THINGS TO DO IN Caen: 2-DAY ITINERARY

An excellent base for exploring Normandy’s best sights, Caen offers hidden gems of its own. Located in Northern Normandy’s Calvados department, Caen is a small French city, tucked along the Orne River. Perhaps most well known as William the Conqueror’s hometown, many visitors choose Caen as a base for exploring the infamous D-Day Beaches and the fairytale site of Mont-Saint Michel.

Much of the city was destroyed in WWII during the Battle of Normandy, yet, against all odds, most of its important sites were spared from the turmoil. Visit impressive sites built by William the Conqueror, including Castle Caen, L’Abbaye of Saint-Trinité, and Abbaye-aux-Hommes. There are plenty of beautiful architectural delights and interesting museums to uncover too.

Our 2-day itinerary includes the best things to do in Caen, France. From seeing the major must-do’s to exploring remnants of WWII history and sipping your way through the nearby Cider Route, this is your ultimate luxury guide to Caen.

Day 1

Morning: Caen Castle

Kick off your tour of Caen at one of the city’s most iconic sights. Standing in the heart of the historic center of town, William the Conqueror built Caen Castle in 1060. A gargantuan royal fortress, the castle has seen centuries of important history, including the Hundred Years War and WWII. Visitors will find classic Medieval castle architecture from towers to moats. Tour the ramparts for panoramic views of the city.

Musée de Normandie

Located within the Caen Castle walls, the Musee de Normandie offers visitors an in-depth look at the unique history of the region. Visitors will find artifacts and interactive exhibits from ethnographic to archaeological collections that span from the Industrial Revolution all the way back to the Neolithic.

Eglisé Saint-George

Originally constructed in the 12th century, the Eglise Saint-George was the chapel for residents of the Caen Castle. The Medieval facade and interior of the church are simple but beautiful and help to teach visitors about this historic site.

Caen Castle Keep

Another facet of the castle itself, visitors can explore the Caen Castle Keep where prisoners were held until the French Revolution when this area of the structure was destroyed. The remains of four towers stand in each corner of the grounds, now overgrown with grass.

Musée des Beaux-Arts de Caen

Your final stop inside the Caen Castle grounds is the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Caen. Visitors will find collections of fine artwork from sculpture to photographs. Famous artists like Delacroix and Rousseau are represented here although many pieces of art were looted by the Nazi’s during WWII.

Day 1, Morning - Caen Tour Map

Afternoon: L’Abbey of Saint-Trinité

Start your second half of today’s tour at L’Abbey of Saint-Trinité, also known historically as Abbaye aux Dames. A sprawling religious complex, the abbey was once a nunnery and originally founded by William the Conqueror's wife, Matilda of Flanders. A mixture of architectural styles from Romanesque to Gothic, Queen Matilda was buried here. The abbey has seen its fair share of historical events and was damaged in both the Hundred Years War and the French Revolution.

Eglise de la Trinité de Caen

A part of L’Abbey of Saint-Trinite, this was the chapel where the nuns of the abbey came to pray. Take note of the striking stained glass and beautiful two-story nave once you step inside this hallowed ground. The crypt is where Queen Matilda is buried and you can still see her black marble tombstone today.

Grand Cedre

Make your way across the former gardens of the abbey, now known as Parc Michel-d'Ornano, to find the Grand Cedre. This towering cedar tree was planted here in 1849 by the abbey nuns and stands proudly on top of a small hill.

Day 1, afternoon - caen Tour Map

Day 2

Morning: Eglise Saint-Pierre

A beautiful Roman Catholic cathedral in the center of Caen, Eglise Saint-Pierre’s construction took place over 300 years from the 13th to the 16th centuries. The 260’ spire can be seen from around Caen but the best views of the church are from Caen Castle’s ramparts. Step inside to see the striking nave, while the exterior reveals flying buttresses and an impressive rose window.

Hôtel d’Escoville

Located just opposite Eglise Saint-Pierre, Hotel d’Escoville is a striking, 16th-century manor house. Now the home of the Caen la Mer tourism office, step inside to get more information on your visit to Caen and the surrounding areas and to see the Italian Renaissance architecture up close.

Eglise Saint-Jean

Yet another of Caen’s magnificent religious structures, head south down Rue Saint-Jean to see Eglise Saint-Jean. Built on the site of what was once a Roman road, sarcophagi made from the famous Caen stone were unearthed during renovations in the 1950’s.

