A Charming Weekend in Historic Caen, France

Fall in Love with the Romance of Caen, France.

03 May 2023

Caen, France is the perfect destination for a romantic trip with its charming streets, beautiful historic buildings, and delicious French cuisine. Explore the stunning Château de Caen and the stunning Abbaye-aux-Hommes or stroll through the picturesque Jardin des Plantes. Indulge in French delicacies at one of the many exquisite restaurants before ending the night with a stroll along the river.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Discovering Caen's History

  • Hotel: Hotel Restaurant Ivan Vautier, a chic and cozy boutique hotel with a Michelin-starred restaurant.
  • Visit the Abbaye aux Hommes, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture and burial place of William the Conqueror.
  • Explore the Caen Castle, a fortress built by William the Conqueror's son and turned into a prison during the French Revolution.
  • Walk through the Parc des Batailles, a peaceful park with stunning views of the city and a tribute to the soldiers who fought in World War II.
  • Admire the stunning stained-glass windows at the Saint-Pierre church, a Gothic jewel in the heart of Caen.
  • Have lunch at La Quincaillerie, a trendy restaurant serving delicious and inventive dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.
Day 2

Indulging in Caen's Art de Vivre

  • Start the day with a croissant and coffee at Maison Thibaudeau, a charming bakery with a retro vibe.
  • Explore the Musée des Beaux-Arts, a beautiful museum housed in a former bishop's palace and featuring a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.
  • Wander through the Marché Saint-Pierre, a lively market selling all sorts of local produce and delicacies.
  • Treat yourself to a spa day at Les Bains de Cabourg, a luxurious wellness center with a range of treatments and a heated seawater pool.
  • Have a romantic dinner at L'Instant Comptoir, a cozy bistro serving classic French cuisine and an impressive selection of wines.
  • There's no place quite like Caen for a charming and historic getaway. From exploring the city's impressive landmarks to indulging in its art de vivre, this itinerary ensures you make the most of your stay!

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Caen, France by plane is to fly into Caen-Carpiquet Airport (CFR) from cities such as Lyon or connecting through Amsterdam. From the airport, take a taxi or bus to the Caen city center.

Car

Driving to Caen, France is a great way to see the countryside. Motorways connect Caen to major French cities like Paris or Rouen. The A13 motorway ends in Caen, making it easy to reach by car.

Train

Traveling to Caen, France by train is a convenient option. The Caen train station (Gare de Caen) is easily accessible by train from major French cities like Paris, Bordeaux or Lille. There are also international trains from London or Brussels that stop at the Caen train station.

Boat

Traveling to Caen, France by ferry is a scenic option. Brittany Ferries operates a ferry service between Portsmouth, UK and Ouistreham, which is just a 20-minute drive from Caen. From Ouistreham, take a taxi or bus to the Caen city center.

Bus

Getting to Caen, France by bus is an affordable option. Flixbus offers bus services to Caen from cities like Paris or Tours. The bus station in Caen is located at the Jardin des Plantes.

More travel plans

Caen, France: The Ultimate 5-Day Family Adventure

Caen, located in the heart of Normandy, France, is a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip. The city offers a wonderful blend of historical charm, educational experiences, and fun activities for children. Explore fascinating museums like the Caen Memorial, visit the beautiful Château de Caen, and spend quality time at family-friendly attractions such as Festyland, an amusement park filled with thrilling rides and entertainment.

Caen: A Family-friendly Adventure in 3 Days!

Caen, located in Normandy, France, is an ideal destination for a family-friendly trip. With its rich history and cultural heritage, families can explore numerous historical sites like the stunning Caen Castle and the Abbaye aux Hommes. Additionally, the city boasts beautiful parks, such as the Jardin des Plantes, offering opportunities for relaxation and outdoor activities suitable for all ages.

Caen, France: A Budget-Friendly Adventure

A trip to Caen, France on a limited budget can be accomplished by staying in affordable accommodations such as hostels or budget hotels. The city offers many free activities including visiting the Caen Memorial Museum, exploring the Castle of William the Conqueror and wandering through the botanical gardens. Sample the delicious local cuisine and drink from sidewalk cafes and bistros for another budget-friendly option.

The Ultimate One-Day Tour of Caen

As a tourist, a trip to Caen offers a great blend of history, culture and scenic views. A visit to the Chateau de Caen, a medieval castle with a rich history and the renowned museum of Fine Arts are must-see attractions. Additionally, Caen provides easy access to the D-Day landing beaches and nearby cider routes, making it a perfect destination for a memorable holiday.