THINGS TO DO IN bayeux: 2-DAY ITINERARY

The small yet historic city of Bayeux in France’s northwestern Normandy region is famed around the world for the Bayeux Tapestry which is housed in a museum in the city centre. This 70-metre-long tapestry features scenes from the Norman Conquest of Britain and dates back to the 11th Century.

But there’s a lot more to see and do in Bayeux from its Romanesque, Gothic cathedral to museums and memorials dedicated to the Second World War (Normandy was of course the site of the D-Day landings and the beaches are within easy reach of the city), plus a plethora of parks, gardens streetside cafes and galleries.

Bayeux makes a great base for exploring Normandy’s incredible coastline, the region of Calvados, famous for its apple-based spirit, and other picturesque towns and villages such as Caen, Honfleur, and Mont Saint Michel, one of France’s top tourist destinations. So, without further ado, let’s see what there is to do on a 2 day Bayeux itinerary.

Day 1

Morning: Tourist Office

Start your 2-day Bayeux itinerary at the Tourist Information Office where you can pick up a free map which includes all the major attractions, and find out about any events happening during your stay.

Abre de la Liberte (Bayeux Liberty Tree)

Head south from the Tourist Office along Rue Archer to the Bayeux Liberty Tree on Place de la Liberte. The tree was planted in 1797 as a symbol of freedom during the French Revolution making it one of the oldest such liberty trees in France. If you visit during July or August, the tree is illuminated at night as films and light shows are projected onto it and this is definitely the best time to see it.

Bayeux Cathedral

It’s a short hop from Place de la Liberte to the imposing 13th-century Norman-Gothic cathedral. This National Monument of France was likely the original home of the Bayeux tapestry, which has since been rehomed in a dedicated museum (see afternoon section). The cathedral as you see it today dates to 1077, but it was built on a site that has been used as a place of worship since Roman times. The cathedral is open to the public from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm every day.

50th Northumbrian Memorial

Across from the cathedral and on the other side of Rue Léonard-Lambert Le Forestier you’ll find a small plaque which is a memorial to the 50th Northumbrian Division who were instrumental in liberating occupied Bayeux; the first town in France to fall to the Allied forces.

Day 1, morning - bayeux Tour Map

Afternoon: Bayeux Tapestry Museum

The instantly recognisable Bayeux tapestry is one of the most famous pieces of embroidered cloth in the world. The tapestry depicts scenes from the Norman Conquest of Britain and the Battle of Hastings, and measures a whopping 70 metres (230 feet) by 50 centimetres (20 inches) and was produced in around 1077, 11 years after the famous battle.

The UNESCO-listed Bayeux Tapestry Museum (Musee de la Tapisserie de Bayeux) is where you can see this masterpiece of medieval art in person and is an absolute must-see when in Normandy. The museum is open from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm every day.

Important note: The museum will close for renovation from September 2025 until some time in 2027, so be sure to plan accordingly.

Parc de la Vallee

From the Tapestry Museum, cross Rue de Nesmond and walk along the Aure River, through Parc Michel Ornano to the larger Parc de la Vallee. This pleasant city park is the perfect place to take time out after a busy day sightseeing and enjoy the many trails, wooded areas, large pond, and streams that permeate this wetland area. Look out for birds and other wildlife as you traverse the wooden trails that are raised above the boggy ground.

Day 1, afternoon - bayeux Tour Map

Day 2

Morning: Monastère Sainte Trinité

Start the second day of your 2 day Bayeux itinerary at the Monastere Sainte-Trinité, a working Benedictine monastery that’s open to the public and housed in beautiful garden grounds. Explore the neo-gothic buildings that date back to 1860 and were used as a hospital during the First World War.

Museum of the Battle of Normandy

Make your way along Rue Saint Loup and onto Boulevard Fabian Ware, where you’ll find the Museum of the Battle of Normandy. Here you’ll learn all about the D-Day landings, and the battle to liberate Normandy, and the rest of France, from the Nazis.

Browse the fascinating exhibits which include Allied and German tanks, landing craft, guns and more. Learn all about the D-Day landings in chronological order as the events of the day unfolded and how Bayeux was finally liberated through a series of displays and a short film. Open from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm every day.

Bayeux War Cemetery and Memorials

Continue north along Boulevard Fabian Ware to the series of memorials and war cemeteries that occupy this part of the city. Here you’ll find the large Bayeux Memorial (Monument du Mémorial de Bayeux), the British War Cemetary with its rows of white crosses, pavilions and space for quiet contemplation.

Day 2, Morning - bayeux Tour Map

Afternoon: Public Garden of Bayeux

In the afternoon make your way to the Public Garden of Bayeux (Jardin Botanique de Bayeux), a botanical garden with plants from around the globe. The gardens cover an area of 2.6 hectares and date back to 1859 with perfectly manicured lawns and flowerbeds. Be sure to look out for the famous weeping beech tree, one of the park’s star attractions. Open from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm every day.