Le Pavillon

Make your way to Caen’s marina, walking along the Quai Vendeuvre to reach Le Pavilion. A museum dedicated to urban planning and architecture, visitors can find temporary exhibits on display.

Bibliothèque Alexis de Tocqueville

For lovers of modern architecture, finish your morning at the Bibliotheque Alexis de Tocqueville. Architect buffs will adore the building's X shape and the 20’ tall glass windows on the second floor. The contemporary open shelving, giant bleacher style seating and desks, and reading nooks are all worth a peek.

Day 2, morning - caen Tour Map

Afternoon: L’Abbaye-aux-Hommes

You’ve seen L’Abbaye aux Dames, now it's time to explore L’Abbaye-aux-Hommes. Founded by William the Conqueror, this grand Benedictine monastery was built in 1066 in the Gothic style. The citizens of Caen took refuge here during WWII, one of the reasons why the abbey was spared. Visitors can tour the cloisters, see impressive works of art, and visit the abbey church where William the Conqueror was laid to rest.

Artothèque Caen

Caen’s contemporary art museum, Artotheque holds regular exhibitions and is free to visit Tuesday through Saturday.

Eglise Saint-Nicolas

Construction began on the Norman Medieval church, Eglise Saint-Nicolas, in the 11th-century and continued on until the 15th. Visitors will find a sprawling nave and lantern tower to explore inside with a grand bedside and bell tower to seek outside.

Jardins des Plantes Caen

Continue strolling through the city center, past the Cimetière des Quatre Nations to the Jardins des Plantes Caen. Known in English as the Caen Botanical Garden, visitors will find sprawling green spaces and rare plant species, both in the greenhouses and in the exterior gardens.

Day 2, afternoon - caen Tour Map

Other Things to Do in Caen

• Memorial de Caen: Explore over 100 years of history at the Memorial de Caen which unravels historic events including WWII and the Cold War, alongside European heritage. The museum is also a war memorial that commemorates WWII and specifically the Battle of Caen.

• Vieux la Romaine: Situated on the outskirts of Caen, the Vieux la Romaine is an archaeological site that preserves the remnants of a Gallo-Roman settlement. Visitors can discover two restored homes that were once households in the ancient city of Areguena.

• Ornavik Viking Park: Normandy was once dotted with Viking settlements. Explore more of the region's Viking heritage and history at the Ornavik Viking Park, located just north of downtown Caen. Visitors can watch reenactments, explore model Viking villages, and even learn to make fire. This is a wonderful activity to do with kids!

• Domaine de Beauregard: Located in the same park as Ornavik Viking Park, Domaine de Beauregard is a stunning manor house built by a successful shipowner. Although it was built in the 19th century, you’ll see influences from both Gothic and Renaissance architecture. While you won’t be able to visit this stately mansion, you can roam the grounds. Situated along the Canal de Caen, you can also kayak and canoe in this area.

• La Maison des Quatrans: Situated in the heart of Caen’s historic center, La Maison des Quatrans is a perfect example of Neo-Norman, half-timbered architecture. Built in the 15th century, this home is one of the oldest in all of Caen and also served as a hotel. Because Caen was almost completely destroyed in WWII, this is just one of two pre-war buildings that were left standing in the city’s center.

• Église Saint-Étienne-le-Vieux: The Église Saint-Étienne-le-Vieux, another historic gem tucked on the outskirts of Caen’s historic center, is a striking example of Gothic architecture. Originally built in the 11th century but completed in the 15th century, the church has been abandoned since WWII when it sustained significant damage and the nave collapsed. The reopening of this historic church that has stood since William the Conqueror is set for 2026.

• The Marina: Situated on the Canal de Caen à la Mer which stretches from Caen to Ouistreham on the coast, Caen’s marina is a collection of ports, promenades, and restaurants. You’ll also find the Caen Yacht Club here and might even see sailboats cruising through the canal.

• Place Saint-Sauveur: Place Saint-Sauveur is a cheese shaped wedge of a square in Caen’s historic center. Flanked by charming shops, restaurants, and cafes, a statue of Louis XIV stands at its core. This is a particularly beautiful corner of the city to relax, people watch, and enjoy a glass of wine.

