normandy travel shows

• 0 Favorites

Normandy Tourism, France

• Active & outdoor
• Lifestyle & Wellness
• Discover Normandy
• Plan your trip

1944 – 2024: 80th Anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy

© S. Lorkin / Anibas Photography-Arromanches

Find out more

Normandy Experiences

Spread your wings and fly an Aeroplume!

Family Day at Juno in the Footsteps of Canadian Soldiers

Craft Your Own Cider at Mont Viné Cidery

Immerse yourself in Normandy Experiences

1874 – 2024: 150th Anniversary of Impressionism

Updated on 4 April 2024

Exploring Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches without a car

Updated on 29 April 2024

D-Day & the Battle of Normandy: 10 offbeat sites to explore

Updated on 5 September 2023

D-Day: 10 Unexplored Sites of Remembrance in Normandy

Updated on 11 July 2023

Explore the Past in Motion: History & Sports on D-Day Beaches

Updated on 8 January 2024

Touring Normandy’s Impressionist Sites Car-Free

Updated on 6 May 2024

See more articles

Major events

1944 – 2024: 80th Anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy

1 - 16 June 2024 (D-Day Festival)

Throughout Normandy

Normandy Impressionist Festival

22 March - 22 September 2024

Rouen, Caen, Le Havre, Cherbourg, Giverny, Honfleur, Fécamp, Saint Lô and across all of Normandy

Rouen Cathedral light show

24 May - 28 September 2024

All major events in Normandy

More than just must-sees!

• 🧵 Alençon
• 🎖 Arromanches-les-Bains
• ⛲ Bagnoles-de-l’Orne
• 🛡 Bayeux
• 👫 Cabourg
• 🤴 Caen
• ☂ Cherbourg
• ⛱ Deauville
• 🎏 Dieppe
• 🗝 Étretat
• 🏰 Falaise
• 🐟 Fécamp
• ⛱ Granville and the Chausey Islands
• 🎨 Giverny
• 🏙 Le Havre
• ⛵ Honfleur
• ⛪ Lisieux
• 👼 The Mont-Saint-Michel and its Bay
• 👟 The Nez de Jobourg
• 🌳 The Perche
• 🕰 Rouen
• 🏝 Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue and Tatihou Island
• 🧗 The Suisse Normande
• 🎣 Trouville-sur-Mer
• 🌷 Normandy’s ‘most beautiful villages in France’

Return to top

Are you already in Normandy?

Plan what to see and do while you’re here by visiting normandy-secrets.com, which lets you in on all of the local secrets and hidden gems in the immediate vicinity!

Close search box

The Ultimate 3, 4 or 5 Day Normandy Road Trip Itinerary

Last Updated on February 19, 2024

by Neota Langley

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Located along the northwest coast of France, planning the perfect 3, 4 or 5-day Normandy road trip itinerary is an excellent way to experience this diverse region. Boasting picturesque countryside, charming coastal towns, and iconic landmarks, this is an excellent corner of France to explore.

Whether you’re interested in the history of the D-Day landing beaches, the imposing charms of the Mont Saint-Michel tidal island or want to walk in the footsteps of an impressionist painter, you cannot go wrong with a road trip to Normandy.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Normandy?

Whether you are hoping to go on a cultural tour of this historically significant region in Northern France or enjoy the picturesque towns and dramatic coastal scenery, you may be wondering how many days to spend in Normandy. 

If you only have 3 days for your trip or are passing through as part of a more extended road trip through France, don’t worry. You will still be able to visit the highlights but may have to focus your trip on either the eastern or western side of the region to make the most out of your time.

With 3 days in the Normandy region, you will be able to visit Mont Saint-Michel, Caen and the D-Day landing beaches without feeling rushed.

If you have 4 days in Normandy, you will have time to visit the highlights as well as Honfleur, a charming town on the coast of Normandy that’s known for its picturesque harbour, quaint streets, artistic ambience and the dramatic white cliffs of Étretat.

Ideally, you would spend a full 5 days exploring this varied region. 5 days in Normandy will give you time to visit the highlights as well as a bonus day in Rouen, the historic capital of Normandy, which transports you back in time with its stunning medieval architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and grand Gothic cathedral.

Those who have more time can continue to explore more of Normandy itself or even head south to explore neighbouring Brittany .

Getting To & Around Normandy

Getting to Normandy is a breeze, with several convenient transportation options available. If you’re travelling from within France, the region is easily accessible by train.

The cities of Caen, Rouen, and Le Havre have well-connected train stations, offering regular services from Paris and other major cities across France. You can view train schedules here.

For those flying in from abroad, the closest international airports are both located on the outskirts of Paris , Paris Charles de Gaulle and Paris Orly.

From there, you can rent a car, drive to Normandy, or take a train to one of the region’s main cities. The train journey from Paris to Normandy takes approximately 1-2 hours, depending on your destination.

If you are visiting from the UK and prefer to take the scenic route, consider taking a ferry. Regular ferry services are operating between UK ports (such as Portsmouth or Dover) and ports in Normandy (such as Ouistreham or Le Havre). It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the sea views and arrives directly in Normandy with your vehicle.

The Eurotunnel is also an option if you are coming from the UK which can be cheaper than the ferry, especially during peak times. However, if you do opt for the Eurotunnel, bear in mind you will have to drive from Calais, which takes around 5 hours. 

Taking a road trip in Normandy is the best way to explore this compact region so if you are travelling without your vehicle, you may wish to hire a car. This will allow you time to discover the highlights at your own pace and stumble across the hidden gems along the way. 

If you need to rent a car for your trip, you can browse Rentalcars.com which compares prices for major companies.

Normandy has a local network of buses and trains, and the towns and cities are small enough to explore on foot once you have arrived. There is a direct train between the two main cities, Rouen and Caen, but travelling using public transport to the smaller villages can be more fragmented with several changes giving you less time to explore your destination.

If you don’t have access to a vehicle, you may want to consider staying in Paris and taking guided day tours out to Normandy to explore the D-Day sights or Mont Saint Michel. 

3, 4 or 5-Day Normandy Itinerary

On this Normandy road trip, we are taking you on a journey from west to east along the region, starting with Mont Saint Michel and ending in the picturesque city of Rouen. 

The climate of this region is much the same as the southern corner of the UK, they are close neighbours looking out at one another across the English Channel. During the summer months, you can expect glorious sunshine, long summer evenings and pastel sunsets, but be aware the main attractions can get busy during the peak times. 

Spring is a beautiful time to visit, with flowers exploding into bloom after a long winter. The crowds have yet to arrive and you can often enjoy the highlights all to yourself. 

The autumn and winter months can be wild, windy and wet so if you are hoping to wander through the streets, stand tall on the white cliffs and take the bridge across the Mont Saint Michel, you may want to avoid these seasons – or pack a decent waterproof.

Day 1 – Mont Saint-Michel 

Mont saint-michel village.

You’ll find the captivating rocky mound of Mont Saint-Michel, North of the Normandy coastline, where the Breton coast meets the Couesnon River. With its abbey dating back to the 8th century, this island is one of the Western world’s most ancient Christian pilgrimage sites.

Today, Mont Saint-Michel is a world UNESCO heritage site and is France’s second most visited tourist attraction, pipped to the post by the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

Arrive at Mont Saint-Michel early to beat the crowds, parking spaces can be limited so if you are arriving by car, set the alarm early to avoid disappointment.

If you are arriving by train, head to Pontorson, the closest station to the Mont-Saint-Michel, and then take the free shuttle bus. You can walk across to the island in around 50 minutes, but there is a free shuttle bus from the car park. 

Mont Saint Michel is a tidal island and although there is a bridge connecting the island to the mainland, during high tide times eg. spring tides, the bridge can become fully or partially submerged, so check tide times before you set off. 

Start your day in the picturesque village, wandering through its narrow streets and admiring medieval architecture. Then, spend some time exploring the shops and boutiques, where you can find souvenirs, local crafts, and tasty treats such as buttery biscuits and cider.

Grab a coffee and a croissant from an artisan boulangerie in the village centre before heading up to the Abbey. 

Mont Saint-Michel Abbey

Mont Saint-Michel Abbey, perched atop the rocky island, is a magnificent architectural masterpiece. Dating back to the 8th century, it showcases stunning Gothic design and houses intricate chapels, grand halls, and a beautiful cloister.

Make sure to buy your tickets in advance and download them onto your phone on the mainland as internet connectivity is patchy on the island itself. 

Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the charming restaurants on the island, savouring local specialities like salted lamb or a fresh seafood dish.

Mont Saint Michel is a fortified village, meaning it is surrounded by medieval ramparts. Spend the afternoon walking around these ramparts for a scenic tour of the island with excellent views of the bay. You can also take a walking tour of the area.

This is a spectacular way to enjoy the sunset, especially if you can get up to one of the towers – North Tower, Gabriel Tower or Tour du Roi.

You can either spend the night on the island or head back to a nearby village for more budget-friendly accommodation, such as the historic town of Avranches or the charming coastal town of Cancale, known for its oysters.

Where to Stay in Mont Saint-Michel

Hôtel Vert – Mid-range visitors to Mont Saint-Michel will love this comfortable hotel just outside of the tidal island. They have a range of rooms on offer, breakfast available in the mornings and a great restaurant/bar on site.

Le Relais Saint Michel – Those looking for a high-end option close to Mont Saint-Michel will love this 4-star hotel. Overlooking the bay of Mont Saint-Michel, many rooms have panoramic views of the tidal island and the hotel also offers a shuttle service to and from the attraction.

La Ramade – This hotel in the town of Avranche makes for another great base for exploring Mont Saint-Michel. They have a beautiful location in an old mansion, a number of lovely rooms to choose from, free parking for guests and a fabulous breakfast each morning.

Edd Hostel – Budget and solo travellers will love this highly-rated hostel located within easy reach of Mont Saint-Michel. Offering both dorms and private rooms, they also operate shuttle services to Mont Saint-Michel along with Saint-Malo and Dinan in Brittany.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Mont Saint-Michel hotels!

Day 2 – Caen

Château de caen.

Caen is a vibrant city, a captivating blend of ancient history and modern vitality. The city showcases its medieval past with picturesque cobblestone streets and charming timber-framed houses.

Begin your day in Caen by visiting the magnificent Château de Caen. Built by William the Conqueror, it stands as a testament to medieval architecture and history. Explore its imposing walls, towers, and ramparts, and delve into the castle’s rich past as a symbol of power and conquest.

Abbaye-aux-Hommes

Next, take a short stroll over to Abbaye-aux-Hommes, another architectural marvel founded by William the Conqueror. This abbey showcases Romanesque design and houses the tomb of the legendary king.

Admire its grandeur, explore its serene interior, and immerse yourself in the rich history and spiritual significance of this iconic Norman landmark.

After enjoying some of the city’s awe-inspiring architecture, head over to stroll through the picturesque streets of Caen’s Old Town, known as the Vaugueux Quarter. Admire the charming half-timbered houses, quaint shops, and cosy cafes. 

The old town is the perfect spot to stop for lunch. Enjoy one of Caen’s charming restaurants, indulging in local specialities such as tripe à la mode de Caen (a traditional dish) or delicious seafood. If you have a sweet tooth, opt for a wafer-thin crepe at Crêperie l’Instant.

Memorial Museum

Take the afternoon to explore the exhibits of the Memorial Museum, dedicated to the events of World War II and the Battle of Normandy. Explore the extensive exhibits, including interactive displays and powerful testimonials.

This is the perfect opportunity to delve into the history of the 1944 D-Day landing beaches before taking a tour on day 3. You can book tickets in advance here.

Where to Stay in Caen

Hôtel Mary’s – Located in the centre of Caen, this hotel is a great option for mid-range visitors. Offering a range of clean and comfortable rooms, they have a great continental breakfast available each morning.

Clos Saint Martin – This bed and breakfast is located in a 16th-century mansion in the centre of Caen. Perfect for those looking for a boutique, upmarket stay, there are a range of lovely rooms to choose from along with a hearty breakfast on offer in the mornings.

City’O aparthotel – This aparthotel is a good option for those looking for a great self-catering option in Caen. They have a number of fully-furnished flats available and a great location for exploring all this lovely little city has to offer.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Caen hotels!

Day 3 – D-Day Beaches 

Omaha beach.

A must-visit on any itinerary for Normandy, day 3 brings us to the hallowed grounds of the D-Day beaches. If you only have 3 days in the region, this is a highlight and is the perfect way to round off your trip.

These shores, locations of the historic World War II invasion, bear witness to the bravery and sacrifice of the Allied forces. Immerse yourself in the stories of courage and resilience that unfolded on these beaches, forever shaping history. 

The best way to visit the D-Day beaches is by road trip, with your own vehicle you can take your time, visiting the beaches at your own pace. However, if you don’t have access to a car, several guided group day trips or private D-Day tours are available from Paris or from nearby towns – such as this day tour from Bayeux.

Start your day by heading to Omaha Beach, one of the most significant D-Day landing sites. Visit the Omaha Beach Memorial Museum to learn about the Allied forces’ heroic efforts and the challenges they faced during the invasion.

Pointe du Hoc

Continue to Pointe du Hoc, a strategic location where U.S. Army Rangers scaled cliffs to neutralise German artillery. Explore the well-preserved bunkers and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline.

After taking a short lunch stop to enjoy a packed lunch or a bite to eat at one of the local restaurants, make your way to the American Cemetery and Memorial in Colleville-sur-Mer. Pay your respects at the solemn gravesites and reflect upon the sacrifices made by the soldiers.

Arromanches-les-Bains

Next, visit the Arromanches-les-Bains and the Mulberry Harbor remains. Discover the innovative engineering behind the artificial port and its vital role during the Normandy invasion.

If time allows, visit the Juno Beach Centre, dedicated to Canada’s contribution to the D-Day landings. Explore the exhibits and gain insight into the experiences of Canadian soldiers.

As the sun goes down, take a moment to reflect on the beaches themselves, where history unfolded. Then, you can either head back to Caen to spend the night or head on to Honfleur, our destination for day 4.

Alternatively, if you have more time, you can also visit the town of Bayeux on the way back. This is currently home to the Bayeux Tapestry which depicts the 1066 Norman Conquest and dates back to the 15th Century.

Day 4 – Honfleur

Honfleur .

Honfleur is a charming old port town known for its picturesque harbour, vibrant art scene, and quaint streets lined with colourful half-timbered houses.

Spend the morning wandering around Vieux Bassin, the heart of the port. Quaint buildings, artisan shops, bakeries and restaurants line the street, looking out on the harbour. You can organise a walking tour if you prefer.

Honfleur is pretty as a picture and has long been an artistic haven. Museums and galleries showcase masterpieces that pay homage to its Impressionist heritage. Notably, the birthplace of Eugène Boudin, mentor to Claude Monet, Honfleur holds pride in its connection to these renowned artists.

You’ll find numerous galleries across the town, but if you don’t feel like meandering through a gallery, you’ll often find artists set up with easels along the Vieux Bassin, painting the waterfront scenes just as the impressionists did 200 years before them.

Honfleur’s most famous landmark is the largest wooden church in France, Église Sainte Catherine. A short walk away from the hustle and bustle of the harbour, the church is free to enter and the interior is a marvel of craftsmanship. 

The church was built by shipbuilders in the 15th century using wood from local forests. Don’t forget to look up at the unique ceiling which looks like two upside-down ships’ hulls.

Grab a picnic from Honfleur, a variety of local delights such as Camembert and Pont-l’Évêque Cheese or a slice of Tarte Tatin (caramelised apple tart) and take a drive out to the dramatic white cliffs of Étretat. You can also take a bus from Honfleur to Étretat with a change in La Havre. 

Nestled along the picturesque cliffs of the Alabaster Coast in Normandy, Étretat is a charming seaside village renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. Its iconic white chalk cliffs, including the majestic formations of the Falaise d’Amont and Falaise d’Aval, have inspired countless artists and writers throughout history.

Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, admiring panoramic views of the English Channel and the famous Arch and Needle rock formations. Then, for the best view of the Needle Rock and Elephant Trunk, head up to the cliff paths and take a hike out of the village.

The views from either end are breathtaking, but Falaise Aval offers better views of the needle and the third arch, making it the most popular route.

Spend the evening in the sunshine sitting out on a restaurant terrace in the village. Normandy is known for its apple orchards, so make sure to sample some local cider with your dinner or try some apple brandy, known as calvados.

If you only have 4 days, this is the perfect way to round off your trip.

Where to Stay in Honfleur

B&B Le Fond de la Cour – This cosy bed and breakfast makes for the perfect mid-range base in Honfleur. They have a number of lovely rooms on offer, a delightful garden courtyard and terrace, and a wonderful breakfast in the mornings.

A L’ecole Buissonniere – Another rustic yet comfortable bed and breakfast, this is a great place to base yourself in Honfleur. They have a number of comfortable rooms on offer, a wonderful breakfast available in the morning and a great location.

La Petite Folie – Situated in the historic centre of Honfleur, this modern bed and breakfast is a great choice for those looking for a comfortable base in this area of Normandy. They have a number of great rooms to choose from and plenty of amenities for guests.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Honfleur hotels!

Day 5 – Rouen

Rouen cathedral.

Welcome to Rouen, the historic capital of Normandy, France. This enchanting city, steeped in rich history and architectural splendour, boasts magnificent Gothic cathedrals, charming cobblestone streets, and a vibrant cultural scene.

Start your day in Rouen by visiting the magnificent Rouen Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture immortalised by Claude Monet’s paintings. Admire the intricate facade and explore the interior, including the stunning stained glass windows.

During the summer months, make sure to return to the cathedral at dusk, as it transforms into a sound and light show. The themes change regularly, ranging from Joan of Arc, the Viking adventure or the impressionist movement. 

Explore the Historic Centre

Next, take a stroll through the charming streets of the historic centre, making your way to the Gros Horloge, an iconic 14th-century astronomical clock. The clock’s mechanism is thought to be one of the oldest in France, the movement having been made in 1389. 

Spend the early afternoon exploring the Rue du Gros-Horloge, a vibrant street lined with shops and cafes. Indulge in retail therapy or relax at a sidewalk café while enjoying the lively atmosphere. You take a walking tour of the area.

This is the perfect place to stop for lunch at one of Rouen’s cosy bistros, savouring local specialities such as duck confit, creamy Normandy cheeses, or a savoury galette.

Musée des beaux-arts de Rouen & Musée Le Secq des Tournelles

After lunch, take your pick from several world-class museums and galleries. Visit the Musée des beaux-arts de Rouen (Fine Arts Museum of Rouen), home to the second-largest collection of Impressionist works in France.

For a more unusual artistic experience, the Musée Le Secq des Tournelles is a must-visit. Home to unusual, ornate pieces of wrought ironwork.

Ordinary objects like hinges, tools, signs, locks, and cutlery undergo a surreal transformation, resembling works of art straight out of the Surrealist movement. They metamorphose into whimsical faces,  intricate swirling patterns, and animal-like forms.

Joan of Arc Square

If art is not your thing, head to the Joan of Arc Square and the Church of Saint Joan of Arc, an open-air museum experience dedicated to retelling the story of Saint Joan of Arc. This is a truly immersive experience with projected images and films on the building’s stone walls.

Seine River Cruise

If you have time, taking a boat trip on the Seine River is a wonderful way to view the city and Normandy countryside from a different perspective to bring your 5 days in Normandy to a close.

Leaving from Rouen, embark on a 1.5-hour sailing around the marina. Learn about the history of the area with a local guide, before returning to the docks. 

Those who have a bit more time or are heading back to Paris from here may love to stop in the town of Giverny, which was once home to impressionist painter Claude Monet.

Normandy is a diverse region, with bags of history and culture to discover alongside the beautiful French countryside. Whether you are lucky enough to have 5 days to explore Normandy or are only passing through, you’re bound to be enchanted by this region. So pack your picnic, and hit the road for a Normandy road trip you’ll never forget. 

Are you planning to visit Normandy? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

Epernay vs Reims: Where to Stay in Champagne

Cannes or Nice: Which French City to Visit?

The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Avignon Itinerary

About Neota Langley

Neota is a writer for The World Was Here First. Born and bred in Cornwall, she can usually be found with hiking boots on, ready to embark on an adventure. For the last 6 years, she has travelled throughout Europe in her self-built campervan with her trusty canine companion, Ivy. She loves exploring France, the Nordics and spending time in Alpine destinations.

Day 5 – Rouen

Seine River Cruise – we are travelling this coming May and are following your suggestions. Do you know the name of the Co. we could book a tour with? Thank you Jane Canada

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Four days in Normandy road trip: The perfect Normandy itinerary

April 13, 2018 by Karen Turner 25 Comments

Considering visiting Normandy from Paris? You definitely should! Depending on how much you want to do, you can visit Normandy as a day trip from Paris if you only visit Rouen or spend three to four days road tripping in Normandy to enjoy the tranquility of the countryside in Normandy.

If you’re thinking that Normandy will be anything like Paris, get that thought out of your mind. Expect incredibly friendly people, reasonable accommodation options, mind-blowingly good food at the same price as an average meal in Paris, stunning cities filled with history and fantastic drinks.

This Northern region of France has a rich history stemming from the invasion of the Viking tribes.  For those who want to experience the serene beauty of France on an easy weekend trip from Paris will fall in love with the slow pace of Normandy, a sneak preview of how France  outside of Paris is.

If you have fewer than four days in Normandy, you might be able to combine two of these day trips into one day as I’ve purposely kept this Normandy itinerary slow to give you time to savor this region.  Our Normandy road trip left me wanting for far more than our long weekend in Normandy, however there’s always next trip for Mont St. Michel!

• 0.1 Day 1: Drive along the coast in Normandy
• 0.2 Veules-les-Roses
• 1 Petites-Dalles
• 2.2 Étretat
• 2.3 Where to stay in Normandy
• 2.4 Day 2: Honfleur
• 2.5 Day 3: Rouen
• 2.6 Day 4: D-Day Memorial & The Calvados/Cider Route in Normandy
• 2.7 Map of your Normandy road trip
• 3 Have you been to Normandy?

Day 1: Drive along the coast in Normandy

Rent a car in Paris and drive to Normandy’s coast.  Be aware that avoiding toll roads in France is tricky and you should expect to pay up to 20 euros to get up to Normandy.   If you don’t have four days in Normandy, this part of the trip can easily be done as a weekend trip from Paris.

If you’re trying to do your Normandy trip on a budget (or hate toll roads), it  is possible to avoid the tolls with the help of your GPS, but expect to double your time while driving through fields and one way roads. (I honestly enjoyed the scenic drive!)  

Veules-les-Roses

This beautiful town in Normandy is considered one of the most beautiful villages in France and Normandy.  Its stunning timbered houses and scenic canals have long been an inspiration for writers and painters.   

If you’re looking for a fairytale during your time in Normandy, you must come to Veules-les-Roses, which is a two hour drive from Paris.  Be sure to admire the smallest river in France, which runs through the city center.

Petites-Dalles

We ended up driving through Petites-Dalles. I just loved the Victorian houses in the hills. It’s just a beautiful town along the coast. The roads make it a bit tricky to end up near the water, but you’ll find some parking if you want to admire the cliffs.  (More epic views coming!)

Sassetot-le-Mauconduit

Another beautiful town in Normandy that we passed through after seeing a sign for a chateau. Be sure to stop off to admire  Château de Sissi , an affordable chateau hotel with beautiful gardens.

Fécamp is a historic coastal town in Normandy with some of the most epic cliffs that you’ll find.  It’s famous for the Bénédictine liqueur distillery, which is still done at the nearby abbey.  Save your appetite until you get here as you’ll find a large assortment of seafood at an affordable price. 

We ended up having lunch at  La Cave du Salut , an affordable seafood place with delicious mussels with calvados (a local liquor).  After, we headed to the beach to admire the cliffs.

The highlight of our day along the coast was Étretat.  When I was younger, I had seen a photo of these epic cliffs in Normandy, but I never imagined that I’d have the opportunity to visit them. Most people head there from town prior to heading back the same way, however it’s better to park outside of town, close to the golf course (20 Route du Havre). 

It’s a longer walk along the outskirts of the golf course, but you’ll be able to walk the full length of the cliffs with fewer people compared to the cliff close to town.  Continue walking towards town.  I found Étretat quite touristy compared to the other towns, however it’s worth visiting.

Where to stay in Normandy

I recommend staying in the area at one hotel as your base in Normandy for multiple nights and I particularly loved staying in the  Parc Naturel Régional des Boucles de la Seine.  This park is a protected area meant to preserve both natural environments, historic buildings, and the cultural heritage of this region. 

Driving along the windy roads in the fog spotting chateaux as they popped up was dreamy.  We did this road trip in October, so the leaves turning just added another dimension to it.  I think this area is the perfect base for exploring Normandy by car and our chateau was less expensive than staying at a cozy B&B in Honfleur .

We stayed in this cozy  chateau in Normandy that I found on Airbnb  for $81.  Our host, the owner of  Chateau du Verbosc , and his assistant made us a cozy breakfast while the two adorable cats battled over pets (and food).   It was only a forty minute drive from our chateau to the the coast. We ended up having an incredible locally made dinner at  Auberge du Val au Cesne , a nearby half-timbered guesthouse from the 17th century surrounded by scenic countryside.

For a more luxurious experience, consider staying at  Chateau Du Landin , an epic chateau overlooking the Seine river with a large estate where the staff will cook a candlelit meal for you at your request.  It wasn’t available during our dates and it really disappointed me and I had my heart set on it.

Day 2: Honfleur

Honfleur is one of the most beautiful cities in France and it’s worth the trip to this stunning seaside town, even just for the food and the architecture.  Located in the Calvados region of Normandy, Honfleur is one of the best places to try calvados, a spirit made with apples. 

Its stunning wooden port made me fall in love with the city, however the stunning half-timbered houses on the side streets were my preferred place to wander.  Don’t miss the Saint Catherine’s Church, a UNESCO-recognized church that is France’s largest timber-built church.  If you prefer to stay in Honfleur, you’ll find beautiful old B&Bs in historic half-timbered buildings .

Day 3: Rouen

Rouen is a beautiful city to visit if you’re interested in medieval history. This gorgeous French city with a clocktower dating back to the 14th century and half-timbered houses straight out of a fairy tale has a stunning historic cathedral (Rouen Cathedral) where Richard the Lionheart is buried. 

Rouen also is where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake.  You can view her memorial in the city center.  I just loved getting lost in the cobblestoned alleyways here.  Don’t miss  Les Berthom for craft beer.

Day 4: D-Day Memorial & The Calvados/Cider Route in Normandy

For anyone visiting Normandy, Omaha Beach is a must-see.  You might want to switch hotels as you have a 1.5 hour drive to the area around Honfleur, Rouen, and  Parc Naturel Régional des Boucles de la Seine.

I’d recommend staying at one of the many chateaux closer to the Cider Trail to minimize driving back.    This historic manor is right along the cider trail and a nice halfway point between Upper and Lower Normandy.   Alternatively, this refurbished chateaux is right near the D-Day landings.

Pay your respects at the five beaches where the troops landed in World War II and the various cemeteries for the fallen soldiers. Click for more information about visiting Omaha Beach .   I recommend taking a tour if possible to learn more about  history .

Following this somber visit, head towards Normandy’s Cider Route for some cider tastings.  Although many foreigners aren’t aware of this, some of the best apple cider in the world comes from Normandy.  For a couple of euros, you can try calvados and cider directly at the source along the 40km cider route. 

I recommend stopping off in  Bonnebosq in particular as it’s particularly well known for cider and on your way back to Paris.    Note: Please ensure that the driver doesn’t drink and drive. You can buy a bottle to enjoy at home! Click for a map of the cider trail.

Even if you don’t have time during your four days in Normandy to get out to the cider towns, you’re likely to pass a farm with a sign that says VENDRE with an apple on it if you’re driving on non-highway roads close to Calvados.  It usually means that you’ll be able to buy fresh Normandy cider!

Map of your Normandy road trip

Have you been to Normandy?