Eglise Saint Patrice

Finish up at the Catholic Saint-Patrice Church of Bayeux, which was once home to Saint Patrice, the sixth Bishop of Bayeux. Legend has it that the saint donated all his worldly possessions to the poor, and his house was converted to a church after his death, though the current incarnation of the church dates to much later in 1754.

Day 2, afternoon - bayeux Tour Map

Other Things to Do in Bayeux

• Museum of Art and History Baron Gerard: Learn about the history of art at the Musée d'art et d'histoire Baron Gerard, also known as MAHB, which is located in an old Episcopal Palace dating back to the 11th century. Step back in time through a series of interesting exhibits separated into 14 sections charting artistic endeavours from prehistory until today. Open daily from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm.
  

• L’etoilarium Pottery Classes: One of the more unique things to do in Bayeux is to have a go at crafting your very own pottery. L’etoilarium Pottery Studio is located next to the cathedral and offers a range of classes from making cups and bowls to decoration and more. You can also just pop into to browse their excellent selection of earthenware and pick up a gift or two to take home. Open Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm.
  

• Musée de la Dentelle: Known in English as the Caudry Lace Museum, the Musée de la Dentelle highlights the Norman tradition of lacemaking. Housed in a 19th-century lace factory, you’ll find exhibits on fashion and textiles. The town of Caudry was particularly well-known for its exquisite lace-making.

• Cidrerie Viard: You can’t visit Normandy without popping into a cidrerie! Producing 100% pure artisan cidre (cider), the Cidrerie Viard factory is just 10 minutes outside of Bayeux.

Best Day Trips from Bayeux

• Omaha Beach: Omaha is one of the five historic landing beaches used by Allied forces in Operation Overlord on D-Day (6th June 1944) and is a 25-minute drive from Bayeux along the N13. See the stretch of coast where US forces landed to be met by heavy resistance from the German 352nd Infantry Division who tried in vain to repel the attacks. This was one of the hardest fought battles of D-Day and you’ll find many monuments along the beach dedicated to those brave men who lost their lives, as well as interesting museums detailing the events of that fateful day.

• Longues sur Mare Battery: The Longues sur Mare Battery is a German gun emplacement on the beach just a 15-minute drive from Bayeux (take the D104). This coastal artillery battery is housed inside a clifftop bunker overlooking the beach at Longues sur Mare and was used to try and repel the Allied advance. The battery was captured by the British the day after D-Day (7th June 1944). This is one of the most fascinating landmarks near Bayeux and is a must for history lovers, and also makes for a fun family day out along with the beach.

• Caen:  Caen is the regional capital of Calvados and is home to a castle built by William the Conqueror. Other top attractions in Caen include the Romanesque abbeys of Saint Etienne and Sainte Trinite, a tranquil botanical garden, a fine arts museum, and a lot more besides. Caen is just 30km southwest of Bayeux and can be reached in under 30 minutes by car, or one hour by train.

• Honfleur: The charming harbourside town of Honfleur is just over an hour’s drive along the A13 from Bayeux. This medieval town is packed with interesting things to do from walking around the beautiful harbour and exploring the many nearby galleries to visiting La Mona, the Flagship of William the Conqueror. You can take a pleasant river cruise on the Seine, ascend Mont Joli for stunning coastal views, and take in the town’s many parks, gardens, cafes and restaurants.

• Mont Saint Michel: The grand, tidal island and abbey of Mont Saint Michel is one of France’s most popular tourist attractions. Cross the causeway with magnificent views of the sandy beaches that stretch along the coast, and enter into a small island town of medieval walls, towers, and the famous Benedictine Abbey. There are lots of shops, cafes and restaurants on the island, so you can easily spend an entire day there (or why not spend a couple, see our guide for more). The drive from Bayeux takes around 80 minutes along the A84.

Things to do in Bayeux With Kids

• Bayeux Adventure Park: One of the best things to do in Bayeux for families is to hit the Bayeux Adventure Park which is set in a beautiful wooded location a few miles northeast of the city. Attractions include a mini farm, a sports field with basketball and other games, an inflatable play area, mini golf and lots of other fun activities. There is also an onsite restaurant and free free parking. Open Wednesday to Sunday from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm.

• Aquatic Centre: If the skies are grey and you can’t get to the beach for a swim, fear not as the Bayeux Aquatic Centre has a heated indoor pool that can be used year-round. There’s a kids pool with an aquatic slide and paddling pool, and staff hold regular events and activities for families. Opening hours vary, see the website for more details.
  

• Parc Festyland: Located on the outskirts of Caen, Parc Festyland is a small theme park with both thrill rides and children's rides. Ride the carousel, roller coasters, and pendulum rides, or stop by one of several places to eat, including The Squire’s Inn, a Medieval-themed restaurant.

