caen’s 15 best restaurants!
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
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…
Frequently asked questions
What to do in Caen when it rains?
Even in bad weather, there’s plenty to do in Caen. In addition to the many churches and museums to visit, you can enjoy yourself at the cinema or theater. We love escape games when it rains! We’re lucky because there are a few of them in Caen:
- Petits Meurtres Entre Amis: murder party, investigation evening and even clue hunt through the city, this escape game will delight all Agatha Christie fans! For more information, visit the official website here.
- Caen you Escape: this escape offers 2 60-minute investigations with local themes (disappearances in the Caen area and D-Day operations). To find out more, click here.
- Get Out! Caen: 4 escape rooms, 2 giant escape games and a treasure hunt in the city – the choice is yours! Find out more on the official website here.
- Lasergame: with its 3 rooms, you’ll have a great time at Caen’s lasergame. Visit the official website here.
What can you do in Caen for free?
As you’ve no doubt noticed, many of the points of interest featured in this article can be visited free of charge. These include the château, Abbaye-aux-Dames and churches, as well as parks such as Colline aux Oiseaux and Jardin des Plantes.
If you’re an art lover, you’ll find what you’re looking for in Caen. You can turn yourself in:
- FRAC Normandie: open Wednesday to Sunday, free exhibitions.
- Artothèque: located near the Abbaye-aux-Hommes, this space devoted to contemporary art hosts temporary exhibitions with free access, Tuesday to Saturday, 2pm to 6pm.
- Le Pavillon: Le Pavillon, on Caen’s peninsula, is dedicated to urban themes and architecture. Open from 1pm to 7pm, Wednesday to Sunday, you can visit for free!
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Practical tips and map: Caen, France
Where is Caen?
Caen is located in north-western France, in the Normandy region.
How to get there
To get to Caen, you can opt for the train. Regular TER trains serve Paris, Rennes, Tours, Le Mans, and towns in Normandy such as Rouen, Lisieux, Cherbourg and Coutances.
See available timetables and book your train and coach tickets now.
You can also drive to Caen. The town is easily accessible from other Normandy towns such as Le Havre and Rouen, as well as from Paris and Lyon via the A13 freeway. If you’re coming from west coast cities such as Rennes or Nantes, you’ll need to take the A84.
If you’re traveling by car from other European countries, you’ll need to plan your route around your point of departure, using European freeways such as the E19 or E35.
You can also fly to Caen from the main cities in Corsica (Ajaccio, Bastia, Calvi, Figari), the south of France (Marseille, Montpellier, Nice, Toulouse) and Lyon.
Tips for visiting Caen
To get to Caen, it’s best to visit in fine weather, from May to September. As a general rule, the weather in Normandy is quite changeable, and Caen is no exception. We recommend that you bring rain gear and plan indoor activities in case the weather turns nasty!
If you come to Caen by car, you’ll undoubtedly encounter traffic problems. The capital of Basse-Normandie suffers from rush-hour traffic jams, particularly on its ring roads. We also recommend parking in underground parking lots, the quickest solution.
Otherwise, the crowds in Caen are relatively moderate, except at the Memorial, which is very busy all year round, and where it’s best to book your ticket in advance.
Visit Caen in 1 day
Your Caen 1-day tour will be quick, but it’s totally doable! Here are our ideas for planning your discovery:
- Start your day with a visit to the Memorial, less crowded at this time of day.
- Then head for the Parc de la Colline aux Oiseaux, a 10-minute walk from the Memorial. If the weather is fine, why not play a round of miniature golf and enjoy a picnic?
- For the afternoon, head to the center of Caen to visit the Abbaye-aux-Hommes (35min by public transport, bus 6B, or 10min by car).
- Then take rue Saint-Sauveur towards the Château. You’ll pass the Église du Vieux Saint-Sauveur, so don’t hesitate to enter! Enjoy the panoramic views from Caen’s ramparts. If you have time, you can also visit the Musée de Normandie or the Musée des Beaux-Arts.
- After a stroll through the château, take the Rue de Geôle to admire Caen’s oldest residence, the Maison des Quatrans. Walk down the lane to St. Peter’s Church and visit it.
- Why not take a sweet break at the Moon & Sons bar? Then head for rue Montoir Poissonnerie and stroll through the Vaugueux district.
- Walk down to the marina and dine at Restaurant Stéphane Carbone.
To help you plan your visit, read our article on how to visit Caen in 1 day!
Visit Caen in 2 days
Your stay in Caen will last 2 days? You’re so right! This is undoubtedly the ideal length of time to enjoy the city. Here are our suggestions:
Day 1:
- Start your day with a visit to the Memorial.
- Join the nearby Colline aux Oiseaux park, enjoy its activities and picnic.
- Then walk down to the Jardin des Plantes and visit it.
- Discover the Abbaye-aux-Hommes.
- If you’re an art lover, take the opportunity to visit the FRAC Normandie.
- Then take rue Saint-Sauveur and visit the Église du Vieux Saint-Sauveur.
- Walk along the castle grounds to admire the Maison des Quatrans, go to the Church of Saint-Pierre and visit it, then take a moment to enter the Hôtel d’Escoville.
- Take rue Saint-Jean to Église Saint-Jean and visit the church.
- Join us on the banks of the Orne for dinner at M-c-p Restaurant.
Day 2:
- Start your day with a visit to Caen Castle. Enjoy the views from the ramparts, and visit the Musée de Normandie or the Musée des Beaux-Arts. You can even do both if you feel like it!
- Lunch at L’Aromate restaurant, L’Okara or Moon & Sons bar/restaurant.
- Stroll through the charming Vaugueux district.
- Head to the Abbaye-aux-Dames and relax in its park.
- Join us on the Caen peninsula, and if you’re interested in urban planning and architecture, enter the Pavillon.
- Finally, return to the lively quayside of the marina, and dine at Restaurant Stéphane Carbone.
To help you plan your visit, read our article on how to visit Caen in 2 days!
Caen in 3 days
Are you staying a third day in Caen? Spend your last day on an excursion around Caen:
- Option 1: Take a hike from the banks of the Orne.
- Option 2: Visit the seaside resorts closest to Caen: Ouistreham, Cabourg and Houlgate.
- Option 3: Spend the day visiting Normandy’s most famous towns: Deauville, Trouville and Honfleur.
- Option 4: Visit Bayeux and the D-Day beaches.
- Option 5: Spend the day discovering Mont Saint-Michel.
- Option 6: Enjoy a family thrill at the Festyland theme park, or head to Clécy or the Souleuvre viaduct for a via ferrata, bungee jump or giant zip-line!
All our tips in this article were put into words with the help of Fanny.