Unforgettable things to do in Normandy are not hard to come by. Normandy France, bordering the English Channel, is a region that will interest every visitor. The D-Day Beaches are a sobering reminder to appreciate our liberty and ancient marvels such as Mont Saint Michel and the Bayeux Tapestry are living tributes to human ingenuity, spirituality and bravery.
Normandy France, with its medieval towns, gastronomic delights such as oysters and camembert, and towering cliffs, is unforgettable. Full of tourist attractions and off-the-beaten-path treasures, it’s no wonder Normandy is dearly loved by the French and foreigners alike.
Normandy France: FAQ’s
Is Normandy worth going to?
This enchanting region of France boasts a rich history, world-renowned landmarks, breathtaking landscapes, and a delectable culinary scene. Normandy is charming and well worth a visit. There are countless marvellous things to do in Normandy. From the casual traveller to the history enthusiast, Normandy France is a captivating destination.
What is Normandy France best known for?
Normandy France is known for its world-renowned landmarks such as Mont St Michel and the D-Day Beaches. Normandy is also well-known for its calvados, camembert, cider, and Norman cream. The 4 C’s of Normandy are unforgettable!
How Many Days Do You Need In Normandy?
With so many things to do in Normandy, it is hard to give an exact number of days for the ideal visit. But as with most travel destinations, the longer you linger the more profound the experience. In Normandy, three days would be a decent amount of time to see some highlights and enjoy the 4 C’s of Normandy!
How Do I Spend A Day In Normandy?
One day in Normandy. Take a guided tour from Paris to either Mont Saint Michel, Giverny, or the D-Day Landing Beaches. If you want to go independently to Normandy for one day, take a train to Rouen or Deauville and explore to your heart’s content.
How To Get To Normandy France
To Normandy France By Train:
From Paris’s train station Saint-Lazare, trains run regularly to Normandy destinations such as Rouen, Dieppe, Le Havre, Deauville-Trouville, Bayeux and Caen. Book your train ticket.
Explore Normandy France By Car:
One of the best ways to truly see Normandy, France is by car. A car gives you the flexibility to visit small, charming towns, and hidden beaches, and follow twisting roads through the French countryside.
Rent your car in France to experience the best things to do in Normandy.
Get To Normandy France By Air:
From Paris Charles de Gaulle, Paris Orly, or Nantes International Airport, take a regional flight to one of five airports in Normandy: Cherbourg, Rouen, Le Havre, Deauville, Caen-Carpiquet. Book a flight to Normandy France
Other Ways to Get to Normandy:
Buses such as FlixBus and BlablaBus have routes from Paris to destinations in Normandy. Ferries also run between the U.K. and Ireland to Normandy.
Where To Go In Normandy France
These 21 wonderful places to visit in Normandy France will entice you to plan an itinerary in this region of northern France.
21 Wonderful Things To Do In Normandy France
1. Marvel At Mont Saint Michel
Of all the unforgettable things to do in Normandy, Mont-Saint-Michel is at the top of the bucket list! Mont-Saint-Michel rises dramatically from the sea and leaves an impression that lasts a lifetime. Visit the magnificent abbey, the medieval town, climb the ramparts, and take in the sweeping views of the sea. Mont Saint Michel which celebrated its 1000th year in 2023 is a remarkable landmark that combines natural beauty and human ingenuity and is truly one of the best places to visit in Normandy.
Travel Tip for Places To Visit In Normandy France:
The tides are incredibly high and rise very fast around Mont-Saint-Michel. Walk with a professional guide across the seafloor and learn about the fragile ecosystem of the bay (which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and marvel at the spectacular views of Mont-Saint-Michel.
Book An Organized Tour To Mont-Saint-Michel here.
Where To Stay When Visiting Mont-Saint-Michel – check out this location.
2. Visit The D-Day Beaches In Normandy
Visiting the D-Day Beaches is one of the essential things to do in Normandy France. Here at the D Day landing beaches, the largest amphibious invasion in history took place. In World War II thousands of Allied forces arrived on June 6, 1944, to carry out Operation Overlord and push the Nazis out of France. The bravery, loss and ensuing freedom make an impact on every visitor as it is right here that the course of history changed forever. Americans will definitely want to visit Omaha Beach.Â
Read More: How to Visit the D-Day Beaches of Normandy, France.
