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Things to do in Normandy

Known for its stunning coastline, rustic landscapes, and rich culture and heritage, there are lots of things to do in Normandy making it a perfect destination for a diverse trip and it’s a great self-drive holiday options too.

With many links to World War II, plenty of well-known towns to explore, and some popular landmarks to discover, there’s a whole range of things to do in Normandy, no matter what you enjoy doing during your time away.

You can reach the area that Normandy covers in around two hours from the port in Calais via the beautiful city of Le Mans, so when you take your car to France you can start your adventure in no time at all and go to all the places to visit in Normandy straight away. Start your trip right by booking onto our Club Lounge when you book our ferries to France.

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Best Things to do in Normandy

Drive Along the Alabaster Coast

One of the best places to visit in Normandy is to drive along the Alabaster Coast. This 80-mile stretch offers the chance to view some stunning scenery and will take you through great towns and villages, too.

Lovely Étretat is famous for its rock formations, including arches and the Needle which have been formed over time by erosion, and views across the English Channel. As one of the prettiest places in Normandy, it was also a popular subject among the Impressionists, and has been included in many different works of art over the years.

Add a bit of luxury to your drive with a trip to Deauville, as this fashionable seaside resort is home to amazing architecture, sea bathing facilities, an equestrian centre, a casino, horse racing and polo events, and a number of elegant hotels, boutiques, and eateries too. As one of the best places to see in Normandy, you could also choose to visit Dieppe, where you can see the Château de Dieppe, which sits on the cliff overlooking the beach, or simply watch a variety of boats and ships head into the town’s four ports.

Places to go in Normandy - Visit Bayeux

One of the top places to visit in Normandy is 10km inland from the coast. Here, you will find the fascinating town of Bayeux, where you can wander its cobbled streets and discover all of the great things to do there.

One of the most popular things to do in Normandy is visit the Bayeux Tapestry, a 70 metre long and 50cm wide wall-hanging showing the events leading up to William the Conqueror seizing England in 1066. Bayeux also has its own Notre-Dame Cathedral, which was consecrated in 1077 and was the original home of the tapestry before it was moved. Here, the tapestry is a worldwide attraction for all visitors, making it one of the most famous places in Normandy.

Once you have taken in some of Bayeux’s history, discover the town from a different perspective with a walk or bike ride along the River Aure. A trip along the trail will allow you to see old restored mills and wash houses from years ago. Here, a bike ride along the river can be fun thing to do with families in Normandy. At P&O Ferries, we like to make sure all our passengers can enjoy their trips away. That's why we make it even easier to travel with bicycles and provide endless onboard kid’s entertainment so no child will ever get bored on our Dover to Calais ferry.

Places to see in Normandy

Many visitors use their holiday to do and see everything related to the war in Normandy and learn about the monumental D-Day landings. During these tours of Normandy's beaches, visitors can view the beautiful coastline and one of the prettiest places in Normandy while learning about the dramatic events of the largest seaborne invasion in history, which are vividly brought to life by expert guides.

You can discover even more about this era by visiting the Mémorial de Caen, a war museum and memorial covering historical events between the end of World War I and the end of the Cold War, located in the historical city of Caen. This is a must-see place in Normandy to fully immerse yourself in Normandy’s history and culture. It is also a great thing to do in Normandy with kids, as the experts truly make it interactive as well as informative.

Must-see places in Normandy

A trip to Normandy is not complete without seeing Mont-Saint-Michel. It’s an ancient UNESCO World Heritage site set on a granite island, as one of the best things to do in Normandy, this 8th-century monastery is one of France’s most recognisable landmarks and can be spotted from miles around.

Although the mount has been of religious importance since 708, the abbey was not built until the 10th century and has been a place of pilgrimage ever since. To get to the top, you will need to walk up the steep, winding street, which is now lined with shops, restaurants, and museums. When you reach the end, you will be rewarded with amazing views of the prettiest places in Normandy and beyond.

Mont Saint Michel Cathedral in Normandy, France

Top 10 Things to do in Normandy

With so many things to do in Normandy, it can be difficult to decide what to do. Whether you are travelling solo, in a group, or with your family, this list summarises the best things to do that you just cannot miss.

1. Mont-Saint-Michel

2. D-Day Landing Beaches

3. Rouen

4. Bayeux and the Bayeux Tapestry

5. Honfleur

6. Étretat Cliffs

7. Caen Memorial Museum

8. Deauville and Trouville

9. Giverny (Monet’s Garden)

10. Normandy Apple Cider and Cheese Route

With plenty of things to do in Normandy, it is a must-visit place. Travelling with P&O Ferries couldn’t be any easier with flexible travel times and no luggage restrictions, don’t hesitate and book your ferry to France today.

FAQs:

1. Where is Normandy?

Normandy is a picturesque northern French region stretching between Brittany and the Hauts-de-France region along the English Channel. It’s known for its beautiful coastline, charming harbour towns, and lush countryside dotted with apple orchards. The area is steeped in history, from William the Conqueror’s legacy to the pivotal D-Day landings of World War II. Its location offers seaside beauty and rural tranquility, making it a favorite destination for history lovers, food enthusiasts, and those seeking authentic French culture.

2. What to do in Normandy?

With plenty of things to do in Normandy, you will never be bored. From exploring the inspiring Mont-Saint-Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to strolling the medieval streets of Bayeux and viewing its famous tapestry, history enthusiasts can tour the D-Day landing beaches and memorials. At the same time, art lovers can enjoy the Impressionist trail, visiting spots painted by Monet. The region is also perfect for sailing along the coast, cycling through green countryside, and photographing the iconic white cliffs of Étretat at sunrise or sunset. In Normandy, there is something for everyone to enjoy, regardless of age.

3. Where are the best places to visit in Normandy?

Some of the best places to visit in Normandy include Mont-Saint-Michel, the D-Day landing beaches, Bayeux with its famous tapestry, the port town of Honfleur, Rouen’s Gothic cathedral, the white cliffs of Étretat, and, for those who love art, Monet’s garden in Giverny.

4. Where to stay in Normandy?

With so many different things to see and do in Normandy, it can be challenging to decide where to stay, so you can limit your travel time and have more time to explore. A popular place to stay in Normandy is Honfleur. Perfect for those who enjoy art, seafood, and cobbled streets. Bayeux is another popular choice for history lovers, and it is near the D-Day beaches and the famous tapestry. For those seeking a more lively atmosphere, Caen is the perfect place for you. Wherever you stay, the options are endless. Why not book your ferry to France today and start planning your trip now.

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