Please let me know what you thought of this Normandy itinerary and share this post!

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

Reader Interactions

April 28, 2018 at 11:52 pm

This sounds like a dream! Beaches, history, craft cider, beautiful buildings, and delicious food?! Yes please!

June 25, 2018 at 8:15 am

Thank you. I am going with my family this summer. This is so helpful

July 11, 2018 at 4:33 am

Very helpful guide for variety of activities – thank you so much!

August 14, 2018 at 1:12 am

Hi, so thankful for your blog. We booked our flights gets to Paris, but with a lot of family emergencies, we’ve had no time to figure out where to go. We just booked the chateau you recommended that you didn’t get to stay at. It looks amazing. We want to stay in Paris, but are not sure on which bank to get a hotel. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks Karen

August 14, 2018 at 8:45 am

Hope the family emergency is improving. I generally recommend the right bank, especially the 3rd/4th arrondissement (Le Marais). It’s a good central location with a good selection of hotels for all budgets and typical Parisian buildings, so you can walk a lot of places easily.

Hope your vacation is restorative and you love the chateau! 🙂

Best, Karen

August 17, 2018 at 10:11 pm

Great tips! We visited Normandy last summer and only allowed one night which wasn’t enough! We stayed in Bayeux and absolutely loved it. We’re heading back next summer and will be staying 1 night in Bayeux, 1 night in Mont St. Michel and 1 night in Honfleur. Can’t wait!

September 5, 2018 at 5:18 pm

This is great and timely info. My wife and I are planning a trip for next Sept ish that includes visiting Normandy. Conceptually, we will travel from Amsterdam (by car or train or ?) to Normandy and then from Normandy to Paris and Paris to Dillingen (Saar), Germany. Originally, I was considering a rental and then driving the entire route, but my initial research is indicating that there are sizeable fees for renting/returning vehicles in different countries. Do you know if this is the case? Any suggestions on the leg of the trip from Amsterdam to Normandy? We’d prefer a way that keeps us close to the countryside – we want to experience the country – not just get from Amsterdam to Normandy. Mahalo!

September 5, 2018 at 8:35 pm

Hi Bryon, I’d recommend traveling by train to Normandy prior to renting a car in Paris. It’s probably cheaper to just rent it for the Normandy part of the trip. Alternatively, you could take the train through Belgium to Normandy prior to renting a car in Normandy itself–and then just taking the train to Paris. Belgium is full of charming towns and stunning countryside. You can check my blog for some recommendations in Belgium.

Most agencies fine you if you try to return the car somewhere different than where you started. It’s good to check to ensure that the same agencies are where you’re going and the policy of your rental.

January 4, 2019 at 2:17 am

Dear Karen, This is a beautifulj road trip. My husband and I plan to have 4 days in end of May this year.. After read your itineray, it very helpful to us. All places are very amazing. We may copy your plan, thank you very much for share such a beautiful trip. Chalee

May 3, 2019 at 9:57 pm

Used your website as inspiration and ended up having our base in Honfleur. Such a beautiful place. Cannot wait to return to Normandy again.

May 7, 2019 at 8:19 pm

Karen, If I wanted to start from Honfleur and work senicly up to Calais to get to london. Whats your recommendation 🙂 my best, Nicole

November 22, 2019 at 5:58 am

Thanks Karen, this info is very helpful. We, as a family, are planning a trip to the region in March and had no idea where to base ourselves!

January 29, 2020 at 3:41 pm

Hello, this is great! We are traveling to Paris for a few days and then thinking of renting a villa in normandy for a week. Any ideas where a good “base” would be to do day trips to?

February 10, 2020 at 2:24 am

It depends on what you want to see in Normandy. We stuck along the eastern coast, but both sides of the coast are lovely. I found a location closer to Honfleur to be helpful and there are many villas in the Parc Regionale mentioned in my article.

February 22, 2020 at 4:58 am

Thank you for sharing. I literally can not wait to plan this trip.

September 2, 2020 at 5:49 am

We are thinking of visiting Paris and then doing your tour of Normandy. Is there a particular villa in the Parc Regionale that you recommend? Also, if we are coming from Paris, do you recommend we rent a car in Paris and drive to Normandy, or do you recommend we train toward Normandy and rent a car outside of Paris? If so, what town?

September 15, 2020 at 1:32 am

Unfortunately, the one that I stayed at does not host anymore, but I link to a few other options within the post. A car is best for exploring Normandy!

September 8, 2020 at 4:06 pm

Hi Karen! My husband and I are hoping to plan a trip to the Normandy area France in the next year or two. I would love to get your help in planning this trip, we will be celebrating 50 years of marriage. Your post is amazing and it’s been so helpful already…I know this is what we want to do. Thank you, Linda Wyatt

April 11, 2021 at 1:46 am

Friend and i are planning to fly into paris stay 2 nts rent a car and head to normandy. We will take our car and ferry to guernsey for 5 nts then back to normandy area and head to paris to fly home to usa. Want to find a cool village between nrmandy and paris for a couple nts. We just plan to overnite in paris close to airport before we return home. Any suggestions on a quaint village for a noght or two on the way back to paris?

May 10, 2021 at 2:37 pm

Perhaps Rouen or Lyons-la-Forêt ?

June 19, 2021 at 3:28 am

Hello I am planning a trip to France for two weeks next summer 2022. We would like to see Normandy Paris and wine country. Can this be done in two weeks

July 27, 2021 at 12:14 pm

It’s a lot, but I think so if you plan well!

October 29, 2021 at 5:34 pm

Love you post, very informative. Do you have any suggestion for a private tour guide in this region?

February 9, 2022 at 10:28 pm

Your thoughts on city/where to stay when visiting Normandy area. Plan to drive from CDG. Want to see D-Day Beaches, Mont Saint-Michel, other sights of interest. Thinking of staying in Caen or Bayeux. B&B suggestion?

October 10, 2022 at 2:54 am

Greetings from the sunny Panhandle of Florida! Thank you so much for all of the information you have shared, as we have only ever visited Paris and Avignon. My husband has his heart set on WW2 history, while I have my heart set on horseback riding, breathtaking castles, and amazing food!!!! I look forward to any input you can offer; nothing like putting a trip together last minute. Be well, Chance S,

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• The Netherlands
• New York State
• Other European destinations
• Work With Me
• Disclosure and Privacy Policy
• Jeju SEO Tool: Free SEO Writing Tool

You can unsubscribe anytime. For more details, review our Privacy Policy.

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

TreasureHunter USA Inc. 251 Little Falls Drive Wilmington, Delaware 19808 +1 (915) 4632387 EIN 88-2174128

www.wanderlustingk.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We also participate in other affiliate programs

www.wanderlustingk.com all rights reserved © 2023 | Privacy Policy | Cookie Policy |

The Ultimate One Week Road Trip Itinerary For Normandy

Exploring Normandy? Here’s my guide to a one week road trip in this beautiful and storied region of northern France.

This guide covers all the top attractions and must visit towns in Normandy to see in 7 days. I also give you options for extending your trip in Normandy.

Normandy is a region steeped in history. In Normandy, legendary figures like William the Conquerer and Joan of Arc changed the course of history.

Normandy’s landscapes inspired the Impressionist painters. D-Day beaches commemorate the horror of WWII. In Bayeux, a 1,000 year old tapestry tells the story of medieval warfare and sieges.

Handsome Normandy is crammed with appealingly diverse landscapes. From its picturesque pastures to its ancient fishing harbors, Normandy is a bucolic melange of medieval towns, sun-drenched seaside resorts, and towering Gothic cathedrals.

Colorful half timbered architecture, windows bursting with flower boxes, is everywhere. Weathered slate-steepled churches decorate apple orchards, which produce the region’s famed cider. Seaside pleasures, set against chalky cliffs, cater to the senses.

Normandy is the birthplace of the Impressionism movement. No place is more linked to a particular art movement than Normandy is linked to Impressionism.

Impressionists didn’t just share a unique style of painting, focused on light and color. The artists found a common muse in Normandy.

Here’s an overview of my recommended one week itinerary for visiting Normandy:

• Day 1 : Drive to Rouen, stop in Giverny or at Chateau Gaillard
• Day 2 : Explore Rouen
• Day 3 : Drive to Honfleur
• Day 4 : Day Trip To Etretat and/or Fecamp
• Day 5 : Day trip to Le Havre or Deauville
• Day 6 : Drive To Bayeux
• Day 7 : Day Trip to D Day Beaches
• More time: Mont Saint-Michel and Brittany

This 1 week itinerary assumes you’re departing for Normandy from Paris. If you want to spend time in Paris, I have a 3 day itinerary for Paris and a 5 day itinerary for Paris you may find useful.

For this Normandy itinerary, you’ll have three bases: (1) Rouen (2 nights); Honfleur (3 nights); and Bayeux (2 nights). If you don’t want to move bases, you can just pick one. The destinations in this Normandy itinerary aren’t far apart.

I would recommend Bayeux, a beautiful town right out of the middle ages. Bauyeux is near the inland towns, but still only 4 miles from the coast of Normandy.

There are 16 direct trains from Paris from Bayeux, if you’d prefer not to drive from Paris. Honfleur also makes a good base, central to all the Normandy destinations I’ve listed.

This detailed 7 day road trip itinerary for Normandy has a mix of historic sites, leisurely villages, and nature. It’s perfectly adjustable, giving you some destination inspiration for Normandy.

You can make the road trip shorter or longer, depending on your available vacation time or personal fast/slow travel pace. If you just have a long weekend, skip Giverny and Rouen and head right to Honfleur or Bayeux.

One Week In Normandy Itinerary

Here’s how to spend 7 blissful days in beautiful Normandy.

Day 1: Paris To Rouen, Stop at Giverny or Chateau Gaillard En Route

On day 1, you’ll depart from Paris and head west on the A13 to the medieval town of Rouen.

En route, depending on your interest, stop in either Giverny (home of Claude Monet) or at Chateau Gaillard (medieval ruins of Richard Lionheart’s fortress).

1. Option 1: Monet’s House and Gardens in Giverny

En route, follow signs for Vernon and stop in Giverny. Giverny is about a one hour drive from Paris. Rouen is approximately 45 minutes further on from Giverny.

Giverny is the perfect place to start your Normandy adventure. Giverny is home to the house and gardens of Impressionist painter Claude Monet. It’s a one-of-a-kind pastoral paradise, born from the great artist’s obsession.

READ : The Monet Guide To Paris

Monet lived half his life in Giverny. You won’t find any original Monet paintings. Instead, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into one of his utopian paintings.

In Giverny, Monet, a devoted horticulturist, created an ethereal and exquisitely staged garden in the French-Norman countryside. With the scent of roses wafting in the air, Monet’s garden is one of the world’s most beautiful and popular gardens.

To wander through Monet’s Garden is akin to living in one of his paintings. A world of flowers of every color fills your field of view, nodding slightly in the breeze. It looks like a paint factory explosion, or a few flicks of Monet’s paintbrush.

There are two parts to Monet’s labor-of-love gardens — the Clos Normand flower garden and the Water Garden. The Clos Norman is a boldly colored display and expressly Western. The Water garden is organic, Asian, and more exotic.

The two gardens are connected by a tunnel passing under the road. The gardens are immensely popular — a pilgrimage and mecca for Monet fans, Francophiles, and avid gardeners.

Here’s my complete guide to visiting Giverny . Click here to book a 1.5 hour guided tour of Monet’s house and gardens. Click here to book a skip the line ticket + 2 hour guided tour.

2. Option 2: Chateau Gaillard

If you’re a ruin luster who’d like to avoid tourists, stop in Les Andelys on the Seine River to visit Chateau Gaillard . It’s a designated historic monument in France. Its name means “strong castle.”

Richard the Lionheart built Chateau Gaillard between 1196-98. Perched on the Seine, the fortress secured the western border of France and was a symbol of power. The fortress changed hands and endured various sieges until Henry IV ordered its destruction in 1603.

You can explore the chateau grounds year round. With a ticket, from March to November, you can head inside and visit the inner bailey, and upper courts, and dungeon.

For the time, Chateau Gaillard had an innovative design.

The fortress was one of the earliest known examples in which machicolations were used – openings in the floor of battlements through which objects and hot liquids were thrown on would be attackers.

The chateau’s successive rings of moats and fortifications made the inner keep almost impregnable. It features a “stepped” or “scalloped” wall at the top of the defences. This allowed soldiers to shoot between sections of wall.

Chateau Gaillard is 55 minutes from your destination of Rouen. If you have extra time en route to Rouen, you can also stop in the pretty village of Lyon-la-Foret, 30 minutes from the chateau.

Designated one of France’s Les Plus Beaux Villages, Lyons-la-Foret is a classic French village with half-timbered houses. It dates from the 17th and 18th century.

The town has cozy cafes, quaint antique shops, and a covered marketplace. If you want to grab some lunch, try Le Bistro du Grand Cerf, Le Petit Lyons, or La Licorne.

From Lyons-la-Foret, it’s about 45 minutes to Rouen, which will be your first base.

Where to stay in Rouen : Hotel de Bourgtheroulde , Hotel Cardinal , Le Vieux Carre

Where to eat in Rouen : Restaurant Gill (Michelin), Restaurant Origine, l’Odas (Michelin), La Pecherie, Au Bouillon Normand

Day 2: Explore Rouen

Medieval Rouen is 2000 years old. It’s one of Normandy’s most engaging and historically rich destinations, with half timbered homes and winding medieval lanes.

With its lantern tower piercing the clouds, Cathdrale Notre-Dame de Rouen is Rouen’s crown jewel.

Rouen’s central square is where Joan of Arc, the teen who rallied France to drive out the English, was tried for heresy and burned at the stake in 1431. During WWII, Allied bombing raids laid waste to the city. A lot to endure, no?

But Rouen is still lovely and its cobbled old town is a joy to wander. You may want to book a guided walking tour .

Stroll the length of the Rue du Gros Horloge, the pedestrianized main drag, to Notre-Dame Cathedral.

Along the way, take in all the colorful half timbers, the Place du Vieux Marche, the massively ornate Great Clock, and the modern Joan of Arc Church. If you have time, climb the clock tower’s 100 steps for panoramic views.

Rouen’s Notre Dame Cathedral is a landmark of art history, one of Europe’s best cathedrals. Constructed between the 12th and 14th centuries, the cathedral was built on the foundations of a 4th century basilica.

The cathedral rises 151 meters tall, making it one of the tallest in France. The Dukes of Normandy were traditionally crowned and buried there. Richard the Lionhearted insisted his heart be kept there. You can still see what Impressionist artist Claude Monet painted more than a century ago.

Rouen also has a wonderful museum, the Musée des Beaux-Arts. It has masterpieces from the 15th century to the 21st century, including works from Velazquez, Van Dyke, Delacroix, Gericault, Delaroche, and the Impressionists.

>>> Click here to book a walking tour of Rouen

READ : Guide To the Impressionism Trail in Normandy

Day 3: Drive To Honfleur

On day 3, head to Honfleur, your next base for 3 nights. Honfleur is a 50+ minute drive from Rouen. So, if you start early, you can spend most of the day there. To get oriented, you may want to book a 1.5 hour guided walking tour .

Honfleur is a classic Norman town, dubbed “the jewel of Normandy.” In Honfleur, the Seine flows into the English Channel, reflections mirrored in Le Vieux Bassin or old harbor.

The novelist Baudelaire once declared, “Honfleur has always been the dearest of my dreams.” Victor Hugo called Honfleur “a ravishing port full of masts and sails, crowned with green hills and surrounded by narrow houses.

READ : Guide To the Victor Hugo Museum in Paris

Honfleur is lined with gorgeous 16th to 18th century row houses with slate roofs and facades. Honfleur also has some beautiful churches and is laced with a maze of tiny cobbled streets.

The medieval Church of Saint Catherine is the largest wooden church in France, and Honfleur’s spiritual heart. It was built in the 15th century by sailors.

All this beauty besotted the Impressionists and fellow artists and writers. Art historians claimed that Honfleur was the “birthplace of Impressionism. There, local artist Eugene Boudin urged Monet to paint outside in “plein air,” changing the course of art history.

Honfleur is a cultural treasure. Not surprisingly for a town that begs to be painted, the town boasts 95 art galleries, with works by contemporary painters keeping Boudin’s spirit alive.

Housed in a 19th century chapel, the Musee Eugene Boudin is a pleasing small museum with airy rooms. You’ll find myriad samples of dreamy coastal scenes by the Normandy-loving Impressionists, especially the Honfleur School.

There are plenty of meteorological coastal scenes by its namesake painter Boudin. There are also paintings by the likes of Courbet, Monet, Vuillard, Sisley, and Pissarro. You can see how Boudin inspired later masters, who took Boudin’s techniques to the next level.

Where to stay : Hotel de la Cheval Blanc , Horel de l’Ecrin , Hotel du Dauphin , La Maison de Lucie

Where to eat : La Bouilland Normand, Cote Resto, Restaurante la Lieutenance, Au P’tit Mreyeur, Fereme Saint Simeon, Sa.Qua.Na (Michelin), Entre Terre et Mer

Day 4: Explore Honfleur + Half Day Trip To Etretat or Full Day Trip to Etretat and Fecamp

1. option 1: morning in honfleur, afternoon in etretat.

Spend the morning exploring or going to the museum, if you didn’t get a chance on your first day in Honfleur. After lunch, drive to the famous white cliffs of Etretat.

It’s an approximately 1.5 hour drive. En route, you’ll drive over the Pond de Normandie, the longest cable-stayed bridge in the world.

Sleepy Etretat is a classic old world French town with absolutely mesmerizing scenery. Etretat is set on the sea. Waves crash against the shores of a jagged chalky coastline, with a pretty beach promenade.

A monumental arch, Porte d’Aval, plunges into the sea. It’s France’s version of England’s White Cliffs of Dover.

The town’s indescribable natural beauty inspired artists like Claude Monet, Henri Matisse, Eugene Boudin, and Gustave Courbet. The cliffs, known as the Elephant and the Needle, were one of the artists’ favorite spots to paint. They’re huge and beautiful; softly undulating and momentous.

The best way to admire the seascape is to walk along the cliffs. It’s not intimidating at all. On your walk, you’ll come across the Chapel of Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde. The original was destroyed in WWII, but it was rebuilt in the 1950s.

When you’re done admiring the caves and tunnels carved into the cliffs, head down the staircase to the sparkling turquoise waters of Etretat Beach. The water is cold, but the pebbles are soft and smooth, not hard on the feet.

Etretat’s town center is quaint and shouldn’t be ignored. It’s bursting with shops, eateries, and art galleries.

Cider is a local specialty and there are plenty of crepes. There’s also quite a number of small bed and breakfasts — a testament to Etretat’s appeal to (mostly) French tourists.

2. Option 2: Full Day Trip to Both Etretat and Fecamp

Fecamp is about 25 minutes east of Etretat. Like Etretat, Fecamp is a pretty coastal resort town with dramatic white cliffs, just a 5 minute walk from the town center. You can stroll along the beaches and admire the lighthouse.

Cap Fagnet is Fecamp’s famous viewpoint, just across the port. On one side, you can admire the cliffs. On the other, you can see Fecamp’s harbor and block houses.

While in Fecamp, you should visit the Abbatiale de la Ste-Trinite, or the Benedictine Palace Museum. Built by Richard the Lionheart in the 12th and 13th centuries, it was the most important pilgrimage sites in Normandy until Mont Saint-Michel was built. Now, it has both Neo-Gothic and Renaissance architectural elements.

The abbey is famous for its Benedictine liqueur, which is still produced onsite. You’ll get a sip at the end of your visit. If you’re staying in Fecamp for dinner, you’ll find some good seafood restaurants. Try Chez Nounoute or La Maree

Day 5: Day Trip To Deauville or Le Havre

On day 5, head to either Deauville or Le Havre. Your choice will depend on where you interests lie.

Deauville is an utterly charming resort town on the Parisian Riviera, about 25 minutes from Honfleur. In Deauville, you can hit the beach, relax, and enjoy the social whirl.

By contrast, Le Havre is for art lovers. Le Havre is also only 25 minutes afield as well. The town has one of France’s best museums, with a stunning collection of Impressionism.

1. Option 1: Deauville

Glamorous Deauville is a favorite spot of wealthy Parisians. Deauville is like the Hamptons of Paris, a convenient and luxe beach resort just far enough to escape the bustle and heat of city life. The town is part of the “Parisian Riviera.”

The Parisian Riviera stretches for 25 miles between Caen and Honfleur and is known as the Cote Fleurie, or Flower Coast. In The Great Gatsby , Fitzgerald has his protagonists spend part of the year in Deauville.

Deauville is a beautiful town. It’s stuffed with aristocratic Anglo-Norman mansions from the Victorian era.

They’re elegant old world half timbered homes with Queen Anne style accents and witches’ hat turrets The houses are even more distinctive and ornamental than those in Alsace.

Aside from architecture, Deauville is renowned for its stately seaside strand (Promenade des Planches), horse racing, luxury shopping, delicious cuisine, and film festivals. Enjoy a stroll down the promenade and stop for lunch at Augusto Chez Laurent or La Peniche.

In addition to attracting Parisians, Deauville also enamored the Impressionist painters. Those included Monet, Berthe Morisot, Boudin, and Gustave Caillebotte. Lured by the setting, they set up their easels outside on the beach and painted Deauville’s beautiful coastal landscapes.

If you don’t want to indulge in beach time, instead take a coastal drive along the Cote Fleurie and see its other villages — Trouville-sur-Mer, Cabourg, Houlgate, and Cricqueboeuf. Trouville’s beach is known as the “Queen of the Beaches.”

2. Option 2: Le Havre

As a result of Allied bombing, Le Havre was largely obliterated during WWII.

The town was rebuilt by the Belgian architect Auguste Perret, a mentor to Le Corbusier. His post-war modernist vision still marks the town, earning the first UNESCO designation for an urban center in 2005.

Le Havre was a favorite haunt of the Impressionist artists. Its location at the mouth of the Seine estuary gave the town exceptional light.

The water runs in a current, giving off glimmer and glints as the light catches it. Le Havre’s port, dockyards, beaches, and regattas inspired all the major players in Impressionism.

Claude Monet grew up in le Havre. In 1872, when he was 32, he painted the groundbreaking harbor scene Impression: Sunrise . It’s in a small secret museum in Paris , the Musee Marmottan Monet. The Post-Impressionist Raoul Dufy was also born in Le Havre.

The once gritty town has become a dynamic art center. The Andre Malraux Museum of Modern Art (known as MUMA), in and of itself, is an excellent reason to visit Le Havre.

Housed in a light-filled building overlooking the Seine, MUMA boasts one of the largest collections of French Impressionism in the world. It’s a mini Musee d’Orsay without the Paris crowds. There are works by Boudin, Monet, Renoir, Degas, Sisley, Pissarro, Courbet, and Dufy.

For lunch, have some crepes at the Creperie Soizic in the old quarter. For a cocktail, try L’Abri-Cotier on the promenade.

Day 6: Drive To Bayeux

On day 6, drive west from Honfleur to Bayeux. It’s about a one hour drive.

You’ll have the entire day to poke around and explore this delightful medieval town. You may want to book a 2 hour walking tour .

If you didn’t breakfast in Honfleur, head to the patisserie La Reine Mathilde.

Beautiful Bayeux is a town that played an outsized role in French history. It’s the perfect base for historic Normandy — the site of the Norman invasion of France in 1066 and WWII’s D-Day landings of 1944.

Most people go to Bayeux to see the thousand year old, and exceedingly long (230 feet), Bayeux Tapestry.

Housed in the Bayeux Tapestry Museum , the tapestry chronicles the events leading up to William the Conqueror’s invasion of France. In 50 scenes, it depicts the battle of Hastings and the showdown between William and King Harold II.

It’s unclear when the the Bayeux Tapestry (actually an embroidery) was created. But historians speculate that it was not long after the events it depicts.

The tapestry is remarkably well-preserved given its age, though it has been restored several times. The tapestry was most likely created by William’s queen, Matilda, and her court.

The Nazis seized the tapestry during WWII. It would up at the Louvre , which the Nazis had commandeered and were using as a clearinghouse for art theft. After the war, the tapestry was returned to Bayeux, its rightful owner.

READ : Underrated Masterpieces of the Louvre

But Bayeux isn’t just a piece of cloth, however impressive. Full of medieval architecture, the town itself is delightful and fairytale-like. Honey colored stone buildings are topped with black slate roofs. Flowing flower boxes spill into the narrow lanes.

While you’re strolling, pop into Bayeux’s Notre-Dame Cathedral. This extremely large Norman-Romanesque church was consecrated in 1077 and has survived countless wars and conflicts.

The cathedral is thought to be the original home of the Bayeux Tapestry. Fierce gargoyles on the exterior scowl down at you. In the summer, there’s a fantastic nighttime light show.

Where to stay in Bayeux : Villa Lara , Chateau de Bellefontaine , Grand Hotel du Luxembourg , or Novotel Bayeux

Where to eat in Bayeux : La Rapiere, L’Angle Saint Laurent, Le Pommier, La Reine Mathilde (breakfast), Le Volet Qui Penche, P’tit Bistro

Day 7: Day Trip to the D-Day Beaches

On the last day of your one week Normand itinerary, you’ll visit the historic D-Day beaches. Bayeux makes the perfect base for visiting the D-Day beaches. Unchanged and undeveloped, the beaches are like a time capsule.

You may want to book a guided day trip tour. To do it all, you could go on a 9 hour guided tour of the beaches from Bayeux. Or you could take a half day trip lasting 5 hours .

There, the US successfully carried out the largest military operation in history on June 6, 1944. On this day, US troops gained a foothold in France, a pivotal moment in history which led to the crumbling of Nazi Germany.

You can immerse yourself in the history of Operation Overlord, and the daily lives of the German and Allied troops. For background, visit the America Gold Beach Museum , the Memorial Museum of the Battle of Normandy , and the Bayeux War Cemetery.

The D-Day beaches consist of a 54 mile stretch of coast from Sword beach in the east to Utah beach in the west.

This area is dotted with WWII museums, cemeteries, monuments, and battle remains. For a comprehensive guide to the D-Day beaches, click here .

You won’t be able to see everything in a day, even with a tour guide. Plan your day around a theme, whether you want to visit the American, Canadian, or British sites and memorials. Five miles west of Omaha Beach is the area’s best scenic lookout, Pointe du Hoc.

If you rented a car, from Bayeux, it’s a three hour drive back to Paris. Or, if you picked up your car in Rouen, drop it in Bayeux and take the train back to Paris.

Extra Time in Normandy? Visit Mont Saint-Michel

There are plenty more beautiful cities to visit in Normandy . But an absolute must visit l andmark in France is Mont Saint-Michel.

In fact, you could reverse this itinerary and start in Mont Saint-Michel, then travel east through Normandy. But, with no direct connections, Mont Saint can be a pain to get to from Paris.

In any event, from Bayeux to Mont Saint-Michel, it’s 1:35 drive by car. But the Mont is worth the effort, especially if you start early.

Click here to pre-book a ticket. You can also book a full day guided day trip tour from Bayeux .

Mont Saint-Michel is the crown jewel of Normandy. It’s one of France’s most recognizable silhouettes, a veritable castle in the clouds.

The famous landmark is a pretty-as-a mirage island sanctuary. Its steeply built architecture seems almost impossible. A surreal medieval stage set, the Mont’s sky-high spires, stout ramparts, and rocky outcrops rise dramatically from the sea.

The immense stone pile stands guard over gleaming sands laid bare by a receding (and unpredictable) tide. At high tide, Mont Saint-Michel seems to float in the sea.

The hulking abbey is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in Christendom. In medieval times, devotees flocked to venerate the Archangel Michael. The Mont’s star attraction is the ancient abbey crowning its top.

You can overnight at the Mont, on the mainland (pamper yourself at the luxury Chateau de Chantore ), or in nearby Saint-Malo (L’Ascott) in Brittany.

A trip to Mont Saint-Michel takes some time and planning. Click here for my complete guide to visiting Mont Saint-Michel, with tips for visiting.

