Normandy is full of charm: sea, countryside, villages, abbeys and castles… There is a choice for a romantic stay.
To inspire you, here are our 10 ideas for romantic weekends in Normandy with different styles: seaside, spa, castle…
All this with our suggestions of accommodations, activities and photos to help you choose and book!
We wish you a wonderful weekend in our beautiful region, whether it is for Valentine’s Day, a special occasion or just a romantic moment!
This selection is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the area anonymously, making our own choices, and paying all our bills in full.
To see our best-of weekends in Normandy, all styles, read this article.
1 – Romantic weekend in Honfleur
Why spend a romantic weekend in Honfleur
A historic and picturesque town located on the Seine estuary, Honfleur is famous for its charming architecture, its colorful half-timbered houses, its Vieux Bassin and its cobblestone streets.
Honfleur allows you to spend a charming weekend with good restaurants, proximity to beaches and excellent museums depending on your interests.
Even in winter, it is an ideal destination thanks to its beautiful lights so dear to the impressionist painters.
Romantic activities in Honfleur
- Marvel at the wooden church of Saint Catherine
- Wander and get lost in the cobblestone streets (you’ll never be far from the center) to see the half-timbered houses.
- Go up to see the Panorama of Mont-Joli with Honfleur and the bridge of Normandy
- Book a guided tour of the city to discover it more intimately – see availability and book
- Visit the Eugène Boudin Museum to admire works of impressionism
- Admire the changing colors of the sky over the old port, especially at sunset
- Enjoy a good meal in one of the many excellent restaurants (see our article on where to eat)
- See our complete guide on What to do in Honfleur.
Where to sleep in Honfleur
There is a nice hotel offer in Honfleur. We recommend it for a romantic weekend:
- Hotel La Maison de Lucie
a bit of peace and quiet, while remaining quite close to the port, in an elegant 18th century mansion.
– see pictures and availability - Hotel Les Maisons de Léa
in front of the church and with spa
– see pictures and availability - Hotel Ferme de Saint-Siméon
luxury, history, charm and view of the estuary!
– see pictures and availability - or see our complete article on where to sleep in Honfleur
2 – Cocooning weekend in Étretat
Why spend a romantic weekend in Étretat
The Alabaster coast is made of high white cliffs very impressive. And in Étretat, the elements have sculpted them by creating several arches and a marine pile with needles.
It’s a magical place, where it’s good to walk or to stop and admire the views!
The place has inspired many artists, including the author Maurice Leblanc with his character of Arsène Lupin.
This is a great weekend idea all year round. It will be more pleasant outside of the summer because the crowds can invade the village.
Romantic activities in Étretat
- Take a romantic walk on the cliffs to admire the views from the cliffs on either side of the valley
- Visit the Gardens of Etretat, surprising: nature, art and view on the cliffs! You’ll be inspired together! Reserve your entrance
- Read together the stories of Arsène Lupin and the Aiguille Creuse while admiring the landscapes that inspired them.
- Admire the sunset from the beach
- See our complete guide on What to do in Étretat
Where to stay in Étretat
Near the city, with a view of the cliffs or in the countryside, you will find accommodation for all tastes.
We recommend, among others:
- Hotel Le Donjon Domaine Saint Clair
for something unique, with an elegant and cocooning atmosphere
– see pictures and availability - Dormy House Hotel
with magnificent views and a panoramic restaurant
– see pictures and availability - The B&B Les Tilleuls Etretat
Elegance by the beach
– see pictures and availability - or see all our tips on where to sleep in Étretat
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 – Romantic weekend by the sea in Cabourg
Why spend a romantic weekend in Cabourg
The town of Cabourg, by the sea, is one of the most emblematic of the Normandy coast.
You will discover there magnificent private mansions of the XIXth century. Its main building is the Grand Hotel, where Marcel Proust used to stay.
The city is very lively, with a long promenade that ends at the estuary with a tongue of land made of sand dunes.
Between the beach, the long boardwalk, the dune and the beautiful buildings, it’s hard to get more romantic!
Romantic activities in Cabourg
- Walk hand in hand along the 4 km long promenade along the waterfront
- Sit on the main square to admire the “Belle Epoque” houses
- Spend a crazy night at the Casino – will your love bring you luck?