• Bowling 868: The perfect place to take the kids on a rainy day, Bowling 868 offers 12 bowling lanes, pool tables, and a games area to entertain those both young and old.

• Zoo de Jurques: 40 minutes outside of Bayeux, the Zoo de Jurques is home to over 700 species of animals, from flamingoes to lions and giraffes. With over 50 different exhibits to explore, this makes for a great day out with little ones in tow. Visitors will also find fun attractions like a petting zoo along with several concession stands.

• Atelier Galerie Ludovic Grand-Guillot: Dedicated to the colorful and quirky artwork of Ludovic Grand-Guillot, older children will find this small gallery in the heart of Bayeux interesting.

• Les Buggys Normands: Take off into the Normandy countryside in style! Teenagers, older children, and adults will love exploring in these off-road buggies. Built for land and sea, you’ll drive for one to three hours through varying landscapes, including the beach.

• Hot Air Balloon Ride: See Normandy from the clouds on a hot air balloon ride! You’ll float over the pastoral landscapes of Northern France with views out to the ocean on a clear day.

• La Bulle Temporelle - Escape Game: Another great activity in winter or for a rainy day, La Bulle Temporelle is a classic, indoor escape game. You’ll have 60 minutes to solve the puzzle, interwoven with the history of Bayeux, to win!

• Jeu de Piste en Plein Air Dans Bayeux: Go on a treasure hunt through the city of Bayeux with only an iPad to guide you. You’ll solve riddles as you explore the town, ultimately searching for Le Saint-Gras.

Where to Eat and Drink in Bayeux

Bayeux is home to a fine selection of restaurants serving local, national and worldwide cuisines, fine-dining options, as well as lots of creperies, pastries, and cute little cafes. Below you’ll find a selection of some of the best places to eat and drink in Bayeux.

• Markets: Bayeux has a few weekly markets including one on Rue Saint Jean on Wednesdays, and one on Place Saint Patrice on Saturdays where you can sample local artisan foods, or pick up supplies for a picnic at the beach.

• Food Tours: A great way to experience Normandy’s extensive culinary delights is to take a food tour where you can learn all about the local dishes, ingredients and traditions. Try gourmet cheeses, local ciders, and of course, let’s not forget the regional speciality Calvados, an alcoholic drink made from apples or pears.

Restaurants: Local/French Cuisine

• La Normande: This central Bayeux restaurant is located a stone’s throw from the Tapestry Museum and has a menu focusing on seasonal Normandy ingredients alongside more international dishes.

• Au Louis d'Or: This centrally located cafe and creperie is where you’ll find some of the best crepes in the city, and makes a perfect stop for lunch or an afternoon snack. It’s also famous for its local ciders, so if you’re looking for something refreshing, Au Louis d’Or is an excellent stop on your Bayeux itinerary.

• L’Alcove: This popular Bayeux restaurant is located just behind the cathedral and is featured in the Michelin guide thanks to its high-quality service and reasonable prices. The recently refurbished dining room is bright and airy, and the menu features seasonal dishes using fresh, local produce.

• La Rapiere: This quaint restaurant set inside a 16th-century building is one of the most popular eateries in the city with both visitors and locals alike, and has earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand for its value for money and simple, French-inspired menu. Fish is a speciality, but there are other options from local chicken to veal and vegetarian options.

• L'Angle Saint-Laurent: If it’s the freshest local dishes you’re after, a trip to L’Angle Saint Laurent won’t disappoint. With a menu featuring Bayeux pork, Normandy oysters and locally caught fish, there’s something for everyone and the price won’t break the bank either. The restaurant is located in the heart of the city and features exposed stone walls and painted beams lending the place a rustic charm.

Fine Dining

• Chateau de Sully: This fine-dining restaurant is located inside an 18th-century chateau set within beautifully landscaped gardens a 9-minute drive from the centre of the city. The chef specialises in Normandy cuisine using freshly caught fish straight from the boat and other local ingredients.

Golf Courses Near Bayeux

• Omaha Beach Golf: Omaha Beach Golf is just a 15-minute drive from Bayeux and has two 18-hole courses; La Mer overlooking the beach and village of Port-en-Bessin, and Le Manoir which is a woodland course with picturesque ponds, flowerbeds and fruit trees. The onsite Restaurant L' Albatros is a classic French bistro overlooking the course and beach where you can enjoy local speciality dishes after your game.

Racecourses Near Bayeux

• Hippodrome de Caen: Located in the town of Caen, the Hippodrome de Caen is a world-class racecourse with a bar and restaurant that hosts horse racing throughout the year. It is just 30 minutes from Bayeux.

