Caen's Delightful Day Trip: History, Charm, and Adventure

Discover the charm of Caen: history, culture, and family fun all in one unforgettable trip!

19 July 2023

Caen, located in northern France, offers a delightful family-friendly trip with its rich history, charming architecture, and various activities for all ages. Explore the iconic Caen Castle and its fascinating museums, enjoy family picnics in the lovely Parc Michel d'Ornano, and take a fun-filled boat trip along the picturesque Canal de Caen à la Mer. With its captivating blend of culture and entertainment, Caen guarantees a memorable vacation for the whole family.

Day trip plan

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Day

Exploring Charming Caen

  • Start your day with a visit to the majestic Abbaye aux Hommes, an ancient abbey that will transport you back in time
  • Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Vaugueux neighborhood, filled with charming cafes and authentic local shops
  • Immerse yourself in history at the Mémorial de Caen, a fascinating museum dedicated to World War II and peace
  • Enjoy a delicious lunch at L'Armoire à Délices, where you can savor mouthwatering dishes made with the finest local ingredients
  • Take a relaxing boat ride along the peaceful Orne River, admiring the scenic views and colorful houses along the way
  • End your day with a visit to the stunning Château de Caen, and climb the famous ramparts for panoramic views of the city.

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.

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