- Walk on the sand dune to observe the estuary and lights
- Deauville and Honfleur are not far away!
- Visit the charming Honfleur
Where to sleep in Cabourg
For a romantic weekend, we suggest
- The Grand Hotel de Cabourg
5 stars facing the sea
– see pictures and availability - Hotel & Spa Les Bains de Cabourg by Thalazur
if you are looking for a thalassotherapy atmosphere
– see pictures and availability - B&B La Villa L’Argentine
in a 19th century building in the center of town
– see pictures and availability - or See the best rated accommodations in Cabourg
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4 – Weekend in love at Mont-Saint-Michel
Why spend a romantic weekend at Mont-Saint-Michel
Mont-Saint-Michel is not always the first idea that comes to mind for a romantic weekend, because of the crowds it attracts.
But if you choose to sleep within the city walls, you will discover a truly romantic experience after dark.
The crowds are gone, the lights come on, the silence takes over… it’s really an exceptional experience! See more pictures of Mont-Saint-Michel by night.
Romantic activities at Mont-Saint-Michel
- Walk to the Mont-Saint-Michel and admire the views
- Walk on the ramparts
- To visit the impressive abbey, we advise you to do it at first light before the arrival of the groups – attention! – book here
- Try a new experience for two, by taking a microlight tour over Mont-Saint-Michel – see availability and book
- Watch the sunset from the mountain, and the beautiful bay all around
- More ideas in our article on what to do in Mont-Saint-Michel
Where to sleep at Mont-Saint-Michel
If you can, we strongly recommend spending the night inside the village itself. It is an unforgettable experience. But beware, this involves a lot of stairs and rather small rooms in old houses. But some of the hotels have romantic rooms with terraces and/or views of the bay.
But you can also sleep nearby with nice B&Bs.
We recommend it for a romantic weekend:
- Hotel Auberge Saint-Pierre in Intramuros for the authenticity of the building
– see pictures availability - Hotel Les Terrasses Pulard, in intramuros, some rooms in the detached house are larger and have nice views
– see photos availability - B&B Clos du Gilles, the charm at 5min from the Mont-Saint-Michel parking lots
– see pictures and availability - The Château de la Ballue, for a unique experience at 30min
– see pictures and availability - And read our article on where to sleep at Mont-Saint-Michel
5 – Romantic weekend in Bayeux
Why spend a romantic weekend in Bayeux
Bayeux is one of our favorite places in Normandy.
This city has a lot to offer: it is a city with a charming historical center. Its center sometimes looks more like a village than a city.
It was fortunate to avoid most of the destruction during the Second World War. And since it’s not too big, you don’t have too much traffic to get out of town and explore the area.
Moreover, it is famous for its Unesco listed tapestry, probably from the 11th century. And it is very well located to explore the D-Day beaches, the Mont-Saint-Michel and the sandy beaches of Normandy.
Romantic activities in Bayeux
- Stroll through the historic center
- Explore the cathedral and its crypt
- Listen to the audioguide, in synchronicity, along the Bayeux Tapestry
- Go to Arromanches, only 15 minutes away, at low tide, to walk on the sand around the remains of the WWII port.
- Explore the botanical garden, a Norman jewel dating from the 19th century, and its magnificent weeping beech in the heart of the park.
- See our complete guide on What to do in Bayeux
Where to sleep in Bayeux
For a romantic weekend, we recommend you:
- Domaine de Bayeux Hotel
an 18th century residence where modernity and tradition are combined in a sumptuous setting
– see pictures and availability - Hotel Château de Bellefontaine
Sumptuous 15th century manor house turned castle in the late 18th century in the medieval Norman countryside of Bayeux
– see pictures and availability - Hotel Villa Lara & Villa Augustine
luxury in the center
– see pictures and availability - And read our detailed article on where to sleep in Bayeux.
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6, 7, 8 – Weekend relaxation in a castle in Normandy… or a beautiful building
All over Normandy, you can find exceptional castles and buildings or spend the night surrounded by the beautiful Normandy countryside.
These are great options for relaxing weekends in Normandy: walk through the park, slow down and enjoy the experience!
Here are some suggestions.
Boucéel Castle
If you are looking for a French lifestyle setting, look no further.