• Hippodrome de Deauville-La Touques: The Deauville-La Touques racecourse is one of the most prolific hippodromes in France, holding horse races here year round. Several elite races are held here every year, including the Prix Rothschild and Maurice de Gheest Prize. Visitors will love its grass track in the summer and state-of-the-art fiber-reinforced track in the winter months. This racecourse is located an hour outside Bayeux.

Where to Stay in Bayeux

There are plenty of excellent accommodation options in and around Bayeux to suit all budgets from central and convenient boutique hotels to 5-star resorts. Below you’ll find a selection of the top picks.

• Churchill Hotel Bayeux Centre: This 3-star is located right in the centre of the city on the same street as the tourist office and a 5-minute walk from both the cathedral and Tapestry Museum. The rooms are tastefully decorated and include air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, and an en-suite bathroom with complimentary toiletries. There is an onsite bar for guests to enjoy and a buffet breakfast is available each morning.

• Hotel De Brunville & Spa: The 3-star Hotel De Brunville is the perfect place to relax after a day’s sightseeing as it has an outdoor swimming pool that’s heated year-round, as well as a jacuzzi and spa with hammam, sensory shower, ice bath and more. The onsite restaurant specialises in local cuisine using regional products and there is also a bar to unwind in at the end of the day.

• Hotel Le Lion D'Or: This 4-star hotel in the heart of the city features beautifully decorated rooms with historic features such as original wooden beams and wood furnishings. The hotel is just 400 metres from the Tapestry Museum and within easy reach of all the city’s other top attractions. The onsite Restaurant La Table Du Lion serves up some of the finest French cooking in town, and afterwards, you can relax with a drink in the lounge bar.

• Château de Bellefontaine - Teritoria: If it’s the royal treatment you’re after, then a stay at the 4-star Chateau de Bellefontaine is definitely the place for you. Housed in an 18th-century Mansion, but still in the centre of the city, this exclusive hotel includes a park and garden with 200-year-old trees, a tennis court for guests to enjoy, and an onsite restaurant and bar.
  

• Villa Lara Hotel: The luxury, 5-star Villa Lara is located opposite the cathedral and a 2-minute walk from the Tapestry Museum making it one of the most convenient and comfortable stays in the city. Each room has been individually decorated and features period furniture, as well as the mod cons you need including an en-suite bathroom with marble floor, minibar, flat-screen TV and free WIFI. There is also free parking available, and an onsite bar for guests to enjoy.
  

• Château d'Audrieu - Relais & Châteaux (5-stars): Tucked on the outskirts of Bayeux, about 20 minutes from the city center, the Château d’Audrieu is a five-star resort originally built in the 18th-century. Choose from one of just 29 rooms, all decadently decorated to reflect the château’s roots with modern comforts. With a true back-to-nature feel, surrounded by pristine forest and flower gardens, guests will also love the Sothys Spa and heated outdoor swimming pool.
  

Best Time to Visit Bayeux

Bayeux is an incredible place to visit at any time of year, but to get the best of your stay aim for the warmer months from May to September so you can take advantage of the miles of sandy beaches along this stretch of the Normandy coastline. If you’re interested in the history of the Second World War then June is the best month to come as you can enjoy the D-Day celebrations that happen all along the coast.

The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn are also great options as it won’t be as busy, and you’ll still be able to enjoy sunny days and cheaper accommodation prices.

Winter can also be a magical time to visit Bayeux with Christmas markets, and the streets lit up with festive lights.

Bayeux Festivals

There are lots of exciting events around Bayeux from one of the largest medieval festivals in France to D-Day celebrations along the nearby beaches, concerts, circus performances and more. Below you’ll find a selection of some of the most popular festivals, and you can also check in at the Bayeux Tourist Information Centre to see what else is going on during your stay.

• Bayeux Medieval Festival: The city is well known for its medieval tapestry, so it’s no surprise that Bayeux holds an annual medieval festival with reenactments, street performers, live music, song and dance, and food stalls showcasing the best Normandy has to offer. There is a medieval market where you can buy gifts from master craftsmen and women, and all sorts of festivities around the city. The next festival takes place between the 5th and 7th July 2024.

• Bayeux International Circus Festival: The Bayeux Circus Festival takes place every two years (the next one will be held in 2025) and showcases some of the top circus acts from around the world (thankfully without live animals). Gaze in awe at trapeze artists, tight-rope walkers and performers as they display a series of death-defying acts. You’ll also get to see the customary clowns and jugglers, making this an excellent family day out.
  

• D-Day Festival: Every June along the Normandy Coast there is a huge celebration commemorating the Allied D-Day landings. The event lasts over two weeks and includes over 100 cultural events from parades and airdrops to concerts, reenactments, fireworks displays, and a lot more besides. The festival takes place along the coastline from Pegasus Bridge to Sainte-Mère-Eglise and all the towns and villages along the way are involved. The next event takes place from June 1st to June 16th 2024. Not to be missed!