Caen, France: The Ultimate 5-Day Family Adventure
Unveiling history and charm, explore Caen with your family.
19 July 2023
Raymonde Gagnon
France Travel Writer
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.
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- Check into the family-friendly Hotel Crocus, perfectly situated near the city center with cozy rooms that will make you feel like royalty.
- Begin your adventure with a visit to the magnificent Château de Caen, where you can explore its towering towers and ancient walls, all while feeling like a medieval warrior.
- Stroll along the lively Rue Froide, a charming street filled with quaint cafes and boutique shops. Meet locals who'll teach you how to say "Bonjour" with the perfect French accent.
- Indulge in a gastronomic feast at Le Bouchon du Vaugueux, a hidden gem serving up mouthwatering Norman cuisine. Try the infamous Camembert cheese, and don't resist the urge to lick your fingers!
- Finish off your day with a relaxing walk along the picturesque quays of the Canal de Caen à la Mer. Watch as the sun sets over the water, casting a golden glow on the city.
- Hop aboard a bus to the stunning beaches of Normandy, just a short ride away. Explore the historic D-Day Landing Beaches, where bravery and tales of heroism linger in the salty air.
- Take a moment to reflect at the mesmerizing Monumento al Bagnino, a sculpture dedicated to the fallen soldiers. Let the weight of history wash over you like the crashing waves on the shore.
- Enjoy a family picnic on the sandy coastline, complete with a traditional French baguette, local cheeses, and a bottle of Normandy's finest cider. Bon appétit!
- For a taste of adventure, rent bicycles and pedal along the coast, feeling the wind whip through your hair as seagulls cheer you on. Remember to shout "Vive la France!" with gusto!
- Catch the sunset at Omaha Beach, where colors explode across the sky, creating a canvas of beauty. Let the serenity and quiet reflection of the moment soothe your soul before returning to Caen.
- Start your day with a visit to the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Caen, a hidden gem of artistic wonders that will make you feel like you've stepped into a magical dream world.
- Join a lively guided tour around Abbaye-aux-Hommes, a stunning masterpiece of Romanesque architecture. Close your eyes and imagine the whispered chants of monks echoing through its halls.
- Meander through the bustling streets of Vaugueux district, a vibrant neighborhood known for its quirky shops and contemporary art galleries. Embrace your inner bohemian and buy a beret!
- Indulge in a delectable lunch at Au Petit Pousset, a charming bistro serving traditional French delicacies with a modern twist. May we suggest the escargots? They're slimy, yet oh so tasty!
- Uncover the secrets of Caen's turbulent past at the Mémorial de Caen, a museum dedicated to World War II and the subsequent peaceful reconciliation. Leave with a renewed sense of hope and understanding.
- Embark on a culinary adventure at the Marché de Caen, a lively market where farmers tempt your taste buds with an array of aromatic cheeses, freshly baked bread, and aromatic spices.
- Channel your inner Picasso at the Musée de la Poste, a quirky museum dedicated to the art of sending mail. Who knew stamps could be so captivating?
- Discover Caen's botanical paradise at the Jardin des Plantes, a serene oasis where vibrant blooms dance in the breeze and children play hide-and-seek among the statues. Join in the fun!
- Savor a classic French lunch at La Bodega, a rustic eatery known for its fondue au fromage. Dive into a bubbling pot of melted goodness and let your taste buds do a happy dance.
- Unleash your creativity at Le Hangar à Images, an interactive arts center where technology meets imagination. Lose track of time as you delve into a universe of virtual reality and mind-bending installations.
- Bid au revoir to Caen with a scenic boat tour along the River Orne, soaking in the city's breathtaking views from a whole new perspective.
- Immerse yourself in history one final time at the Musée de Normandie, a treasure trove of artifacts showcasing both the region's Viking past and its post-war rebirth.
- Indulge in a farewell feast at L'Eau à la Bouche, a cozy restaurant where locals gather to celebrate all things delicious. Treat yourself to a creamy crème brûlée that will make your taste buds sing.
- Take a leisurely evening stroll through the Parc Michel d'Ornano, admiring the beautifully manicured gardens as they bid you adieu. Caen may be bidding farewell, but the memories will linger forever.
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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.