Best Day Trips From Caen

• Ouistreham: A short 20-minute drive from Caen, Ouistreham is a seaside city known for its beautiful beaches and stately lighthouse. This is an excellent spot to dine on fresh seafood and spend a day strolling along Plage de Riva Bella beach. You’ll also find a few interesting WWII sites, including the Musée du Mur de l’Atlantique which displays artifacts in a real German bunker.

• Overlord Museum: Just 45 minutes outside of Caen, the Overlord Museum is tucked just beside the famous Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery. This museum looks at the Battle of Normandy in particular with over 10,000 pieces on display.

• D-Day Landing Beaches: Caen lies just east of the infamous D-Day Landing Beaches. Visitors will find the most famous landing spots of Omaha and Utah just a short drive from each other. The American Cemetery is also located just opposite Omaha beach and is a harrowing must-see spot for WWII history. Several worthwhile museums, including the Overlord and the Normandy Victory Museum nearby.

• Cabourg: Another seaside city situated just opposite the Orne River estuary from Ouistreham, Cabourg is another worthwhile spot to visit. Cabourg was once a popular vacation destination and has the grand oceanfront Bell-Epoque hotels to show for it. Hosting a renowned film festival each year, you’ll also find a casino, racecourse, and pretty beaches to stroll.

• Bayeux: Just 30 minutes from Caen, Bayeux is the famous home of the Bayeux Tapestry, one of the most impressive works of Romanesque art in the world. Detailing the Norman conquest of England by William the Conqueror, the tapestry stretches 70 meters and is housed inside the La Tapisserie de Bayeux. Aside from seeing this 11th century masterpiece, the town of Bayeux is a charming destination in itself. Make a visit to the gargantuan Bayeux Cathedral and the Museum of the Battle of Normandy for more background on this historic Norman city.

• Lisieux: A 50-minute drive from Caen, the small town of Lisieux is best known as a religious pilgrimage site, only second to Lourdes. The striking Basilica of Saint Therese of Lisieux is a mammoth, Gothic cathedral in the center of town where pilgrims gather to pay homage to Saint Therese. Many come from across the world to visit The Shrine of St. Therese specifically.

• Honfleur: About one hour's drive from Caen, Honfleur is a historic port town situated on the Seine estuary. Known for the beautiful Vieux Bassin, a quaint harbor lined with colorful, half-timbered homes and restaurants, the city attracted many artists, including Monet and Degas. Many of France’s explorers left from Honfleur to explore North America.

• Le Havre: A one hour and twenty minute drive from Caen, Le Havre is also steeped in WWII history and makes a great addition to a trip that is centered around WWII history. Just across the water from Honfleur, Le Havre is perched along the Seine estuary where the river meets the sea. The city is also known for its unique architecture and layout, designed by Auguste Perret following the war. Famous for his use of concrete, the city was the first to be UNESCO designated following WWII. It is also commonly known as the birthplace of Impressionism because of Monet’s famous painting of Le Havre, titled “Impression, Sunrise”.

• Mont Saint Michel: One of the most famous destinations in France, and rightfully so with its magical appearance, Mont Saint-Michel is one hour and twenty minutes from Rouen and well worth the trek for a day trip. Another pilgrimage site, the Abbey Mont-Saint Michel sits atop its rocky precipice with fun shops and crepe stands clustered around its base. Surrounded by vast tidal plains that are known for being notoriously dangerous, the abbey was built in the 11th century.

• Cider Route: This 25-mile-long route runs through Normandy’s countryside, hopping between cider producers and begins just east of Caen. Learn more about the apple farmers, cider producers, and the stunning Norman countryside along the way.

• Calvados Tour: While Normandy is well known for its cider production, apple brandy is another popular tipple. Known as calvados in Normandy, take a tour of the Calvados Experience, an interactive exhibit that details the history and production of this fruity liquor.

• Château de Fontaine-Henry: Still inhabited by a comte and comtesse, the Château de Fontaine-Henry is located about 20 minutes north of Caen. Over 800 years old, visitors can go on a classic tour, the VIP rooftop tour, or attend fun events like murder mystery parties. You’ll discover prestigious artwork, original furnishings, and hidden nooks and crannies. Visitors need to schedule tours ahead of time.

• Château de Falaise: Also known as Château Guillaume-de-Conquerant, Château de Falaise was the home of none other than William the Conqueror himself. Perched on a rocky hill, the castle was built sometime between the 12th and 13th centuries. You’ll find exhibits on Medieval life, William the Conqueror, and the history of Normandy’s dukes, all while exploring the ins and outs of the castle.

