Unforgettable long weekend in Caen, France

Discover the charm of Normandy in Caen, France.

22 April 2023

As a tourist, a trip to Caen, France could be a truly remarkable and memorable experience. This fascinating city boasts a rich history dating back to the medieval times and is home to numerous historical landmarks including the majestic Caen Castle, the beautiful Abbaye aux Hommes and the awe-inspiring Memorial Museum. From exploring historic architecture to indulging in delicious cuisine and experiencing the local culture, Caen has something to offer for everyone.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Arrival and Historic Exploration

  • Check into Hotel Des Quatrans, which boasts a charming, medieval-style courtyard
  • Stroll through the historic city center and admire the stunning Norman architecture of the Abbaye aux Hommes and Abbaye aux Dames
  • Learn about the local history and culture at the fascinating Caen Memorial Museum
  • Visit the Château de Caen, a striking fortress built by William the Conqueror in 1060
  • Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at L'Atelier des Augustins, a cozy restaurant with a mouthwatering menu featuring local ingredients
Day 2

Beach Day and Artistic Inspiration

  • Take a daytrip to the nearby beaches of Cabourg and Houlgate, known for their soft sands and refreshing sea breeze
  • Visit the charming seaside village of Dives-sur-Mer and marvel at the breathtaking views from the top of the 17th century Saint-Germain church tower
  • Explore the exhibitions and collections of the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Caen, which range from classical art to contemporary works
  • Immerse yourself in the local arts scene with a visit to the Frac Normandie Caen, a contemporary art gallery that showcases a diverse range of talents
  • Indulge in a scrumptious seafood dinner at Le P'tit B, a cozy restaurant that offers a rich selection of fish and seafood plates
Day 3

Cider Tasting and Medieval Activities

  • Embark on a scenic drive through the charming countryside of Normandy, and stop by a local cidery for a tasting of the refreshing regional drink
  • Experience the life of a medieval peasant at the Château de Brécy, a restored 14th-century castle with fun interactive exhibits
  • Take a break in the quaint town of Bayeux, famous for its eponymous tapestry that depicts the events leading up to the Norman conquest of England in 1066
  • Discover the treasures of the Musée de la Tapisserie de Bayeux, that showcases a detailed reproduction of the impressive Bayeux Tapestry
  • Savor a gourmet dinner at the Michelin-starred restaurant L'Alchimie, which offers creative French cuisine with a modern twist
Day 4

Local Markets and Gastronomic Delights

  • Browse the vibrant stalls of the Caen Farmers' Market, which offers a bounty of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and delectable pastries
  • Learn how to cook like a local by taking a traditional Norman cuisine class at the La Ruche qui dit Oui! cooking school
  • Visit the colourful Jardin des Plantes de Caen, a haven of serenity that offers a picturesque backdrop for a picnic lunch
  • Unwind with a glass of wine and tapas at Le Comptoir de Cancale, a chic wine bar that offers a vast selection of French and international labels
  • Splurge on a gourmet final dinner at the Michelin-starred restaurant Ivan Vautier, which offers a creative cuisine that blends traditional and contemporary flavors
  • End of the trip, but not of the memories.

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

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.

A Romantic Long Weekend in Historic Caen

Caen is a city known for its charming architecture and rich history. Take a romantic stroll through the Old Quarter and admire the stunning Romanesque churches and medieval castle. Indulge in the local cuisine and savor the taste of traditional Norman dishes with your loved one.

Caen: Budget-Friendly History, Food, and Sweets

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.

Fun 5-Day Guide to Caen's History & Hidden Gems

As a tourist in Caen, France, delve into the rich history of the city with a visit to the Chateau de Caen, a striking medieval castle. To gain insights into the local culture, visit the fascinating Museum of Fine Arts, featuring art collections from the 15th to the 21st centuries. For an interactive experience, take a stroll through the Jardin des Plantes, the city's beautiful botanical garden, and enjoy some delightful moments amidst nature.