In this great 18th century residence, the Count and his family welcome you in rooms in the castle or in a house in the park.
Particular care has been taken to decorate the castle, you keep the authenticity of its time.
And above all, the castle is located in a magnificent park, a green setting to discover while strolling.
In addition, it is only 25 minutes by car from Mont-Saint-Michel
See photos, prices and availability – and book!
Farm of Rançonnière
The medieval countryside of Normandy is full of beautiful places, some of them well hidden and little known. While walking in the hinterland and getting closer to the Channel coast, we discovered the Ferme de la Rançonnière. Located in a 700 year old domain, this magical place has kept all its authenticity with stone walls and exposed beams.
In addition, it is near the landing beaches
– see pictures, prices, availability – and book!
The Mill of Connelles
A hotel in a 19th century Anglo-Norman manor, the place is magical: a private island, a magnificent half-timbered building, the river and a 3 hectare park.
What to spend an unforgettable weekend!
Sorry, we don’t have any pictures yet. But we’ll go back and get it for you, and enjoy it…
It is located between Rouen and the gardens of Giverny.
– see pictures, prices, availability – and book!
9 – Romantic weekend in Rouen
Why spend a romantic weekend in Rouen
Rouen is a cultural and historical city. In terms of historical buildings, it is the most fascinating to visit!
The historical center has a lot of charm with its churches, half-timbered houses and carved palaces.
If you’re looking for a city weekend for two, this is, in our opinion, your best option.
Romantic activities in Rouen
- Stroll in the old center of Rouen, with half-timbered houses
- Visit the Big Clock and admire the view from its tower
- Explore the impressive cathedral
- Book a private tour with a local to learn more and discover their hidden secrets – see availability and book
- Visit one of the many museums according to your partner’s interests: Art, Joan of Arc, Ceramics, Ironworks…
- Watching the lights on the cathedral at night
- and several abbeys are less than 40 minutes away including the Abbey of Jumièges
- See our complete guide to the best things to do in Rouen
Where to sleep in Rouen
Unfortunately, the range of charming hotels in Rouen is not up to the level of interest of the city. But we still have a few hotels to recommend:
- Hotel de Bourgtheroulde, Autograph Collection
luxury in the heart of old Rouen
– see pictures and availability - Radisson Blu Hotel
modern and practical
– see pictures and availability - Hotel Littéraire Gustave Flaubert
for literature lovers
– see pictures and availability - Best Western Plus Hotel de Dieppe
modern and close to the station
– see pictures and availability - or See the best rated accommodations in Rouen
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.
10 – Weekend in the gardens at Giverny and Vernon
Why spend a romantic weekend in Giverny
Why not spend a weekend in the little corner of Normandy that inspired the painter Claude Monet during the 43 years he lived there?
Considering his paintings, it is the height of romanticism!
Between the gardens of Giverny and the history of Vernon, you will leave this Norman weekend soothed.
Note that the gardens do not reopen until spring.
Romantic activities in Giverny
- Visit the gardens of Claude Monet
- Walking along the Seine in Vernon
- Explore Vernon’s small downtown area
- Sit and admire the mill on the Seine
Where to sleep in Giverny / Vernon
Few hotels but charming guest houses and rentals in the area.
Here are some suggestions for your romantic weekend:
- B&B La Pluie de Roses
In the heart of Giverny with a green garden
– see pictures and availability - B&B Le Jardin des Erables
4 stars, in a beautiful building with spacious rooms decorated with taste
– see pictures and availability - Apartment “Au Fil de la Seine
Rental with a magnificent view on the Seine, in the city of Vernon
– see pictures and availability
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…
11 – Glamorous weekend for two in Deauville
Why spend a weekend in Deauville
Deauville is a glamorous 19th century seaside resort. Its reputation is partly due to the American Film Festival of Deauville which takes place there every year.
It represents a certain lifestyle with high-end hotels, spas, a casino, golf, horse racing…
It is emblematic for its walk along the flat sandy beach.
Trouville is its twin city on the other side of the harbor. They look like one city.
Romantic activities in Deauville
- Stroll on the beach
- Search for the names of your favorite stars on the boards of Deauville
- Shopping
- Admire the imposing villas
- Take a horseback ride on the beach
- Discover new sensations with a sidecar ride! See photos, availability and reservation
See our complete guide to the best things to do in Deauville.
