Normandy, located in northern France, offers a rich blend of dramatic military history, stunning natural landscapes, and exceptional gastronomy. The region features the striking white cliffs of Étretat, which stand alongside the historic D-Day beaches, while medieval abbeys overlook fields known for producing famous Camembert cheese. In recent years, Normandy has emerged as one of France’s most sought-after travel destinations, thanks to its unique fusion of history, nature, and authentic French culture.

Key Highlights

• Dramatic Military History on Picturesque Coastline — Explore the D-Day beaches with preserved bunkers, visit the American military cemetery housing 9,386 marble crosses, and see Pointe du Hoc, which was stormed by Rangers on June 6, 1944.
• Mont-Saint-Michel — Architectural Marvel — Discover the 8th-century medieval abbey perched on a rocky island. Entrance tickets are €11, with the best visiting times being at opening (9:00 AM) or after 4:00 PM.
• Natural Masterpieces of the Alabaster Coast — Admire the snow-white chalk cliffs of Étretat, featuring natural arches and the modern Étretat Gardens (€12.90), recognized as one of Europe’s top 10 gardens.
• Quick Access from Paris — Travel via trains from Saint-Lazare station: to Caen in 2 hours (starting at €16) and to Rouen in 1 hour and 20 minutes. Booking 2-3 weeks in advance can save you up to 40%.
• Gastronomic Heritage — Experience Calvados tastings at local distilleries, savor the renowned Camembert, and enjoy mussels cooked in cider. Many distilleries offer free tours.
• Optimal Timing and Budget — For pleasant weather, visit in May or September. Budget options range from €60/day to luxury experiences at €300/day. Avoid June 6 due to heavy tourist crowds.

About This Guide

This travel guide to Normandy provides essential information for planning your visit to this northern French region. It includes detailed routes from Paris, an overview of the best cities for accommodation, main attractions with prices and opening hours, a complete guide to the D-Day beaches, and tips for budget-friendly travel.

What the guide covers:

• Transportation — trains, buses, and car rentals with pricing
• Cities — practical advice for Bayeux, Rouen, Honfleur, Caen, and Deauville
• Attractions — from Mont-Saint-Michel to lesser-known gems
• D-Day beaches — detailed information about landing sites
• Active recreation — hiking routes, bike tours, and unique activities
• Budget — a breakdown of expenses from economy to luxury categories

Getting to Normandy

From Paris (Most Popular)

Train — Fast and Comfortable

The most convenient way to reach Normandy is by train from Saint-Lazare station in Paris.

Traveling to Caen takes about 2 hours, with ticket prices ranging from €16 in economy class to €45 in first class. Trains depart every 2-3 hours, totaling around 12 services daily. However, weekend schedules may vary, so it’s advisable to check the SNCF website in advance.

Pro tip: Purchase tickets 2-3 weeks prior to your trip to save up to 40%. If you plan to make multiple journeys around France, consider getting a Eurail Pass.

The journey to Bayeux takes approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes, with ticket prices similar to those for Caen. Bayeux serves as an excellent base for visiting the D-Day beaches.

Traveling to Rouen takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from €9 to €22.

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Bus — Budget Option

FlixBus offers routes from Paris to Caen starting at €11, with a journey time of about 3.5 hours. The buses are comfortable, equipped with Wi-Fi and power outlets, and depart from Bercy bus station. The downside is fewer daily services and reliance on traffic conditions.

Car — When Rental is Worth It

Renting a car is advisable if you plan to visit several small towns and villages that are poorly served by public transport. Rental rates start at €27 per day, plus fuel costs (approximately €60 per week).

Important note: Unlike much of France, Normandy has very few toll roads. The drive to Caen takes about 2.5 hours, and while city center parking is paid (€2-3 per hour), free parking is usually available on the outskirts.

Main Normandy Cities

Bayeux — The Perfect D-Day Base

Bayeux is the ideal starting point for exploring the D-Day beaches. It is one of the few Normandy cities that remained largely unscathed during the war. The medieval center is well-preserved, making it enjoyable to stroll through its narrow streets lined with stone houses.