If you have an extended vacation planned, Brittany is a fantastic place to continue your road trip. Click here for my guide to the 20 most beautiful villages in Brittany .

Tips for Visiting Normandy

The best time to visit Normandy is in late spring and summer. Then, the weather is pleasant, the days are longer, and the flowers are in full bloom. After summer, some villages go into hibernation mode and there’s not as much to see and do in Normandy.

Ideally, you should rent a car to explore Normandy. Normandy’s villages are best explored by car because public transportation is scarce.

Trains from Paris serve Rouen, Caen, Bayeux, and Mont St-Michel. But service interconnecting these Normandy destinations is frustrating or non-existent.

In Normandy, cars drive on the right hand side, so that will be familiar. You don’t even need an International Driver’s License in France. Most of the motorways have tolls, so have cash on hand.

In terms of cuisine, Normandy is known for the “four C’s” — camembert, cider, calvados (apple brandy), and cream. Creperies and galette cafes are omnipresent. There’s no local wine in Normandy. You’ll have to make do with cider or the white Muscadet wines made in neighboring Loire region.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my 1 week itinerary for Normandy. You may enjoy these other France travel guides:

• 3 Day Itinerary for Paris
• 3 Day Art Weekend in Paris
• Hidden Gems in Paris
• 10 Day Itinerary for Southern France
• Secret Towns in France
• Hidden Gems in Provence
• Beautiful Towns in Northern France
• Hilltop Villages of the Luberon Valley
• Historic Landmarks in Southern France
• Beautiful Villages in Occitanie

If you’d like to road trip for one week in Normandy, pin it for later.

8 thoughts on “The Ultimate One Week Road Trip Itinerary For Normandy”

Wooow Amazing travel itinerary! We are planning our visit for this summer and your tips helped a looot! Thank you so much!!!

Have a great time!

Thank you for this incredibly detailed and informative itinerary. Your explanations, recommendations, and options are very helpful for tailoring to our family since we don’t have unlimited time. Your photos are wonderful. I also want to thank you for your travel tips about getting around, information about foods to eat while there, etc. Thank you!

You’re welcome! Enjoy your vacation in Normandy!

Thank you so much for a lovely itinerary! I’m headed there later this summer and I’m now sold that a whole week in Normandy will be well worth it!

Yes! It deserves more than just a couple days. There’s so much to see.

This looks wonderful! Thank you for such a detailed itinerary. We are going next year and will definitely want to do the full week.

Thank you and enjoy the trip!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Last Updated on August 26, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

• Visit 100 Countries
• Visit 500 UNESCO Sites
• Landmarks of the World

Normandy is a beautiful part of northern France to visit, but many visitors come for the sights that relate to the Battle of Normandy. The battle raged from D-Day on the 6th June 1944 until the end of August. A surprising amount of sites survive to this day, from huge batteries that formed part of the Atlantic Wall to parts of the Mulberry Harbour still resting on Gold Beach .

This suggested (and tested!) itinerary will help you get the most of this historic part of France. We explored the whole of the area from Utah Beach in the west to Sword Beach in the east and beyond. If you have more time to visit you can add in some more of the many museums that cover many different aspects of D-Day and the  Battle of Normandy or take in some great places which are unrelated to World War II.

Want to save this for later? Click the Pinterest button on the left for a pinnable image!

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our full disclosure policy here .

To get the most out of Normandy you’ll need a car. You won’t be able to get to many of the sites which can be quite remote by public transport in a sensible amount of time or possibly at all. By having a car you can wander through the countryside, visit small villages, explore old bunkers and just stop wherever you want when you spot something interesting.

So let’s hop in the car and take a 3-day road trip around Normandy!

NORMANDY ROAD TRIP OVERVIEW

• Travel to Normandy
• DAY 1 : Crisbecq and Azeville Batteries  |  Utah Beach and Landing Museum  |  La Cambe Cemetery  |  Maisy Battery  |  Pointe du Hoc  |  Omaha Beach and Normandy American Cemetery
• DAY 2 : Bayeux British Cemetery  |  Bayeux Cathedral  |  Bayeux Tapestry  |  Longues-Sur-Mer Battery  |  Musée du Débarquement  |  Gold Beach and Mulberry Harbour  |  Juno Beach and Juno Beach Centre  |  Sword Beach  |  Beny-sur-Mer Cemetery
• DAY 3 : Site Hillman  |  Memorial Pegasus  |  Ranville Cemetery and Church  |  Mont Canisy Battery  |  Villerville Pillboxes  |  Honfleur
• Travel Home from Normandy

Click the link on the “DAY” to quickly jump to that section of this itinerary.

NORMANDY ROAD TRIP MAP

Please feel free to download this map for your personal use when planning your trip.

To download this Google Map, click on the grey star at the top of the map and this map will be added to your Google Maps account. You can then view it on your phone or computer in Google Maps by clicking on the menu button, going to “Your Places” and selecting this map. 

We use these maps in the planning stage of creating all our itineraries as you can set out your plan in advance and then quickly reference these maps through the planning process.

WHERE TO STAY IN NORMANDY

Normandy is compact enough that you can set up camp in one spot rather than move from night to night. We picked somewhere fairly central, but you could pretty much do this itinerary whilst staying anywhere within striking distance of the coast.

RECOMMENDED : Ferme de la Rançonnière  3-star hotel in Crepon

This wonderful hotel is centrally located to all the D-Day sites in Normandy, beautifully rustic and charming, excellent dining, and the staff were very helpful prior to arrival answering our question about the accommodations and booking us a specific room.

This hotel also regularly offers deals which include room, breakfast and dinner in their restaurant. We enjoyed two meals at the restaurant, one each from their Terroir and Gastronomic menus, and enjoyed fantastic food both times during our three-night stay.

NORMANDY ROAD TRIP: DAY 1

Crisbecq and Azeville Batteries  |  Utah Beach and Landing Museum  |  La Cambe Cemetery  |  Maisy Battery  |  Pointe du Hoc  |  Omaha Beach and Normandy American Cemetery

Our trip starts out West in the American landing zones of Utah and Omaha Beach . The first stops are two of the enormous batteries that formed part of the Atlantic Wall. Crisbecq and Azeville batteries held large, long-range, artillery that threatened the landing forces and the ships that supported them. At Crisbecq you can understand what it took to destroy these guns, which basically required a direct hit on the concrete classmate.

From the batteries, it’s time to visit the first of the five beaches. Utah beach is the furthest west of the landing beaches and 23,000 men landed here on D-Day. It was here that a German soldier was quoted as saying “The sea is black with ships”, such was the size of the attacking force. Today, the sandy beach is as tranquil as any other beach in the world and it’s hard to imagine what it would have been like back on the 6th June 1944.

For a first insight into the events of D-Day, a visit to the Utah Beach Landing Museum right next to the beach is next on our itinerary. The museum houses several military vehicles as well as a B26 bomber, thousands of which attacked the enemy before, during and after D-Day. This bomber is painted in the colours of Major Dewhurst who led the final bombing run over Utah beach. Outside the museum are several monuments related to D-Day.

Our next stop might be a bit jarring to some people, but we stopped at La Cambe German War Cemetery . The vast majority of the German soldiers stationed on the Atlantic Wall, defending France, didn’t want to be there. They were men whose lives were cut short due to the actions of others just the same as the Allied soldiers who died. The cemetery holds 21,139 bodies and the focal point it the large central mound, which is a common grave, topped by a large cross.

Another battery is up next and the interesting theories and history of Maisy Battery make it a worthwhile stop. The site was lost to history until 2004 and its rediscovery has led to some interesting theories of how and why it was lost and whether some of the events and tactics of D-Day should be reassessed.

The rocky bluff of Pointe du Hoc is the perhaps the place in Normandy where you can best see the result of the Battle of Normandy still. The rugged ground is pockmarked with crater holes to this day and damaged bunkers and casemates litter the landscape. The US Army Rangers Assault Group who scaled these cliffs while under enemy fire to take the battery found that the guns had been moved and replaced with telephone poles.

The second American landing beach Omaha Beach is next on our itinerary. Here, a striking monument to the soldiers who liberated France called Les Braves can be found, surrounded, like so many of the important locations in the area, by the flags of the nations who formed the Allied forces. 34,000 troops landed on this beach under heavy enemy fire and hampered by the loss of all but two of the 29 tanks that were to offer fire support.

The first day finishes with a visit to the Normandy American Cemetery . 9,387 soldiers are buried here together with a memorial to 1,557 soldiers who have no known grave. If you can arrive in time, you can witness the ceremony of the lowering of the flag which happens each evening.  

NORMANDY ROAD TRIP: DAY 2

Bayeux British Cemetery  |  Bayeux Cathedral  |  Bayeux Tapestry  |  Longues-Sur-Mer Battery  |  Musée du Débarquement  |  Gold Beach and Mulberry Harbour  |  Juno Beach and Juno Beach Centre  |  Sword Beach  |  Beny-sur-Mer Cemetery

The second day of your trip starts with a visit to Bayeux War Cemetery . This is the largest Commonwealth WWII cemetery in France and holds the graves of 4,144 soldiers. There are also 500 graves of other nationalities, many of whom are German.

The town of Bayeux is the location for the only non-WWII stops on the itinerary. The stunning Cathedral of Notre-Dame dates back to the 11th-century, the days of Willam the Conqueror and the Battle of Hastings. It was a peaceful place to reflect on some of the other sights we had visited.

The cathedral was home for many centuries to the Bayeux Tapestry, but this is now held in the nearby Musée de la Tapisserie de Bayeux. The tapestry, which is actually an embroidery, tells the story of the Norman conquest of England, culminating in the Battle of Hastings in 1066. The work that went into it and the fact it has survived nine centuries are impressive, but the thing that wowed us the most was how long it is.

From Bayeux, it’s time to head back to the coast and Longues-Sur-Mer battery . The amazing thing about this battery of four guns is that the batteries still contain their guns. This and the fire control post that can be visited on the cliff edge allow visitors to get a better impression of how these batteries operated.

Moving along the coast we enter the first of the British landing beaches, Gold Beach . It’s here that you’ll find the relatively small Musée du Débarquement which contains beautiful scale models of the Mulberry Harbour that was built off the coast of Gold Beach to enable the Allies to have a deepwater harbour for resupply.

Directly outside the museum is Gold Beach itself, the third of the five beaches on the itinerary. If you can arrive here at low tide, you can walk out onto the beach and explore the Mulberry Harbour pieces that still rest on the beach after all these decades. These enormous concrete structures were towed across the English Channel and connected together to form a structure able to be used to offload millions of tonnes of supplies after D-Day.

Heading further east takes you to the Canadian landing zone of Juno Beach . It was from the bridgehead established on this beach that the Canadian Forces moved the furthest inland and came closes to any of the landing zones of achieving the objectives for D-Day.

Next to the beach is the Juno Beach Centre where you can learn about the Canadian contribution to D-Day and the wider war effort. Starting with a film projected from within a simulated landing craft to set the scene, the museum holds many personal documents and photographs that help bring home the personal impact of the conflict.

The most easterly landing zone, Sword Beach is the final beach on our itinerary. It was here that the British 2nd Army landed with the goal of securing the eastern flank of the assault. 29,000 men landed here on D-Day, but one of the main objectives for the day, the capture of Caen, was still several kilometres out of reach.

Day 2 ends with a visit to the Canadian cemetery at Beny-Sur-Mer . 2048 soldiers are buried here from those who fell on D-Day to those killed in the Battle of Caen and the men who were illegally executed at Ardenne Abbey. Like all Commonwealth war cemeteries, it is kept in immaculate condition and is a peaceful and sobering place to visit.

NORMANDY ROAD TRIP: DAY 3

Site Hillman  |  Memorial Pegasus  |  Ranville Cemetery and Church  |  Mont Canisy Battery  |  Villerville Pillboxes  |  Honfleur

The last day of this short, but intense, itinerary starts with a visit to Site Hillman. Site Hillman was a bunker complex and command post on D-Day and as such a prime target for the attacking forces. The job of securing the bunker was given to the 1st Battalion Suffolk Regiment of the British Army. The bunkers were well defended and difficult to capture, but they surrendered on the morning of the 7th June. The site is now a memorial after the land was given to the Suffolk Regiment by the former owner of the land.

Continuing east the itinerary takes you to one of the most daring stories of D-Day and an essential capture of bridges to secure the flank of the attacking forces and protect them from counter-attacks. Memorial Pegasus tells the story of how the 6th Airborne Division landed right next to the bridge in the dead of night early on D-Day and captured the bridge over the Caen canal. Across the new bridge, you can see a building that proudly proclaims that it was the first building to be liberated in France.

The nearby village of Ranville is the location of the Ranville War Cemetery where those who died in this attack, including the first allied casualty on D-Day Lieutenant H.D. Brotheridge, and others. 2,235 commonwealth soldiers are buried here, as well as 330 Germans and a few others. And a further 48 graves can be found within the churchyard.

The church is worth a visit to see the beautiful stain-glassed window that commemorates the capture of Pegasus Bridge with the words  “In Memoriam 1944 6th Airborne Division”.

Heading outside the immediate area of D-Day our itinerary takes in Mont Canisy Battery . Though it saw very little action in the Battle of Normandy this means it is well preserved and an interesting place to visit. Built on top of a hill, it also offers great views of the surrounding area in places.

The final stop on the itinerary takes you to some pillboxes that are rarely visited. From the car park (marked on the map below) you have to walk about 750m (2,500 ft) along the beach to the east to get to the pillboxes. They are not in their original positions having slipped down the beach over the decades. Like the Mulberry Harbour pieces in Arromanche, the pillboxes are interesting to visit and explore.

READ MORE:  If you have time to extend your trip, there are many other towns and places to explore in Normandy such as the nearby Honfleur with its cute harbour and wooden church, Église Ste-Catherine.

BEST TIME TO TAKE AN NORMANDY ROAD TRIP

In our opinion, the best time to visit Normandy is either the spring (March to May) or the autumn (mid-September to October). The weather is good (although it can vary so pack layers!) especially as it gets closer to May, or it can still be warm in September. The summer crowds aren’t in full swing and accommodation rates aren’t as high as the peak season.

BUT, some of the sites may only open during the high season, so be sure to check that any sites you specifically want to visit will be open during the time you plan to be there.

We visited in March and found almost everything we wanted to visit was open and nowhere we visited was very crowded. In some cases, we had “private” tours as we happened to be the only people visiting a particular attraction at the time, which was fantastic!

But you may not be able to visit during those times of the year so what should you expect in the summer or winter?

In the summer (June to mid-September) the days are long (like 10:00 pm sunsets), the weather is warm, and every sightseeing attraction, B&B, and hotel is open. However, with this, you’ll also find the biggest crowds, especially in the most popular sites. This is also the time of year where airfare, car rental, and hotel prices will be the highest. You should also be aware that there are usually events around many sites around the 6th June each year, so accommodation prices could be higher and some sites may be more crowded.

In the winter (November – February) there are fewer daylight hours and in many cases, you’ll find quite a few of the sites are closed. The weather is cold, wet, and can be foggy which can really put a damper on a day of sightseeing – especially when so much of the sights of Normandy are outside or exposed to the elements. But, you are likely to find great prices on airfares, hotels, and B&Bs (though some B&Bs may not be open at all).

RESOURCES | PLAN YOUR NORMANDY ROAD TRIP

To book flights, rental cars, accommodations, and activities for your trip, please check out our recommended travel providers, favourite apps and websites. 

• Rick Steves’  ‘ Normandy TV show ‘ episode

These are a few tours we would recommend for your Normandy road trip.

Some of the links in the post above are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, we will receive an affiliate commission but this does not affect the price to you. Please read our   full disclosure policy here . 

RELATED POSTS

World war ii d-day beaches in normandy, 8 great places to visit in normandy, france, world war ii cemeteries in normandy, world war ii batteries in normandy, world war ii museums in normandy.

The best 7 day Normandy Road Trip itinerary

• David Angel

Welcome to my Normandy road trip one-week itinerary.

The region is within easy reach from Paris, or via the English Channel ports, and is one of the most beautiful regions of France.

It’s crammed with history, art, architecture, lush countryside, charming villages and some of the best beaches in France. Not to mention the stunning white cliffs of the Côte d’Albatre.

I’ve written a seven-day itinerary for a road trip in Normandy, with tips on what to see, where to stay and when to go.  

I’ve done seven or eight road trips around Normandy, and condensed them into one week for the purpose of this article.  You could see a lot in a three-day trip, or extend it to ten days, even two weeks or more.

Table of Contents

Why Visit Normandy

Normandy is one of the most beautiful regions of France, with some of the country’s outstanding sights.

Ancient capital Rouen is one of the most beautiful cities in France, with one of the great French Gothic cathedrals at its heart. The medieval old town is also outstanding, with some of the most beautiful half-timbered houses and streets in Europe.

The much smaller medieval town of Bayeux is worth travelling across the country to visit. It’s home to the world-famous Bayeux Tapestry , depicting the Norman invasion of England in 1066. And next door is a wonderful surprise, another of the loveliest cathedrals in France.

Normandy is the birthplace of Impressionism – Claude Monet painted Impression, Sunrise at Le Havre , and this painting eventually gave its name to a whole new style of painting. Monet also painted extensively elsewhere in Normandy, including at Rouen, Honfleur and Étretat .

Normandy has two renowned stretches of coastline.  The Côte d’Albâtre , with its stunning white cliffs, is north-east of Le Havre. And the D-Day Beaches north of Caen and Bayeux are a must for anyone with an interest in World War 2 history.

The tiny port of Honfleur is one of the most beautiful towns in France, with one of the most picturesque harbours you will ever see.

There is also the unsung Normandy countryside , a bucolic haven producing some of the best cheeses in France (Camembert, Brie, Pont l’Évêque). Apples from Normandy are also used to make some of the best cidre in France, and also calvados , the unique local cider eau-de-vie.

Why A Normandy Road Trip

If you want to see Normandy, you’re going to need a car to get around. Apart from the main train lines from Paris to Rouen and Le Havre and to Caen and Bayeux, public transport in Normandy is scant. It was like this back in the 1980s when I first visited, and little has changed in this regard.

It may surprise some readers, but even the D-Day Beaches – among the main attractions in Normandy – are scarcely served by buses.  It isn’t worth the bother – the only way to get around is by yourself or on a few guided tours. We’ll point these out below.

Normandy Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1 – a day in rouen.

I spent my first night out of the UK in Rouen back in October 1982, and fell in love with the city. It’s one of the most beautiful medieval cities in France and Europe. And over 40 years on I still look on it as a benchmark, somewhere with which I compare other places. It’s undoubtedly one of the most underrated cities in Europe , and worthy of far more attention than it gets.

Despite being a small city, Rouen deserves two or three days. But one day in Rouen is enough to see the main sights. You can’t miss Rouen Cathedral, one of the outstanding Gothic churches in Europe .  It was one of the first cathedrals where the Gothic style was adopted after being introduced at the Basilica of St Denis in Paris. However its origins go back possibly as far as the 3 rd century AD.

It’s most famous for its vast west front, which was the subject of a series of paintings by Monet, a study of changing light at different times of day. The heart of England’s King Richard the Lionheart is interred within the Cathedral.

There are also several medieval churches around the city. The finest of these are the Church of St Ouen, in the north of the city centre, and the Church of St Maclou. This is very close to the Aitre St Maclou . This remarkable courtyard was used as an expanded charnel house or ossuary in the 16 th century, and a frieze of macabre wooden carvings survives from this period.

Nearby, the rue du Gros Horloge is one of the most beautiful streets in Europe, the row of half-timbered houses leading to an exceptional astronomical clock on an archway above the street. The clock was made in the 14 th century – making it considerably older than the famous Prague Astronomical Clock .

Rouen is also renowned as the city where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake in 1431. This remarkable young woman helped lead the French to victories against English forces before being captured by Burgundian forces.

She was executed in the Place du Vieux Marché (Old Market Square). A modern church – completed in 1979 by Louis Arretche (who also rebuilt the Pont des Arts Paris ) stands close to the spot where she died. It’s an arresting sight, the light wooden interior enriched by medieval stained glass from the nearby church of St Vincent.

Overnight: Rouen.

Options include the 5-star Hotel de Bourgtheroulde, Autograph Collection , which is very close to the Gros Horloge. 

Alternatively the 4-star Mercure Rouen Centre Cathedrale is in the heart of the historic centre, housed partly in a half-timbered building.

If you’re travelling in a group of four, you may also want to consider staying out in the countryside. The Manoir de l’Aumonerie has two cottages in the grounds of a 14 th century Templar manor house near the village of St-Martin de Boscherville.  

See Also: 12 Wonderful Things To Do In Rouen

Day 2 – Chateau Gaillard, Jumièges Abbey and Giverny

This day trip from Rouen takes in three of the best places to visit in Normandy, all of which are within a short distance of the city. Two of them transport you back to medieval Normandy, while the third immerses you in the world of Impressionist master Claude Monet.

Start the day by taking the D982 out of the western suburbs of Rouen. You could stop at the seriously impressive abbey church at Saint-Martin de Boscherville. From there, the road continues to the Seine, before you reach a left turn for the Abbaye de Jumièges.

Jumièges Abbey was founded around a thousand years ago, and grew to become one of the most important centres of learning in France. When it was dissolved in the wake of the 1789 French revolution, its library was saved and moved to Rouen. The church is a gorgeous atmospheric ruin – if you love places like Fountains Abbey in England or Tintern Abbey in Wales, you’ll adore this amazing place.

You can either head back into Rouen or take the backroads route across the Seine and up the valley via Elbeuf to Les Andelys. High above the village, the mighty Chateau Gaillard is one of the most famous castles in France.

The late 12 th century castle was built by Richard the Lionheart in an astonishingly quick two years. He boasted that he could defend it even if its walls were made of butter. However, he died young in 1199, and a few years later the castle was seized by his enemy Philippe II of France after a long siege.

During the Hundred Years War Chateau Gaillard changed hands several times between the English and French adversaries. It eventually fell into ruin by the 16 th century.

No road trip to Normandy is complete without a visit to Monet’s Garden in Giverny. It’s only a few miles up the river from Les Andelys, but bear in mind that you need to book your ticket in advance, and that you need to adhere to an entrance time slot.     Also note that it’s open from April 1 st to November 1 st.      

Faye has visited Giverny several times and adores it. When you visit, you get to see the house where Monet lived for many years, and both gardens. One is a walled flower garden, the other a Japanese-style water garden with a famous restored bridge. It’s where Monet painted hundreds of canvases of flowers, lilies and garden scenes.

There aren’t any Monet originals at the Monet House and Garden, but that doesn’t really matter. As Faye says, you’re not seeing his paintings there, you’re walking through them. Essential for anyone with an interest in Monet and Impressionism.

Overnight: Rouen  

Day 3 – Cote d’Albatre, Etretat and Veules-les-Roses

The Alabaster Coast, north-west of Rouen and north-east of Le Havre, is one of the most beautiful parts of the entire French coast. As with the England’s Channel coast to the north, it consists of towering white chalk cliffs and magnificent beaches. The most famous stretch of the coast is around Étretat, 17 miles (27 km) north of Le Havre.

The landscape is every bit as dramatic as the famous Seven Sisters and Beachy Head on the Sussex coast in England. If anything, nature has gone a bit further in Normandy than across the Channel. The cliffs, sea stack and unusual elephant-trunk-shaped arch at Étretat are its most famous features, a Normandy must-see.

The best way to see the Côte d’Albâtre is on foot. The GR21 hiking trail is one of the best coastal walks in Europe – I rate it up there with the Pembrokeshire Coast Path in my native Wales and the South Crete section of the E4 trail. The only section I have completed is the 10-mile (16 km) section from Étretat to Fécamp. It’s a stunning walk, one I’d love to do again.

Fécamp is another great stop on the Côte d’Albâtre, with superb coastal scenery either side. It is the home of the sweet herbal Bénédictine liqueur, and it may well have originally been developed by the monks of the Abbey in Fécamp. In the 1860s, Alexandre Le Grand was given the old recipe and altered it somewhat. The monastic back story would have certainly helped with the marketing, and it’s still produced to this day.

Overnight: Rouen or Étretat

As for Étretat, Hotel Le Rayon Vert is right on the seafront, within metres of the beach. Castel de la Terrasse and Dormy House also overlook the seafront. Les Tilleuls Étretat is a small hotel half a mile inland with a garden, double rooms with balconies and outstanding reviews.

Day 4 – Honfleur and Le Havre

Honfleur and Le Havre are very different ports across the Seine estuary from each other. The smaller Honfleur is much the older of the two, by almost 500 years. And yet both, for different reasons, were a major inspiration for the early Impressionists, Monet included.

I recommend trying to spend a few hours in each if possible.  Le Havre was largely destroyed in World War Two, and much of it rebuilt under the auspices of Belgian architect Auguste Perret. The modernist city was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005.  I’ve always been fascinated by the place. It wasn’t all Perret’s work – Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer built the Volcan (pictured). It has long been nicknamed the ‘Yoghurt Pot’ by locals.

Le Havre, as one of the places which inspired the Impressionist style, is home to one of the best collections of Impressionist art in the world. MUMA is an excellent gallery, and far more enjoyable to experience than the endless crowds of the Musee d’Orsay in Paris.

Honfleur is just across the Seine estuary from Le Havre, reached by the steep Pont de Normandie. The Quai Ste Catherine, on the Vieux Bassin harbour, is the main draw. It’s one of the most beautiful streets you’ll ever see, with some of its narrow waterfront houses up to eight storeys high.

Monet painted the quayside many times, and the port inspired many other artists, including Eugène Boudin. The superb Musée Eugène Boudin is the best of many art galleries around the small town. Make sure you spend at least a few hours in Honfleur – the rest of the town is a joy to wander. And don’t miss the Church of Ste Catherine, built from wood, whose earliest part dates from the 15 th century.

Overnight: Rouen, Étretat or Honfleur

There is a huge choice of places to stay in Honfleur. Villa du Cedre, a few minutes’ walk from the Vieux Bassin, gets exceptional reviews. Or La Poupardoise, in an old fisherman’s house on the harbour, is also very highly-rated.

Day 5 – Caen and Bayeux

Caen is the capital of the Calvados d épartement and Lower Normandy, a rich historical city severely damaged in the wake of the 1944 D-Day landings nearby.  I’d recommend half a day there to explore the superb Chateau de Caen, which was largely the work of William the Conqueror.

While there, don’t miss the city’s two outstanding Romanesque churches – the Abbaye aux Hommes (Men’s Abbey) and Abbaye aux Dames (Women’s Abbey). They are half a mile’s walk in opposite directions from the Chateau.  The Abbaye aux Dames was completed by around 1080, and the construction of the Abbaye aux Hommes continued for at least 150 years, into the Gothic period. It houses the tomb of William the Conqueror.

Bayeux Cathedral

Bayeux is a 15-mile (25 km) drive from Caen, and one of the hidden gems of northern France. The city is known worldwide as the home of the Bayeux tapestry, which is housed in an excellent museum in the town.  This astonishing 11 th century tapestry – commissioned by Bishop Odo of Bayeux p- documents the events leading up to William the Conqueror’s 1066 invasion of England and his subsequent coronation.

Many visitors – myself included first time round – don’t realise that Bayeux is home to a gorgeous Gothic cathedral across the street from the Tapestry Museum.  The original Romanesque cathedral that William would have known was largely destroyed by fire, so much of it had to be rebuilt during the Gothic era.

Many also visit Bayeux for its vast War Cemetery, the resting place for over 4,000 soldiers from the Commonwealth, most of whom perished during the D-Day operations.

Overnight: Bayeux

Manoir Sainte-Victoire, La Maison de Mathilde and Domaine de Bayeux are all excellent options in the historic centre of Bayeux.

Day 6 – D-Day Beaches

The only ways to see the Normandy D-Day Beaches are by guided tour or driving to them yourself.  We went on a couple of school trips to them back in the ‘80s, staying in Arromanches-les-Bains. This was part of Gold Beach, one of five sections of coast code-named by the invading Allies. The D-Day landings took place over a 50-mile – 70 km – stretch of coast.