Where to sleep in Deauville
A nice and varied offer is available in Deauville.
We recommend, among others:
- Hotel La Villa Augeval
a charming building, view on the stables, and close to the city center
– see pictures and availability - Hotel Le Patio
good value for money, and a charming team
– see pictures and availability - Hotel Barrière Le Normandy
The unmissable luxury, between beach and downtown
– see pictures and availability - or See the best rated accommodations in Deauville
12 etc – Weekend in love with spa in Normandy
Looking for a little pampering for 2? Spa, Jacuzzi, Hammam…
There are many accommodations in Normandy with spas, which will satisfy your expectations.
Here are some options for a weekend that will invigorate you!
Hotel Les Pins de César (near Étretat)
If you are looking for luxury, nature and calm (as Etretat is very touristic), we recommend the hotel Les Pins de César. It is located in the countryside 15 minutes from Étretat, and 5 minutes from the cliffs.
It is the perfect place to recharge your batteries because you are surrounded by trees (Austrian pines) and greenery, with a park of 20 hectares.
We fell in love with the serenity that reigns there. We felt like we were entering another world when we got there.
And if you like spas, and relaxation, the offer is excellent.
See photos, prices and availability – and book!
Hotel le Donjon in Etretat (jacuzzi on the roofs!)
If you’re looking for charm and originality, look no further.
This is one of the most inspiring hotels we have stayed in.
The 3 buildings have been decorated with care. Between the stylish curtains, the textured wallpapers and the work on light, it is a fascinating discovery in every corner of the hotel.
Our room overlooked the pool and the trees. A real moment of relaxation.
It is a cocoon of relaxation between the trees, with a veranda filled with comfortable armchairs and a snack with homemade cake…
What more could you ask for? Not going out to eat? Of course, because you have the choice of 2 restaurants on site, one of which is starred.
On site you have a spa with an excellent range of treatments, and you can book access to the jacuzzi on the terrace with a view of Etretat and the cliffs!
See photos, prices and availability – and book!
Cocooning weekend at the hotel Les Jardins de Coppelia
If you are looking for a quiet and natural stay, very close to Honfleur and Deauville, this is the right choice for you.
This Norman manor is atypical and full of history. And the owners have chosen a very contemporary interior that blends in with the house.
In addition to the architecture and design, you enjoy a large park with old apple trees and beautiful gardens. We love the quietness of the place!
See photos, prices and availability – and book
Other ideas for a romantic weekend in Normandy (Calvados, Manche…)
Beuvron-en-Auge (Calvados)
Icon of the Pays d’Auge, the village is considered as the most typical old village of Normandy with its beautiful collection of well maintained half-timbered houses. They did a beautiful job of restoration.
It is beautifully landscaped with charming stores and flowers.
The village was identified as early as the 11th century. Most of the houses date from the 16th to 18th century.
See the best rated accommodations in the area
Barfleur (Manche)
It is a picturesque village located around the fishing port. At one end is the strange-looking church, with an octagonal dome base and a spireless bell tower. It looks almost like a small castle.
Learn more in our article on Barfleur.
Find the best rated accommodations in the area
Veules-les-Roses (Seine-Maritime)
Veules-les-roses is famous for being the village with the shortest river in France (1194 m). It has a long agricultural history and you can still appreciate some old houses and mills.
It is located on the Alabaster coast, which means that the beach is surrounded by high white cliffs.
See the best rated accommodations in the area
Saint-Cénéri-le-Gerei (Orne)
We sleep in Saint Ceneri because it is surrounded by hills and trees: the old houses are mixed with nature.
The village is partly located on a hill overlooking a loop of the Sarthe. This elevation offers a breathtaking view.
Many painters have been inspired by this place, like Courbet, and there are still artists living here.
See the best rated accommodations in the area
Lyons la Forêt (Eure)
Lyons-la-Forêt has a long history. It has attracted many royal families thanks to its excellent hunting grounds. It was once built around a castle.
It offers a typical architecture with half-timbered houses and red brick houses. Moreover, it is surrounded by a magnificent forest.
Find the best rated accommodations in the area.
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