Is Normandy worth seeing? Visit Normandy, best places to stay in Normandy, France

Normandy, a region rich in history and natural beauty, is located in northern France along the English Channel. Known for its picturesque landscapes, historic sites, and cultural heritage, Normandy offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers. This guide will provide detailed information on how to get to Normandy, where to stay, tips for visiting nearby towns, and recommendations for excursions in the area.

How to Get to Normandy – best way

Normandy Geographical Location

Normandy is situated in the northern part of France, bordered by the English Channel to the north and west. The region is divided into five departments: Calvados, Eure, Manche, Orne, and Seine-Maritime. Major cities include Rouen, Caen, and Le Havre.

Normandy, France: Hotels, Best towns & Places to Stay map, reviews, facilities and prices >>

Normandy, France By Air

There are several airports close to different parts of Normandy:

Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG): The main international gateway to Normandy, located about 200 kilometers (124 miles) from Rouen.
Paris Orly Airport (ORY): Another major airport in Paris, approximately 180 kilometers (112 miles) from Caen.
Deauville-Saint-Gatien Airport (DOL): A regional airport in Normandy, with flights from several European cities.

Normandy, France By Train

The train is a convenient and scenic way to reach Normandy from various parts of France:

From Paris to Rouen: Direct trains from Paris Saint-Lazare station to Rouen take about 1.5 hours.
From Paris to Caen: Direct trains from Paris Saint-Lazare station to Caen take about 2 hours.
From Paris to Le Havre: Direct trains from Paris Saint-Lazare station to Le Havre take about 2.5 hours.

Normandy, France By Car

Driving to Normandy offers flexibility and the opportunity to explore remote areas:

From Paris: The drive to Rouen takes about 1.5 hours via the A13 highway. The drive to Caen takes about 2 hours via the A13 highway.
From Calais: The drive to Rouen takes about 2.5 hours via the A16 and A28 highways. The drive to Caen takes about 3 hours via the A16 and A28 highways.

Normandy, France By Bus

Buses are an affordable option for reaching Normandy:

From Paris to Rouen: Several bus companies operate routes from Paris to Rouen, with a journey time of about 2 hours.
From Paris to Caen: Several bus companies operate routes from Paris to Caen, with a journey time of about 3 hours.

Where to Stay in Normandy area of France

Normandy offers a range of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels and charming guesthouses to budget-friendly hostels and campsites.

Normandy, France: Best hotels reviews, facilities and prices >>

Luxury Hotels

Hôtel Barrière Le Normandy, Deauville: A historic luxury hotel offering elegant rooms, a spa, and a prime location near the beach.
Château La Chenevière, Port-en-Bessin: A five-star hotel set in a beautifully restored château, offering luxurious rooms and a gourmet restaurant.

Mid-Range Hotels

Mercure Rouen Centre Cathédrale, Rouen: A comfortable hotel located near Rouen Cathedral, offering modern amenities and a convenient location.
Best Western Plus Hotel Moderne, Caen: A well-appointed hotel in the heart of Caen, offering comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere.

Budget Options

Hotel Le Bayeux, Bayeux: A budget-friendly hotel located near the famous Bayeux Tapestry, offering simple yet comfortable rooms.
Ibis Budget Le Havre Centre, Le Havre: A budget hotel offering basic but clean and comfortable accommodation in the center of Le Havre.

Unique Stays

Manoir de Surville, Surville: A charming manor house offering cozy rooms, a spa, and a peaceful rural setting.
Les Manoirs de Tourgéville, Tourgéville: A unique hotel set in a collection of historic manor houses, offering luxurious rooms and beautiful grounds.

3. Tips for Nearby Towns to Visit

Rouen

Rouen is the capital of Normandy and a city rich in history and culture. Key attractions include:

Rouen Cathedral: A stunning Gothic cathedral famously painted by Claude Monet.
Gros-Horloge: An astronomical clock dating back to the 14th century.
Musée des Beaux-Arts: An art museum featuring works by Monet, Delacroix, and other European masters.
Place du Vieux-Marché: The historic square where Joan of Arc was executed in 1431.

Caen

Caen is a city with a significant historical heritage, particularly from the time of William the Conqueror. Highlights include:

Caen Memorial Museum: A museum dedicated to the history of World War II and the Battle of Normandy.
Château de Caen: A historic castle built by William the Conqueror, now housing two museums.
Abbaye aux Hommes: A stunning abbey founded by William the Conqueror.
Abbaye aux Dames: A beautiful abbey founded by William’s wife, Matilda of Flanders.

Bayeux

Bayeux is a charming town known for its medieval architecture and the famous Bayeux Tapestry. Key attractions include:

Bayeux Tapestry Museum: Home to the world-famous Bayeux Tapestry, depicting the events leading up to the Norman conquest of England.
Bayeux Cathedral: A stunning Gothic cathedral with intricate architectural details.
Museum of the Battle of Normandy: A museum dedicated to the D-Day landings and the Battle of Normandy.

Honfleur

Honfleur is a picturesque port town known for its charming harbor and historic buildings. Highlights include:

Vieux Bassin: The old harbor, surrounded by colorful, historic buildings.
Église Sainte-Catherine: A unique wooden church built by shipbuilders in the 15th century.
Maisons Satie: A museum dedicated to the composer Erik Satie, located in his childhood home.
Naturospace: A tropical butterfly house offering a unique and beautiful experience.

4. Tips for Excursions in the Area

Mont Saint-Michel

Mont Saint-Michel is one of the most iconic landmarks in France, located on a rocky island in the bay where Normandy and Brittany meet.

Mont Saint-Michel Abbey: A stunning medieval abbey perched atop the island, offering breathtaking views and rich history.
Bay of Mont Saint-Michel: Explore the tidal flats and learn about the unique tidal patterns of the bay.
La Grande Rue: The main street leading up to the abbey, lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings.

D-Day Landing Beaches

The D-Day landing beaches are a must-visit for anyone interested in World War II history.

Omaha Beach: One of the main landing sites on D-Day, now home to the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial.
Utah Beach: Another key landing site, with a museum dedicated to the events of D-Day.
Juno Beach: The landing site for Canadian forces, with a museum and memorials.
Sword Beach: The easternmost landing site, with several memorials and a museum.

Étretat

Étretat is a coastal town known for its stunning white cliffs and natural arches.

Cliffs of Étretat: Hike along the cliffs to enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline and natural rock formations.
Étretat Gardens: Beautifully landscaped gardens offering stunning views of the sea and cliffs.
Étretat Beach: A pebble beach offering a relaxing spot to enjoy the views and the sea air.

Giverny

Giverny is a small village best known as the home of the Impressionist painter Claude Monet.

Monet’s House and Gardens: Visit Monet’s beautifully preserved home and gardens, including the famous water lily pond and Japanese bridge.
Musée des Impressionnismes Giverny: A museum dedicated to the history and influence of Impressionism.
Church of Sainte-Radegonde: The village church where Monet and his family are buried.