And there’s not just the beaches to see – there are also many military remnants and fortifications to explore.  And there are also landmarks such as the famous church tower at Sainte-Mère-Église, where an American parachutist got stuck.

The D-Day (Jour J in French) beaches are the scene of Allied landings on 6 th June 1944. They were the beginning of the offensive to oust the occupying Nazi German regime from France, and were decisive in eventually breaking German resistance.

There are also several museums in the area, including the Musée du Débarquement in Arromanches and the Pointe du Hoc Museum. The latter is at the meeting point of the two US landing beaches, Utah and Omaha, in the western sector of the invasion area. I’ve been to the area on two 5-day school trips plus two short stays in recent years, and still haven’t see all of the museums and sights associated with the landings.

Day 7 – Coutances and Mont-Saint-Michel

We spend the final day of our week-long Normandy road trip heading west. The Cotentin peninsula mainly attracts French visitors, surprising given its proximity to the Channel Islands. There is some amazing coastal scenery around the north-western tip and the Nez de Jobourg. But we head south-west, for one of the best hidden gems in France, followed by one of the most famous landmarks in France.

Coutances Cathedral is one of the finest cathedrals in France, but the town is a fair way off the beaten track.  It’s built on an elevated rocky hill a few miles inland from the sea, and the superb Gothic Cathedral dominates the landscape for miles around.

It’s a hugely impressive sight, with twin west spires and a rare octagonal lantern tower above the crossing. There are very few of these in Europe – Ely Cathedral in England and Burgos Cathedral in Spain are the other most famous examples.

It’s an hour’s drive south via the quicker inland A84 route to Le Mont Saint-Michel, the most famous place to visit in Normandy. You could also head there via the slower roads closer to the coast, but count on this taking a good two hours.

Mont St Michel is a stupendous sight. You can see its distinctive outline from far away across the Baie de Mont-Saint-Michel. And it makes for an amazing sight as you view it from inland, seemingly floating on the surface of the sea.

The tidal island became a centre of pilgrimage in the Middle Ages. St Michael the Archangel is said to have appeared to Bishop Aubert of nearby Avranches in the early 8 th century. Aubert carried out his instruction to build a church on the islet, then known as Mont Tombe. And over time the foundation’s fame grew.

Part of the 11 th century Benedictine Abbey church remains, and a Gothic choir replaced the original. The ensemble of buildings, from afar and up close, is astonishing. The site is also fortified, and was never conquered, despite several English attempts during the Hundred Years War.

The whole Mont St Michel experience has greatly changed over the last decade, since the construction of a bridge to the island.  The car park is over a mile from the Mont – you can either take the shuttle bus there or walk.

More Time In Normandy – Where Else To Go?

I’ve also spent a lot of time in less-frequented parts of Normandy, some of which are well worth exploring. The south of Normandy gets very few visitors, even the lovely Suisse Normande (Norman Switzerland). The area’s landscapes are modest compared to Switzerland, but the Orne valley around Clécy is beautiful, especially the Boucle de l’Orne horseshoe.

It’s not far from there to the sturdy chateau at Falaise. The original castle on this site was the birthplace of Guillaume le Conquerant, William the Conqueror. The present building dates from the 12 th or 13 th century, and it’s one of the most imposing castles in France.  And the visitor experience is brilliantly set up, with tablets to guide you around the castle.

There are so many Gothic cathedrals in France – indeed in Normandy – that some tend to get overlooked. One of these is Sées Cathedral (pronounced ‘say’), 50 km (29 miles) south-east of Falaise near Argentan.  It completely dominates the small town around it and, again, is worth going out of your way to see.

Best Time to Visit Normandy

There’s always an element of potluck with the weather in Normandy, northern France and the North Atlantic in general.

I’d go with May, June or September for my next Normandy road trip. I have visited during all of these months, as well as March, April and October. I’ve had the best weather in late spring and again in September, but also enjoyed some stunning autumn days in October.

July and August are the busiest months, especially on the beaches of the Côte Fleurie between Honfleur and Caen. Accommodation prices are also highest at this time.

Normandy Road Trip – Final Thoughts

I’m up to seven or eight Normandy road trips in all, and loved this region for over 40 years. It’s such a rewarding part of the world to explore. And there are plenty of places which have barely been discovered by anyone other than locals.

If it’s your first time in France beyond Paris, I can’t think of a better part of the country to explore.  

Discover more places to visit in France in our articles here:

• Famous Churches In Paris – 22 stunning Parisian churches to seek out
• Best Eiffel Tower Views – 28 best places to see the Eiffel Tower in Paris
• Arc de Triomphe Paris – all you need to know before visiting this great Paris landmark
• Pont Alexandre III Paris – stunning Belle Epoque Parisian bridge
• Sunset in Paris – the 15 best places to see one
• La Sainte Chapelle Paris – one of the most beautiful Gothic churches ever built
• One Day In Avignon – 24 hours by the Rhone in the City of Popes
• Best Day Trips From Avignon – 14 fantastic day trips from the City of Popes

And here are a few more road trip articles for you to check out:

South of France Road Trip – a 10-day circular route taking in Avignon, Arles, Albi and much more

Portugal Road Trip – Alentejo – borderlands and backwoods in south-east Portugal

Snowdonia Road Trip – 4 road itineraries for the spectacular National Park in North Wales

Pembrokeshire Road Trip – a 5-day trip around the beaches, coves and castles of south-west Wales

David Angel is a British photographer, writer and historian. He is a European travel expert with over 30 years’ experience exploring Europe. He has a degree in History from Manchester University, and his work is regularly featured in global media including the BBC, Condé Nast Traveler, The Guardian, The Times, and The Sunday Times.  David is fluent in French and Welsh, and can also converse in Italian, German, Portuguese, Spanish, Czech and Polish.

A first-timer’s guide to Normandy

Although the mere mention of a trip to France immediately conjures up afternoons lounging at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, there is, however, much more to see elsewhere in the country than just its capital. Why not a trip to Normandy ?

Normandy borders the English Channel, making it a prime location for travellers looking to explore French culture beyond the City of Light.

Additionally while you’re there, make sure you taste the local specialties! Firstly, local Normandie cheeses like Camembert, Neufchâtel and Pont-l’Évêque. Secondly, anything apple-based, like Calvados and cider .

Mont Saint-Michel

A few meters north of the Normandy coastline, straddling the Breton coast and at the edge of the Couesnon River, stands a fascinating rocky mound: Mont Saint-Michel, of course! Host of an abbey since the 18th century, the island with an impenetrable appearance jealously cultivates the aura of mystery that surrounds it. It is accessible on foot at low tide, but one must be quick, since the unfortunate visitors who linger there will be swept away by the current before they can admire this fortress.

+ FRANCE travel tips

Practical guide: visiting mont saint-michel in normandy, monet in normandy.

Claude Monet lived in the port city of Le Havre for many years; his most popular work, Impression, Sunrise, was produced there and later gave its name to the art movement. Not far away is the village of Giverny, where Monet also painted his iconic Water Lilies series, inspired by the gardens of his home.

+ france travel tips

How to plan a day trip to the monet gardens in giverny, d-day beaches.

Normandy was also the scene of significant events in the 20th century, including those of June 6, 1944. The Normandy landings changed the face of World War II and, more broadly, the world, as Allied soldiers from a variety of nations including Canada set foot on the French shore in the largest sea invasion in history.

Several sites in the region are now dedicated to the commemoration of this vast operation, including museums and guided tours, which provide a better understanding of the era. Likewise, perhaps the most significant to Canadians will be the Juno Beach Centre , a contemporary maple leaf-shaped space that commemorates the contributions of not only Canadians but also other Allied nations that took place on the beach.

If you’re travelling from Bayeux, this day trip to the American beaches might be of big interest to you.

Contemplating history on the D-Day landing beaches

Étretat are home to some of the most stunning cliffs in France. Made famous by its chalky, crisp-white arch and the gorgeous sunsets it welcomes every evening, it’s understandable a number of Impressionist painters were inspired by this absolutely stunning coastline. And no wonder Étretat is the place where Parisians go for a weekend at the beach.

Of course, it’s the English Channel; don’t get your hopes up about the water temperature, but hey, it’s still a beach!

Welcome to one of my favourite villages in France! The charming, colourful port is not just a sight for sore eyes, though; it was actually one of France’s major ports for commerce back in the 16th century. Did you know this is where Samuel de Champlain set sail from before he went on to found Quebec City?

The Vieux Bassin area of Honfleur is rightfully the best place to start. But make sure to also visit Les Maisons Satie, Musée Eugène Boudin and Église Ste-Catherine. And if you want a more personal experience of Honfleur, why not book a guided tour ?

My favourite & most beautiful villages in France

The best day trips from paris to normandy.

• Normandy D-Day beaches and Honfleur
• The fascinating city of Caen
• Normandy coast day trip with cider tasting
• Lisieux Cathedral
• Normandy small-group day trip D-Day battlefields & landing beaches
• Mont Saint-Michel guided day trip
• Rouen and its stunning cathedral
• Versailles Palace & Giverny’s Monet house guided visit
• The glamour beaches of Deauville and its cinema festival

Marie-Eve is a native Montrealer trying to balance a deep love for her hometown and an unquenchable thirst for travel and discovery. She has been to more than 36 countries, lived abroad in both France and the U.K., and is always on the lookout for authentic experiences wherever she travels -- especially if it involves wine.

Similar Posts

The Loire valley castles – where to go & what you should know

Did anyone say “idyllic holiday to France’s most picturesque castles”? Because this is pretty much what you’re getting when you…

Wine tasting in iconic Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Of all the places I could have gone to do a wine tasting, I ended up in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. One of…

4 day trips from Annecy

While Annecy has enough things to do and quaint canalside houses to photograph to keep anyone busy for a few days,…

Alsace road trip: a 7-day itinerary

With candy-coloured villages that look like they could be in a children’s bedtime story and an abundance of gastronomically-heavy sins…

Why you absolutely must visit Annecy, France

You’ve seen Paris, you’ve seen Normandy, you’ve seen Alsace. You’re so over vineyards, and you can’t stand the heat and…

How to spend 24 hours in Bordeaux

The longer I live in France, the more I come to realise that there’s so much more to this hexagon-shaped…

Normandy   Travel Guide

Courtesy of © Marco Bottigelli | Getty Images

18 Best Things To Do in Normandy

Updated Feb. 11, 2021

Normandy's attractions are spread across the region, so we suggest you either spend a few days in just one or two towns or you set aside a week or two, rent a car and see a cache. If you're a foodie, you'll enjoy the bounty in Trouville and Honfleur

• All Things To Do

D-Day Beaches D-Day Beaches free

World War II's successful Operation Overlord took place on the coast of France. Although there were heavy Allied casualties, this invasion turned the tide in the war and helped lead to the fall of Nazi Germany. Today this piece of coastline, which includes Sword, Juno, Gold, Omaha and Utah beaches, is collectively known as the D-Day Beaches.

Visitors can tour the approximately 50-mile stretch of sand and pop by a number of museums, memorials and cemeteries that are spread out alongside the coastline either with a tour or on their own. If you're driving yourself, start in the town of Arromanches, which hosts two museums that help provide context for the battle sites. The American Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer and the Pointe-du-Hoc bomb craters are also especially moving. If you'd rather let someone else do the driving, recent visitors recommend going with a tour guide to fully appreciate the area's historic importance and receive a comprehensive overview. If you're visiting in June, you'll likely come across several ceremonies and reenactment groups commemorating the anniversary. Thanks to Normandy's unpredictable weather, you'll want to dress in layers (no matter the time of your visit) and bring rain gear, according to past visitors.

Mont Saint-Michel Abbey (Abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel) Mont Saint-Michel Abbey (Abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel)

Surrounded by sea in the high tide and sand in low, Abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel is one of France's most-toured sites outside of the popular Parisian landmarks. It's also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its first incarnation was raised on the 264-foot-high rock beginning in the 10th century, but additions were added well into the 19th century. Today, you can tour the abbey and the little village at its base, as well as several museums. Tours are offered year-round, but you can also traipse the massive structure on your own.

Guided tours – which are included in the cost of admission – do not require advance booking and are offered in French and English year-round. Tours are also offered in German, Italian and Spanish in July and August.

Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Rouen Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Rouen free

Dating back to the 12th century, this Gothic cathedral was the world's tallest building for about five years – 1876 to 1880. But its beauty in changing light is what drew the impressionist artist, Claude Monet, whose work can be viewed at the Musee des Beaux-Arts de Rouen , to paint it several times. Today, the cathedral is one of the defining pieces of architecture in this part of Normandy. Aside from its striking architecture, it's also famous for its tombs – one of which houses the heart of Richard the Lionheart.

Visitors recommend going inside to view the many parts of this working Roman Catholic cathedral, including the lovely stained glass in the Lady Chapel, the transepts and the ambulatory monuments. Others add that it is worth coming at night in the summer to see the free light shows displayed outside. Reviewers also recommended reading up on the history of the church before you visit to enhance your experience and develop a better understanding of the many architectural styles on display.

Popular Tours

D-Day Beaches Shore Excursion with Packed Lunch from Le Havre

(63 reviews)

from $ 142.64

Normandy American D-Day Beaches Full Day Tour from Bayeux

(1100 reviews)

from $ 138.21

Normandy Battlefields D-Day Private Trip with VIP Services from Paris

(142 reviews)

from $ 829.28

Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial free

Somewhere around 9,000 soldiers are buried in this Colleville-sur-Mer war cemetery, which overlooks Omaha Beach . Most of these lost their lives during the D-Day invasion. There's also a memorial that gives a narrative of the invasion, as well as a reflecting pool and a chapel. And about 1,500 soldiers who were missing-in-action are remembered on the Walls of the Missing, in a semicircle garden to the east of the memorial.

Recent visitors advised setting aside more time than you think you might need, as there is a lot to take in and you don't want to rush through such a moving place. Several others recommended visiting with a tour company to enjoy a more in-depth understanding of the site's significance. Companies like Normandy Sightseeing Tours , Bayeux Shuttle and Paris City Vision earn high praise from past visitors.

Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen

The sprawling Museum of Fine Arts features paintings, sculptures, drawings and objets d'art that date back to the 15th century. Throughout the 19th century, generous donations made the museum home to one of the largest impressionist collections in France, with paintings by masters such as Monet, Sisley, Caillebotte, Pissarro, Degas and Renoir. Other highlights include works by Perugino, Veronese, Rubens, Caravaggio, Velázquez, Ribera and Poussin.

Recent visitors praised the museum's collection of impressionist works and the impressive range of styles represented here. For many, viewing Monet's paintings of the Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Rouen was a particular highlight. However, reviewers advised going in with a plan, as the museum can be a little hard to navigate.

Claude Monet's House and Garden Claude Monet's House and Garden

Who doesn't love water lilies, haystacks and gardens? Claude Monet, one of the world's most famous impressionists, lived and painted many of these subjects in his home in Giverny. Today, Monet fans can tour his excellently preserved home, studio and gardens. Among the highlights are the water garden (home to his famous water lilies) and the artist's house (especially the kitchen and the blue sitting room), which has been meticulously restored.

Recent visitors raved about the house and gardens, but many expressed disappointment with the crowds. If you want to avoid the onslaught of visitors, heed the advice of reviewers and visit right when the attraction opens to avoid the tour buses that descend in the afternoon. Others suggested visiting the lily ponds first and saving your house visit until the end.

Bayeux War Cemetery Bayeux War Cemetery free

The Bayeux War Cemetery is one of the largest of 18 military cemeteries in Normandy, with more than 4,000 graves – many of which mark the plots of soldiers who were never identified. These headstones are inscribed with "A Soldier Known Unto God." Keep in mind that if you're an American looking for your ancestors, you'll most likely have more luck at the American cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer . The Bayeux War Cemetery contains soldiers from the United Kingdom and "the Continent," including some from Germany.

Recent visitors found the cemetery to be quite moving and somber. Others said this is a "must-see," applauding the beautiful grounds.

Eglise Jeanne d'Arc Eglise Jeanne d'Arc free

This modern-looking church sits on the site of Jeanne d'Arc's (or Joan of Arc, to us Yanks) burning. The 19-year-old girl was burned at the stake for heresy in 1431. Today, you can tour this contemporary church built in 1979 (the exterior of which is reminiscent of fish scales) at Place du Vieux-Marche in Rouen. Pay attention to the building's design – the architect, Louis Arretche, wanted it to resemble the shape of an overturned boat.

Recent visitors loved the church's gorgeous stained-glass windows and say it was quite moving to be in the spot where Joan of Arc was killed.

All-in-One Paris Highlights Shore Excursion from Le Havre Port

(36 reviews)

from $ 131.58

American D-Day Beaches Private Tour Full Day Tour from Bayeux

(333 reviews)

from $ 364.88

Utah & Omaha Beaches D-Day Group Tour from Bayeux

(1202 reviews)

from $ 158.12

Etretat Cliffs Etretat Cliffs free

These stunning white chalk cliffs have drawn people, especially artists, such as Claude Monet and Guy de Maupassant, to the area for eons. The cliffs are often compared to the famous White Cliffs of Dover. Visitors can hike along the top of cliffs, as well as on the beach to check out the striking sight.

Recent visitors were astonished at the beauty of the cliffs and recommended visiting at sunrise and sunset for spectacular photo ops. Others suggested hiking to the top of the cliffs for unforgettable views. Reviewers also reported touring the town of Étretat.

Museum of Modern Art André Malraux Museum of Modern Art André Malraux

This Le Havre art museum, located in a bright 1960s glass-and-metal building, boasts enormous plate glass windows that perfectly allow in the famous light that has fascinated artists for decades. This museum was actually the first to be built after the war. Le Havre's original Museum of Fine Arts was destroyed by bombing in 1944. Two local painters who immortalized the Normandy coast are highlighted here. The collection of works by Raoul Dufy includes oils, watercolors and sketches. Works by Eugène Boudin include his Normandy beach scenes and landscapes. It also has a number of works by Renoir, Pissarro, Sisley and Degas. 

Past visitors raved about the museum's stunning coastal location and the collection of impressionist works. Others praised the friendly, knowledgeable staff.

Bayeux Tapestry Museum Bayeux Tapestry Museum

You might ask why on earth would you make a stop to see a tapestry when Camembert cheese, hard cider and the rolling Normandy hills are beckoning? Well, because the Bayeux Tapestry, an astonishingly long and beautifully made work of art, chronicles the 1066 Battle of Hastings.

The approximately 230-foot-long tapestry is displayed in a dark room with special lighting, so you can see every detail. Though it's described as a tapestry, it is actually linen cloth embroidered with wool thread. In another room of the museum, a permanent exhibition describes how it was made and gives an overview of the historical context and the Anglo-Norman kingdom in the 11th century. There is also a short 16-minute film, which details the making of the tapestry and includes reconstructions of scenes from the Battle of Hastings.

Mémorial de Caen Mémorial de Caen

This museum details events leading up to WWII as well as its decadeslong aftermath, with exhibits ranging from photos and documents charting the Nazi's rise to power in the 1930s, to life before and after the fall of the Berlin Wall. A tabletop map shows the location of the D-Day landings and a split-screen presentation of the D-Day invasion from both the Allied and Nazi standpoints gives a good overview. A 17-minute film, called "Europe Our History," is shown in a 360-degree theater and included with admission. Outside, you'll find three gardens dedicated to the memory of the Resistance fighters and Allied soldiers who died in Normandy. 

Recent visitors appreciated the comprehensive and educational way the museum covers the war. Others said a visit here is a must before a trip to the D-Day Beaches as it provides important context to the sites. Reviewers said you should plan to spend half a day here to make the most of the museum's offerings and that the audio guide is essential. One particular highlight for travelers was the reconstructed underground bunker of a Nazi general.

Musée du Débarquement Musée du Débarquement

The Musée du Débarquement, located on the seafront where one of the most incredible achievements of WWII happened, shows how the prefabricated Mulberry Harbour was constructed. An engineering feat, the harbors were used to unload troops, vehicles and supplies during the Allied invasion of Normandy in June 1944. While not much is left of the floating harbors, you can still see some remnants of the concrete blocks that were towed across the English Channel. Museum exhibits include models, mock-ups, and photographs depicting its creation and the D-Day landings.

Recent visitors praised the small museum's models and explanations of how the harbor was conceived. However, some said its exhibits are a little dated.

D-Day Omaha Beach Morning or Afternoon Group Tour from Bayeux

(802 reviews)

from $ 91.22

All-in-One Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches and Lunch from Le Havre

(6 reviews)

from $ 164.75

From Le Havre: Paris Seine River Cruise and Highlights Shore Trip

(12 reviews)

from $ 140.04

Palais Bénédictine Palais Bénédictine

Bénédictine liqueur is a big deal in Normandy and if you want to learn more about it, as well as take in the Palais Bénédictine – a Gothic- and Renaissance-inspired building erected in the late 1800s – this is the spot. Le Palais Bénédictine was built in honor of the Bénédictine liqueur by Alexandre Le Grand, a wine merchant from Fécamp who discovered a lost recipe for a potent elixir dating back to 1510 created by a Bénédictine monk. Le Grand named the liqueur after the monks. He also stocked the palace with his art collection. 

Today, visitors can explore the museum on a guided tour, which features collections of sacred and ancient art related to the legacy of Bénédictine, as well as a room dedicated to its industrial history. After the museum tour, you head to the only Bénédictine distillery in the world and enjoy a tasting of the liqueur in the palace's Winter Garden. 

Chateau Gaillard Chateau Gaillard

This castle fortress was amazingly built in a mere two years, between 1196 and 1198, at the direction of Richard the Lionheart, King of England and the Duke of Normandy to protect Rouen against the French. It was captured by Philip II after a six-month siege; Henry IV later ordered that it be destroyed. Today, its clifftop ruins are a reminder of its dramatic past and a fascinating place to visit.

Recent visitors were fascinated by the complex history of the fortress. Others raved about the views and recommend bringing a picnic to enjoy on the grounds. According to recent travelers, there is a large free parking lot within walking distance.

Historial Jeanne d’Arc Historial Jeanne d’Arc

Read More »

Cité de la Mer Cité de la Mer

Airborne Museum Airborne Museum

Giverny Monet House and Gardens Skip the line Walking tour

(147 reviews)

from $ 60.81

Monet's Gardens & House with Art Historian: Private Giverny Tour from Paris

(90 reviews)

from $ 425.70

Mont St Michel Full Day Tour with a National Guide from Bayeux

(169 reviews)

Explore More of Normandy

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

From a dramatic, historic coast to rural pastures, this sweet section of France abounds with apple orchards, enchanting villages, stunning abbeys and sparkling seaports. We base in the lovely seaside town Honfleur. At Giverny, and in the museums in Rouen and Honfleur, we discover the birth of Impressionism. Near the famous beaches of Normandy, the Norman Conquest unfolds in the Bayeux tapestry and we remember the poignant victory of World War II’s D-day. Cider and cheese draw us to the lovely farmland just inland from Honfleur. Our journey ends at the awe inspiring Abbey of Mont-St-Michel.

> more about Normandy...

Other Small World DVDs available in our store

Paris | Provence | French Riviera | Burgundy & Loire Regions | Bordeaux & Dordogne | Carcassonne & the Pyrenees | Champagne Region | Normandy

Only Normandy Road Trip in 7 Days You’ll Ever Need

Some posts on this site contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you!). Read the full disclosure policy here .

Share it here!

What do you think of when you think of a Normandy road trip in 7 days?

Do you imagine pictures of D-Day Beaches? What about Monet’s Gardens in Giverny? Perhaps you’re also thinking of the iconic Mont Saint Michel tidal island that you’ll scroll past on Instagram or TikTok.

When you ask someone what they think of when they think of a road trip in Normandie (that’s the French spelling of Normandy), that’s likely what they’ll imagine. Trust me, I did too at first.

But Normandy is SO much more than that! Did you know that there are stunning sandy beaches that rival those in the Mediterranean, especially during the summer?

What about the fact that this region of France grows apples like crazy, and there is even a whole day trip you can take to see the Cider Route?!

And you cannot forget the adorable Norman houses and towns you’ll drive past and the stunning cliffs along the coast.

When it came time for me to plan another road trip idea in France , I really wanted to explore France’s northwestern region of Normandy. So to help you plan the perfect road trip in Normandy in 7 days, I’ve got you covered!

Whether you’re a fan of rich history or you want to have a road trip that is a little more off-the-beaten-path, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Normandie road trip. 

Summary of the Perfect Normandy Road Trip in 7 Days

This is a quick reference guide to what you’ll be experiencing each day during your Normandy itinerary. For more detailed information including all the things to do, where to stay, and more, keep reading below!

Day 1: Depart Paris, Explore Monet’s Gardens, Visit Castle Ruins, and End in Rouen

Day 2: etretat, honfleur, and deauville.

• Day 3: Cider Route Day Trip

Day 4: Explore Deauville, Have Lunch at an Iconic Market, and Beach Time

• Day 5: Drive to Bayeaux and Experience the D-Day Beaches Via a Guided Tour

Day 6: Mont St Michel and End at a Chateau Hotel

• Day 7: Visit a Cheese Museum and Enjoy the Countryside

Ultimate 7-Day Normany Road Trip Itinerary

Okay, now you’ve got the gist of where we’re going throughout Normandy, let’s kick off a more detailed itinerary of the best Normandie road trip! 

The easiest way to get to Normandy from outside of France is likely by flying into Paris. So before you begin your Normandy trip itinerary, you’ll probably want to explore Paris for a couple of days .

Once you’ve done that, you will pick up your rental car in Paris (we booked our car through Auto Europe and picked it up at Gare de Lyon) on this day and begin your Normandy travel itinerary.

The first stop isn’t too far from Paris. So today you’ll have a little road trip from Paris to Normandy. You’ll drive between an hour to an hour and a half (depending on traffic getting out of the city) to the little town of Giverny . 

And if you’re a fan of Monet, you’re going to love this place! The Monet Gardens are in Giverny, and you can visit both the house where he lived as well as the gardens and lily pond that inspired his famous waterlily paintings. 

Now we did this on our own and at our own pace, but there is a guided tour that you can take either at 10 am or 2 pm that is only 2 hours long and will help give you more context. 

But we enjoyed wandering in the garden, taking photos, admiring the stunning flowers and butterflies around the pond, and enjoying all the lovely artworks in his home. 

After that, we even went to the Museum of Impressionism in Giverny which is just down the road, and wrapped up our time in Giverny with lunch at Le Temps des Fleurs. 

Once you’ve had your fill of the delights of Monet, you’ll continue your road trip for about 25 minutes until you reach an epic castle. Chateau Gaillard dates back to the 1100s and overlooks the Seine River and the town of Les Andelys. 

And man, has it seen some history. It was actually built by Richard the Lionheart, and this castle passed between England and France many times during the Hundred Years’ War. 

Today it lies in ruins, and you can visit it to admire the lovely architecture of this castle as well as take in a stunning view of the Seine. 

After that, be sure to stop by the small commune that Chateau Gaillard towers over: Les Andelys . We stopped by the cathedral, called Collegiale Notre Dame, to admire its architecture, and to take photos of the lovely town square. 

We also saw some river cruise boats that dock here to visit the town and chateau. 

After this quick pitstop, it is time to continue your journey to Rouen . This is about a 50-minute drive into the city.

Spend the remainder of the day exploring Rouen including the Rouen Cathedral , Gros Horloge , as well as the beautiful Old Town area with its charming half-timbered buildings. 

I suggest having a dinner on the square at Brasserie Paul to taste some Norman classics like chicken with Norman apple cider and a selection of local cheeses.

But to wrap up your first eventful day of the ultimate Normandy France itinerary, you’ll want to catch the iconic Rouen Cathedral light show ! 

This occurs during their summer from June 1 through mid-September and it’s so lovely to see the lights colorfully shining and moving on the cathedral. 