The city is compact, with all main attractions within walking distance. The magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral, dating from the 12th to 15th centuries and featuring both Romanesque and Gothic towers, is just a 5-minute walk from the station. Admission to the cathedral is free.

Bayeux is a practical choice for accommodation. From here, you can reach all key Allied landing sites in 20-30 minutes by car or bus, and it is generally cheaper than coastal locations.

For overnight stays, small city center hotels start at €80 per night, while B&Bs begin at €60. Most hotels offer free parking.

Rouen — The Regional Capital

Rouen, known as the “city of a hundred spires,” boasts an impressive number of Gothic churches. The historic center, featuring half-timbered houses from the 14th to 16th centuries, resembles a movie set from the Middle Ages.

Main Attraction — Notre-Dame Cathedral

Notre-Dame Cathedral, famously painted by Claude Monet at various times of day over 30 times, is a must-see. Admission is free, and the visiting hours are:

• Monday: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
• Tuesday – Saturday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Sunday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Rouen makes for an excellent day trip from Paris. If you choose to stay overnight, opt for hotels in the old town, where the atmosphere is particularly stunning in the evening when illuminated.

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Honfleur — Picturesque Port

Honfleur captures the essence of postcard-perfect France. The old port, lined with colorful houses from the 16th to 18th centuries, looks so idyllic that it feels like a movie set. Impressionists Eugène Boudin and Claude Monet found inspiration here, drawn by the unique light and vibrant colors.

The town is small enough to explore in half a day. Be sure to visit the Church of Saint Catherine, the largest wooden church in France, which has free entry.

While restaurants by the port can be pricey (main courses starting at €20), affordable dining options can be found just two blocks away.

Caen — William the Conqueror’s Castle

Caen was largely destroyed during the war, but its historic center has been beautifully rebuilt. The main attraction is William the Conqueror’s Castle, an 11th-century marvel and one of Europe’s largest medieval fortresses.

Important Castle Information:

• Access to the castle grounds is free daily,
  year-round.
• Entry to the castle museums (Museum of Normandy and Fine Arts Museum) costs €5.50, free for those under
  26.
• Museums are closed on Tuesdays from January to May and
  November to December.

Caen serves as a convenient base for visiting the D-Day beaches and other regional cities, with hotels available at lower rates than in tourist hotspots, starting from €55 per night.

Deauville/Trouville — Elite Resorts

Deauville, known as the “Parisian Riviera,” has attracted wealthy Parisians for weekend getaways for over a century and a half. It boasts a famous promenade with cabins named after Hollywood stars, a casino, a racecourse, and beaches adorned with iconic striped umbrellas.

In contrast, Trouville, located across the river from Deauville, offers a more budget-friendly resort experience. While accommodations and dining are less expensive here, the Belle Époque charm remains intact.

Both resorts tend to be crowded with tourists during the summer; visiting in May-June or September is recommended. Hotel prices start at €120 in Deauville and €80 in Trouville.

Top Normandy Attractions

Natural Wonders

Mont-Saint-Michel —№1 Ranked

The 8th-century abbey situated on a rocky island is a must-see in Normandy. During high tides, it transforms into a true island surrounded by water. The view is breathtaking, particularly at sunset.

Practical Information:

• Admission: €11 for adults, free for those under 18 and EU citizens
  aged 18-25.
• Hours: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (May 19 – August 31), 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM (September 1
  – April 30).
• Parking: €8.50 per day on the mainland, with a free shuttle or a 40-minute walk
  to the abbey.
• Pro Tip: Arrive at opening (9:00 AM) or after 4:00 PM to avoid
  crowds.
• Note: The climb to the abbey is steep and may not be suitable for individuals with mobility
  limitations.

Étretat Cliffs — Snow-white Arches

The chalk cliffs with natural arches are among France’s most photographed locations. Claude Monet created a series of paintings here, inspired by the stunning interplay of light on the white chalk, which produces incredible shades.

Practical Information:

• Beach Access: Free.
• Cliff Climb: Free, approximately a 20-minute walk.
• Parking: Paid parking in the center (recommended to arrive in the morning), or free parking in Criquetot l’Esneval (29-minute walk to the gardens).
• Pro Tip: The best time for photos is an hour before sunset when the cliffs turn
  golden.

