If you’re looking for a destination that combines dramatic history with modern attractions such as boutiques and markets, Caen is an ideal place for a visit.
From its early days as the home of William the Conqueror to its partial destruction during World War Two, there is plenty to learn about this city during your stay. And with a rental car, you’ll have the freedom to explore other great locations around Normandy too.
Historic sights
One of the most famous attractions in Caen is Abbaye aux Hommes, where you’ll find the tomb of William the Conqueror. It’s one of the few buildings in the city that wasn’t damaged during the bombing of 1944, so you can explore its original medieval cloister and abbey church. There is also an 18th-century monastery, which you can visit by purchasing tickets from the adjoining Hôtel de Ville, or town hall.
Close to the abbey you’ll find Chateau de Caen, a Norman castle dating back to 1060 with impressive battlements that tower above the rest of the city. Despite extensive damage during World War Two and the French Revolution, you can still explore the site today and learn about this building and its place in history.
A wartime memorial
Another must-see in Caen is the Memorial Museum, containing artefacts from the war and a vivid account of what life was like for those who experienced it.
The museum is a couple of miles outside the city, and can be reached by following the signs marked ‘Le Mémorial’. After exploring the museum you can take a walk around the Souvenir Gardens, with memorials to commemorate those who lost their lives.
For those keen to explore more of the region’s wartime history, it’s possible to visit the D-Day beaches such as Omaha, Juno and Utah Beach. You can also visit key battle sites including Arromanches and Pegasus Bridge, all just a short drive away from Caen.
Tours can be booked through a number of private companies or you can simply equip yourself with a map and guidebook and explore the areas at your own pace.
An island landmark
There is so much to see and do in Normandy that it’s impossible to fit it all into a short visit. However, Caen is perfectly located for visiting one of the region’s must-see attractions, the Mont Saint Michel.
This iconic island with its abbey rising dramatically from the sea is one of the most famous landmarks in France. It lies just over an hour’s drive to the west of Caen, over the border into Brittany, and is easily accessible by car with parking available on site.
When you arrive you will be struck by the size and beauty of this walled city, crowned by an enormous Gothic abbey. You can tour the abbey and explore the narrow streets, filled with cafés and shops where you can browse for souvenirs.
Renting a car for your visit to Caen makes it possible to explore all these sights and more during your stay in this charming and fascinating part of France.