There is even an interactive component where you can scan the QR code on the sign and interact with it! 

After that, it is time to head to bed for another epic day in Normandy. 

Where to Stay in Rouen During Your Normandy Road Trip:

Budget: Urban Style de l’Europe

Mid-Range: Hotel Cardinal . This is where we stayed and it is located on the main square overlooking the cathedral! It’s a lovely little hotel for a night in Rouen. 

Luxury: Hotel de Bourgtheroulde

On day 2, you’ve got some time to enjoy the morning in Rouen. So grab a leisurely breakfast and stroll around the town for a bit. I highly recommend checking out the city hall if you’ve got time. 

I really wanted to stop here because Rouen is a sister city of Cleveland and has a memorial plaque in the City Hall because Cleveland’s Lakeside Hospital was around here to help during WW1. 

After exploring Rouen in the morning, it is time to get in the car to continue your Normandy itinerary in 7 days. 

Drive a little over an hour to the coastal town of Etretat . This is a great area to stop to enjoy the sea and town for the afternoon! 

If it is hot outside, you could pack your swimsuit and go for a swim, or you can also just walk along the beach on the boardwalk area, and even grab lunch. 

But this place is most famous for its chalk cliffs , with 3 natural arches (called Porte d’Aval, Porte d’Amont, and Manneporte) as well as one pointed formation called “L’Aiguille” or “the Needle.”

It is stunning to behold! And you can see most of it from the beach itself! However, you can only spot the Needle and the 2 smaller arches (Porte d’Aval and Porte d’Amont) here. But I recommend actually hiking up to the path on the left of the beach (if you’re facing the sea). 

This path will lead you up the hill, where you’ll get a great bird’s eye view of the town, and the local golf course, as well as the chance to spot the 3rd arch, Manneporte. 

This is such a fun way to get close to the cliffs and enjoy the scenery! 

After that, I recommend exploring the town itself, especially as this beachside resort town was quite popular with artists such as Claude Monet. 

But another place to visit in the town has to be the Maison Maurice Leblanc . 

If you’ve ever heard of the French book series called Aresene Lupin, or you’ve even seen the TV show on Netflix, you may recognize this town and beach. 

Well, the author of the series, Maurice Leblanc, once lived in Etretat, and you can visit his home which is now a museum. 

Learn more about the world of Arsene Lupin as you explore the home, and they also have audioguides in English.

After that, it is time to drive about 50 minutes to Honfleur , which is a lovely port town with the most stunning harbor. 

Admire the homes along the old colorful harbor (aka le Vieux-Bassin) to take in the scenery. Here you can grab a coffee or ice cream, take a stroll to see the boats, and, if they are open, enjoy the Musee de la Marine or stop by the Eglise Sainte-Catherine, which is an all-timber church.

After you’ve explored a bit of Honfleur, it is time to drive about 25 minutes to Deauville , where you’ll be staying the night. 

Here you’ll check into your hotel for the next few days. Grab dinner at a lovely spot like Le Jardin , which has delicious seafood and an incredible XL cafe gourmand for dessert that is worth splitting! 

After that, it is time to go to bed for tomorrow’s adventures! 

Where to Stay in Deauville:

Budget: Airbnb is likely your best bet. Deauville is a lovely resort town on the coast, so things can be a bit pricey. 

Mid-Range: Villa Augeval Hotel & Spa . This is where we stayed and we loved it! It has a lovely courtyard, great breakfast, an outdoor pool that is perfect for hot days, and charming rooms. 

Luxury: Hotel Barriere Le Royal Deauville

Day 3 of Your Road Trip in Normandy: Cider Route Day Trip

Did you know that there is a whole mini-road trip in Normandy where you can stop and explore fun cider farms? 

Yes, there are plenty of places to taste cider, Calvados (apple brandy), and Pommeau (apple brandy mixed with apple juice). 

So after a hearty breakfast at your hotel, it is time to jump in the car to enjoy the Route du Cidre ! 

I recommend spending the first part of the day making stops at places like Ferme Cidricole Desvoye and Calvados Pierre Huet to taste their various kinds of ciders ranging from sweet to dry as well as their Pommeau and Calvados. 

After that, make a stop at the Jardins du Pays d’Auge . These stunning gardens are fun to wander through, admire the flowers and plants, and perhaps say hello to the resident donkeys. 

There is even a little old farmhouse museum that you can visit on the property with old tools on display. 

Then, head to Camberer for a little lunch at Au P’tit Normand . This place serves up some fantastic traditional Norman dishes. We particularly loved the fried Livorot cheese with crispy potatoes and a salad. 

After lunch, you can visit a couple more cider mills like GAEC du Manoir de Grandouet , Ferme de la Vallee au Tanneur , and end at Chateau du Breuil . 

Chateau du Breuil is a famous and large distillery, well-known in Normandy for its Calvados. I highly recommend actually taking a tour here, which includes a small tasting at the end. 

They offer tours in English, and I recommend booking online in advance. But it is a fun and interactive experience to learn about how Calvados goes from tree to bottle here. 

After the tastings and the tour, it is time to head back to Deauville. But on the way, be sure to stop by Pont-l’Eveque , a town well-known for a soft bloomy-rind cheese of the same name. 

Stop by a fromagerie to taste some famous cheeses from Normandy like Livorot, Pont-l’Eveque, Camembert, and Neufchatel. 

You can pick up some cheese from the shop and head back to Deauville . I recommend grabbing a baguette and some fruit and having dinner that evening with the cheese you just picked up. 

We had a relaxing evening sitting on the lawn of Villa Augeval where we ate the cheese and sipped on the cider we had purchased during our tastings that day. 

Note: If you choose to do the DIY Cider Route above, please drink responsibly. 

So you’ve spent 2 nights in Deauville, but you haven’t really explored the town that much. Well today, that changes. 

Deauville is an iconic resort town in Normandy, known as being a sort of “Hamptons of Paris.” It is full of the charming architecture you’d find in Normandy but with some other influences like art nouveau as well. 

There are luxury shops like Hermes and Louis Vuitton, but while this town is known for the American Film Festival and being a playground for some of the rich and famous, it is a lot more relaxed and casual compared to places like Cannes (I still love Cannes though!). 

So take some time to explore this lovely town, including spotting the horse barn stables throughout the city, walking along Deauville beach and taking a photo at the iconic lifeguard stand, and even strolling along the Promenade des Planches to see the old Pompeian baths from the 1920s and celebrity names on the old bathing cabins. 

But if you’re here on a Tuesday, Friday, or Saturday, you should definitely stop by the Deauville Market . This place has everything from fresh fruits and seafood to silk scarves and clothing. 

It is a lovely market to wander around in the morning, as it closes up at around 1:30 pm. 

And for lunch, you’ll definitely want to walk across the bridge over to Trouville for the Marche aux Poissons . 

This fish market certainly sells fresh seafood, but you can actually also order up what you’d like to eat for lunch at the counter and they’ll make it for you there! There are even tables where you can sit and enjoy your fresh catch of the day lunch with some wine. 

It was a lot of fun, and we ended up ordering some crab, prawns, and whelks to try with some aioli sauce and white wine. 

Then, after lunch, you can head back into Deauville and explore more of the town like the giant park called Parc Calouste Gulbenkian , admire the Villa Strassburger , or even try your luck at the Casino Barriere Deauville . 

Or, if you’re there on a day during a heat wave, as we were, you could just relax and rent a beach chair and umbrella at Bar de la Mer for the day. I recommend reserving the chair earlier in the day and coming back after lunch so you get a good spot! 

Enjoy ordering drinks and food to your lounger in between swimming in the English Channel and strolling along the sandy beach in Deauville. 

It was the perfect way to wrap up an afternoon in this seaside resort town. 

Or, lastly, if you’re here during a time when there are horse racing events, try to get a ticket if you can to see the races at one of the two race tracks in Deauville. 

After a full day of enjoying the best of Deauville, it is time to grab dinner and rest up for a full day tomorrow. 

Day 5: Drive to Bayeux and Experience the D-Day Beaches Via a Guided Tour

This morning it is time to bid adieu to the lovely town of Deauville and drive an hour to Bayeux . You’ll want to get up pretty early this day, as you’ll want to be sure to have enough time to get to your hotel, drop off your luggage, and get to the meeting point for a tour of the D-Day Beaches .

Yes, you can’t make a trip all the way out to Normandy and not see them, right? 

We went on this tour by Ophorus and cannot recommend it enough! It starts at 9 am from Place de Quebec in Bayeux and is a full-day tour including stops at La Pointe du Hoc , Utah Beach , Sainte-Mere-Eglise , Omaha Beach , and the Normandy American Cemetery . 

These are pretty popular places to stop on a tour, and the guides here are super knowledgeable. And if you’re lucky enough to get the guide we had, Matt Turner, you’re in for a treat.

Aside from his incredible breadth of knowledge of WW2 and D-Day, he added humanity to the war by telling stories of many individuals and their experiences. 

We even made some extra stops at Place Toccoa and Sainte Marie du Mont where he told even more moving stories, including about two medics who saved several lives at Sainte Marie du Mont church. 

He also asked us if it was okay to get back to Bayeux a little after 5 so that we could see the American Cemetery flag-lowering ceremony at 5 pm. 

It was an incredibly educational, somber, and reflective day. And while I’ve always been interested in WW2 history, this tour really was the best tour I’ve ever been on. 

I highly recommend spending a full day on this tour to get the most out of it versus going on a half-day tour.

Book the tour here!

After that full-day tour, I recommend spending some time wandering around the main part of town and admiring the Medieval architecture, which was thankfully spared the bombings of WW2 and was mostly intact during the war when other towns were flattened.

Then, grab some dinner and head to bed.

Where to Stay in Bayeux:

Budget: Hotel Le Bayeux

Mid-Range: Hotel Reine Mathilde . This is where we stayed and it was lovely! The room was spacious, and it is right in the heart of Bayeux- perfect for exploring! 

Luxury: Hotel Villa Lara

On day 6, you don’t have to get up that early, so have a nice breakfast at your hotel and explore more of Bayeux like the Cathedrale de Bayeux and the Bayeux Tapestry Museum . 

The famous Bayeux Tapestry is around 224 feet long and depicts the events surrounding the conquest of England in 1066 by William the Conquerer. 

It is an incredibly old tapestry and in fantastic condition. I highly recommend coming here and getting an audioguide to learn about each part of the tapestry. It was truly interesting learning the events that led up to the Battle of Hastings as well as the battle itself! 

While many people tend to visit Bayeux as a jumping-off point to the D-Day Beaches, I highly recommend stopping in here as it shows the incredibly rich history of Normandy! 

After this museum, it is time to drive an hour and a half west almost to the border of Normandy and Brittany to see another iconic place in Normandy: Mont Saint Michel . 

This tidal island is home to the incredible Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey . It is known as a tidal island because when the tide is low it is possible to walk across the sand to the island. 

During high tide, it becomes an island. Thankfully, there is a bridge to access the island, and that is the best way to walk to it from the parking lot. You can also take a shuttle if you don’t wish to walk that far. 

Once on the island, you should definitely explore the abbey. I recommend booking tickets in advance to be able to see it, as it can be pretty busy and the lines long to access the abbey. 

The views from the abbey are spectacular! You can spend quite a bit of time exploring the abbey, enjoying the little cobblestone streets around the island, doing some souvenir shopping, and grabbing some lunch. 

There are also quite a few museums on the island to explore including the Historical Museum which explains the history of the island and abbey, the Maritime Museum which explores the tidal phenomenon in the Bay of Mont-Saint Michel, and more! 

After some exploring, it is time to head back to the car park and drive to the last hotel during your time in Normandy!

Now if you prefer not to drive all the way to Mont-Saint Michel from Bayeux and want a tour for context, this tour is a great idea . It includes a guided tour of the island and abbey, tickets to see the abbey, and roundtrip transportation from Bayeux. 

Book it here!

But, after exploring Mont-Saint Michel, it is time to head to the small town of Saint-Pierre-en-Auge. 

Here, I highly recommend staying at Chateau de Hieville . This chateau is a fully renovated bed and breakfast complete with adorably and classically decorated rooms, a heated outdoor pool, a garden, and even a resident donkey and goat! 

The art in the chateau is even the owner’s family portraits and art passed down through the centuries! It really does feel like being in a castle. 

After checking in, you can explore the nearby town of Saint-Pierre-en-Auge and see the Medieval market square which even has an old covered market still used today! 

Then, end your evening at Logis Les Agricultures for a delicious Norman meal.

Day 7 of Your 7-Day Normandy Road Trip: Visit a Cheese Museum and Enjoy the Countryside

This morning you’ll have a lovely relaxed breakfast at your chateau hotel. Breakfast here is made by the owner’s husband who is a pastry chef. Enjoy local charcuterie and cheeses with fresh baguettes and croissants. 

There is also usually something delicious like a cake or traditional pudding to enjoy as well. Pair it with some orange juice and fresh coffee, and it is the perfect start to the day. 

After breakfast, head to Maison du Camembert to learn all about the history of this famed Norman cheese and how it is made! 

Because Normandy is well-known for its soft, bloomy rind cheeses you cannot leave this region without learning more.

This little museum is really fun, and at the end, you even get to see how the cheese is made in their own factory! 

Oh, and you get a free tasting of different Camembert cheeses including pasteurized, unpasteurized, and a mix of both. 

After you’ve had your fill of cheese, head back into the town of Saint-Pierre-en-Auge to explore the Abbaye de Saint-Pierre-sur-Dives with its lovely cloisters, and the Old Mill , and grab some items for lunch. 

After this, head back to enjoy a relaxing final afternoon in Normandy at the chateau. Have your picnic lunch with cider in the garden, and go for a swim in the pool. Stroll through the veggie garden and see the farm animals. 

Overall, just take time to relax and unwind. It was a warm final day for us in Normandy, so we definitely enjoyed some time by the pool and relaxing in the chateau. 

Then, that evening, I recommend making a reservation to enjoy one last traditional Norman meal at Au P’tit Normand again! 

I ended up trying the andouillette with Normandy sauce and it was quite good! 

After this, you’ll head to bed in the tranquil countryside. The following day, you’ll enjoy one last delectable homemade breakfast at the chateau before departing for Paris. 

You’ll want a semi-early start as it is about a 3-hour drive from the chateau to Paris. 

This is the ultimate way to enjoy a 7-day Normandie itinerary! 

How to Get Around Normandy

While you can access some towns and cities via train in Normandy, such as Deauville and Bayeux, there are a lot of small towns to visit during this itinerary. 

As such, having a car is the best way to visit Normandy. You can be on your own schedule, and it provides the flexibility to visit smaller towns along the Cider Route and in the countryside in general. 

For finding great rental car prices, I love Auto Europe ! I ended up renting a car from Gare de Lyon in Paris and returned it there after the road trip. Book in advance for the best prices! 

When to Visit Normandy

When it comes to the best time to visit Normandy, you’ll probably want to aim for the summertime. 

Normandy can be chilly and rainy throughout the year, but summertime is your best bet for good weather and warmer temperatures. It is kind of like its neighbor to the north, the United Kingdom, in that way. 

Also, if you want to swim in the sea, you’ll definitely want to come in the summer months when it is warm enough to do so. Therefore, late June-August is a good time to visit. Note that August can be pretty crowded with Parisians coming for the beaches as well. 

For good weather, May through September is a good time to go to Normandy ! I visited in early September and it was very warm and sunny. However, the year we went, there was quite a heatwave going on. 

If you don’t care to swim and want decent weather, May and late September are pretty good months to visit to avoid the crowds in the summertime. 

Aside from the weather, May through September is a good time to visit as there are great festivals and horse racing events going on. 

Other Tips For Your 7-Day Normandy France Trip

Before you set out on your road trip to Normandy, here are some tips to consider:

• Enjoy a slower pace. Things move a little slower in Normandy than in the bustling city of Paris. And that’s okay. So don’t be in a rush to see everything. And, while there isn’t a ton of city traffic around the Norman countryside, note that you may get stuck behind a few tractors. 
• Be prepared for rain and cooler weather. It doesn’t matter the time of year. I’d definitely pack an umbrella and a light jacket even during the summertime in case it cools down and rains. 
• Know the rules of the road.  I find this website to be helpful when it comes to  driving tips  and  French road signs . Also, it is a good idea to have an International Driving Permit. I get mine at AAA.
• Learn a little French. In the countryside of Normandy, knowing a little French can help a lot, especially in the smaller towns. In cities like Rouen and Bayeux, you can find people who speak English too, but even knowing some basic French phrases will help you out a lot. 
• Always say “Bonjour/Bonsoir.” This is a French travel necessity. It is important to greet people in shops and cafes with a simple “Bonjour” or “Bonsoir” depending on the time of day. I typically start saying “Bonsoir” after 5 pm.
• Try local products! Whether it is their delicious cheese or their apple products, Normandy has a lot of great produce and treats to enjoy! Also, you must try some of their famous dishes like Norman mussels, Norman apple pie, tarte tatin with calvados, and more! 
• Don’t expect A/C. Many hotels don’t always have air conditioning in Normandy. Much like the UK, for the most part, it doesn’t get super hot, and therefore it really isn’t needed. However, in this day and age with global warming, heatwaves do pass through and it can be quite hot. Again, heat isn’t a big deal most of the time during a visit, but if you hit a heatwave as we did, you’ll definitely want to either book a hotel with air conditioning or learn to sleep with the windows open at night. 
• Have fun! I loved exploring Normandy on this road trip. There is so much to this region of France that many people either overlook or just don’t visit at all compared to more popular places like Provence. It is also far less crowded! 

This is the only 7-day Normandy road trip itinerary that you’ll ever need! Leave Normandy feeling like you’ve really experienced it. From the famed Calvados distilleries and D-Day Beaches to the charming towns and chalk cliffs, Normandy is a treasure waiting for you to enjoy! 

Would you love this Normandy road trip itinerary in 7 days? Let us know what you’d like to see! 

Follow the journey!

Signup for exclusive travel tips for France!

Thanks for subscribing! Be sure to check your email to confirm your subscription.

Want more France travel inspiration? Check these posts out!

• Best Things to Do in Dijon
• Best French Cheeses
• Top Alsace Christmas Markets
• Top French Pharmacy Products
• 35 Best Gifts For Francophiles
• Best Paris Gifts
• Ultimate Luberon Villages Guide
• Best Day Trips From Annecy
• Paris Travel Tips For First Timers
• Hidden Gems of Paris
• Paris in 3 Days
• 1 Day in Paris
• Best Things to Do in Lyon
• Best Things to Do in Grenoble
• Paris to Versailles Itinerary
• Best Time to Visit Paris
• Weekend Trips From Paris
• Most Romantic Things to Do in Paris
• Where to Stay in Paris
• France Bucket List
• Most Beautiful Cities in France
• Annecy in Winter
• 1 Day in Annecy
• Paris Bucket List
• Epernay or Reims: Which Should You Visit?
• How to Visit Paris in January
• Only South of France Itinerary You’ll Ever Need
• Best Things to Do in Cassis
• 1 Day in Avignon
• 1 Day in Nice
• How to Spend 3 Days in Cannes
• 1 Day in Strasbourg
• How to Spend 7 Days in Paris
• How to Spend 10 Days in France
• Ultimate Paris 2024 Olympics Travel Guide
• 1 Day in Colmar
• Ultimate Guide to Champagne Tasting in Reims
• Paris in the Fall Guide
• Best Smaller Museums in Paris
• Best Things to Do in Epernay
• Strasbourg Christmas Market Guide
• Colmar Christmas Market Guide
• Ribeauville Christmas Market Guide
• Obernai Christmas Market Guide
• Kaysersberg Christmas Market Guide
• Riquewihr Christmas Market Guide
• Weekend in Champagne Itinerary

Pin it here!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Your ultimate guide to visiting France

The Ultimate Normandy Road Trip Itinerary

Planning a driving tour of Normandy? Then you are in for a treat!

Normandy is undoubtedly one of France’s most beautiful and historic regions. Situated in the northern part of the country, it is an area that boasts magnificent seaside resorts, grand casinos, beautiful hillsides, and Belle Époque–style villas.

It’s also packed with a plethora of mediaeval towns and historical landmarks, like the Mont-Saint-Michel and Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen, that will charm and captivate you in equal measure.

Having played an integral role in the D-Day invasions of WWII, the area also provides a sombre reminder of the human cost of peace, as evidenced by the many memorials, museums, and cemeteries that are devoted to it.

Best discovered by walking through its mediaeval town centres, and engaging in scenic drives in Normandy, there are hundreds of places you can visit to really get a feel for the place.

In this guide, our aim is to help you plan your ultimate Normandy Road Trip itinerary. So let’s get into it!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!

Table of Contents

Planning a Road Trip in Normandy

When planning your Normandy road trip itinerary there is much to think about; not the least of which being when is the best time to go there.

How do you get there? And also what destinations should you visit once you arrive?

In the subsequent sections below we will try and answer these questions for you to help you to put together a proper schedule for your road trip in Normandy.

When is the Best Time to go on a Road Trip in Normandy?

The best time to embark on a Normandy road trip very much depends on what you are looking for.

For sure you’ll find the nicest weather between June and August. However, this also coincides with the peak tourist season, as well as the D-Day commemorations. So you are likely to encounter more people and higher accommodation prices around this time.

For this reason, the shoulder seasons of spring (April and May) and autumn (September and October) might be better options, as the weather is still pleasant (though you might need coats and jumpers), accommodation prices are cheaper and visitor numbers tend to be reduced.

Winter can be a good time to visit Normandy in the sense that accommodation rates will be at low season rates. However, the weather frequently might be cold, dark, and rainy, and you may even find some smaller towns, and several tourist attractions might have temporarily closed down.

How to Get to Normandy

Accessible by air, sea, road or rail, Normandy is a very easy destination to get to.

Just a two hour train journey from Paris, the region also boasts four cross-Channel ports, several major train stations and two international airports. So no matter how you choose to get there, you shouldn’t have too many problems.

Most international visitors to Normandy will fly into Paris Charles de Gaulle, Paris Orly, and Nantes International Airport. Although some flights from abroad will get you into Caen-Carpiquet and Deauville Airports. At all of these airports you will be able to hire a car from companies like Avis or Enterprise.

From the UK and Ireland, five different ferry companies operate, most of which will take you to Dieppe or Cherbourg.

If you would prefer to take the train, there are several stations around Normandy which can be reached from either Paris Gare Saint-Lazare train station, or Paris Gare Montparnasse. This includes Caen, Evreux, Le Havre, Rouen, Cherbourg, Dieppe, Bayeux, and Deauville.

The Perfect Itinerary for a Road Trip in Normandy

Planning a driving tour of Normandy? Well here are some terrific places to visit during your time there.

Stop 1: Rouen

The capital of Northern France, Rouen is the perfect place to start your scenic drives in Normandy.

Located on the River Seine, it is a city rich in history. Very important as a seaport in Roman times and the Middle Ages, it was claimed and reclaimed by both the English and French several times during the Hundred Years War. It was also here that Joan of Arc was famously tried and burned at the stake in 1431.

Now known for its charming, cobblestoned pedestrian centre, which features a number of notable mediaeval half-timbered houses, the city boasts some world-class cultural establishments including Rouen Cathedral, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Secq des Tournelles museum.

Also featuring a collection of Gothic Churches, including Saint-Ouen and Saint-Maclou, its skyline is defined by the Cathédrale Notre-Dame. Whose impressive spires were regularly immortalised in the works of Impressionist painter Claude Monet.

• Stroll through the Jardin des Plantes: Covering 85,000 square metres, the Jardin des Plantes showcases plant species from all over the world. Major highlights include an Asian-inspired rock garden, a rose garden, and a garden for medicinal plants.
• Visit Old Market Square: Situated at western end of the Rue du Gros-Horloge, this is where Joan of Arc was burnt alive. Around the square you will find some beautiful corbelled and half-timbered houses.
• Check out the Musée Le Secq des Tournelles: This unique church is situated inside a former church – the Church of Saint-Laurent – which dates back to the beginning of the 16th century. It exhibits a fascinating collection of centuries old ironworks that used to belong to Henri Secq Tournelles.
• Peruse the Musée des Beaux-Arts: Rouen is home to a fine arts museum that features a range of art, sculpture, and decorative items that derive from the 1500s to the 20th century. Some of the cultural treasures you can see include the works of Monet, Pissaro, Degas, Sisley, and Renoir.
• See the Gros Horloge: A big mediaeval landmark in Rouen, this impressive, astronomical clock is mounted above a beautiful renaissance passageway and arch. It features a mechanism from the 1300s that still works today!

Stop 2: Veules-les-Roses

Looking like it was plucked straight from the pages of a fairytale storybook, Veules-les-Roses is one of the oldest villages in the Pays de Caux. It is also undoubtedly one of the prettiest, too.

Situated on the Alabaster Coast, about 180 kilometres to the north of Paris, this stunning coastal village is a ‘must-see’ destination.

Rich in unspoilt charm, and featuring several gorgeous half-timbered cottages, the town is also divided by The Veules, which is France’s smallest river.

Once a flourishing fishing port in the Middle Ages, it has been a cherished holiday resort for painters, writers and poets since the 19th century. Providing an inspiring and relaxing backdrop for a coastal escape and a city detox.

• Take a walk along the river: Enjoy the beautiful waterside scenery as you familiarise yourself with the area.
• Check out the watercress fields: The town has an impressive area where it grows watercress. Against the backdrop of the waterways, it is an arresting sight.
• See the mills: Mills have been a part of the Veules river since the 13th century. Though most of the remaining ones you can see today were built around the 18th and 19th century.
• Walking along the Veules-les-Roses Beach: This pebbly beach showcases fabulous views of the cliffs that run all the way to the Saint-Valery-en-Caux, as well as a stunning pier.

Stop 3: Honfleur

Possessing one of the prettiest ports in France, Honfleur was an important trading post back in the Middle Ages.

Nestled on the southern banks of the Seine estuary, it enjoyed a strategic location, which was fortified by the French King during the Hundred Years’ War. (Although this didn’t prevent the English from taking control of it for multiple decades).

Today it is one of the country’s most visited towns. With thousands of people flocking here to see the iconic brightly coloured half-timbered houses that line the quay. 

Also well known for its captivating art galleries and delightful restaurants, the city boasts a famous wooden main church and a long-time association with such celebrated impressionist artists as Claude Monet, Eugène Boudin, and Gustave Courbet.

• Enjoy the beautiful architecture of the Vieux Bassin: This gorgeous old Insta-worthy harbour is framed on three sides by narrow and very high timber-frame houses that come in all colours.
• Be impressed by the Church of Sainte-Catherine: This incredible church was constructed entirely out of wood by shipwrights. It features many different decorative details that have a nautical theme. Not least, the ceiling that looks a lot like a ship’s hull.
• Browse the Maritime Museum: Previously known as the Church of Saint-Étienne, this fascinating museum provides a detailed history of the Honfleur from a seafaring perspective.
• Take in the magnificence of the Chapel of Notre-Dame-de-Grâce: A stunning 17th-century chapel that resides atop a hill and features an enchanting mix of paintings, plaques, and sculptures 
• Delight at The Eugène Boudin Museum: This fine art museum houses several 19th and 20th century artworks by artists like Boudin, Monet, Jongkind, and Dufy that have a long association with the town.

Stop 4: Etretat

Nestled on the northern coast of France, Étretat enjoys one of the most breathtaking locations of anywhere in the country.

Definitely one to add to your bucket list, it is best known for its jaw-dropping 90-metre-high chalk cliffs. Which include three natural arches and a 70-metre pointed formation called L’Aiguille (the Needle).

Serving as the setting for ‘The Hollow Needle’, the popular 1909 French children’s book about Arsène Lupin that was written by Maurice Leblanc, the cliffs and its beach were also featured in the 2014 film Lucy – which was directed by Luc Besson.

They also served as an inspiration to many celebrated impressionist painters like Eugène Boudin, Claude Monet, Gustave Courbet, and Charles Daubigny, as well as countless tourists looking for that perfect Insta shot.

