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

Unveil the history of Normandy in the charming city of Caen.

22 April 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

First Impressions

  • Check into Hotel Le Dauphin, a charming and cozy property in the heart of the city
  • Stroll through the picturesque streets of Vaugueux, filled with lively cafes and artisanal shops
  • Visit the Abbaye aux Hommes, a striking Romanesque monastery built by William the Conqueror
  • Indulge in a delicious seafood dinner at Le Bistrot du Boucher
  • Enjoy a nightcap at La Belle Équipe, a trendy bar with a retro vibe
Day 2

Discovering Caen's History

  • Explore the iconic Château de Caen, a medieval fortress with panoramic views of the city
  • Pay tribute to the fallen soldiers of World War II at the Mémorial de Caen museum
  • Take a break at Jardin des Plantes, an enchanting botanical garden with a charming greenhouse
  • Indulge in a gourmet lunch at Le Bouchon du Vauguex, a cozy bistro with an extensive wine list
  • Wander around the lively St-Pierre neighborhood, known for its bustling market and charming cafes
Day 3

Uncovering Local Gems

  • Head to the outskirts of Caen to visit the impressive Château de Fontaine-Henry, a stunning Renaissance castle
  • Explore the charming fishing village of Port-en-Bessin-Huppain, known for its picturesque harbor and fresh seafood
  • Visit the quirky Musée de la Batterie de Merville, an underground museum showcasing the history of the Normandy landings
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth at La Maison du Biscuit, a charming bakery with a wide selection of local treats
  • Dine at La Ferme des Granges, a rustic farm-to-table restaurant serving hearty dishes made with local ingredients
Day 4

A Day Trip to Bayeux

  • Take a day trip to the picturesque town of Bayeux, famous for its stunning tapestry depicting the Norman Conquest
  • Explore the Gothic Bayeux Cathedral, a stunning architectural gem
  • Visit the peaceful Jardin Public de Bayeux, a tranquil park with a scenic lake
  • Indulge in a classic French lunch at La Table du Terroir, a charming bistro with a cozy atmosphere
  • Discover the town's artisanal shops and charming boutiques, perfect for souvenir shopping
Day 5

Farewell, Caen

  • Take a leisurely morning stroll along the banks of the River Orne, admiring the picturesque bridges and riverboats
  • Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts, a refined museum showcasing a diverse collection of artworks
  • Have a final meal at La Grotte, a charming restaurant known for its local specialties and cozy atmosphere
  • Take a taxi to the airport or train station, bidding farewell to the charming city of Caen with fond 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

3 Days in Caen: History, Cuisine, and Shopping

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.

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.

Romance in Caen: A Day Trip Guide

Caen, France is an ideal romantic getaway, offering historic atmosphere and modern French culture. Walking hand in hand through the medieval quarters of the city, admiring the architecture, and indulging in delicious French cuisine are the highlights of this trip. From exploring the memorial sites to relaxing by the peaceful canals, Caen is the perfect destination for an unforgettable romantic experience.

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.