• Deauville and Trouville: Twin cities separated by the Touques River, Deauville and Trouville are coastal resort towns about an hour from Caen. Despite its small stature, Deauville is all things luxury with spas, golf courses, several Michelin-star restaurants, and boutiques. You’ll also find a beautiful boardwalk for an intimate view of the sea.

Top Things to Do in Caen With Kids

• La Colline aux Oiseaux: A sprawling park located just a 10 minute drive from the center of Caen, La Colline aux Oiseaux caters to children with a petting zoo and menagerie of free range birds from peacocks to chickens. You’ll also find fun hedge mazes, playgrounds, fountains, and a huge rose garden.

• 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.

• L’ilot Z’enfants: L’ilot Z’enfants is a small, sailor-themed fun park situated in the Mondeville neighborhood of Caen. Children can play basketball, go on slides, jump on trampolines, and climb throughout the large indoor climbing gym. This activity is particularly perfect for a rainy or cold day.

• Zoo de Jurques: About a 30-minute drive outside of Caen, the Zoo de Jurques is a zoo that’s committed to teaching the public about wildlife conservation. You’ll see animals from across the world, including lions, giraffes, kangaroos, and tigers, just to name a few. There are also fun activities that kids can take part in like feeding the kangaroos and watching zookeeper interactions with otters and meerkats.

• Patinoire de Caen la Mer: A sprawling ice rink in the middle of Caen, the Patinoire de Caen la Mer is fun for the entire family. Open from September to June, you’ll have 1800 square meters to ice skate. Lessons and themed evenings are also on offer.

• Kayaking: Kayaking is a favorite pastime in Caen, traveling down the scenic Canal de Caen à la Mer. Several kayak companies take visitors out on the canal, paddling through the heart of the city. This activity is great for older children and teens.

• Piscine du Chemin Vert: A local swimming pool that’s great for bringing the kids in the cooler months, Piscine du Chemin Vert is located on the outskirts of central Caen. You’ll find an indoor sports pool, paddling pool, and a small basin for children. There are also light shows in winter which makes for a fun evening.

Best Restaurants in Caen

• Ivan Vautier (One Michelin Star): Tucked inside the hotel of the same name in a southern neighborhood of Caen, Ivan Vautier is the only Michelin Star restaurant in the city. The head chef, Ivan Vautier, is a Normandy local who uses only the best local ingredients from renowned producers. Choose from several multi-course menus, including the Blind Menu which is unique day to day.

• Le Bouchon du Vaugueux: No trip to France is complete without at least one meal at a classic French bistro. Le Bouchon du Vaugueux offers up this quintessential experience with an elevated flare. Offering both a set menu and singular dishes, you’ll find an excellent wine list and a small but carefully curated menu of classic bistro fare like duck breast and fish of the day served with cider butter.

• Stephane Carbone: Located near the idyllic Caen marina, Stephane Carbone specializes in cuisines from France’s famous culinary regions with a bit of Italian inspiration from the head chef's heritage. Visitors will find dishes made from local fresh produce and seafood, including roasted monkfish and lobster bisque. If you’ve always wanted to take a French cooking class, you can also do so on Saturday mornings.

• Bœuf & Cow: Situated just across from the beautiful Saint Pierre Cathedral, Bœuf & Cow boasts gorgeous views and a wonderful location in the historic center of the city. Local meat and dairy products are at the center of the menu, hence their unique name. All beef is 100% Normandy meat and visitors will find a small but delicious menu highlighting dishes like the famous tartare de boeuf, roasted bone marrow, terrine, and entrecôte.

• La Tomate: Another French bistro tucked in the Place du Theatre in the center of Caen, La Tomate provides a pretty terrasse and intimate indoor setting to enjoy everything from local wine to coffee. Serving lunch, aperitif, and dinner, this is a laid back, Bohemian space to dine on simple fare like shrimp risotto, traditional burgers, and homemade fries.

• Ju’ste Chez Moi: Normandy is famous for its buckwheat crepes, known as galettes. Ju’ste Chez Moi is a fun and funky creperie near the Caen Castle that offers up both sweet and savory homemade galettes, from ham and cheese to Nutella.

• Bistrot L’echoppe: Looking for traditional Normandy cuisine? Bistrot L’echoppe has you covered with weekly specials and simple dishes like saucisse de Toulouse, gorgonzola artichokes, and tartine. Be sure to save room for dessert with classic sweet treats like creme brulee.