• Take in the views of the cliffs: Lay down a towel, or set up a fold up chair, and spend some time taking in the magnificent views of the small pebbly beach, and the two majestic white chalk cliffs that bookend it.
• Check out the outstanding views from the top of Notre Dame de la Garde: The existing chapel of Notre Dame de la Garde was built in the 1950s and replaced the previous one that was destroyed during the war by the Nazis in 1942. If you climb to the top of it, you will witness more incredible, panoramic views of the Etretat cliffs from a much higher vantage point.
• Go to the Etretat Gardens: Sitting on top of the cliffs that overlook the impressive ‘Etretat Needle’, the gardens are a picturesque mix of huge sculptures and landscape art that are well worth viewing.
• Play a round of golf at the Golf d’Etretat: Perched on top of the Norman cliffs and showcasing magnificent views of the Bay of Etretat, the golf course is a ‘must-play’ if you are into the sport.

Stop 5: Le Havre

Le Havre is a port city that is located at the mouth of the River Seine.

Regarded as the birthplace of the impressionist movement, it was here that Claude Monet painted ‘Impression, Sunrise’, a dramatic depiction of the sun rising through the industrial chimneys of the city. A painting that led one unimpressed critic to dismiss it as ‘impressionism’.

Almost completely rebuilt after suffering significant damage in World War II, the city features an unusual concrete landscape that was designed by Auguste Perret.

Now designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005, the city is known for its stunning beach, beautiful marina, very good bar and restaurant scene, and an excellent modern art museum.

• Marvel at the St. Joseph’s Church: Built by Auguste Perret, this incredible church features a neo-gothic temple that boasts a 107 metre tall tower and 12,768 panes of coloured glass.
• See the exhibits at Musée d’Art Moderne André Malraux: Contained within a modern steel and glass building adjacent to the marina, this museum features over 500 years of amazing artworks.
• Sunbathe on Le Havre Beach: This massive pebble beach has been awarded Blue Flag status. For those who want to swim, the sea is very clean, though maybe a little cold. There are also plenty of restaurants to eat at with a lovely view.
• Les Jardins Suspendus: An enchanting botanical garden that enjoys a stunning hilltop location. It features a fabulous selection of flora that derives from various parts of the world including North America, East Asia, and Oceania.

Stop 6: Deauville

Located on the Côte Fleurie, Deauville enjoys a reputation for being one of Normandy’s most upscale seaside resorts.

Famous for its iconic celebrity boardwalk, bright, multi-coloured parasols that line its beach, and for hosting the annual American Film Festival, it has been a popular holiday destination for the rich and famous since the 1800s.

Also well known for its magnificent casino, outstanding golf courses, and for its world-renowned horse racing tracks of Deauville la Touques and Clairefontaine, this is an area that oozes class.

Centred around the wonderful Les Planches – an immaculate, wide, sandy beach that features a boardwalk with colourful bathing cabins – it presents plenty of deluxe hotels, chic boutiques, high-end restaurants, and elegant belle epoque villas, as well as rejuvenating, and exclusive sea-related treatments from exclusive spas.

• Relax on Deauville Beach: The iconic 1.5 mile sweep of soft pristine sand provides a fabulous backdrop in which to sunbathe. For the full Deauville Beach experience, be sure to rent out a colourful umbrella!
• Walk the boardwalk: Built in 1923, the historic red ironwood Promenade des Planches boardwalk stretches for 2,000 feet and showcases tremendous views.
• Enjoy a day at the Races: Deauville has a history of horse racing that dates back to 1863, when riders and horses galloped along the beach. Today, its two courses attract international jockeys, trainers, and horses for its summer and winter race programme that incorporates about 40 races every year.
• Spot celebrities at The American Film Festival: This famous film festival takes place in September and features premiere screenings of new movie releases and A-List celebrities walking the red carpet.

Stop 7: Cabourg

Boasting a fabulous sandy beach that stretches far into the distance in both directions, Cabourg is another very popular seaside resort that you should make a point of heading to on your road trip in Normandy.

Founded in mediaeval times, over 1400 years ago, this historic region has been a popular spot for sea bathing since 1855. It is situated in the Calvados department of Normandy, at the mouth of the river Dives, and has affectionately been dubbed the ‘Queen of the Côte Fleurie’. 

With a casino, racecourse, several stunning Belle Epoque villas that line the waterfront promenade, beautiful gardens, and a very Grand Hôtel, there is plenty to captivate the visitor.

• Walk the promenade: The Marcel Proust Promenade is a lovely place to stroll along. Providing eye-catching views of the coastal heights of the Côte Fleurie to the west, the stunning Côte de Nacre coastline to the west and Côte d’Albâtre and Le Havre over the water.
• Try your luck in the Casino: Why not consider having a flutter at Cabourg’s iconic casino?
• Check out the Casino Gardens: The Casino Gardens presents an outstanding floral environment that is well worth checking out.
• Wander down Avenue de la Mer: Explore the boutique shops and restaurants on this popular pedestrianised street.

Stop 8: Caen

Caen is both a port city and the capital of the Normandy region’s Calvados department.

Enjoying a rich history, much of its architecture was constructed during the reign of William the Conqueror. Who, himself, was laid to rest there, after he died in Rouen in 1087.

During the Battle of Normandy in 1944 much of the city was destroyed. However, despite this, several notable buildings remained intact, including the imposing Château de Caen, which was built around 1060. 

Now fully rebuilt, this bustling city on the River Orne, is well known for its central location near several excellent beaches and imperious mountains, as well as being one of the oldest university towns in the country.

• Visit the Abbey of Sainte-Trinité: Impressive Norman Romanesque abbey that was founded by Matilda of Flanders, the wife of William the Conqueror in mid-11th century. Her tomb lies in the abbey.
• Head to Colline aux Oiseaux Rose Garden: Gorgeous manicured park with a beautiful rose garden that offers fantastic views over the city and its surroundings.
• Check out the Abbaye aux Hommes: Established by William the Conqueror in 1063, this abbey is his final resting place. Built in a Norman Romanesque style, it features ornately decorated gothic towers on its western facade.
• Have fun at the Festyland Parc: Divided into four different zones – Mediaeval, Viking, Belle Époque, and Pirate – Normandy’s largest theme park features two rollercoasters and four splash rides, as well as a 3D cinema, adventure playground, and a petting zoo.
• Pop into the Château de Bénouville: A stunning stately country home northeast of Caen that was designed in an 18th-century neoclassical style by Claude Nicolas Ledoux.

Stop 9: Bayeux

Nestled on the Aure river, just 10 km from the Channel Coast, Bayeux is an idyllic and historic place to visit on your Normandy road trip.

Radiating a distinctly French air, the city was lucky enough to be quickly liberated by the Allies in June 1944. However, this came at a tragic human cost as evidenced by the commemorative war museum and British cemetery that resides here.

Known for the spectacular 68-metre Tapisserie de Bayeux, a UNESCO-listed 11th-century tapestry that depicts the Norman’s successful conquest of England in 1066, the city also features the impressive Norman-Gothic Cathédrale Notre-Dame.

In addition, it also boasts a charming mediaeval centre that comprises half-timbered houses and cobbled streets, which has a rather magical feel to it.

• Revel in the magnificence of Notre-Dame Cathedral of Bayeux: Originally built in a Romanesque style in the 12th century, the church is an historic and stunning sight to visit.
• Check out the Tapisserie de Bayeux: This incredible 900 year old tapestry will blow you away with its ornate and meticulous detail.
• Visit the Bayeux War Cemetery: Pay your respects to the 4500+ fallen British soldiers who are buried here.
• Enjoy the beauty of the old town: Take in the sights of the charming old town, which includes an historic waterwheel.

Stop 10: D-Day Beaches

For many people, the D-Day landing beaches are a must visit destination.

Extending for over 70 km, they run from Sainte-Marie-du-Mont to Ouistreham and also include Colleville-sur-Mer and Arromanches-les-Bains.

Graphically portrayed in the 1998 American epic war film Saving Private Ryan, which starred Tom Hanks and was directed by Steven Spielberg, nearly 3,000 Allied servicemen were killed on D-Day.

Now a testament to the human cost of peace across the world, millions of people come to the area every year to learn more about the events of that fateful day, visiting the numerous cemeteries, museums, and memorials in the area that commemorate what happened.

• Visit the D-Day Museum in Arromanches: This museum pays homage to the Allied and British forces who fought and perished in the Battle of Normandy.
• Pay your respects at Omaha Beach: Visit the American Cemetery, where over 3000 US Soldiers are buried, as well as the Overlord Museum.
• Peruse the Sainte-Mère-Église and Airborne Museum: Discover the story of how paratroopers of the 82nd and 101st Airborne Division played a critical role in liberating the town of Sainte-Mère-Église. The first in Normandy to be liberated.
• Centre Juno Beach: Family-friendly series of displays, presentations, exhibits and films that convey Canada’s contributions to the Allied war effort.

Stop 11: Granville

Granville has been a popular seaside resort since the back end of the 19th century.

Nestled in between Mont-Saint-Michel to the north and Coutances to the south, it lies on the southwest coast of the Cotentin peninsula.

Presenting sensational views of the Bay of the Mont Saint-Michel, as seen from its fortified headland, this fabulous destination features an eclectic mix of attractions. Its mediaeval Upper Town and bustling fishing port are well worth exploring. While the fabulous Chausey Islands are situated just a 15 km ferry ride away.

Talking of fabulous, the area was the birthplace of Christian Dior, and also boasts a magnificent beach; just as well, on the more sombre side, concrete block houses that provide a link back to the German occupation in World War II.

• Explore the walled Upper Town: Comprises a gothic church, a house with multiple turrets, fine stone mansions, and a great selection of galleries, shops, restaurants, and crêperies.
• Peruse the Christian Dior house: Celebrated couturier was born in Granville. His childhood home has been turned into a museum, which hosts an exhibition dedicated to him.
• Eat lots of seafood: Granville is a major fishing harbour for clams, whelks, cuttlefish, dog cockles, scallops, and sea bream. There are plenty of restaurants where you can treat yourself to a delicious food platter.
• Attend the Granville Carnival: If you happen to be here in February, you should attend this major event which has run for over 150 years. Attracting around 130,000 visitors every year, this five day festival features over 40 carnival floats and many tons of confetti.

Stop 12: Iles Chausey

Nestled just 15 km from Granville, Iles Chausey is a fascinating place to visit.

Known for its stunning natural beauty and impressive tides, the Chausey archipelago comprises 365 islets at low tide and only 52 at high tide.

Gifted to the Benedictine monks of Mont Saint-Michel by Richard II in 1022, the islands are a haven for fishermen. The pristine landscape also features six outstanding beaches, of which three are open to tourists for sunbathing and recreational activities.

It also boasts an iconic lighthouse too, which towers 39 metres above the sea and has been operational since 1847. It also includes a castle that dates back to 1559 and a chapel that was built in the 1840s.

Dolphins have been known to frequent the area too.

• Sunbathe or Swim: On any of the three beaches that are open to the public.
• Visit the chapel: Built around 1850 it possesses gorgeous stained-glass windows that were created by Yves Durand de Saint-Front
• Check out the castle: Built in 1559, this magnificent structure was restored in 1923 by the industrialist Louis Renault.
• Explore around the lighthouse: Observe the square stone tower which rises 62 feet from the 2-story keeper’s house that is nestled on the Grand Ile Chausey’s highest point. 

Stop 13: Mont-Saint-Michel

Situated just one kilometre off France’s north west coast, Mont-Saint-Michel is a small island commune that occupies just 240 acres.

Even though it is small – it is home to just 29 people – what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in beauty and history. As it rises dramatically from the sea, don’t be surprised if you break out into goosebumps at first sight of it.

Dominated by the magnificent Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel, this UNESCO World Heritage site is one of Normandy’s top attractions. It is also an important stop on the Chemin de Saint Jacques, which is the pilgrimage route that leads to Santiago de Compostela in Spain.

The stunning abbey is positioned on the highest point of the islet, while the impressive mediaeval village is enclosed by ancient defence walls. During high tide, the Mont Saint-Michel can appear foreboding and impenetrable against the raging waters. But at low tide, it is actually very possible to walk around its perimeter.

• Take a guided tour of the abbey: Learn all about its history that dates back to the 18th century.
• Stroll around the Chemin des Remparts: Taking in the magnificent scenic views of the surrounding waterway along the ramparts pathway.
• Check out the Grand Rue: The island’s only street runs alongside the ramparts. It features a lovely mix of cafes, bars, souvenir shops, restaurants, and hotel accommodations.
• Walk around the island: You can only do this during low tide, but it will give you a unique perspective of the islet.

You may also be interested in:

• The Ultimate Corsica Road Trip Itinerary
• The Perfect South West France Road Trip: Itinerary & tips for planning a road trip in South West France

FrancePocketGuide

Privacy overview.

Normandy Travel Guide

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

Select Month

• roughguides.com
• Travel guide
• Itineraries
• Local Experts
• Travel Advice
• Accommodation

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

I would give this 6 stars if the ratings went that high! This really was one of the highlights of our vacation. Due to scheduling issues, we ended up with ...

Now firmly incorporated into the French mainstream, the seaboard province of Normandy has a history of prosperous and powerful independence. Colonized by Vikings from the ninth century onwards, it went on to conquer not only England but as far afield as Sicily and areas of the Near East. Later, as part of France, it was instrumental in the settlement of Canada.

The food of Normandy

Inland normandy, joan of arc, mont st-michel, seine maritime.

Normandy’s wealth has always depended on its ports: Rouen , on the Seine, is the nearest navigable point to Paris, while Dieppe , Le Havre and Cherbourg have important transatlantic trade. Inland, it is overwhelmingly agricultural – a fertile belt of tranquil pastureland, where the chief interest for many will be the groaning restaurant tables of regions such as the Pays d’Auge . While parts of the coast are overdeveloped, due either to industry, as with the huge sprawl of Le Havre, or tourism – as along the “Norman Riviera”, around Trouville and Deauville – ancient harbours such as Honfleur and Barfleur remain irresistible, and numerous seaside villages lack both crowds and affectations. The banks of the Seine, too, hold several delightful little communities.

Normandy also boasts extraordinary Romanesque and Gothic architectural treasures, although only its much-restored capital, Rouen, retains a complete medieval centre. Elsewhere, the attractions are more often single buildings than entire towns. Most famous of all is the spectacular merveille on the island of Mont St-Michel , but there are also the monasteries at Jumièges and Caen , the cathedrals of Bayeux and Coutances, and Richard the Lionheart’s castle above the Seine at Les Andelys . Bayeux has its vivid and astonishing tapestry, while more recent creations include Monet’s garden at Giverny . Furthermore, Normandy’s vernacular architecture makes it well worth exploring inland – rural back roads are lined with splendid centuries-old half-timbered manor houses. It’s remarkable how much has survived – or, less surprisingly, been restored – since the D-Day landings in 1944 and the subsequent Battle of Normandy, which has its own legacy in war museums, memorials and cemeteries.

Travel ideas for France, created by local experts

14 days  / from 3953 USD

An active walking tour out of the way in France

Your trip starts with an in-depth introduction to France in Paris: several unique day excursions connect you with local Parisians to show you their city and way of life. Afterwards continue south to start a few days walking journey through Southern France before ending around Avignon.

10 days  / from 2469 USD

Southern France – Walks in the Alpilles and Lavender fields

Start your tour in the coastal city of Marseille, exploring Cassis on the way. Around the Alpilles in Provence, you will be provided with detailed walking materials to explore the area on foot, from both Les Baux and St Remy. End your tour in famous Avignon.

12 days  / from 3018 USD

Tasting Eastern France

A delicious yet active journey through Eastern France. Start your trip in Lyon with some unique food tours before setting off on a 4-day walk across the Beaujolais region. Almost every day ends with a wine tasting in your guesthouse, soothing for body and soul.

The food of Normandy owes its most distinctive characteristic – its gut-burting, heart-pounding richness – to the lush orchards and dairy herds of the region’s agricultural heartland, and especially the Pays d’Auge southeast of Caen. Menus abound in meat such as veal ( veau ) cooked in vallée d’Auge style, which consists largely of the profligate addition of cream and butter . Many dishes also feature orchard fruit, either in its natural state or in more alcoholic forms – either as apple or pear cider, or perhaps further distilled to produce brandies.

Normans relish blood and guts. In addition to gamier meat and fowl such as rabbit and duck (a speciality in Rouen, where the birds are strangled so their blood gets into the sauce), they enjoy such intestinal preparations as andouilles , the sausages known in English as chitterlings, and tripes , stewed for hours à la mode de Caen . A full blowout at a country restaurant traditionally entails pauses between courses for the trou normand : a glass of the apple brandy Calvados to let you catch your breath.

Normandy’s long coastline ensures that it is also renowned for its seafood . Waterfront restaurants in its ports and resorts compete for attention, each with its “ copieuse ” assiette de fruits de mer . Honfleur is the most enjoyable, but Dieppe , Étretat and Cherbourg also offer endless eating opportunities. The menus tend to be similar to those in Brittany, if perhaps slightly more expensive.

The most famous products of Normandy’s meadow-munching cows are, of course, their cheeses . Cheese-making in the Pays d’Auge started in the monasteries during the Dark Ages. By the eleventh century the local products were already well defined; in 1236, the Roman de la Rose referred to Angelot cheese, identified with a small coin depicting a young angel killing a dragon. The principal modern varieties began to emerge in the seventeenth century – Pont l’Evêque , which is square with a washed crust, soft but not runny, and Livarot , which is round, thick and firm, and has a stronger flavour. Although Marie Herel is generally credited with having invented Camembert in the 1790s, a smaller and stodgier version had already existed for some time. A priest fleeing the Revolution stayed in Madame Herel’s farmhouse at Camembert, and suggested modifications in line with the techniques used to make Brie de Meaux – a slower process, gentler on the curd and with more thorough drainage. The rich full cheese thus created was an instant success in the market at Vimoutiers, and the development of the railways (and the invention of the chipboard cheesebox in 1880) helped to give it a worldwide popularity.

Seeking out specific highlights is not really the point when you’re exploring inland Normandy . The pleasure lies not so much in show-stopping sights, or individual towns, as in the feel of the landscape, with its lush meadows, orchards and forests. On top of that, the major attraction in these rich dairy regions is the food . To the French, the Pays d’Auge and the Suisse Normande are synonymous with cheeses, cream, apple and pear brandies, and ciders.

This is also a place to be active. The Suisse Normande is canoeing and rock-climbing country, and there are countless good walks in the stretch further south. Of the towns, Falaise is inextricably associated with the story of William the Conqueror, while Lisieux was home to France’s best-loved modern saint.

The region that centres on St-Lô , just south of the Cotentin, is known as the Bocage ; the word describes a type of cultivated countryside common in western France, where fields are cut by tight hedgerows rooted into walls of earth well over 1m high. An effective form of smallhold farming in pre-industrial days, it also proved to be a perfect system of anti-tank barricades. When the Allied troops tried to advance through the region in 1944, it was almost impenetrable – certainly bearing no resemblance to the East Anglian plains where they had trained. The war here was hand-to-hand slaughter, and the destruction of villages was often wholesale.

The Pays d’Auge

The rolling hills and green twisting valleys of the Pays d’Auge , stretching south of Lisieux, are scattered with magnificent manor houses. The lush pastures here are responsible for the world-famous cheeses of Camembert, Livarot and Pont L’Evêque. They are intermingled with orchards yielding the best of Norman ciders , both apple and pear ( poiré ), as well as Calvados apple brandy.

For really good, solid Norman cooking visit one of this area’s fermes auberges , working farms which welcome paying visitors to share their meals. Local tourist offices can provide copious lists of these and of local producers from whom you can buy your cheese and booze.

By the time the 17-year-old peasant girl known to history as Joan of Arc (Jeanne d’Arc in French) arrived at the French court early in 1429, the Hundred Years’ War had already dragged on for more than ninety years. Most of northern France was in the grip of an Anglo–Burgundian alliance, but Joan, who had been hearing voices since 1425, was certain she could save the country, and came to present her case to the as-yet-uncrowned Dauphin. Partly through recognizing him despite a simple disguise he wore to fool her at their first meeting, she convinced him of her Divine guidance. After a remarkable three-week examination by a tribunal of the French parlement , she secured command of the armies of France. In a whirlwind campaign , which culminated in the raising of the siege of Orléans on May 8, 1429, she broke the English hold on the Loire Valley. She then escorted the Dauphin deep into enemy territory so that, in accordance with ancient tradition, he could be crowned King Charles VII of France in the cathedral at Reims, on July 17.

Within a year of her greatest triumph, Joan was captured by the Burgundian army at Compiègne in May 1430, and held to ransom. Chivalry dictated that any offer of payment from the vacillating Charles must be accepted, but in the absence of such an offer Joan was handed over to the English for 10,000 ducats. On Christmas Day, 1430, she was imprisoned in the château of Philippe-Auguste at Rouen.

Charged with heresy, on account of her “false and diabolical” visions and refusal to give up wearing men’s clothing, Joan was put on trial for her life on February 21, 1431. For three months, a changing panel of 131 assessors – only eight of them English-born – heard the evidence against her. Condemned, inevitably, to death, Joan recanted on the scaffold in St-Ouen cemetery on May 24, and her sentence was commuted to life imprisonment. The presiding judge, Bishop Pierre Cauchon of Beauvais, reassured disappointed English representatives “we will get her yet”. The next Sunday, Joan was tricked into putting on male clothing, and taken to the archbishop’s chapel in rue St-Romain to be condemned to death for the second time. On May 30, 1431, she was burned at the stake in the place du Vieux-Marché; her ashes, together with her unburned heart, were thrown into the Seine.

Joan passed into legend, until the transcript of her trial was discovered in the 1840s. The forbearance and humility she displayed throughout her ordeal added to her status as France’s greatest religious heroine. She was canonized in 1920, and soon afterwards became the country’s patron saint.

The stupendous abbey of Mont St-Michel was first erected on an island at the very frontier of Normandy and Brittany more than a millennium ago. Until recently, however, that island was attached to the mainland by a long causeway, topped by a road. Now, thanks to a vast hydraulic and reconstruction project, it has become an island once more, connected to the shore by a futuristic curved bridge, surfaced with wooden decking. Crucially, that has enabled tidal waters to sweep all around, and thus flush away centuries of accumulated sand.

The real point of all this work was to control access for the millions of tourists who come here. It’s therefore no longer possible to drive all the way to Mont-St-Michel in your own vehicle; instead you have to park on the mainland, roughly 2km away, and access the island either on foot, by bike, or riding in a shuttle bus or horse-drawn carriage.

Brief history

The 80m-high rocky outcrop on which the abbey stands was once known as “the Mount in Peril from the Sea”. Many a medieval pilgrim drowned while crossing the bay to reach it. The Archangel Michael was its vigorous protector, leaping from rock to rock in titanic struggles against Paganism and Evil.

The abbey itself dates back to the eighth century, after the archangel appeared to Aubert, bishop of Avranches. Since work on the sturdy church at the peak commenced in the eleventh century, new structures have been grafted to produce a fortified hotchpotch of Romanesque and Gothic buildings clambering to the pinnacle, forming probably the most recognizable silhouette in France after the Eiffel Tower. Although the abbey was a fortress town, home to a large community, even at its twelfth-century peak it never housed more than sixty monks.

After the Revolution the monastery became a prison, but in 1966, exactly a thousand years after Duke Richard the First originally brought the order here, the Benedictines returned. They departed again in 2001, after finding that the present-day island does not exactly lend itself to a life of quiet contemplation. A dozen nuns and monks from the Monastic Fraternity of Jerusalem now maintain a presence.

The département of Seine Maritime comprises three distinct sections: Normandy’s dramatic northern coastline , home to major ports like Dieppe and Le Havre and such delightful resorts as Étretat ; the meandering course of the River Seine , where unchanged villages stand both up- and downstream of Rouen; and the flat, chalky Caux plateau , which makes for pleasant cycling country but holds little to detain visitors.

Dieppe in particular offers an appealing introduction to France, and with the impressive white cliffs of the Côte d’Albâtre (Alabaster Coast) stretching to either side it makes a good base for a long stay. The most direct route to Rouen from here is simply to head south, but it’s well worth tracing the shore west to Le Havre , then following the Seine inland.

Driving along the D982 on the northern bank of the Seine, you’ll often find your course paralleled by mighty container ships on the water. Potential stops en route include the medieval abbey of Jumièges , but Rouen itself is the prime destination, its association with the execution of Joan of Arc the most compelling episode in its fascinating history. Further upstream, Monet’s wonderful house and garden at Giverny and the English frontier stronghold of Château Gaillard at Les Andelys also justify taking the slow road to Paris.

Abbaye de Jumièges

Nestled into an especially delightful loop of the river, 23km west of Rouen, the majestic abbey of Jumièges is said to have been founded by St Philibert in 654 AD. Now a haunting ruin, the abbey was burned by Vikings in 841, rebuilt a century later, then destroyed again during the Revolution. Its main surviving outline dates from the eleventh century – William the Conqueror himself attended its reconsecration in 1067. The twin towers, 52m high, are still standing, as is one arch of the roofless nave, while a one-sided yew tree stands amid what were once the cloisters.

Château Gaillard

The most dramatic sight anywhere along the Seine has to be Richard the Lionheart’s Château Gaillard, perched high above Les Andelys . Constructed in a position of impregnable power, it surveyed all movement on the river at the frontier of the English king’s domains. Built in less than a year (1196–97), the castle might have survived intact had Henri IV not ordered its destruction in 1603. As it is, the stout flint walls of its keep, roughly 4m thick, remain reasonably sound, and its overall outline is still clear, arranged over green and chalky knolls. To reach it on foot, climb the steep path that leads off rue Richard-Coeur-de-Lion in Petit Andely.

Squeezed between high cliff headlands, Dieppe is an enjoyably small-scale port that used to be more of a resort. During the nineteenth century, Parisians came here by train to take the sea air, promenading along the front while the English indulged in the peculiar pastime of swimming.

Though ferry services have diminished in recent years, Dieppe remains a nice little place. If you have kids in tow, the aquariums of the Cité de la Mer and the strip of pebble beach are the obvious attractions; otherwise, you could settle for admiring the cliffs and the castle as you stroll the seafront lawns.

Eating and drinking

The area around the gare SNCF is where to head for bars, cafés and brasseries, while all sorts of restaurants, from traditional French to Japanese, fill the back streets of the waterside St-François district.

The house where Claude Monet lived from 1883 until his death in 1926 remains much as he left it – complete with water-lily pond – at Giverny , 20km south of Les Andelys near the Seine's north bank. While the gardens that Monet laid out are still lovingly tended, none of his original paintings are on display, so art-lovers who make the pilgrimage here tend to be outnumbered by garden enthusiasts.

Visits start in the huge studio, built in 1915, where Monet painted the last and largest of his many depictions of water lilies ( nymphéas ). It now serves as a well-stocked book- and giftshop. The house itself is a long two-storey structure, painted pastel pink with green shutters. Almost all the main rooms are crammed floor-to-ceiling with Monet’s collection of Japanese prints. Most of the furnishings are gone, but you get a real sense of how the dining room used to be, with its walls and fittings painted a glorious bright yellow. The flower-filled gardens stretch down towards the river, though the footpath that drops to the water-lily pond now burrows beneath the road. Once there, paths around the pond, as well as arching Japanese footbridges, offer differing views of the water lilies , cherished by gardeners in rowing boats. May and June, when the rhododendrons flower and the wisteria is in bloom, are the best times to visit.

While LE HAVRE may hardly be picturesque or tranquil, it's not the soulless sprawl some travellers suggest. Its port, the second-largest in France, takes up half the Seine estuary, but the town itself, home to almost 200,000 people, is a place of pilgrimage for fans of contemporary architecture .

Built in 1517 to replace the ancient ports of Harfleur and Honfleur, then silting up, Le Havre – “The Harbour” – swiftly became the principal trading post of northern France. Following its near-destruction during World War II, it was rebuilt by a single architect, Auguste Perret , between 1946 and 1964.

