Normandy is a French region with a wealth of history, culture and breathtaking scenery. If you love history, enjoy beautiful views, or simply want to relax on fine sandy beaches, a weekend in Normandy has plenty of surprises in store. Here are a few ideas for things to do and places to explore so you can make the most of your weekends on Norman soil:
Discover Mont-Saint-Michel
Set on the border between Normandy and Brittany, Mont-Saint-Michel is one of the most visited tourist sites in France. Perched on its rocky island, the abbey rises majestically above the bay, where water and sand meet. Be sure to visit this great place of spirituality and history, which also offers wonderful views over the surrounding landscape. Weather permitting, why not cross the bay on foot during your weekend in Normandy? It is an unusual experience that lets you see the Mont from a completely different angle.
Step back in time on the D-Day landing beaches
The landing beaches are a group of five beaches strung along the Normandy coast. They were the setting for Operation Overlord during the Second World War, which led to the liberation of Nazi-occupied Europe. Today, you can relive these historic events by visiting the various museums and sites, such as the American Cemetery above Omaha Beach or the Pointe du Hoc. Exploring these beaches is one of the highlights of any trip to Normandy.
Deauville: Normandy’s famous seaside resort
Known for its fine sandy beach, its casino and its glamorous atmosphere, Deauville is without doubt one of the leading seaside resorts in Normandy and in France. Stroll along the famous boardwalk, Les Planches, or unwind by the water while admiring the unique architecture of the splendid seafront villas. Just two hours from Paris by car, Deauville is the perfect town for a relaxing family weekend.
The jewels of the flowery coast
The cliffs of Etretat in Seine-Maritime
Admiring the imposing cliffs of Etretat is a must on any weekend in Normandy. These towering chalk formations plunge straight into the Channel, creating a spectacular panorama that has inspired countless painters and writers. Don’t miss the chance to walk the coastal customs officers’ path that runs along the clifftops for a truly unique view of this natural wonder. Famous throughout France, the cliffs of Etretat are an essential stop on any trip to Normandy.
Rouen: a city steeped in history
The historic capital of Normandy, Rouen carries the marks of a long medieval past and beautifully preserved architecture. Be sure to seek out these places during your stay in this magnificent city:
- Notre-Dame Cathedral: a Gothic masterpiece and one of the symbols of Rouen
- The Gros-Horloge: a former city gateway whose tower houses a mechanical clock dating from the 14th century
- The old town: with its narrow, cobbled streets lined with timber-framed houses
Rouen is also the place where Joan of Arc met her end, burned at the stake here in 1431. A memorial on the Place du Vieux-Marche pays tribute to this French heroine.
Spend a weekend in the city of Caen
Caen is a historic city through and through, with its fortified castle built in the 11th century on the orders of William the Conqueror and the Abbaye aux Hommes, where he is buried. The city has preserved its medieval heritage while moving with the times. On the agenda:
- A visit to the Caen Memorial Museum, dedicated to peace and to the horrors of war.
- Discovering cultural landmarks such as the two abbeys or the Church of Saint-Pierre.
- A wander through the lively pedestrian streets dotted with charming shops.
Caen is an essential stop on any journey through Normandy.
Visit Honfleur and its harbour
Honfleur is a charming fishing port at the mouth of the Seine that has kept its authentic character despite the passing centuries. Many Impressionist painters were drawn to the town’s very particular light and atmosphere. The must-sees in Honfleur include:
- The Vieux-Bassin (Old Harbour): a real picture postcard with its tall, colourful houses.
- The Church of Sainte-Catherine: built entirely of wood after the destruction caused by war.
- The Eugene Boudin Museum: celebrating the work of this local painter and other Impressionist artists.
A visit to a town as full of charm as Honfleur all but guarantees a perfect weekend, whether as a couple or with the family.
Bayeux: a beautiful medieval town
Bayeux, a short distance from the landing beaches, is a perfect blend of heritage and nature. This medieval town is sure to win you over for a weekend, thanks to:
- The Bayeux Tapestry, an embroidered treasure that tells the story of William the Conqueror.
- Notre-Dame Cathedral, an imposing Gothic building surrounded by well-kept gardens.
- The old town centre, lovely for a wander to admire the timber-framed houses and to track down a few tasty treats in the shops.
Discovering Bayeux will plunge you straight into the history of Normandy.
Normandy: a region to enjoy solo, as a couple or with the family
A day at the beach, a visit to a castle, or exploring a town full of character: Normandy is brimming with things to do over a short break. You’ll find plenty of hotels across the region for a night or two. Rouen, Caen, Deauville and many more give you a wide choice of destinations for wonderful moments, whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple or with the family. Don’t wait any longer, come and spend an unforgettable weekend or holiday in this beautiful part of France.
Explore Normandy by bike with Normandie Rando
For those who love nature and cycling, Normandie Rando offers a range of packages to discover the Norman countryside along its walking and cycling trails. From the great landmarks to more unusual spots, this one-of-a-kind experience lets you enjoy an unforgettable weekend in Normandy.
Here are a few examples of cycling trips offered by Normandie Rando:
- Explore the Pays d’Auge with the trip: « From orchards to the sea »
- Enjoy a guided day out in Normandy with the route: « A guided day cycling in Normandy »
- Discover the Cote Fleurie and its wonders with the trip: « The jewels of the flowery coast by bike »
All in all, a weekend in Normandy holds plenty of surprises, whether for history buffs, lovers of beautiful scenery, or those simply looking to relax and unwind on fine sandy beaches.
From orchards to the sea
Explore Normandy by bike with Normandie Rando
For those who love nature and cycling, Normandie Rando offers a range of packages to discover the Norman countryside along its walking and cycling trails. From the great landmarks to more unusual spots, this one-of-a-kind experience lets you enjoy an unforgettable weekend in Normandy.
Here are a few examples of cycling trips offered by Normandie Rando:
- Explore the Pays d’Auge with the trip: « From orchards to the sea »
- Enjoy a guided day out in Normandy with the route: « A guided day cycling in Normandy »
- Discover the Cote Fleurie and its wonders with the trip: « The jewels of the flowery coast by bike »
All in all, a weekend in Normandy holds plenty of surprises, whether for history buffs, lovers of beautiful scenery, or those simply looking to relax and unwind on fine sandy beaches.