Normandy Sights Travel Tip:
There are five D-Day landing beaches in Normandy France to visit: Omaha Beach, Gold Beach, Juno Beach, Utah Beach and Sword Beach. Pointe du Hoc is another must-see location when touring where the D-Day invasion took place. Multiple memorials and cemeteries such as the Normandy American Cemetery dot the coastline. Leave ample time. If this is not your area of expertise, I would recommend taking a guided tour. My experience with a tour guide made the visit to the D-Day Beaches more meaningful.
Where To Stay In Normandy When Visiting the D-Day Beaches. Bayeux is a good bet. I stayed in this Bed and Breakfast.
3. Wander In Honfleur
When people ask me what to see in Normandy, Honfleur tops the list! Honfleur, one of the top five towns visited in France each year, makes it one of the essential Normandy destinations. As soon as you arrive, you will understand why.
The gorgeous Old Harbour (le Vieux Bassin) is a stunning sight. Flâner through the medieval centre and don’t miss France’s largest church made of timber (check out that ceiling). Make the trek up the hill to the Chapel of Notre-Dame de Grâce and marvel at the viewpoint over the estuary of the River Seine. Drop by the Musée Eugène Boudin which pays homage to Boudin one of the first French landscape painters who painted outdoors and captured the natural light by the sea.
Travel Tip for Things To Do In Normandy France:
Honfleur is known for its scallops (coquille Saint-Jacques) so indulge in a gourmet seafood meal. Be sure to visit the Chapel of Notre Dame de Grâce when the carillon is ringing.
Book A Private walking Tour Of Honfleur here.
Where To Stay in Honfleur. Try these Hotels. I stayed in this hotel which is in a perfect location.
4. Sit Under A Beach Parasol In Deauville
Before a summer heat wave in Paris, I had no idea that Deauville was one of the best things to do in Normandy France. The beach at Deauville is unforgettable, especially if you are taking a day trip from Paris to escape the heat. The morning shadows cast by the rows of colourful parasols make arriving early a must for any photographer. Walk the long beach and the famous boardwalk and of course, go for a swim. Film buffs should plan a trip to Deauville to coincide with the American Film Festival every year in September.
Read More: A Seaside Trip to Deauville and Trouville-sur-Mer from Paris
Travel Tip What To Do In Normandy France:
After your early morning train from Paris, put your bare toes in the sand and find the café, Bar du Soleil, on the beach. Have a café crème and a croissant, breathe in the salt air and then head off for a beach walk. If you plan to spend the day on the beach, pick your spot early because Deauville Beach gets very busy.
Book an Organized Tour to Deauville here.
Where To Stay in Deauville: I went for a day trip to Deauville in Normandy, but honestly, once you get there you are going to wish you were staying overnight here or in Trouville. Hotels in Deauville.
5. Hike The Cliffs In Etretat
When choosing which places to see in Normandy, Etretat is a top destination along France’s Alabaster Coast (la Côte d’Albâtre). The views of the alabaster cliffs, the unforgettable natural arches, the pebbled beach, the clear waters in which to swim and the small village make Etretat the perfect place to visit. If you’ve seen the Netflix series, Lupin, you’ve already had a glimpse of Etretat!
Best Things To See In Normandy Travel Tip:
Book An Organized Tour To Etretat here.
Where To Stay In Etretat: Book hotels here.
6. Explore The Medieval Centre Of Bayeux
Given its proximity to the D-Day landing beaches, it is remarkable that Bayeux escaped the Second World War unscathed. Wander the historic centre and marvel at the magnificent cathedral, the half-timbered houses from medieval times and the waterwheels of the River Aure. Bayeux is a “must do” on your Normandy France itinerary. Read this article on the best things to do in Bayeux.
Travel Tip Things To Do In Normandy France:
The Bayeux War Cemetery is a 15-minute walk from the medieval centre. It is the largest Commonwealth cemetery of WWII.
