3 Days in Caen: History, Cuisine, and Shopping

Discover the charm and history of Caen, France.

22 April 2023

A trip to Caen would be a great experience for any tourist, as it is a city rich in history and culture. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins of the Chateau de Caen, as well as the magnificent Gothic architecture of the Abbaye aux Hommes and Abbaye aux Dames. The city also has numerous museums, parks, and shops to enjoy, making it a perfect destination for a well-rounded vacation.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Explore the Historical Sites

  • Check into Hotel des Quatrans, a charming hotel situated in the heart of Caen
  • Visit the Abbaye aux Hommes, a magnificent Romanesque abbey built by William the Conqueror
  • Admire the stunning stained glass windows of the nearby Eglise Saint-Etienne
  • Walk around the Chateau de Caen, a fortress built in the 11th century that now houses museums and exhibitions
  • Stroll through the Jardin des Plantes, a peaceful botanical garden with over 8,000 plant species
Day 2

Taste the Local Cuisine

  • Savor a croissant and coffee at La Fregate, a cozy bakery and cafe
  • Indulge in the rich and creamy Camembert cheese at the Fromagerie Graindorge
  • Try the delicious Norman specialties at Chez Marcel, a rustic restaurant famous for its cider and flaky pastries
  • Enjoy a glass of wine at Le Bouche à Oreille, a trendy wine bar with a wide selection of French wines
  • End the evening with some traditional Calvados, a brandy made from apples, at Le Bistrot du Boucher
Day 3

Shop till you Drop

  • Visit the bustling Place Saint-Sauveur market, where you can browse fresh produce, crafts, and antiques
  • Check out the trendy boutiques and designer shops on Rue Saint-Pierre
  • Enjoy a leisurely afternoon at the Centre Commercial Les Rives de l'Orne, a modern shopping mall with over 100 stores
  • Pick up some souvenirs at the Maison de la Presse, a popular bookstore that also sells postcards, magnets, and other gifts
  • Relax at the end of the day with a cup of tea at L'heure des thés, a charming tea room with a cozy ambiance.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Caen

Welcome to a place where the cheese is as strong as the historical landmarks. Caen is a charming city filled with an abundance of medieval charm and delicious dairy delights.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

4 Days of Charm and History in Caen, France

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Caen, France: Unforgettable Family Adventures

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.

Caen: Budget-Friendly History, Food, and Sweets

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Romantic Long Weekend in Caen, France

A trip to Caen, France for a romantic getaway promises to be delightful with its lush greenery, historical heritage, and architectural marvels. Couples can explore the Chateau de Caen, visit the Pegasus Bridge, admire the Romanesque abbey of Saint-Etienne, and take a quiet stroll through the Vaugueux district. The charming bistros, street markets, and quaint cafes offer the perfect setting for an intimate dinner or a leisurely brunch.