Étretat Gardens — Europe’s Top 10 Gardens

These modern gardens perched on cliffs above the sea feature sculptures and topiary architecture. Opened in 2017, they have quickly become a sensation.

Practical Information:

• Tickets: €12.90 for adults (€14 during high season in July-August), €10 for teens (15-17), €7.50 for children (8-14), free for those under 7.
• Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (March – November), 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (July – August), closed from December to mid-February.
• Last Entry: 30 minutes before closing.
• Visit Duration: Allow 1.5 – 2 hours for your visit.

Historical Heritage

American Military Cemetery

Home to 9,386 white marble crosses on a hill overlooking Omaha Beach, this site is one of Europe’s most poignant places. The perfect geometry of rows, the sea view, and the surrounding silence create an atmosphere for reflection on the cost of freedom.

Practical Information:

• Entrance: Free.
• Hours: Open daily (hours may vary by season).
• Flag Lowering Ceremony: One hour before cemetery closing.
• Visitor Center: Open for tours and exhibitions.

Pointe du Hoc — Craters and Bunkers

This strategic location atop a 35-meter cliff was stormed by American Rangers on June 6. Today, bomb craters and German bunkers are preserved for visitors.

Practical Information:

• Site Access: Free.
• Visitor Center: Open 10:00 AM – 4:15 PM (January – March, November – December), 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM (April – October).
• Bunker Access: Several bunkers are accessible.
• Path: A 500-meter gravel path leads from parking.
• Note: As of August 2024, the platform atop the observation bunker is closed for visitor safety.

Giverny — Claude Monet’s House and Gardens

This is the artist’s home, featuring the famous water lily garden. In spring, the garden is adorned with tulips and daffodils, while summer brings an array of roses and peonies.

Practical Information:

• Tickets: €12 for adults (price may vary; online booking is recommended)
• Open: April 1 – November 1, 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM (last entry at 5:30 PM)
• Best time to visit: May to June for blooming
• Important: Advance online ticket purchase with date and time selection is mandatory
• Tip: Arrive at opening (9:30 AM) or after 4:00 PM to avoid crowds from tour buses

Varengeville-sur-Mer — Secret Beach of Artists

This small village, perched on cliffs, was a haven for Impressionist painters. Composer Albert Roussel is buried here.

What to see:

• 12th-century church on the cliff featuring an artists’ cemetery
• The house of Jacques Offenbach
• Vastérival beach, a site where Monet and Renoir painted

Jumièges — Ruins of “France’s Most Beautiful Abbey”

Explore the ruins of a 7th-century Benedictine abbey nestled in a picturesque bend of the Seine. Victor Hugo referred to it as “France’s most beautiful ruins.”

Practical information:

• Tickets: €7 for adults, €4 for students and seniors, free for those under 26
• Open: 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM (April 15 – September 15), 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM and 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM (rest of the year)
• Closed: December 25, January 1, May 1
• Visit duration: 1.5 – 2 hours

Combined tickets:

• Jumièges Abbey + Saint-Georges de Boscherville gardens: €9.50 (valid for 48 hours)
• Discovery Pass (5 sites): €25 (valid for one year)

Getting there: 40 minutes from Rouen by bus (#530) or car along the scenic Seine route.

D-Day Beaches: Complete Landing Sites Guide

Omaha Beach — Most Famous Landing Beach

This approximately 10 km-long beach, located between Vierville-sur-Mer and Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, became the bloodiest on D-Day. Around 34,000 American soldiers landed here, resulting in approximately 2,400 casualties (including killed, wounded, and missing).

Today, the beach features the “Les Braves” monument, consisting of three stainless steel elements symbolizing “wings of hope,” “rise up, freedom!” and “wings of brotherhood.” Created by Anilore Banon, the sculpture was inaugurated on June 6, 2004.

Caen Museum — Context of Events

The Caen Memorial is one of Europe’s premier WWII museums, beginning its exhibition in 1918 to provide context for the war’s background.