Book An Organized Tour To Bayeux here.
Where To Stay in Bayeux:
Bayeux France is quite small so book your accommodation in advance, especially if you are planning to visit during the anniversary of the D-Day invasion on June 6.
I stayed in this Bed and Breakfast, Logis des Remparts, in a 17th-century home less than a five-minute walk from the Bayeux Cathedral.
If you prefer a hotel, this beautiful hotel, Domaine de Bayeux, gets great reviews. Hotel Particulier de Sainte Croix also has outstanding reviews. Alternatively, check out these hotels.
7. Gaze At Monet’s Garden In Giverny
One of the most popular things to do in Normandy is to visit Giverny where Claude Monet, the famous impressionist painter, once lived. An easy day trip from Paris, Claude Monet’s stunning gardens and house are a joy to visit. The water lilies are magnificent as are the colourful gardens full of flowers. The small town of Giverny with its gift shops and restaurants is fun to wander through.
Read More: How To Spend The Perfect Day in Giverny France
Travel Tip for Places To Visit In Normandy France:
Walk to the far end of the town to visit the church and the final resting place of Claude Monet.
Book An Organized Tour To Giverny here.
Where To Stay in Giverny: Giverny is close enough for a day trip from Paris. Once you get to this lovely town in the countryside though, you might feel like staying. Book your hotel here.
8. Savour Oysters Perched On The Beach At Quiberville
You might just be cruising along the Alabaster Coast in Normandy when all of a sudden Quiberville appears. The car does what it has to do. Immediately finds a parking spot. There is a p̢tisserie, a boardwalk, a beach and an oceanside Huiterie Рoyster shack. Even though I am there when it is not prime oyster season (read more about the French and their love of oysters) oysters are ordered, a bottle of Muscadet uncorked and the rest is history. I mean, this is called living your best life in Normandy France.
Travel Tip What To Do In Normandy France:
Buy oysters here to bring back to your Airbnb or simply bring them to the beach to savour. They will happily open the oysters for you at the oyster shack.
Where To Stay in Quiberville: Book your hotel here
9. Stroll Through Veules-les-Roses In Normandy France
Veules-les-Roses, designated as one of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France, is indeed one of the places in Normandy France worth visiting. The River Veules running through ancient mills, fragrant rose bushes and the shining sea make this small village a true delight. Veules-les-Roses played a historical role as the embarkation point for British and French soldiers in the Battle of the Somme in World War I.
Travel Tip for Places To Visit In Normandy France:
Stop a while on the popular pebbly beach at Veules-les-Roses and marvel at the soaring white cliffs in the distance.
Where To Stay in Veules-les-Roses: What a town to stay in! Book hotels here. This quirky, gorgeous Bed and Breakfast is where I stayed
10. Stop By Varengeville-sur-Mer In Normandy
Varengeville-sur-Mer has been attracting painters forever. Georges Braque, the French painter and sculptor, lived here and left a lasting legacy. Park the car and walk down the tree-lined road to find the 12th century church, Saint-Valery, with its stunning views over the English Channel. Braque’s modern stained glass windows in Saint-Valery are a treasure to behold. Wander through the marine graveyard. It is a photographer’s dream and the final resting place of Georges Braque. Ah.. Normandy France, you are full of wonderful things to do.
Where To Stay In Varengeville-sur-Mer: Book Hotels here or stay nearby in Veules-les-Roses.
11. Admire The Bayeux Tapestry
The Bayeux Tapestry, almost 1000 years old, tells the tale of the Battle of Hastings in 1066 when William the Conqueror, the Duke of Normandy, became King of England. It is a unique masterpiece, 70 metres (230 feet) long, showing historical events and the way of living in the 11th century.
This was a highlight for me of all the things to do in Normandy as I had wanted to see the tapestry from a very young age.
Read More: 11 Fascinating Facts About the Bayeux Tapestry
Travel Tip for Places To Visit In Normandy France:
You can’t book online and a limited amount of people are allowed in at a time so arrive early. The audio guide, available in 16 languages, is free with entry. Check the museum’s website here for dates, as it closes for a winter break.
