Caen, France: A Budget-Friendly Adventure

Experience the charm of Normandy without breaking the bank in Caen.

21 June 2023

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.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Old Town

  • Stay at Hotel du Havre, a cozy budget hotel in the heart of the city
  • Wander the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, taking in the medieval architecture
  • Visit the massive 11th century Château de Caen, with its stunning views over the city
  • Explore the Abbaye-aux-Hommes, a magnificent 11th century Romanesque abbey church
  • Stop by the Musée des Beaux-Arts for a dose of art and history
  • Enjoy a delicious French dinner at Le Bouchon du Vaugueux, a charming restaurant in the heart of the Old Town
Day 2

Beach Day

  • Start the day with a walk along the iconic D-Day Landing Beaches of Normandy
  • Take a dip in the refreshing waters of Ouistreham Beach
  • Stroll the promenade and soak in the sun at the Plage de Sword, a popular beach with locals
  • Visit the Musée de la Batterie de Merville, a museum dedicated to one of the key German bunkers during the war
  • Enjoy a cold one on the beach at les Mouettes, a popular beach bar
  • End the day with a sunset picnic on the beach, taking in the stunning views of the English Channel
  • Caen may be a small city, but it packs a punch with its history, culture and beach vibes. With these two days, you'll have plenty of time to explore the best of what this French gem has to offer!

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.

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Caen, located in the Normandy region of France, offers plenty to see and do for those on a limited budget. Visitors can explore the historic Chateau de Caen, the Abbey of Saint-Etienne, and the Memorial of Caen museum for a low admission fee. Additionally, affordable accommodation options such as hostels and budget hotels are available in the city center.

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A family trip to Caen, France promises an enriching experience for all. Nestled in the heart of Normandy, this charming city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural wonders. From exploring the majestic medieval Caen Castle to visiting the interactive Memorial Museum, there are countless family-friendly activities to enjoy in this captivating destination.

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Caen is a great destination for those on a limited budget. You can explore the city's rich history by visiting the Caen Memorial Museum, the Abbaye aux Hommes, and the Chateau de Caen, all for free or at a low cost. There are also plenty of affordable dining options, such as the local street food and budget-friendly restaurants.

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