The sheer sense of space can be exhilarating: the showpiece monuments have a winning self-confidence, and the few surviving relics of the old city have been sensitively integrated into the whole. While the endless mundane residential blocks can be dispiriting, even those visitors who fail to agree with Perret’s famous dictum that “concrete is beautiful” may enjoy a stroll around his city.

Rouen , the capital of Upper Normandy, is one of France’s most ancient cities. Standing on the site of Rotomagus, built by the Romans at the lowest point where they could bridge the Seine, it was laid out by Rollo, the first duke of Normandy, in 911. Captured by the English in 1419, it became the stage in 1431 for the trial and execution of Joan of Arc, before returning to French control in 1449.

Bombing during World War II destroyed all Rouen’s bridges, the area between the cathedral and the quais , and much of the left bank’s industrial quarter. When the city was rebuilt, its inner core of streets, north of the river, were turned into the closest approximation to a medieval city that modern imaginations could conceive.

Rouen today can be very seductive, its lively and bustling centre well equipped with impressive churches and museums, and the effect is enhanced by the fact that they’ve recently, at long last, got round to restoring the riverfront. As well as some great sights – Cathédrale de Notre-Dame , all the delightful twisting streets of timbered houses – there’s history aplenty too, most notably the links with Joan of Arc .

While Rouen proper is home to a population of 110,000, its metropolitan area holds five times that number, and it remains the fourth-largest port in the country. The city spreads deep into the loop of the Seine, with its docks and industrial infrastructure stretching endlessly away to the south.

Cathédrale de Notre-Dame

Despite the addition of all sorts of towers, spires and vertical extensions, Rouen’s Cathédrale de Notre-Dame remains at heart the Gothic masterpiece that was built in the twelfth and thirteenth centuries. Its intricately sculpted western facade was Monet ’s subject for multiple studies of changing light, several of which now hang in the Musée d’Orsay in Paris. Monet might not recognize it today, however – it’s been scrubbed a gleaming white, free from the centuries of accreted dirt he so carefully recorded. Inside, the ambulatory and crypt hold the assorted tombs of various recumbent royalty, such as Duke Rollo, who died “enfeebled by toil” in 933 AD, and the actual heart of Richard the Lionheart.

On summer nights, under the name of Cathédrale de Lumière , spectacular thirty-minute light shows are projected onto the cathedral facade; one show draws on Monet’s paintings to create giant Impressionist canvases, while another depicts the story of Joan of Arc.

Discover more places in France

• Basse Normandie

The Rough Guides to France and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Find even more inspiration here

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 11.10.2023

Ready to travel and discover France?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Travel advice
• Where to stay

• Mobile Apps
• Stream on discovery+
• Program Guide
• Ghost Adventures
• Ghost Hunters
• Ghost Brothers
• Conjuring Kesha
• The Dead Files
• Destination Fear
• Eli Roth Presents: A Ghost Ruined My Life
• Expedition Bigfoot
• Ghost Nation
• The Holzer Files
• Kindred Spirits
• Mountain Monsters
• Paranormal Caught on Camera
• Portals to Hell
• Amy Bruni and Adam Berry
• Destination Fear Team
• Don Wildman
• Ghost Adventures Crew
• The Holzer Files Team
• Jack Osbourne and Katrina Weidman
• Steve Dischiavi
• Watch Live TV
• Tips for Solo Travelers
• 4 Gorgeous Waterfalls
• 5 Extreme Swings
• World's 10 Best Swimming Holes
• Best BBQ in America
• Tilt! at 360 Chicago

Digital Exclusives

• Big City, Little Budget: New York
• Big City, Little Budget: San Francisco
• Bizarre Foods in the Kitchen
• One Bag and You're Out

From Our Shows

• Bizarre Foods
• Bizarre Foods: Delicious Destinations
• Booze Traveler
• Expedition Unknown
• Hotel Impossible
• Mysteries at the Museum

Top Domestic

• New Orleans
• New York City
• Washington, DC

Top International

• Myrtle Beach
• Niagara Falls
• San Antonio

Explore By Region

• Asia Pacific
• Middle East & Africa
• North America
• South & Central America

Top Interests

• Amusement Parks
• Arts and Culture
• Food and Wine
• National Parks
• Health and Wellness
• Long Weekends
• Outdoor Adventure

By Traveler

• Family Travel
• Girls' Getaways
• LGBT Travel
• Solo Travel

Travel Tips

• Budget Tips
• Gear and Gadgets
• Hotels and Lodging
• Plan Your Bucket List
• Savvy Traveler
• Travel's Best

Samantha Brown

Normandy, france, what's new from trvl.

Jack Osbourne's Most Shocking Adventures 9 Photos

The Spirits in the Conjuring House Were Quick to Show Themselves Apr 7, 2023

Haunted History: A Shuttered Pennsylvania Nursing Home Is Home to Dozens of Trapped Souls Mar 30, 2023

Cult Leader Charles Manson Controlled People from Behind Bars Mar 24, 2023

7 Best Pieces of Evidence Recovered By the Expedition Bigfoot Team Mar 14, 2023

6 Things Witnesses Said About the Roswell Incident Mar 10, 2023

Creepy Urban Legends From Each State Nov 16, 2022

Unraveling The Mysterious Death of Marilyn Monroe Feb 24, 2023

Top 5 States For UFO Sightings Feb 8, 2023

Creepy urban legends from each state 50 photos.

A Massachusetts Family Fled Their Home After Chilling Door-Camera Footage Nov 22, 2022

6 Museums That Are Home To Creepy And Mysterious Artifacts Oct 31, 2022

Settle In For A Boo Binge With The New Season Of 'Ghost Brothers: Lights Out' Oct 11, 2022

Ghost Brothers: Lights Out Returns for Season 2 on discovery+! Sep 22, 2022

Fact Or Fiction? Modern Vampire Lore May Be A Planned Misinformation Campaign Aug 22, 2022

Lindbergh Baby Kidnapping: Was The Famous Pilot Responsible For His Missing Son? Aug 22, 2022

Top 6 States With The Most Alien Encounters Aug 22, 2022

5 Unforgettable Spirits From Ghost Adventures Season 25 Sep 14, 2022

5 Craziest Moments From Fright Club Season 2 Sep 1, 2022

Four Terrifying Moments From 'Ghosts Of Devil's Perch' Aug 31, 2022

Shock Docs: The Visitors Reveals the Horrors of Alien Abduction from Best-Selling Author Whitley Strieber in Terrifying New Doc Sep 3, 2022

7 Of Russell Acord’s Most Heart-Pounding Moments On 'Expedition Bigfoot' Aug 12, 2022

Jack Osbourne Teams up with Jason Mewes and Jamie Kennedy in the New discovery+ Special, Jack Osbourne's Night of Terror: UFOs Aug 2, 2022

Who Are The Odd Fellows? Jul 29, 2022

Boy Records Selfie With Grandma’s Ghost Jul 27, 2022

The Haunted History of San Francisco’s Westerfeld House Jul 19, 2022

An Elite Team of Paranormal Investigators Race to Help a Petrified Western Town in the New Series Ghosts of Devil's Perch Jul 19, 2022

13 Terrifying Pieces of Evidence from Ghost Hunters: TAPS Returns Jul 14, 2022

National Dive Bar Day: Is There a Portal To Hell In Memphis? Jul 7, 2022

7 Scary Homes From 'Ghost Adventures: House Calls' Season 1 Jun 30, 2022

These woods are haunted, world's most unexplained, unexplained: caught on camera.

Stream discovery+

Your favorite shows, personalities and exclusive originals. All in one place.

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss Travel Channel in your favorite social media feeds.

More From Travel

• Sweepstakes
• Stream Travel Channel
• Ways to Watch Travel Channel

• Privacy Policy
• Visitor Agreement
• Online Closed Captioning
• Accessibility
• Discovery, Inc.
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Food Network
• Travel Channel
• Cooking Channel
• Discovery.com
• © 2024 Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc. or its subsidiaries and affiliates. All rights reserved.

• [email protected]

Traveling with Sweeney

Inspiration and information for the best in luxury, cultural, and active travel, highlights of a 7-day normandy and brittany itinerary, walk, ride, and drive around normandy and brittany in seven days.

• Our Normandy and Brittany itinerary — at a glance
• Day 1 – Paris to Rouen
• Day 2 — Rouen
• Rouen highlights

Where we ate

Where we stayed.

• Day 3 – Rouen to Bayeux

Bayeux Highlights

• Day 4 – Bayeux and D-Day Beaches

D-Day sites highlights

• Day 5 – Bayeux to Dinan via Mont St. Michel
• Day 6 – Dinan

Dinan Highlights

• Day 7 – The Brittany Coast

What we saw

On to paris, related posts:.

There’s so much of France to discover that I think it’s best done in small bites. One of my travel goals is to visit each of France’s regions. Hopefully, sooner rather than later! On this trip, I was able to check off two new regions and I also got to revisit Paris — a city that I think should be part of every France itinerary. Here’s a brief guide to follow for the Normandy and Brittany part of the trip.

Our Normandy and Brittany itinerary — at a glance

Day 1 – paris to rouen.

We arrived at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) in the early morning. Although there are other public transportation options (such as the regional RER train) also available, we chose to take a taxi (50 euros) to the Gare St. Lazare to catch our train to Rouen (about 1.5 hours).

Train booking tip: We used the OUI.sncf app to research and book rail tickets while in France.

Day trip from Paris tip:   If you will be using Paris as your base, there are day trips available to Rouen and nearby sites.

Day 2 — Rouen

Place du Vieux Marché at night — Rouen, France

As we often do when first arriving in a new place, we checked in to the hotel and then walked around the area getting a sense of the place. Arriving in the mid-afternoon, we had a quick lunch and then walked around town for a few hours before heading back to the hotel to refresh and get ready for dinner.

Rouen highlights

Place du Vieux Marché — This is the famous square where Jeanne d’Arc was burned at the stake. A church, Eglise Jeanne d’Arc, stands on the spot where her terrible death occurred.

Cathédrale Notre Dame de Rouen — Built between the 12th and 16th centuries, this is the city’s iconic Gothic cathedral. Art enthusiasts may also know that it was the inspiration for a series of Monet’s paintings.

Historical Jeanne d’Arc — A must-see in Rouen, this is an immersive experience that takes you through the investigation and trial of Jeanne d’Arc in a series of rooms in the Archbishop’s Palace on Rue Saint-Romain where her trials took place.

Gros Horloge (the Great Clock) — The 14th-century astronomical clock is easy to spot in an arch above Rue du Gros-Horloge. Take the stairs to the Gothic belfry to get a look at the workings and history of the clock plus great panoramic views of the city.

Favorite meal:  La Petite Auberge serves authentic French (particularly regional) dishes in a cozy half-timbered building. We had lunch here and would love to go back for dinner sometime.

Honorable mention: Cancan is a contemporary bistro and bar on the Place du Vieux Marché.

Place to start the day: Dune, a cafe on Place de La Pucelle, is a great place to start the day with delicious coffee and croissants. We also appreciated the friendly service.

Famous restaurant tip: Although we didn’t dine here, La Couronne is high on the radar for many tourists as the oldest restaurant in France and because of Julia Child who said about her meal there in 1948:

In all the years since the succulent meal, I have yet to lose the feelings of wonder and excitement that it inspired in me. — Julia Child, My Life in France

Hotel de Bourgtheroulde, 15 Place de la Pucelle — Part of the Marriott’s Autograph Collection, Hotel de Bourgtheroulde is a contemporary hotel in a 15th-century historic stone mansion. The location is great for exploring the city on foot to visit all of the places mentioned above.

Day 3 – Rouen to Bayeux

As we did not plan on visiting attractions around Rouen where a car would be needed, we decided to travel once again by train to our next stop in Normandy — Bayeux. It is about a 2.5 hour journey including one transfer in Caen. Bayeux is an excellent place to make your base for visiting the Normandy D-Day sites .

Rue Saint-Jean, Bayeux — Normandy region of France

Bayeux Tapestry — This beautiful 11th-century 70-yard long tapestry is a must-see attraction while in Bayeux. It depicts William the Conqueror’s story as duke and king, through battles, victories and other dramas of the Middle Ages.

Bayeux Cathedral — This Romanesque and Gothic cathedral is a commanding sight in Bayeux with beautiful decor, particularly seen in its stained glass windows. Some of the pieces above the altar are from the13th century.

Battle of Normandy Memorial Museum  — The museum is an excellent place to start a visit to Normandy’s historic sites relating to World War II and the Battle of Normandy. There are many exhibits of wartime gear including uniforms, weapons, communications equipment, and vehicles.

Day 4 – Bayeux and D-Day Beaches

This is where the driving portion of our trip begins. We took a taxi (about 7 euros) from the hotel to the Hertz rental location at the Total Petrol station in town. From there, we traveled about 20 minutes to Arromanches, the first of our D-Day sites. Refer to our previous post about the Normandy D-Day sites for more information and photos. The map below gives you a general idea of the locations visited. It’s not an exact representation of the routes taken.

Arromanches, France

Arromanches — The village of Arromanches was a key location for D-Day operations. From the clifftop above the village, there are vistas of the English Channel and remnants of the concrete caissons that formed the Mulberries (artificial harbors) that were vital in getting Allied vehicles and equipment to shore. On the clifftop, there is also the Arromanches 360  cinema, where you can watch an excellent film, “Normandy’s 100 Days”. Also take time to visit the D-Day Landing Museum in the village.

Longues-sur-Mer  — Near the village of Longues-sur-Mer is the Batterie Allemande de Longues-sur-Mer, a German gun battery and lookout bunker that was strategically positioned for views of the English Channel and approaching Allied forces.

Omaha Beach — In Vierville-sur-Mer, walk along the same wide expanse of sand at Omaha Beach that U.S. troops crossed on D-Day. Of the five D-Day beaches, Omaha Beach saw the greatest casualties with about 2,400 troops killed, wounded, or missing in action.

American Cemetery —  The cemetery is located in Colleville-sur-Mer on the site of the original burial grounds established by the U.S. Army on June 8, 1944 to bury their dead. This is a must see and provided the most moving experiences during an emotional day.  We recommend checking the time for the flag lowering which was the highlight of this experience.

Hôtel le Lion d’Or, 71 Rue Saint-Jean — It’s said that this was General Eisenhower’s favorite place to stay in Bayeux. All I know for sure is that we really liked it. But here’s a heads up for summer visitors — there is no air conditioning in the hotel’s 31 rooms.

La Marine — While seeing the sights in Arromanches, we stopped for lunch at La Marine Hotel on the beachfront. The food is very good and there are nice views of the village, beach, and surrounding cliffs.

La Rapiere, 53 Rue Saint-Jean — It was at this small restaurant where we had our favorite meal in Bayeux. La Rapiere serves regional dishes in a very cozy setting. It gets very busy, so be sure to make a reservation.

Patisserie Ordioni, 25 Rue Saint-Jean – For pastries and coffee before a day of sightseeing, try this wonderful bakery that was recommended to us by a local.

Day 5 – Bayeux to Dinan via Mont St. Michel

Mont St. Michel

Mont Saint-Michel — This important historic site about 73 miles from Bayeux was our final stop in Normandy. We spent about 3.5 hours, including a quick lunch, exploring the island of Mont Saint-Michel, its abbey (first built in the 8th century) at the top and the winding streets of the village surrounding it. From Mont Saint-Michel, we drove about 36 miles to Dinan where we checked in to our hotel, strolled a bit around town and had a lovely dinner at a nearby restaurant.

Day 6 – Dinan

Strolling a cobbled street in Dinan, France

We felt that a full day of exploring Dinan on the Rance River was sufficient to at least get a look at the main attractions and feel the town’s charming ambiance. However, if you have more time, an extra day or so here would be a good addition to this itinerary. Refer to our previous post with detail about this charming town and main attractions  and activities, including the Basilica of St. Sauveur, English Garden, walking the ramparts and riverside path to Léhon, and browsing the shops and galleries lining the cobbled streets from Place St. Sauveur down to the riverside.

La Maison Pavie, 10 Place St. Sauveur — This is a bed and breakfast located in a historic 15th-century half-timbered house on Place St. Sauveur across from the basilica. It has five spacious and beautifully-decorated guest rooms.

Favorite meal : Le Cantorbery, 6 Rue St. Claire — This charming and intimate restaurant is located in a 17th-century house on a quiet street near the old town square. Service was impeccable and the regionally-inspired courses were and deliciously prepared.

Day 7 – The Brittany Coast

Perros-Guirec on the Brittany coast, France

We were looking to round out our northeast France trip with a coastal experience. There are many choices for diverse scenery and available activities along the Breton coast.

Perros-Guirec — This gorgeous area of the Brittany coast is called the Pink Granite Coast . There is a wonderful trail along the coast through the abundant rock formations with gorgeous English Channel views. We had about three hours to spend in the area for the walk and lunch on the harbor.

Then it was on to Combrit (a little over two hours via inland route) where we would spend the night.

The harbor at Combrit, France

Combrit — There are numerous cities and locations that we could have chosen for our last night in the Brittany region, but Mr. TWS loves water and coastal vacations and came across an ad for an inn in the small village of Combrit. Being off-season for Combrit, a very popular spring and summer getaway spot, it was very quiet when we visited and quite affordable.

Basically, our time in Combrit was a brief, but enjoyable, chance to just relax and soak up a coastal resort town’s ambiance (albeit in the off season). After check-in at our hotel, we took a long, leisurely walk along the harbor and through some residential neighborhoods of this small village.

Villa Tri Men, 16 Rue du Phare — Villa Tri Men is a lovely inn with 33 rooms. As one of only two couples staying in the hotel that night, we got a beautiful large room with a wrap-around terrace and views overlooking the harbor. One of the wonderful benefits of traveling in the off season!

Le Bistrot du Bac on the port of Sainte-Marine — The restaurant at the hotel was not open on the night we arrived, but the bistro (also run by the owners of the hotel) was perfect for drinks on the patio and later dinner inside. It was the only choice in town, but it was a good one.

Then it was on to Paris for three days . We returned our rental car to the Hertz location across from the railway station in Quimper (13 miles from Combrit). From there we took the train to Gare Montparnasse in Paris.

Whether you follow in our footsteps or make changes that suit your trip plans, I know that you’ll love visiting the Normandy and Brittany regions of France.

• ← Chicago: My Kind of Town at Christmas
• Uzbekistan Photography Workshop →

18 thoughts on “ Highlights of a 7-Day Normandy and Brittany Itinerary ”

Our visit to Normandy was my favorite visit to France. We also used Bayeaux as a base for exploring the history of D Day. We used a tour company called the Battle Bus at the time for a 2 day small mini van tour that in large part traced the sites featured in the series Band of Brothers. When we weren’t in 1944, I visited the Bayeaux Tapastry Museum for a quick trip back to 1066. We also rented a car to visit Mount Ste. Michel and do a loop of some of the quaint towns. Nice memories.

Bayeux really is a great place to use as a base to visit the area. Thanks for the tip about Battle Bud. That might definitely be of interest to some of our readers.

Is driving difficult in the Normandy area ? We are wanting to rent a car in Caen and drive to Mont St Michelle, Honfleur, Omaha Beach area, etc?

One of our favorite places in the world. We’ve been to Normandy a few times and spent a week biking in Brittany last year. The landscapes are lovely, of course, but the highlights for me were the Bayeux Tapestry (I’m a Latin geek) and the Normandy beaches, including Pointe du Hoc. Pointe du Hoc is interesting because the French haven’t restored the site to its pre-battle condition. Shell craters, barbed wire, bunkers and gun mounts are still there.

Thanks for the info about Pointe du Hoc. We didn’t get there this trip and will definitely put it on the next itinerary in the region.

What an action filled time you had exploring the coastal region in France. I can only imagine how historic the visit to Normandy must have been. Thanks for including your top spots in each location. It will make travel planning much easier.

I’m so glad that the post will help you with your travel planning for Normandy and Brittany!

Super post! Normandy and Brittany is a region of France that I have not yet visited. There is obviously much to see, do, and enjoy!

I think we’d love following your itinerary here, so many quaint villages and stops along the way. I’d especially love Rouen I think. Thanks for so many good details on where to stay and sites to see. Bookmarking this one for later!

Thanks for this. We stayed nearby to Dinan a couple of years back and we really enjoyed the towns along the Emerald Coast west from S. Malo – it’s a beautiful drive with lots of little coves and bays – as well as the inland towns and even the larger cities such as Rennes. The town we stayed in was Pleudihen-sur-Rance and the local boulangerie was famed for its pastries. A short walk to the river and there was a local seal who could be found resting on the boat ramp. Great place.

Great detailed post! I love your photo of the Mont Saint-Michel. I’ll be saving this for future reference. I hope we can visit this year. I’m falling in love with the streets of Dinan.

About 20 years ago we stayed in Arromanches and really enjoyed the area. Three years ago we took the kids and stayed for a week near Dinan and ventured around to the nearby towns. We loved Brittany. So diverse – a brilliant coastline with picturesque villages and little coves and inland the towns were equally as lovely.

Mont St. Michel looks amazing. I’ve never even heard of Dinan before – thanks for the inspiration.

Pingback: A Walk on the Pink Granite Coast of Brittany | Traveling with Sweeney

Thanks for posting the itinerary. Hope to do a very similar trip. Just not sure about driving the area. Any problems with signage, left side of the road, etc? Planning to take the train from Paris to Caen or Bayeux and renting a car and driving the area. Thoughts or suggestions?

Hi Lisa – Definitely try to do a trip in the area. I’m happy if this itinerary can provide you with some ideas. We didn’t plan on spending any time in Caen, so found it best to rent the car from Hertz in Bayeux where we were staying. It was easy to get to the D-Day sites from there. In fact, if you’re going to see the D-Day sites, renting a car is really the best option unless you want to get with an organized tour. We liked the flexibility of being on our own. It was also nice not to have to drive around a bigger city like Caen. Driving around the areas of Normandy and Brittany that we visited was easy (in my opinion — I love to drive!).

Catherine, I will be traveling to Brittany Oct 29 to Nov 6 with my 90 year old parents. What time of year were you there? My Father lived in Brittany and Paris during WWll, and I am not sure he’s up for Normandy. And do you have other ideas for us? Thank you and I am looking at the hotels you suggested as well. And the dining!!

Hi Ann — Sounds like you have a very special trip coming up. It will probably be quite sentimental for your father. We were there at the beginning of October and the weather was beautiful.There was one very rainy day, but it didn’t deter our spirits as we walked around Mont St. Michel (on the border of Normandy and Brittany). I don’t know if you saw my post about Dinan, but that would definitely be a town I would visiting in Brittany. I also did a separate post about The Pink Granite Coast that I mention in this article. It’s a beautiful area to see. If your parents may not be up for walking on the path there, it’s still worth a visit — particularly if you’ll be driving and can easily get around. If we’d had more time, I would have liked to visit St Malo, Cancale and other coastal towns. I hope this helps! Please let us know how you enjoy the trip.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

France Travel Blog

Normandy Travel Guide

Normandy conjures up a few images. For starters, there’s the D-Day Beaches. Then there’s the Bayeux Tapestry, Joan of Arc and Mont St Michel. And don’t forget the coastal resorts of Deauville, Trouville, Honfleur, and the birth of Impressionism.

Here a Few Tips on What to See, Do, Eat and Drink in Normandy

Getting around.

If you’re traveling independently, a car is essential. Trains run as far as Rouen or Caen, but after that, you’re on your own. Roads are good, but watch out for traffic problems around the main autoroutes, particularly in summer as everybody heads off en vacances.

Where to Stay in Normandy

Bayeux:  Most battlefield tours leave from Bayeux, plus there is the attraction of the Tapestry. It is a quintessentially French town, with cafés aplenty, pastry shops, and a Saturday market selling everything from orthopedic mattresses to live animals.

The Churchill Hotel is a popular place to stay. Decorated with D-Day photographs and memorabilia, you could say that it has embraced the Libération theme.

Rouen:  For eastern Normandy, Rouen is a good base. Monet’s paintings made the Gothic Cathedral famous, and Joan of Arc was burnt to death here. Sticking to the Impressionist theme, Rouen is within easy striking distance of Giverny, Monet’s famous garden.

Things To Do in Normandy (What I Did in Normandy)

Many visitors come to Normandy purely to visit the landing sites and memorials of the D-Day liberation. We took the half-day Sword Beach and British Airborne Sector tour with Olivier, who was ultra-enthusiastic and knowledgeable.

We started our tour where D-Day began: at Pegasus Bridge. Shortly after midnight on June 6th, 1944, gliders from the British 6th Airborne Division landed here (and further along at Horsa Bridge), and the nearby Café Gondree became France’s first liberated building. The signal “Ham and Jam” (Pegasus and Horsa) was sent out to indicate the successful capture.

We moved onto the Merville Battery, a key D-Day target, and now an exceptionally well-preserved museum. We wandered through the bunkers to get a real picture of life as a German soldier. The site also hosts a restored Dakota aircraft (be sure to go onboard).

The saddest part of any tour is a visit to a cemetery. Ranville is a small Commonwealth cemetery. The graves are mainly British and Canadian, but there is also a small German section. The ‘unknown’ graves are particularly moving.

Sword Beach (the port of Ouistreham) was the landing site for 28,000 British and 177 Free French soldiers. These days, it’s a location for sailors, kite fliers, and holidaymakers. Olivier pointed out a few houses where remnants of German gun turrets remain.

The Hillman Bunker Complex near Colleville-Montgomery was our final stop of the afternoon but didn’t disappoint. For a start, it is still all but invisible. One minute we were staring at golden fields of wheat, the next we were down in a bunker, reading about the Suffolk Regiment and why the village of Colleville-sur-Orne was renamed after Field Marshal Montgomery!

Should You Take a Tour in Normandy?

After a fabulous (yet tiring) afternoon, we returned to our hotel and pondered the question: do you need a tour to visit the D-Day sites?

To put it bluntly, yes, you do. The big sites are easy enough to find yourself, BUT the smaller sites can be really hidden away. Plus, a good guide like Olivier provides the details and personal stories that make the sites come alive.

Most tours are for half a day or a whole day. Still, if you have a particular interest or itinerary you’d like to follow, talk to tour companies before you leave to see if you can organize a personalized tour. Olivier told us that he has even based a tour on a veteran’s photograph of a house!

Invasion and All That

Normandy first hit the headlines back in the 11th Century, when William of Normandy invaded England, defeated King Harold at the Battle of Hastings, and crowned himself King at Westminster Abbey. (It’s taken 1000 years, but we’re almost over it now).

The history actually begins slightly before that, when the Viking King Rollo arrived and settled in Rouen. The “Norse Men” spread westwards and gave Normandy its name.

Thanks to Queen Mathilda (William’s wife), we have a more entertaining version of Norman history. She commissioned the Bayeux Tapestry (or “La Tapisserie de la Reine Mathilde”) to provide an account of the conquest to a largely illiterate population.

70m long, the tapestry was originally displayed in Bayeux Cathedral and has survived remarkably well. It is now a UNESCO “Memory of the World” and should be on everybody’s itinerary.

Now, you may be worried that a piece of needlework may be boring, or that the children are too young to appreciate it. Fear not. The free audio guide that comes with your ticket gives a scene-by-scene account of the story, and there are plenty of cute details that even little ones can relate to. Spot brave King Harold carrying soldiers over the sands at Mont St Michel or the French soldiers cooking chickens over the fire.

Monet and Friends

In the late 1850s, the French railway system spread its branches across the country. Destinations such as Rouen, Orleans, and the coastal resorts of Honfleur and Deauville were suddenly accessible from Paris. As well as holiday makers, the trains carried painters such as Monet, Gauguin, and Pissaro.

2010 is Impressionism’s official 150th birthday, and Normandy is falling over itself to celebrate. We visited the “A City for Impressionism” exhibition in Rouen, showing a fine collection of paintings. Most notable are Monet’s series of Rouen Cathedral and Pissarro’s series of Rouen bridges.

