General Information
Caen, the historic capital of Normandy, is a city rich in medieval history, cultural charm, and wartime significance. Known as the home of William the Conqueror, it boasts stunning castles, abbeys, and war memorials. Despite heavy damage during World War II, Caen has been beautifully restored, offering a mix of historical sites, modern attractions, and a vibrant student life.
Location
Caen is located in northwestern France, in the Normandy region, about 15 km (9 miles) from the English Channel. It is strategically positioned between Paris and the D-Day landing beaches, making it an ideal base for exploring Normandy’s historic sites and coastal landscapes.
How to Get There
- By Air:
- Caen-Carpiquet Airport (CFR) offers domestic and some European flights, located 6 km (4 miles) from the city center.
- Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) is a major international hub, about 2.5 hours away.
- By Train:
- The SNCF train from Paris (Gare Saint-Lazare) to Caen takes about 2 hours.
- There are also train connections to Rouen, Le Mans, and Rennes.
- By Car:
- Caen is accessible via the A13 motorway from Paris (2.5 hours) and the A84 from Rennes (1.5 hours).
- By Ferry:
- The Ouistreham ferry terminal, just 15 minutes from Caen, offers ferry services to Portsmouth, England with Brittany Ferries.
- By Bus:
- FlixBus and BlaBlaBus provide affordable routes from Paris, Rouen, and other major French cities.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April – June): Mild weather and blooming gardens make it a great time to visit.
- Summer (July – August): Ideal for exploring Normandy’s beaches and outdoor sites.
- Autumn (September – October): Fewer tourists and beautiful fall colors.
- Winter (November – February): Quiet but atmospheric, with charming Christmas markets.
Key Festivals:
- Festival Beauregard (July): A major music festival featuring international artists.
- Fête de la Mer (August): Celebrating Normandy’s maritime heritage.
- Normandy Impressionist Festival (every few years): A cultural event dedicated to impressionist art.
Where to Stay
- Luxury:
- Best Western Plus Le Moderne: A stylish hotel in the city center.
- Ivan Vautier Hôtel & Spa: A boutique 5-star stay with a Michelin-starred restaurant.
- Mid-range:
- Mercure Caen Centre Port de Plaisance: Comfortable and centrally located.
- Hôtel des Quatrans: A charming hotel near the castle.
- Budget:
- Ibis Styles Caen Centre Gare: Affordable and modern.
- Hotel François d’O: A cozy and budget-friendly stay.
- Unique Stays:
- Manoir de la Poterie: A countryside retreat near Caen.
- Historic Château Stay: Experience life in a Normandy castle.
Top Attractions
- Château de Caen: A massive medieval fortress built by William the Conqueror.
- Abbaye aux Hommes: A stunning Romanesque abbey housing William the Conqueror’s tomb.
- Abbaye aux Dames: A beautiful abbey founded by William’s wife, Queen Matilda.
- Mémorial de Caen: A world-class museum dedicated to World War II and the Battle of Normandy.
- Jardin des Plantes: A peaceful botanical garden perfect for a stroll.
- Vaugueux District: A charming old town area with half-timbered houses and lively cafés.
- Pegasus Bridge: A key D-Day historical site just outside the city.
Getting Around
- Walking: Caen’s city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly.
- Public Transport: The Twisto tram and bus network offers easy access to all parts of the city.
- Bike Rentals: The Vélolib system provides bike-sharing options.
- Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Taxis and Uber are available.
Local Cuisine
- Camembert Cheese: Normandy’s most famous cheese.
- Cidre Normand: A local cider, often paired with meals.
- Tripes à la mode de Caen: A traditional Normandy dish made from slow-cooked beef tripe.
- Teurgoule: A creamy Normandy rice pudding with cinnamon.
- Seafood Platters: Fresh oysters, mussels, and scallops from the coast.
Best Restaurants:
- A Contre Sens: A Michelin-starred restaurant with modern French cuisine.
- Le Bouchon du Vaugueux: A cozy bistro serving Normandy specialties.
- La Table des Matières: A hidden gem offering fresh, seasonal dishes.
Shopping
- Rue Saint-Pierre: The main shopping street with popular French and international brands.
- Les Rives de l’Orne: A modern shopping mall with boutiques and restaurants.
- Caen Markets: Visit Saint-Pierre Market for fresh produce and local products.
- La Fromagerie Conquérant: The best place to buy Camembert, Pont-l’Évêque, and Livarot cheese.
Nightlife
- El Camino: A lively bar with a great selection of cocktails.
- Le Cargo: A popular live music venue featuring rock, jazz, and indie bands.
- Le Trappist: A Belgian beer bar with a fantastic selection.
- Les Petites Bouches: A cozy wine bar with local selections.
Day Trips from Caen
- D-Day Beaches: Visit Omaha Beach, Utah Beach, and the American Cemetery.
- Bayeux: See the famous Bayeux Tapestry, a medieval masterpiece.
- Mont-Saint-Michel: A magical island monastery, one of France’s top landmarks.
- Honfleur: A charming harbor town with picturesque streets and art galleries.