Caen Golf Courses

• Golf de Caen la Mer: Situated just 15 minutes from downtown Caen, Golf de Caen la Mer offers two courses, a restaurant, and a training area. The courses were created by a renowned Scottish golf architect and are laid out over 92 hectares with a combined 27 holes. Choose from the 18 hole Plain Valley or 9 hole The Wood. Two putting greens and a driving range are also great spots to fine tune your skills.

• Golf Barriere de Honfleur: Two different courses make up the beautiful Golf Barriere de Honfleur. Play the Par 71, 18-hole course at Diane Barrier or the Par 36, 8-hole Lucien Barriere course. Avid golfers will also find putting courses, a driving range, and a practice bunker, along with the gorgeous Deauville Clubhouse and a pro shop.

Racecourses in Caen

• Deauville-La Touques: Deauville-La Touques holds the most races of any racecourse in France each year. Known for its ability to hold races at any time throughout the year, due to its fiber-reinforced sand track, this race track is great for those both young and old, with plenty of facilities for families. Located right on the sea, this track is in the small town of Deauville.

• Cabourg Racecourse: Located in the seaside resort town of Cabourg, the Cabourg Racecourse holds over 20 races year round on its 1 meter track. There are also several restaurants at the racecourse, including Marcel Proust and La Terasse.

Where to Stay in Caen

• Hotel Ivan-Vautier (5-star): A 5-star hotel and Michelin Star restaurant all in one, Hotel Ivan-Vautier is an excellent accommodation option for those looking for a slice of luxury in Caen. Guests will find well-appointed suites with amenities like cozy beds, air conditioning, and flat screen TVs. An onsite spa includes a hammam, sauna, and jacuzzi and breakfast is served daily. The hotel is located in a quiet suburb of Caen yet not too far removed from the action of the city center.

• Best Western Royal Hotel Caen (3-star): Guests of the Best Western Royal Hotel Caen will find spacious, modern rooms with large beds and beautiful views of the city center, some featuring balconies. Onsite amenities feature a cocktail lounge, dry cleaning, and a delicious breakfast served daily. This 3-star hotel is located in the heart of the city, not far from Caen Castle.

• Le Clos Saint-Martin: Tucked inside a historic guesthouse, Le Clos Saint-Martin is ideally located near L’Abbaye-aux-Hommes. Guests can enjoy peace and quiet in the leafy courtyard, homemade breakfast, and a mini bar. With only six bedrooms and a separate cottage on offer, this is an intimate stay that provides an elevated B&B feel. Each room is individually decorated and has unique architectural features, including exposed wood beams.

• Hotel Francois d’O: Located just opposite the Caen Castle, Hotel Francois d’O offers spacious rooms with cozy furnishings. Hidden nooks and crannies can be enjoyed too, including the library, garden, and terrace. Continental breakfast is served daily.

Best Time to Visit Caen

Normandy is a beautiful region to visit at any time of year, which means that Caen is too! Summers are warm and mild with a steady sea breeze and winters are chilly and rainy. Shoulder seasons are mild and cloudy with more rain in the fall than spring. The wind particularly picks up in the fall and winter which can make temperatures feel even colder.

Festivals in Caen

• Beauregard Festival: Taking place at the beautiful and sprawling grounds that surround the Domaine de Beauregard, this five day, July music festival takes place on the outskirts of Caen. Festival-goers will find famous performers like Lenny Kravitz and Florence and the Machine, alongside local music artists.

• Normandy Channel Race: Lovers of all things sailing can’t miss the Normandy Channel Race. Held every year in September, hundreds of Class 40 yachts take part in the 1000 mile race that ventures from Caen, through the British Channel and Celtic Sea, before ending back in Caen. Events take place the weekend that sailors leave and when they return.

• Eclats de Rue: Held throughout the week in July and August, the Eclats de Rue in Caen is an artist series with live performances taking place throughout the city. Everything from music to circus and theater is on display.

• European Heritage Days: An event that takes place across France, European Heritage Days offers visitors to Caen the chance to experience the city in a unique way and learn more about the town's history. Private residences, castles, museums and other sites around the city offer guided tours and other events during this weekend in September.

• Easter Fair: Head to the Parc des Expositions over Easter weekend to take part in Caen’s exciting Easter Fair. Rides and activities are on offer for children both young and old, as well as delicious food stalls.