Practical information:

• Tickets: Check prices when purchasing
• Children under 10: Free
• Open: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (hours may vary by season)
• Average visit duration: 4 hours
• Combo ticket with beach tour: Available; check current prices

Arromanches — Artificial Harbor Remains

Here, the Allies constructed a temporary “Mulberry” harbor to unload equipment and supplies. The remains of concrete caissons are still visible at sea during low tide.
The Landing Museum, which opened in April 2023, narrates the engineering marvel of creating these artificial harbors.

Practical information:

• Museum Tickets: Adults €12.70, Children (6-18) €8.20
• Opening Hours: May-August 9:00 AM-7:00 PM; reduced hours during other months
• Average Visit Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Includes: Audio guide and harbor construction cinema

Planning Your Visit

Tours vs. Independent Visits

Organized tours (€80-120) include transportation, a guide, and visits to 4-5 key sites. Pros: No logistics planning and professional commentary. Cons: Strict schedule and superficial viewing.

Independent travel by car allows more time to explore interesting locations but requires prior historical research.

Time Recommendations

Allocate at least 1 full day for the main beaches (Omaha, Arromanches, Pointe du Hoc, American cemetery). For a more detailed exploration with museum visits, plan for 2-3 days.

Best Time to Visit

Avoid June 6 (D-Day anniversary) due to large crowds and road closures. The optimal times are May, and September-October. In winter, many museums have reduced hours.

Active Recreation and Unique ActivitiesNature Activities

Hiking: GR21 — Coastal Trail

The GR21 route stretches approximately 190 km from Le Tréport to Le Havre along the Alabaster Coast, not to Mont-Saint-Michel. You can hike individual sections:

• Étretat — Fécamp: 18-20 km, 5-6 hours, medium difficulty
• Arromanches — Port-en-Bessin: 12 km, 3.5 hours, easy (not part of the main GR21)
• Barfleur — Saint-Pierre-Église: 18 km, 6 hours, difficult

The trail is marked with red-white blazes, but it is advisable to bring a GPS as fog can make navigation challenging.

Bike Tours: Paris to Mont-Saint-Michel

The “La Véloscénie” bike route connects Paris to Mont-Saint-Michel through scenic Norman countryside. The total distance is 450 km and can be completed in sections.

Popular Sections:

• Argentan — Domfront: 45 km on a former railway
• Vire — Mortain: 30 km through forests and fields
• Bike rental costs €25 per day; e-bikes are €35.

Horseback Beach Rides

Several ranches offer horseback rides on the beach during low tide:

• Centre Équestre du Cotentin (Utah Beach): €45 for 1.5 hours
• Poney Club de Deauville: €60 for 2 hours on Deauville beach

Advance booking is recommended, especially in summer.

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Village Sidecar Tours

Retro motorcycle tours with sidecars explore battle sites and Norman villages. Retro Tour Normandy offers:

• 2-hour tour: €100-150 per person
• Full day with lunch: €250-300

Helmets and rain gear are provided.

Mont-Saint-Michel Tides — Schedule and Safety

A tide coefficient above 110 means the island will be completely surrounded by water. The most impressive tides occur approximately 36-48 hours after the new moon and full moon.

2025 Tide Schedule:Super-tides (coeff. 110+):

• March: March 30-31 (coefficient up to 114)
• October: October 8 (coeff. 110)

Important: Never attempt to walk the bay without a guide—quicksand and fast tides can be extremely dangerous.

Calvados Distillery Tastings

Calvados, the apple brandy that is Normandy’s pride, can be experienced at the best distilleries:

• Château du Breuil (Le Breuil-en-Auge): Daily tours available (closed December 25 and January 1)
• Distillerie Busnel (Corbon): Free tours with tasting and a factory shop
• Domaine Dupont (Victot-Pontfol): Tours cost €20 per adult, featuring organic calvados

Tip: Purchase calvados aged a minimum of 8 years, as younger varieties can be too harsh.

Paragliding Flights over Étretat Cliffs

Experience tandem flights with an instructor over the iconic cliffs. Each flight lasts 15-20 minutes and includes photos and video.

