Caen's 5 Days of Fun on a Budget

Discover the charm of Caen without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Caen is a stunning city in Normandy, France that is perfect for travelers on a budget. There are plenty of budget-friendly accommodations, from hostels to affordable hotels. Visitors can explore the city's rich history by visiting landmarks such as the Caen Memorial Museum and the Chateau de Caen without overspending.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Old Caen

  • Start the day with a delicious croissant from the local boulangerie
  • Visit the Chateau de Caen, a medieval castle with stunning views of the city
  • Take a stroll through the picturesque Port de Plaisance, a charming little harbor
  • Explore the beautiful Saint-Pierre Church, dating back to the 13th century
  • Stop for a cheap and tasty lunch at Le Petit Normand, a cozy local bistro
  • End the day with a leisurely walk through the Jardin des Plantes, a lovely botanical garden
  • Stay: Hotel du Havre, a simple and affordable option with friendly staff and a great location in central Caen.
Day 2

D-Day Beaches and Museum

  • Get an early start and head out to the D-Day Landing Beaches, just a short drive from Caen
  • Visit the stunning American Cemetery and Memorial, a powerful and moving tribute to those who fought in the Normandy invasion
  • Check out the impressive Caen Memorial Museum, which provides a comprehensive overview of World War II
  • Grab a quick lunch at a local creperie
  • Finish the day with a scenic drive along the coast, taking in the beautiful scenery and small seaside towns
Day 3

Bayeux and Mont Saint Michel

  • Take a day trip to the historic town of Bayeux, famous for its stunning tapestry
  • Wander through the charming streets, stopping for lunch at a local brasserie
  • Visit the Abbaye du Mont Saint Michel, an absolutely incredible historical site with stunning views of the surrounding bay
  • Take a tour of the monastery and explore the picturesque village below
  • Head back to Caen, stopping for a traditional Normandy cider along the way
Day 4

Wine and Cheese Tour

  • Start the day with a hearty breakfast at a local cafe
  • Take a wine and cheese tour of the region, sampling some of the best local products
  • Visit a local goat farm and taste their delicious cheeses
  • Stop by a vineyard for a wine tasting and tour
  • Enjoy a leisurely lunch featuring the best local cheeses and wines
  • End the day with a relaxing dinner at L'Atelier des Augustins, a cozy restaurant serving delicious French cuisine
Day 5

Caen's Hidden Gems

  • Explore Caen's lesser-known attractions, such as the Eglise Saint-Jean, a beautiful Gothic church
  • Check out the quirky and fascinating museum of Humor and Satire
  • Take a stroll through the Parc Michel d'Ornano, a lovely green space in the heart of the city
  • Lunch on traditional galettes and crepes at a local cafe
  • Spend the afternoon at the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Caen, a fantastic art museum with works ranging from the Middle Ages to contemporary times
  • End the trip with a final dinner at Le Bistrot du Boucher, a classic French restaurant serving up delicious steaks and seafood.
  • Stay: Hôtel Des Quatrans, a charming hotel in the heart of the city with a friendly staff and comfortable rooms.

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

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.

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, France: A Budget-Friendly Adventure

A trip to Caen, France on a limited budget can be accomplished by staying in affordable accommodations such as hostels or budget hotels. The city offers many free activities including visiting the Caen Memorial Museum, exploring the Castle of William the Conqueror and wandering through the botanical gardens. Sample the delicious local cuisine and drink from sidewalk cafes and bistros for another budget-friendly option.

4 Days of Charm and History in Caen, France

Caen, France is a charming city with historical significance and beautiful architecture. It is an excellent option for budget travelers as it offers many free activities, including visiting William the Conqueror's castle and exploring the Memorial de Caen museum. Accommodations, food, and transportation can also be found at reasonable prices, making it an accessible destination for travelers on a limited budget.