Caen: A Family-friendly Adventure in 3 Days!
Discover the charm of Caen, France – a family adventure awaits!
19 July 2023
Raymonde Gagnon
France Travel Writer
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.
Travel plan
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- Start your day at the stunning Abbaye aux Hommes, home to the tomb of William the Conqueror.
- Wander through the narrow cobbled streets of Vaugueux Quarter, where charming half-timbered houses meet hip bistros.
- Immerse yourself in history at the Château de Caen, with its impressive ramparts and captivating museums.
- Treat your taste buds to some local delicacies at the lively market on Place Saint-Sauveur.
- Indulge in a creamy and rich calvados, the pride of the region, at a traditional Norman apple orchard.
- Embark on an emotional journey at the Caen Memorial, a comprehensive museum chronicling the devastation of WWII.
- Pay your respects at the iconic Pegasus Bridge, a crucial site of the D-Day landings and symbol of bravery.
- Visit the serene and thought-provoking American Cemetery and Memorial, a place of remembrance overlooking Omaha Beach.
- Explore Arromanches 360 Circular Cinema, a unique audiovisual experience showcasing the history of the D-Day landings.
- Relax and enjoy a beach picnic on the stunning golden sands of Sword Beach, a perfect spot for family fun.
- Admire the strikingly modern architecture of the Mémorial de Caen, a museum dedicated to conflicts worldwide.
- Take a relaxing stroll through the breathtaking Jardin des Plantes, a beautifully landscaped park bursting with vibrant flora.
- Savour a scrumptious lunch of crispy galettes and sweet crêpes at an authentic crêperie in the city center.
- Explore the picturesque town of Honfleur, known for its charming harbor, colorful facades, and art galleries.
- End your day with a peaceful cruise along the serene River Orne, offering a unique perspective of Caen's rich history.
- Hotel Recommendation: Le Lion d'Or Nestled in the heart of Caen's historic district, this family-friendly hotel features comfortable rooms and a warm ambiance. Plus, its proximity to attractions and local eateries make it a perfect base for exploring the city.
Length of stay
Type of trip
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.