• Cost: €130
• School: Normandie Parapente
• Restrictions: Weight limit of 90 kg and minimum age of 14

Hidden Normandy Gems

Bec-Hellouin — One of France’s Most Beautiful Villages

This 11th-century abbey is situated in the picturesque Risle River valley, where Benedictine monks currently reside, managing organic farming and welcoming tourists.

Practical Information:

• Abbey tours: €6 per person
• Free entry to the park and external grounds
• Shop offering monastery-made ceramics and candles

Jumièges — Ruins of “France’s Most Beautiful Abbey”

The ruins of this Benedictine abbey located in the Seine bend create a mystical atmosphere, with a preserved tower standing 46 meters tall.

Practical Information:

• Hours: April 15 – September 15: 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM; September 16 – April 14: 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM and 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM
• Tickets: Adults from €6.50, reduced from €4

Romantics flock here for sunrise, as the light dancing through the Gothic arches creates a unique ambiance.

Mortain — Medieval Town in the Countryside

Founded in the 10th century by Count de Mortain, this small town feels like time has stopped, surrounded by picturesque hills.

Every Saturday, local farmers host a market selling cheeses, cider, and vegetables. Attractions: Visit the Mortain waterfalls located in a wooded valley near the town.

Trip Budget

Economy: €60-85/day per person

• Hostel or B&B accommodation: €35-50
• Food (bistro lunch, picnics): €20-25
• Transport and entrance tickets: €10-15

Mid-range: €120-170/day

• 3-star hotel: €70-100
• Restaurants and cafés: €35-50
• Tours, museums, and activities: €20-30

Luxury: from €300/day

• 4-5 star hotel or château: €180-400
• Fine dining restaurants: €80-150
• Private tours and activities: €50-100

Main Service Costs:

• Museums: €6-15
• D-Day tours: €80-120
• Bike rental: €25/day
• Calvados tasting: €10-20
• Restaurant lunch: €20-30 (menu of the day)
• Restaurant dinner: €25-40

Money-Saving Tips:

• Menu du jour: Enjoy a 3-course lunch for €15-25
• Free water: Restaurants provide free carafe d’eau
• Book in advance: Hotels are cheaper with early booking.
• Off-season: November to March offers the lowest prices.

Best Time to Visit

High Season: June-August

Pros: Warm weather, all attractions open, numerous events.
Cons: Tourist crowds, high prices, traffic congestion.

• Average temperature: 20-22°C
• Hotel prices: 30-50% above base rates.

Optimal: May, September

Pros: Pleasant weather, fewer tourists, moderate prices, blooming gardens in May.
Cons: Possible rain.

• Average temperature: 15-18°C
• Prices: Base rates.

Winter: December-February

Pros: Quiet atmosphere, low prices, atmospheric fog over Mont-Saint-Michel.
Cons: Rainy and windy conditions, many restaurants closed, short daylight hours.

• Average temperature: 8-10°C
• Prices: 20-40% below base rates.

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3-Day Normandy Itinerary

Day 1: Bayeux and D-Day Beaches

• 9:00 AM — Arrive in Bayeux and check in to your hotel.
• 10:00 AM — Visit the Bayeux Tapestry Museum (1.5 hours).
• 12:00 PM — Lunch at a café near the cathedral.
• 2:00 PM — Drive to Omaha Beach (30-minute drive).
• 3:00 PM — Walk along the beach and visit the Les Braves monument.
• 4:30 PM — Explore the American Military Cemetery.
• 6:00 PM — Visit Pointe du Hoc (40-minute drive).
• 7:30 PM — Return to Bayeux for dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Mont-Saint-Michel

• 8:00 AM — Depart from Bayeux.
• 9:30 AM — Arrive at Mont-Saint-Michel and park.
• 10:00 AM — Climb to the abbey (walking or shuttle).
• 10:30 AM — Abbey tour (1.5 hours).
• 12:30 PM — Lunch on the island (expensive but atmospheric).
• 2:00 PM — Walk around the island’s fortifications.
• 3:30 PM — If time allows, take a guided walk on the bay.
• 5:00 PM — Drive to Honfleur (1.5 hours).
• 7:00 PM — Check in to your hotel and enjoy dinner by the harbor.