Where To Stay in Bayeux: See above – Bayeux and the D-Day Beaches
12. Follow A Path And Walk The Beaches In Normandy France
One of the delightful things to do in Normandy France is get off the beaten path. There are plenty of pathways through forests and down sandy, rocky trails that lead to the sea. There is nothing like emerging from a hidden pathway to find yourself on an expanse of sandy beach with soaring cliffs nearby. Don’t be afraid to follow a little pathway but always be aware of high tide.
13. Relish Mussels With Norman Cream
It was in Trouville-sur-Mer at the legendary brasserie Les Vapeurs that I first tasted mussels with Norman cream. When in Normandy it is essential to savour Norman cream for which the Normandy region is renowned.
Luckily I already knew how to tackle a steaming pot of mussels! This pot with its sauce of Norman cream was exquisite.
Travel Tip for Places To Visit In Normandy France:
Finish your huge pot of mussels and then explore the picturesque town of Trouville-sur-Mer. It has a lovely old centre and a fabulous beachfront.
Book An Organized Tour To Trouville-sur-Mer here.
14. Honour Memorials
One of the most important things to do in Normandy France is to honour its rich history. It is not only by visiting the large well-known memorials and cemeteries that we are reminded of the historical significance of Normandy. Reading the smaller plaques honouring heroic soldiers and their remarkable undertakings prompts one to remember the sacrifices made.
15. Flâner In The Medieval Center of Rouen
Rouen, the capital city of Normandy France, has the most marvellous medieval centre to visit. Follow the soaring spires of Notre Dame Cathedral and explore the cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses from the Middle Ages leaning this way and that. Leave time to stand and admire the unforgettable Renaissance gilded clock (Gros-Horloge). Visit the museum dedicated to the life of Joan of Arc, a national hero in France. She was tried and executed in Rouen.
Travel Tip What To Do In Normandy France:
Consider using Rouen as a base from which to explore the best things to do in Normandy.
Book An Organized Tour To Rouen here.
Where To Stay in Rouen: Book your hotel here.
16. Dive Into Camembert, Cider, And Calvados In Normandy France
On a trip near Mont-Saint-Michel, I met a French couple that had been collecting shellfish at low tide. With smiles from ear to ear, they professed that living in Normandy the essentials of life were camembert and cider. Period. Just those two delights.
I couldn’t agree more.
Add to the list Calvados made from local apples and Normandy, you have my heart.
Travel Tip for Best Places To Visit In Normandy France:
In true French style, make sure the camembert is at room temperature before eating. Serve the gooey camembert with slices of baguette, after the main. Pair the camembert with cider, champagne or white wine.
17. Wade In The Salty Waters
Along the Normandy coast are plenty of beaches for swimming. Bring your beach umbrella and stay awhile. If you forget your bathing suit, don’t worry, no one will notice if you wade into the salty waters in your undies.
18. Spot The Haystacks and Norman Cows
Things to do in Normandy France can be as simple as appreciating the landscape, the white cows, haystacks and apple orchards! I love seeing the white cows of Normandy. Immediately I think of Norman cream and how it enhances dishes with depth and richness of flavour.
What about those haystacks? There are plenty of fields of hay in Normandy but these traditional mounds of hay, seen at Giverny, are a throwback to another time.
19. Visit Historical Dieppe
Dieppe, a port on the Alabaster Coast, has always had strong ties to Canada as many fishermen left from Dieppe to fish for cod off the coast of Newfoundland.
During WWII, Dieppe was the site of heavy Canadian casualties. The Square du Canada on the esplanade, commemorates the Dieppe Raid on August 19, 1942, when so many “Canadian cousins” fell.
Visit Dieppe’s famed Saturday morning market, the long pebble beach and the quays.
Travel Tip What To Do In Normandy France:
The Dieppe Canadian War Cemetery is located 5 km south of Dieppe in Hautot-sur-Mer.
Where To Stay in Dieppe France: Book Your Hotel Here.
