7 Top Things To Do In Normandy
Normandy is a fantastic region: even though it is located relatively close to Paris, it is an entirely different area, with its unique vibes and ambience.
I fell in love with this region around 2 years ago, when I first came there. It was the end of the Covid era: most of the restrictions were already lifted, but it was prohibited to travel without a valid vaccination certificate, and overall people preferred to stay home. As a result, I managed to see Normandy as it is, not crowded with thousands of tourists, and it was a fantastic experience.
I was waiting for a chance to return to Normandy again, and in August 2023, we finally made it. Overall, during this trip, we spent almost a week in Normandy, and it was an incredibly enriching travel experience, that I will share with you in this post, along with indicating top things to do In Normandy.
Here is, the list of the top things to do in Normandy:
Explore Rouen - The Capital Of Normandy
Nestled in the heart of Normandy, Rouen is a city that breathes life into the pages of history. With its enchanting medieval old town and stunning cathedrals, Rouen is an alluring destination for history lovers. If you are travelling from Paris, then, Rouen can be your first stop on the way to explore Normandy in depth.
Check out the list of best things to do in the capital of Normandy:
- Explore the Medieval Old Town: Rouen's Old Town is a step back in time with its winding cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and the iconic Gros-Horloge, a stunning astronomical clock.
- Visit the Cathédrale Notre-Dame, celebrated by Claude Monet in his famous series of paintings. The intricate façade and awe-inspiring interior are a testament to Gothic architecture.
- Savor French Cuisine: No trip to Normandy would be complete without indulging in its delectable cuisine. Rouen offers a culinary adventure with its traditional brasseries, Michelin-starred restaurants and high-quality wine and cocktail bars (such as L'Absenthe and Cocoon, for example).
Fall In Love With Etretat Cliffs
Étretat, a coastal gem along the Normandy coastline, is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, stunning views of the English Channel and the iconic Étretat Cliffs. That's the place that attracted me the most during the Covid era when it was not spoiled at all by the tourists.
Here are some of the best things to do in Etretat:
- Hike Along the Cliffs: the best way to experience the grandeur of the cliffs is by taking a hike along the well-marked trails. The most popular route is the Chemin des Douaniers, which offers spectacular views of the cliffs, arches, and the sea.
- Visit the Natural Arches: The Étretat Cliffs are adorned with natural arches like the Porte d'Aval and the La Falaise d'Amont. Add them to your hiking route - you will love the views!
Étretat Gardens: The beautiful Jardins d'Étretat, located on the hillside overlooking the town, are amazing place, where art meets nature. The gardens were inspired by the works of Impressionist painters and are worth a visit.
Explore Honfleur - The Cradle Of Impressionism
Honfleur is a picturesque and historic port town in Normandy, around 50 km from Etretat, known for its timeless beauty and rich maritime heritage.
Here are some of the best things to do in Honfleur:
- Old Harbor (Vieux Bassin): The heart of Honfleur, the Old Harbor, is one of the most picturesque sites of the region, that has inspired countless artists, including Monet.
- Sainte-Catherine Church: This church is an architectural wonder created in the 15th century entirely of wood. It is the largest wooden church with a separate bell tower in France.
- Musée Eugène Boudin: Honfleur has strong connections to Impressionist art, and this museum is dedicated to the works of Eugène Boudin, who was an influential figure in the Impressionist movement. The collection of the works of Boudin and other impressionists is something that should not be missed.
Stroll Along The Beautiful Promenades Of Deauville & Cabourg
Deauville and Cabourg are beautiful resort towns on the Normandy coast, that are very popular among locals and tourists. Both towns are famous for their Belle Epoque architecture and stunning coastlines where you can enjoy peaceful walking and catch a mesmerizing sunset over the English Channel.
What are the best things to do in each of these towns?
- In Deauville, take a leisurely walk along the Promenade des Planches: the charming wallboard along the beach, where you can find beach cabins bearing the names of famous actors and directors.
- In Cabourg, explore the Promenade of Marcel Proust, named after the famous French writer, who adored Cabourg and was a regular visitor there.
- Also, explore the iconic Grand Hotel - the symbol of Cabourg's grandeur, and Casino - another stunning example of Belle Epoque architecture.
See The Stunning Historical Tapestry In Bayeux
Bayeux, a historic town in Normandy, is known for its stunning medieval architecture, and the famous Bayeux Tapestry that is displayed in a dedicated museum.
Bayeux Tapestry is a 70-metre-long embroidered cloth that depicts the events leading up to the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, particularly the famous Battle of Hastings. It details the political and military struggles of the time and the eventual triumph of William the Conqueror.
Apart from the famous Tapestry Museum, I highly recommend visiting the Bayeux Cathedral - the masterpiece of Norman Gothic Architecture and taking a stroll in the Old Town.
Explore The Charming City Of Caen
Caen, the capital of the Calvados department in Normandy, is a city that seamlessly blends rich history, modernity, and cultural charm. Among the top places to see in Caen, I would highlight the following:
- Caen Castle (Château de Caen): This impressive castle, built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, is a major historical site. Explore its towers, walls, and the Museum of Normandy, which provides insights into the region's history and culture.
- Abbaye aux Hommes and Abbaye aux Dames: These two abbeys, dedicated to men and women respectively, were also founded by William the Conqueror. They are architectural marvels and hold historical significance. The Abbaye aux Hommes houses the tomb of William the Conqueror, while the Abbaye aux Dames contains the tomb of his wife, Matilda.
- Caen's Historical Center: The city centre is a treasure of history, with charming streets, squares, and old buildings. Take time to wander through the streets and discover hidden gems around every corner.
Visit The Most Famous Abbeye In The World
Mont Saint-Michel is an iconic island commune and abbey located in Normandy, France. It is known for its stunning architecture, dramatic tides, and historical significance. Here are some of the best things to do when visiting Mont Saint-Michel:
- Explore the Abbey: The Mont Saint-Michel Abbey is the heart of the island and one of the most iconic medieval structures in Europe. Explore its Gothic architecture, stunning cloisters, and panoramic views from the top. The abbey is not only an architectural marvel but also a site of deep historical and spiritual importance.
- Wander the Narrow Streets: The charming streets of Mont Saint-Michel are filled with medieval houses, shops, and restaurants. Stroll through the narrow cobblestone lanes, enjoy the picturesque views, and take in the unique atmosphere of the island
- Climb to the Abbey Terrace: The climb to the terrace of the abbey is rewarded with breathtaking views of the bay, the surrounding coastline, and the French countryside. It's a fantastic spot for photos.
If you want to enjoy your visit to Mont Saint Michel, try to arrange for your trip out of tourist season. Also, try to come there during the working week and arrive as early as possible.
If you come by car, it's better to park in Beauvoir village nearby and walk around 4-5 km, enjoying spectacular views of Mont Saint Michel and its surroundings.
A visit to Mont Saint-Michel is a journey through history and natural beauty. It's a place where you can explore centuries of architectural and spiritual heritage while immersing yourself in the magic of the tides and the island's unique charm. Plan your visit carefully, and you'll create lasting memories of this remarkable destination.
I hope you liked this post and found it helpful for your next trip to Normandy. For more inspiration and travel ideas - check out one of my posts about our recent trip to France. If you want to stay informed about my upcoming posts, I recommend subscribing to my email list (use the button on the Home page) and following me on Instagram.
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