Eating & Drinking

Normandy restaurants serve a lot of steak and veal, often with cream-based sauces. Seafood is also excellent. For dessert, ice-cream features heavily, occasionally mitigated with fruit.

Normandy’s apples may be drunk alcohol-free (apple juice), fizzy (cider), or strong (Calvados). Cidre is frequently served in a small earthenware bowl (bolée).

For those (i.e., me) with a love of excellent food, Normandy is a dream. For those who are calorie-counting or have an aversion to dairy…well, there’s always salad. (Small confession: one Normandy specialty is homemade tripe (Tripes Maison). I have tried them before. I don’t like them. You may feel differently).

How Long Should You Stay in Normandy?

We spent a long weekend in Normandy and agreed that we could definitely fill 10 days or even a fortnight. The downside is perhaps the amount of driving, but the upside is the sheer variety of sights and activities.

Whatever you like and whatever you’re looking for, there’s a chance that Normandy has it. And this also means that there’s something for everybody, whether it’s the World War II history buff, the fine art student or the gourmet chef.

And really, you can’t say it fair than that!

Peter is the editor of France Travel Blog. He has traveled to France many times and is ready to share the knowledge in this travel guide for France.

Related Posts

Lyon Travel Guide

Gordes Travel Guide: Tips for Visiting Gordes

Best Beaches near Sete

Best Beaches near Mont-Saint-Michel

Recent posts.

• Get Amazing Hotel in New York – Your Guide to Exclusive Deals
• The Gorges du Verdon: A Scenic Road Trip In Southern France
• Marseille Unveiled: Immerse Yourself in the Charm of the Mediterranean with a Captivating City Break
• A Beginner’s Guide to Road Cycling
• 5 Things to Look for When Buying Digital Cameras
• Entertainment
• Things To Do
• Travel Guides
• Travel Ideas

Social Links

Is Biarritz Expensive?

Paris Safety Tips: Advice and Warnings for Tourists

What is France Famous For?

5 Reasons Why You Should Visit Versailles Once

Is Rennes Safe?

Hit enter to search or ESC to close.

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Normandie Lovers

To awaken your senses in Normandy - Claire et Manu’s Blog

80 years of D-Day (Normandy): list of events!

by Clara BALAYER , Region Lovers | April 15, 2024 | no intrusive ads, no sponsored content, just some affiliate links - if you use them, we get a small commission (read more)

Are you a history buff who wants to celebrate the 80th anniversary of D-Day and honor the memory of our elders? Can’t find your way around the multitude of events on offer? This article is for you! Every year, Normandy commemorates the D-Day anniversary with a rich and varied program . In addition to the official events, a wide range of activities are organized by the various communes to celebrate freedom .

In this article, discover our useful tips for attending the 80th D Day in Normandy , our selection of not-to-be-missed events and our ideas for tours around the D-Day beaches .

BEFORE OUR TIPS + PHOTOS HERE ARE OUR favorites

Our favorite car rental platform with great offers: DiscoverCars

Must-See : Book your tickets for the Caen Memorial Museum Excursion : Visit the D-Day landing beaches from Paris

Our favorite places to stay: Hotel Domain de Bayeux , elegant and central – see photos and availability Hotel Domaine d’Utah Beach , for the north – see photos and availability Hôtel Ferme de la Rançonnière , the charm of the countryside – view photos and availability

This guide is completely independent , based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.

Why come to the 80th anniversary of the Normandy landings?

Is it worth attending the 80th anniversary of d-day.

You bet! Every year, the anniversary of D-Day honors the courage of the Allied soldiers who helped liberate France during the Second World War. Taking part in this celebration is a poignant experience, reminding us of the sacrifice of thousands of young people, and at the same time highly symbolic in geopolitical terms. More than ever, in the current context where war is on Europe’s borders, the duty of remembrance and moments of sharing between nations to celebrate peace are essential. It’s also worth noting that this edition is all the more exceptional in that it will surely be one of the last to feature veterans.

What events will take place on June 6, 2024?

June 6 is the key date of the Normandy Landings in 1944, and is the most emblematic day of the entire anniversary season. Various events will be held at the same time, on June 6, 2024:

• The international ceremony : organized on the Omaha Beach sector in Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, it will take place under the presidency of Emmanuel Macron, in the presence of several heads of state and the 200 veterans who have travelled specially for the occasion. Attendance is by invitation only.
• National and bi-national ceremonies : open to the public, you can register on the Calvados Prefecture website here . Registrations will open around May 1.
• Festive events are held alongside the solemn ceremonies, under the banner of the D-Day Festival , which runs from June 1 to 16. Find the full program on the dedicated festival website here .

What to do for the 80th anniversary of D-Day in Normandy?

If you’d like to immerse yourself in the solemn and poignant atmosphere of D-Day, we recommend choosing a single D-Day beach and discovering the historic sites and commemorative events associated with it. See our itineraries for each D-Day beach below!

If you’d like to attend some festive events, you can find all the bals guinguettes here , or places offering fireworks here . The D-Day Festival Normandy (June 1 to 16, 2024) also features many festive events, which you can find here . If, on the other hand, you want to avoid the crowds, we advise you to opt for a visit to sites off the D-Day beaches, such as Les Franciscaines in Deauville or the Bayeux Museum. See our list of the best D-Day museums in our dedicated article. Please note, however, that several museums will be closed on June 6 for official commemorations.

Our tips for a successful visit to D-Day

Preparing your trip.

Given the success of this international event, we advise you to book all your accommodation and restaurants in advance. We also think it’s a good idea to come as early as Wednesday June 5, to give you time to find out all you need to know and choose your activities. We also recommend staying a little longer than the weekend to enjoy the region. Find out about the opening hours of historic sites and how to get there, so you can organize your day as well as possible, and above all anticipate any changes in schedules or programs to accommodate the expected crowds. And don’t forget to allow enough time to get from place to place. The weather was bad on June 6, 1944, and it could be the same in 2024. Because, yes, the weather can be fickle in Normandy (even in summer), so don’t forget your rain gear! Last but not least, make sure you have comfortable shoes to last you the whole day, as you’re likely to be trampling all over the place during gatherings.

80 years of D-Day

We do not recommend public transport to visit the landing sites. There are a few local buses, but not very frequent and with many stops. The best option is still a car, as this gives you a lot of flexibility in choosing where to go and how much time to spend in each place. You can rent at CDG or Orly airports, or Caen (see our tips ) or your point of arrival in France – note that Bayeux has very little choice (find out more ).

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 the complete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
• There is a lot of demand, book it early .

Where to eat

Please note that catering facilities are limited on the D-Day landing beaches, and may be crowded during events. We therefore recommend that you: – For your lunches: prefer picnics and bring your own snacks. To give you some inspiration, we’ve put together an article on the best cheeses in Normandy ! – For your dinners: book restaurants close to your hotel well in advance. In this article, you’ll find our list of the best restaurants in Normandy.

Where to stay

We advise you to sleep as close as possible to the sites you want to visit, to avoid having to travel as much as possible. Below, a selection of accommodation close to the D-Day landing sites:

STAYING NEAR THE D-Day beaches

Option 1: Bayeux

The most practical option, in our opinion, is to base ourselves in the town of Bayeux. We recommend..:

• Hotel Domaine de Bayeux in an 18th century mansion – see prices, photos and availability
• see all top rated accommodations in Bayeux

Option 2: in the countryside

In the countryside around the D-Day beaches, you will find beautiful buildings with a lot of charm: farms, manors…

• Hotel Domaine d’Utah Beach – prices, pictures and availability
• Hotel Ferme de la Rançonnière – prices, pictures and availability

Option 3: next to one of the beaches

If you’re looking for a seaside holiday or are fascinated by one of the beaches, you can choose a more specific hotel:

• Hotel Villas d’Arromanches in Gold Beach Beach – prices, pictures and availability
• Hotel La Sapinière in Omaha Beach Beach – prices, pictures and availability

See all our advice on where to stay to visit the beaches

Key events for the 80th anniversary of D-Day (spring-summer 2024)

Alongside the official ceremonies, a rich program of events is taking place in towns and villages throughout Manche and Calvados. This year, over 300 events will be organized: enough to make your head spin! So to help you find your way through this multitude of proposals, we’ve selected a few for you: Some 80th anniversary exhibitions:

• Les Franciscaines , presents Robert Capa’s historic reportage work on the beaches of Normandy, carried out in partnership with Magnum Photos. From May 5 to October 13 in Deauville (more info here ).
• The Battle of Normandy Memorial Museum ‘s Jeunesse et Résistance (Youth and Resistance ) exhibition focuses on the role of teenagers in the Resistance. From May 18 to September 22, 2024 in Bayeux (see more info here ).
• The Caen Memorial presents the exhibition The Dawn of the American Century, 1919-1944 . May 30 to June 2, 2024 in Caen (more info here )

Some sporting events to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day

• The Marathon de la Liberté : a running tribute to the D-Day landings. From May 30 to June 2, 2024, in 17 towns across Normandy (see more info here ).
• The Freedom Games : pair up to explore the historic beach of St-Laurent-sur-Mer. Thursday May 30 at 09:30 am, in St-Laurent-sur- Mer (more info here ).
• La Bernieraise proposes a large nautical gathering to celebrate freedom. Saturday June 8 from 10am to 5pm (more info here ).

Some educational activities for the 80th anniversary of D-Day

• A guided tour to understand life under the German Occupation From May 8 to August 24 at Trouville-sur-Mer (more info here ).
• A “3 months with the English” restitution camp Saturday June 22 and Sunday June 23 from 10am to 11pm at Creully-sur-Seulles (see more info here ) Find out more about Camp Hillman here .

Find the full program on the official Normandie Tourisme website here .

D’ Day must-sees: our tour ideas

Each of the 5 D-Day beaches is worth a visit for its historic beauty, monumental sculptures and associated museums. To mark the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings, we’ve put together a best-of list of sites to visit and events not to be missed in each sector.

1. 80 years of D-Day at Omaha Beach

Our must-haves

• Contemplate the sculpture Les Braves : created by Anilore Banon , this striking sculpture is a poignant tribute to the brave soldiers of D-Day.
• Pay your respects at the American Cemetery : home to 9387 graves of Allied soldiers who died in the Second World War, and the names of 1557 missing soldiers engraved in the Garden of the Missing. This unique commemorative site, with its rows of immaculate crosses, offers a poignant perspective on the sacrifice made for freedom.
• Visit the Overlord Museum: covering the period from D-Day to the liberation of Paris. Its name refers to Operation Overlord, the code name for the Allied invasion of the Normandy beaches.

To find out more, read our article on the must-sees at Omaha Beach .

Events marking the 80th anniversary of D-Day at Omaha Beach:

• Overlord Historial Days The Overlord Museum will be hosting a village of exhibitors for several days, as well as numerous events (concerts, film screenings, workshops, vehicle demonstrations) to celebrate the 80th anniversary of D-Day. Where : Overlord Museum, Colleville-sur-mer (more info here ) When? From Saturday June 1 to Monday June 09, 2024
• Omaha Beach Freedom Concert Where? Vierville-sur-Mer (more info here ) When? Saturday, June 1, 6 pm to 11:30 pm
• Isigny Swing Festival A free two-day festival of concerts and other events (swing dance classes, flea market, Mustang rides, vintage fair) to take you back to the festive atmosphere of the Liberation. A giant picnic will be held alongside the festival. Where? Town Hall, Isigny-sur-mer (more info here ) When? Saturday June 8, 10am-1am and Sunday June 9, 10am-6pm Price: Free
• Omaha Camp A fully reconstructed village to perpetuate the duty of remembrance in a playful way. U.S. and German troops will be represented, and there will be plenty of entertainment, including performances and a photo exhibition. Where? Dday Omaha Museum, Vierville-sur-Mer (more info here) When? From Saturday June 1 to Sunday June 08, 2024 Price: €5 with access to the museum

Find out about other events on the Isigny Omaha tourist office website here .

2. 80 years of D-Day at Utah Beach

• Discover the varied sculptures on the beach : between the statues of soldiers emerging from a D-Day barge, the statue of the Lone Sailor in Normandy and the US Navy Normandy monument, there’s a lot to see on this pretty dune beach!
• Visit the Airborne Museum : dedicated to the history of the Allied paratroopers during the Normandy landings in 1944, it offers an immersive experience through living re-enactments (a hologram soldier will brief you on how to prepare for the jump, for example), weapons displays and war vehicles.
• Visit the Utah Beach Landing Museum : built over a German bunker, this museum is organized chronologically, covering strategy, preparations, the history of D-Day (routes, liaison between divisions, etc.) and the outcome of the landing.

Find out more and read our practical tips in our article dedicated to discovering Utah Beach.

Events to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day at Utah Beach:

• Exceptional programming at the Normandy Victory Museum For several days, the museum will be offering an eclectic program of on-site and off-site events (exhibitions, lectures, concerts, workshops) and meetings (book signings, exchanges with veterans), enabling visitors to fully immerse themselves in this crucial era. Where? Normandy Victory Museum, Carentan-les-Marais (more info here ) When? From Saturday June 1 to Wednesday June 12, 2024, opening hours vary Price: €5 with access to the museum
• Immersion at Camp Geronimo Initiated by the Airborne Museum , Geronimo is an American re-enactment camp where you can relive the life of the soldiers through a rich program (display of numerous vehicles including tanks, workshops such as briefing or mine clearance, 40s show). Where? Airborne Museum, Sainte-Mère-Eglise (more info here ) When? Saturday, June 1 to Sunday, June 9, 2024 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Price: Free
• Grand parachutage de la Fière Watch as volunteers in period costume parachute from historic C-47s! Where? Sainte-Mère-Eglise (more info here ) When? Sunday, June 9, 9:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. Price: Free

Find out about other events on the Cotentin Tourist Office website here .

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

3. 80 years of D-Day at Sword Beach

• Along the beach and its memorials: on the long stretch of sand, you’ll discover various memorials including La Flamme , which honors the memory of the Commando Kieffer, the only French battalion to take part in the D-Day landings.
• Explore the Grand Bunker (Ouistreham) : nestled in the heart of an authentic German blockhouse preserved from the Second World War, this museum offers a unique immersion into the daily life of German soldiers up to D-Day.
• Visit Pegasus Bridge (Bridge and Memorial): considered one of Normandy’s greatest historical heritage treasures, Pegasus Bridge (named after the military operation) is emblematic! You can discover this in the memorial, which offers a detailed perspective on Operation Tonga, and the crucial role played by paratroopers in the success of D-Day.

Find all our tips and photos in our article dedicated to Sword Beach!

D-Day events at Sword Beach

• Swing D-Day Festival With live performances of pre-war swing, exhibitions of warplanes and vintage vehicles, sporting challenges, screenings and a market of regional products, the Festival will delight all curious visitors! Where are we? Lion-sur-mer, Hermanville-sur-Mer, Colleville-Montgomery (more info here ) When? From Saturday, May 18 to Saturday, June 15, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Price: Free
• Open-air cinema evening Discover the thrilling plot of the film Les Femmes de l’Ombre , which follows the courageous journey of a female spy in the Resistance, played by Sophie Marceau. Where: Ouistreham beach, Riva Bella, aid station n°1 (more info here ) When? Friday, June 7, 9 p.m. to midnight Price: Free
• Immersive show at the Merville Battery The Merville Battery Museum pays tribute to the liberating paratroopers of Colonel Otway’s 9th Battalion, with a show entitled Ils ne savaient pas que c’était impossible . Every evening, 100 volunteer re-enactors and extras bring the historic epic to life on the very site of the assault. Where? Merville Battery Museum (more info here ) When? Wednesday, June 5 to Saturday, June 8, 2024, 10 p.m. Price: €22

More information on the official Caen La Mer Tourisme website.

4. 80 years of D-Day at Gold Beach

• Visit the beach and its bunkers: to better understand the landing of British troops, but also to imagine the scale of the artificial port at Arromanches. In fact, it’s one of our favourite views of D-Day!
• Enjoy the Cinéma 360 d’Arromanches : a 360° immersion in the D-Day, with archive films shown on 9 screens.
• Visit the Arromanches Landing Museum: dedicated to the creation of the artificial port and the structures that facilitated the unloading of military vehicles (Mulberry Harbors).

Find out more about what to see in Juno Beach !

80 years of D-Day at Gold Beach

• S’émouvoir devant un Concert de Somme The BattleField Pipe Band will delight you with their captivating musical repertoire (mainly traditional Scottish tunes, with a smattering of Irish, American, Canadian and Australian tunes). Where? Esplanade du Musée d’Arromanches-les-bains (more info here ) When? Thursday, June 06, 2024 from 5pm to 6pm Price : Free
• Marvel at the fireworks On the site of the German Battery at Longues-sur-mer , a beautiful fireworks display in tribute to the heroes of the D-Day landings will be launched. Where? Longues-sur-Mer (more info here ) When? Saturday, June 1, 2024 at 3:30 p.m. Price : Free
• Teleport to the past The Château de Fontaine Henry invites you to a unique evening on the theme of 1944 and the Liberation. In addition to the evening dance, candlelight tours will be offered, as well as a lantern release in tribute to the soldiers of D-Day. Where? Château de Fontaine Henry (more info here ) When? June 24, 2023 from 7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Price : €13 (adults), €7.50 (7-15 year olds) including “40s” style tour + access to the park + survey + guinguette

Find more events on the official Normandie Tourisme website here .

5. 80 years of D-Day at Juno Beach

• Take a walk on the beach : a major Canadian D-Day site, we recommend visiting the beach at low tide to appreciate the various D-Day tribute sites (reproductions of soldiers, tanks, remains of bunkers, crosses). Once you’ve understood what’s hidden in the soul of this beach, you can take a stroll around its pleasant seaside resort.
• Visit the Juno Beach Center The only Canadian museum dedicated to the D-Day landings, it offers an interactive experience on subjects that go beyond the D-Day theme. The mobilization of an army, the civilian effort, life in Canada during WW2, and the army’s participation in every battle on the ground.

Find out more about places to explore and museums to visit in Juno Beach .

80 years of D-Day at Juno Beach

• Bunker animation at Radar Station 4 A sound and image trail will be projected onto 3 of the museum’s bunkers, recounting the history of the site, the radars and their involvement in D-Day. Where? Douvres-la-Délivrande (more info here ) When? April 16, 23, 30 from 8 to 11 p.m. and October 31 and November 09 from 7 to 11 p.m. Price: Free
• Giant sound and light show at Courseulles-sur-mer Entitled La mémoire en un siècle d’histoire (Memory in a century of history ), the show immerses visitors in the great moments of history since the 1920s. A giant screen will show a film interspersed with pyrotechnic interludes, videos and archive images. Where? Parc de l’Edit, Courseulles-sur-mer (more info here ) When? Saturday, June 08, 2024 at 11 p.m. Price: Free
• Immersion at Camp Nan White Discover a reconstructed WWII military camp with Canadian military vehicles, radios, a field kitchen and an exhibition of the Quebec Boiler Regiment in Zutphen. Where? Îlot des Français, Bernières-sur-Mer (more info here ) When? From June 1 to June 9, 10 am to 6 pm + concert on Sunday June 9 at 3 pm Price: Free

More events on the official Normandie Coeur de Nacre tourist office website here .

Subscribe to our Newsletter

• Get away from it all with Region Lovers’ beautiful destinations!
• Once a month
• Advertising-free

Other celebrations of the 80th anniversary of D-Day

Other celebrations will be held over the summer to keep the memory of D-Day alive. Here’s a list of the ones we’ve spotted!

• Choir for Peace 250 choir singers from Normandy will join forces to sing for Peace, performing classics rearranged for the occasion such as “L’hymne à la joie”, “We are the world”, and other songs… accompanied by top-class musicians. When? Thursday, June 27, 8 to 10 p.m. Where? Zenith Caen (more info here )
• The 80th anniversary of the Liberation of Pavilly Over two days, a rich educational program (encampment, ceremony in honor of resistance fighters, vehicle parade) and a festive program (dance, interallied boxing match in period dress and decor) will be offered. When? August 31, 2024 to September 01, 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Where? on the esplanade around the Dovecote and thatched cottage, rue du Val de l’Esne, Pavilly (see more info here ).
• Cobra 44 Commemorative Festival The program includes lectures, themed tours and a re-enactment camp, entertainment, demonstrations, rides in military vehicles, autograph sessions, meetings and festivities. When? July 20 and 21, 2024 Where? Normandy Victory Museum (more info here ) Price: Free outdoor event, but admission to the museum at an additional cost.
• Festival La Semaine Acadienne Created to pay tribute to the soldiers Acadians who landed on the beaches of Normandy on June 6, 1944 , this festival offers a varied program (commemorative ceremonies, exhibition on witnesses to the landings , concert for Peace, ballet entitled Lest We Forget , screening of documentaries on Canada during the Battle of Normandy , historical hike). When? Wednesday, August 7 to Thursday, August 15, 2024 Where? Courseulles-sur-mer (see more info on the website here. )

Frequently asked questions

What are the free/paid events.

Most events are open to all and free of charge, but some are not. Check with the organizers!

How long does the D-Day anniversary last?

Some festivities begin in March and last until October. June 6 is the key date for the anniversary, and the program is solemn with military parades, commemorative speeches and tributes to veterans. In parallel, the D-Day Festival Normandy kicks off with a blaze on the D-Day beaches on June 1 (some twenty fireworks displays simultaneously) and continues with numerous other events until June 16. You can find the full program on the festival’s dedicated website here .

Why is the anniversary of D-Day celebrated?

June 6, 1944, was the date on which the Allied forces launched a large-scale operation to liberate Europe, marking the end of Nazi domination. Commemorated every year in Normandy, this event offers a rich and varied program of events:

• official commemoration ceremonies,
• educational events (return camps, guided tours, conferences, exhibitions),
• festive events (festivals, balls, concerts, shows),
• sporting events.

Find all the events on the official website of the 80th anniversary of D-Day, with an interactive map here .

What’s on the agenda for the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings in Provence?

Less well known but just as important, the D-Day landings in Provence on June 15, 1944 were a key stage in the Liberation of France! Operation Dragoon orchestrated the landing of Allied forces, designed to open up a second front on French territory. And every year, as in Normandy, the magnificent beaches and villages of Provence are the scene of a number of festivities in memory of the D-Day landings. You can find the full program on the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur Tourisme website here . You can also visit the Mémorial du Débarquement et de la Libération en Provence, located in Toulon, to learn more about the stages of this historic military operation. See more info here .

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 things to do in Normandy
• Best cities in Normandy
• Most beautiful beaches of Normandy
• Most beautiful villages of Normandy
• Best castles of Normandy
• Best abbeys of Normandy
• Read our complete guide to visit the Mont-Saint-Michel
• Discover the D-Day sites

• 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 …

SHE MADE THE TRIP Claire

SHE WROTE THE ARTICLE Clara

Region lovers' 10 commitments.

• Visit all the places we tell you about.
• For each city, stay in at least one hotel and visit the ones we recommend.
• For each city, eat in at least one restaurant, visit the ones we select.
• Pay all our invoices in full, refuse any partnership or sponsorship.
• Periodically update our articles, with the help of our readers.
• Enrich our articles with our first-hand experiences.
• Use 99% of our own photos
• Use digital tools in a reasoned and transparent way, feeding them with information verified on site.
• Provide information on the traveler/writer pairing that gave rise to the article.
• Tell you what we do, and do what we tell you!

Claire and Manu

Find out more about the team and our history.

SEARCH OUR SITE

Our multi-destination blogs.

Regionlovers.fr

ZigZagroadtrips.com

OUR OTHER REGIONS TO DISCOVER

LoireLovers.fr

CorsicaLovers.fr

ProvenceLovers.fr

CanariasLovers.com

CHANGE LANGUAGE

Legal Notice / Terms of Use / Privacy Policy

Factbox-D-Day: What to Expect From 80th Anniversary in Normandy

Headstones are pictured in the World War II Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial at Colleville-sur-Mer, situated above Omaha Beach, Normandy region, France, May 30, 2024. REUTERS/Benoit Tessier/ File Photo

PARIS (Reuters) - Veterans and world leaders will meet in Normandy, northwestern France, on June 6 to mark the 80th anniversary of the 1944 D-Day landings, when more than 150,000 Allied soldiers invaded France to drive out the forces of Nazi Germany.

Eighty years later, Normandy's beaches and fields still bear the scars of the fighting that erupted on D-Day, history's largest amphibious invasion.

Here is what you need to know about the event:

WHY DOES THE CEREMONY MATTER?

- With war raging on Europe's borders, this anniversary's D-Day ceremony will carry special resonance. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy will be among the guests. Russia, which launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, touching off Europe's biggest armed conflict since World War Two, was not invited.

- The numbers of British, American, Canadian and French veterans still alive, most of them aged 100 or more, are fast dwindling. This could be one of the last major ceremonies on Normandy's windswept beaches and at the manicured war memorials honouring those veterans still present.

WHO WILL BE THERE?

- Around 4,500 guests are expected, including about 200 veterans, mostly from the U.S., Britain, Canada and France. Among them will be 101-year old U.S. Army veteran Jake Larson.

The Latest Photos From Ukraine

- U.S. President Joe Biden will be there while on a June 5-9 state visit to France.

- Russia will not be represented. President Vladimir Putin was never on the guest list due to the invasion of Ukraine. But France had initially invited Russia's ambassador in recognition of the country's massive sacrifices during World War Two, before rescinding the invitation.

- Britain's King Charles, Queen Camilla and Prince William will be among the guests, along with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Canada's Justin Trudeau and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.

WHAT WILL THEY DO?

- For French President Emmanuel Macron, there will be three days of visits and speeches, from June 5-7. On the 5th, he will be in Brittany and Normandy, with visits that include the town of Saint-Lô, which was destroyed by Allied bombardments.

- Also on June 5, British army paratroopers will recreate a drop into the fields of Normandy, watched by three veterans. A British ceremony at the Bayeux War Cemetery will be attended by D-Day veterans and their families.

- The main focus will be June 6. Ceremonies will kick off at around 0830 GMT at the British Normandy Memorial in Ver-sur-Mer, in the presence of King Charles. Canada will hold its own ceremony at 0900 GMT, attended by Prince William.

At around 1000 GMT, Biden will lead a U.S. ceremony in the presence of D-Day veterans. And at 1300 GMT, Macron will preside over an international ceremony at Omaha Beach, where U.S. forces suffered their greatest casualties in the assault against heavily fortified German defences.

At around 1600 GMT, world leaders are expected to gather in Caen for diplomatic talks.

- On June 7, Biden will deliver remarks at Pointe du Hoc, Normandy, about the importance of defending freedom and democracy.

(Reporting by Elizabeth Pineau, Ingrid Melander, John Irish and Michael Holden; writing by Ingrid Melander; editing by Mark Heinrich and Gareth Jones)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

Photos You Should See - May 2024

Join the Conversation

Tags: Ukraine , Canada , Russia , France , United States , United Kingdom , Europe , Germany

America 2024

Health News Bulletin

Stay informed on the latest news on health and COVID-19 from the editors at U.S. News & World Report.

Sign in to manage your newsletters »

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

You May Also Like

The 10 worst presidents.

U.S. News Staff Feb. 23, 2024

Cartoons on President Donald Trump

Feb. 1, 2017, at 1:24 p.m.

Photos: Obama Behind the Scenes

April 8, 2022

Photos: Who Supports Joe Biden?

March 11, 2020

NYC’s Verdict on Trump: Not One of Us

Lincoln Mitchell June 1, 2024

Will Trump’s Guilty Verdict Help Biden?

Susan Milligan May 31, 2024

Texas Court Punts Abortion Ban Challenge

Aneeta Mathur-Ashton May 31, 2024

Key Reactions to Trump’s Guilty Verdict

Lauren Camera and Laura Mannweiler May 31, 2024

5 Key Questions About Trump Verdict

Cecelia Smith-Schoenwalder May 31, 2024

His Own Worst Enemy?

Lauren Camera May 31, 2024