20. Be Amazed By Jumièges Abbey
The beautiful ruins of Jumièges Abbey are a highlight of visiting Normandy. Named by Victor Hugo as “the most beautiful ruins in France,” visiting the ancient Benedictine monastery of Jumieges Abbey is one of the most impressive things to do in Normandy. The white-stone towers and soaring facade framed against green grass and blue skies are an invitation to imagine. Wander under archways and between ancient pillars and soak up the enchanting atmosphere.
The Abbaye de Jumièges was originally built in the 7th century but has a long history of being ruined and then rebuilt. Between the Vikings, the Hundred Years War, the Wars of Religion, and the French Revolution it is amazing that any piece of this abbey still stands.
Not far from Rouen, the Abbaye de Jumièges is easily accessed by car. I loved our approach. We took the small ferry boat (un bac) across the Seine River.
21. Best Towns To Visit In Normandy: Charming Le Bec-Hellouin
One of the best things to do in Normandy is discover charming small towns. On the approach to Le Bec-Hellouin, the elegant tower of the abbey reaches skyward, stretching above the forest. This hidden gem is just so Norman with its ancient timber-framed houses lining narrow cobblestone streets. But what truly sets le Bec-Hellouin apart is its magnificent abbey – an architectural marvel that has stood proudly for over 1,000 years.
Special Events In 2024
March 22 to September 22, 2024, the Festival of Impressionism in Normandy returns for the 5th year. In 2024, the whole of Normandy will be celebrating the beginning of the Impressionist movement 150 years ago! This will be a highlight for art lovers of things to do in Normandy in 2024. Check out the program.
Have you been to Normandy France? Which of these unforgettable things to do in Normandy would top your list?
Until next time,
More Travel Info…
Another much-loved region of France is Provence Alpes Côte d’Azur. Read my articles on Provence to help you plan an itinerary through lavender fields and beyond.
Don’t miss Brittany France. Is it on your France Bucket List? Here are 13 Reasons to Fall for Brittany France.
The Dordogne Valley is another region of France that is full of villages and castles to explore.
The Loire Valley in France is dotted with magnificent châteaux (castles). Chaumont-sur-Loire is a great one to add to your itinerary.
If you spending some time in Paris, here are all my best insider tips on Paris, France. And if you are travelling to Paris alone, here is my advice on how to enjoy your trip to Paris and in all the seasons… Spring in Paris – A most glorious time to visit Paris when the magnolias and cherry blossoms are blooming. Have you ever thought of visiting Paris in the fall? Fewer crowds, sunny, crisp days (and rain) and leaves crunching underfoot…And then Christmas arrives. These French Christmas traditions make Paris and Normandy even more magical!
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Really enjoyed this read! Felt like I got to go on a little trip while reading it! I’m blown away by the photo of Mont-Saint-Michel. Absolutely breathtaking 🙂
So glad you enjoyed reading about Normandy. The next time in France, I think we should meet there!
I loved reading about all the places to visit in Normandy. I have been to Monet’s garden but that is about it!! Looks like I need to head back and explore some of these other gems.
Yes, Giverny is a real treat to visit and the rest of Normandy is wonderful to explore.
Such beautiful photos and a lovely place to explore! I was drooling over those mussels and oysters.
LOL! Yes, the seafood is AMAZING in Normandy!
I’ve done most of these! Loved Normandie. Used to live near Bayeux. Great place thanks for sharing that!
Lucky you living near Bayeux! I love Normandie too!
It’s been over 20 years since I’ve been to Normandy and your post makes me ache to go back. Oh, the oysters! The butter! The scenery! I’m ready…
Normandy really is a delight in every which way! I hope you get back soon!
What a great list! I just love your photos! France is so beautiful and I want to see more of it! Mont-Saint-Michel was on my bucket list and I have visited it, but that’s about it. Thanks for the tips for all other awesome places to see in Normandy!
Thank you! Normandy is such fun to explore culturally, historically and gastronomically. The scenery is breathtaking! I hope you get the chance to explore Normandy one day soon.
Another lovely post. I have pinned for future. I am scheduled to return to Paris and beyond in 2021. So this just might be my inspiration on where to go for my ‘beyond Paris’.
How exciting that you are returning in 2021. There are a lot of “beyond Paris” regions to explore but Normandy is one that should top the list!