Day 3: Honfleur and Étretat

• 9:00 AM — Stroll through Honfleur’s old port.
• 10:00 AM — Visit the wooden church of Saint Catherine.
• 11:00 AM — Depart for Étretat (45-minute drive).
• 12:00 PM — Lunch with views of the cliffs.
• 1:30 PM — Descend to the beach and photograph the arches.
• 3:00 PM — Climb the cliffs (30-minute trail).
• 4:30 PM — Visit the Étretat Gardens (1.5 hours).
• 6:00 PM — Depart for Paris or another destination.

Expert Story: Jena Hovor’s Normandy Visit

I flew to Paris and immediately traveled to Bayeux. Many underestimate this town, where the medieval atmosphere is remarkably preserved. The Tapestry left a huge impression on me—it’s an 11th-century comic strip that stretches 70 meters long!

At the D-Day beaches, Pointe du Hoc particularly struck me. Bomb craters still scar the earth, and bunkers bear the marks of flamethrowers. I met an American tourist whose grandfather stormed these cliffs, which was very moving.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a different story. I stayed overnight at a hotel on the island and woke to the sound of the abbey bells. The island, shrouded in morning fog, appeared truly mystical.

I caught a stunning sunset at Étretat, where the cliffs were bathed in rose-golden hues. The Étretat Gardens pleasantly surprised me with their modern design against the backdrop of the ancient cliffs.

I also made unexpected discoveries in the village of Bec-Hellouin. I stumbled upon an 11th-century abbey where the monks produce amazing apple juice—definitely the best souvenir from my trip.

The food was delightful: I enjoyed mussels in cider in Honfleur and tarte tatin at La Couronne in Rouen. My only disappointment was the weather; even in May, it was cool and windy, with frequent rain. A warm jacket was essential!

Expert Q&A

How many days are needed for Normandy? 

A minimum of 3-4 days is required to see the main attractions: the D-Day beaches, Mont-Saint-Michel, Bayeux, and Étretat. Ideally, 5-7 days will allow you to experience the region’s atmosphere, try local cuisine, and visit small villages. Two weeks is recommended if you want to explore thoroughly, including hiking routes, distilleries, and hidden gems.

Can you visit in one day from Paris? 

Technically yes, but it would be rushed. Realistically, you could only manage either Mont-Saint-Michel or a combination of Rouen and Honfleur. The journey takes 4-5 hours round trip, leaving only 6-7 hours for sightseeing. It’s better to plan at least one overnight stay.

Do you need a guide for the D-Day beaches? 

It is strongly recommended. Without historical context, the beaches may seem like an ordinary coastline. A knowledgeable guide provides details about the operations, shows preserved fortifications, and explains the strategies involved. Alternatively, you could study the history in advance and use an audio guide.

What is the best way to reach Mont-Saint-Michel? 

By car, for maximum freedom, allowing stops at other locations along the way. An organized Paris tour (€100-150) is convenient but offers little time on the island. The train plus bus option is budget-friendly but involves complex logistics with transfers.

Where can you buy Calvados and cheeses?

Calvados: Purchase directly from distilleries for the best prices and selection, or from specialized city shops and airport duty-free. Avoid tourist shops, as prices can be inflated 2-3 times. Cheeses: Local markets offer the best quality, along with farm shops and major city supermarkets. Remember that soft cheeses cannot be carried in airplane hand luggage.

What should you bring as gifts from Normandy?

• Calvados aged 8+ years (from €30)
• Cider in beautiful bottles (from €8)
• Guérande salt with herbs (from €5)
• Apple jam or honey (starting at €7)
• D-Day themed souvenirs for military history enthusiasts
• Hand-painted ceramics from Honfleur
• Books about Monet — the Giverny museum offers an excellent selection of albums

Practical Tip: When purchasing alcohol, be mindful of transport restrictions. Hand luggage permits liquids up to 100ml, while there are no restrictions for checked baggage. If traveling by airplane, pack bottles in bubble wrap.