The Ultimate One-Day Tour of Caen

Explore the historic city of Caen and immerse yourself in French culture.

22 April 2023

As a tourist, a trip to Caen offers a great blend of history, culture and scenic views. A visit to the Chateau de Caen, a medieval castle with a rich history and the renowned museum of Fine Arts are must-see attractions. Additionally, Caen provides easy access to the D-Day landing beaches and nearby cider routes, making it a perfect destination for a memorable holiday.

Day trip plan

Getting latest place information
Day

Magical Morning in Caen

  • Start your day with a visit to Château de Caen, a formidable fortress that houses a museum dedicated to the history of Normandy.
  • After taking in the castle's grandeur, grab a croissant and coffee from a local boulangerie and head to Jardin des Plantes for a peaceful stroll through the botanical garden.
  • Next, make your way to Abbaye-aux-Hommes, an 11th-century monastery that is a must-see for history buffs.
  • For lunch, stop by La Cantine des Arts, a cozy bistro that serves up modern French cuisine with an artistic twist.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Caen, which features an impressive collection of European art from the Renaissance to the 20th century.
  • End your day with a glass of Calvados, a traditional apple brandy that is distilled in the region, at Le Grillon, a charming bar with a vintage decor.
  • Note: Don't miss out on the Caen Memorial, a museum dedicated to World War II, if you have a bit more time in Caen.

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.

More travel plans

A Romantic 3-Day Getaway to Caen, France

Experience a romantic getaway in the historic city of Caen, France, filled with charming architecture and cultural landmarks. Stroll hand in hand in the streets filled with quaint cafes, patisseries, and boutique shops. Indulge in culinary delights by sampling the delicious Normandy cuisine, paired with local wine.

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.

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.

Unforgettable long weekend in Caen, France

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.