Normandy, located on the northern coast of France, is a region steeped in rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and charming towns. From the iconic D-Day beaches to the world-renowned Mont Saint-Michel, there is no shortage of remarkable attractions to explore. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply soaking up the local culture, Normandy has something to offer every type of traveler. In this post, we’ll be sharing some of the best attractions and things to do in Normandy, so get ready to add some exciting experiences to your bucket list!

The 4 Best Things to Do with Kids in Normandy

1. Mont St Michel Private Full Day Tour from Cherbourg
2. Mont Saint Michel Full Day Tour from Bayeux
3. Mont Saint Michel Private Full Day Tour from Caen or Bayeux
4. Falaise Civilians in Wartime Memorial Admission Ticket With Optional Audioguide

The 4 Best Things to Do with Kids in Normandy

1. Mont St Michel Private Full Day Tour from Cherbourg

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mont-Saint-Michel on this private full-day tour from Cherbourg. Take a boat trip to the island and hear from your driver guide the story of the Mont St Michel and its meaning for Christians and European history. Visit the village and its ancient cobblestone streets once on the island. Head to the top to discover the Abbey created in 708 AD for Archangel Michael. Enjoy a delicious gourmet lunch in the best restaurant on the island. Walk on the bay of the Mont St Michel if the weather and tides allow, to admire the Mont St Michel from the ground. Heading back to Le Havre (if time allows) stopping in Villedieu les Poêles to discover this unique church bell factory making chimes for famous cathedrals. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the history and beauty of Mont-Saint-Michel on a private full-day tour.

2. Mont Saint Michel Full Day Tour from Bayeux

Discover 13 centuries of history in Mont Saint Michel with an experienced guide. This magnificent island village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979 and showcases incredible architecture surrounded by a stunning seascape. Begin the tour with a visit to the village shops and restaurants that have existed for over 1000 years. Then climb to the top of the rock and tour the different rooms of the abbey, learning about the life of a monk in the “City of Books” during different wars over centuries. Discover the slow construction of the abbey from its pre-Romanesque times to the French revolution and the use of the different rooms of the abbey. Admire the bay from the Terrace of the Abbey while enjoying the insights of the guide wearing a headset to ensure you don’t miss a thing. Book now for an unforgettable experience.

3. Mont Saint Michel Private Full Day Tour from Caen or Bayeux

Enjoy a guided private day trip to the stunning Mont Saint Michel from Caen or Bayeux. Marvel at the Gothic splendor of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which dates back to 708 AD. Benefit from the expertise of a knowledgeable driver-guide who will share the history of the island with you during your journey.

Start your day with pickup at 9 AM from Caen or Bayeux or straight off your Paris train. Explore the village’s ancient cobbled streets before arriving at Mont-Saint-Michel by 10.30 AM. Visit the Abbey and enjoy panoramic views of the coast.

Relax and enjoy a gourmet lunch at the island’s best restaurant before taking a walk on the bay and admiring the view of Mont-Saint-Michel from the ground. In the afternoon, visit Avranches and its medieval manuscripts and stop at the bell. Return to Caen or Bayeux in the evening. Don’t miss the chance to explore this unique and stunning site.

4. Falaise Civilians in Wartime Memorial Admission Ticket With Optional Audioguide

Discover what life was like for the general population of Falaise during the second world war at the Civilians in Wartime Museum. This top-rated museum provides an immersive look at how the local people survived and fought back during the liberation and occupation in France. You can enhance your visit with an optional audio-guide which is available in English, German, or Dutch for adults and in English for children. The audioguide offers an in-depth look at civilian life during WW2. Guarantee your spot by purchasing your admission ticket in advance which also includes parking. Food and drinks are not included. The museum is open at select hours, please select your preferred ticket/pass option to see the hours available. Visit the Falaise Civilians in Wartime Memorial with admission ticket and optional audioguide to learn more about the history of this interesting museum.

Frequently Asked Questions About Touring in Normandy

Normandy is a beautiful region located in the northern part of France. It is known for its rich history, scenic landscapes, delicious cuisine, and remarkable culture. If you are planning to visit Normandy for the first time, you might have various questions about the trip. In this post, we will cover the most frequently asked questions about touring in Normandy to help you plan your trip better.

1. What is the best time to visit Normandy?

Normandy experiences a maritime climate with mild temperatures year-round. The best time to tour Normandy greatly depends on your preference and what you want to experience during your trip. The summer months (June to August) are the peak tourist seasons with higher prices and more crowds. Spring (March to May) and fall (September to October) are ideal times to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy the beautiful countryside. In winter (December to February), many tourist attractions, restaurants, and other amenities take a break, but they offer a different kind of experience with fewer tourists and beautiful Christmas markets.

2. How many days should I spend in Normandy?

The duration of your trip to Normandy depends on what you want to do and see. If you want to explore the D-Day landing beaches, visit museums, and delve into the history of World War II, you may need around 3 to 4 days. If you want to travel further and explore the beautiful countryside, charming towns like Honfleur, and the traditional Norman architecture, you may need to spend around 7 to 10 days.

3. What are the must-see attractions in Normandy?

Normandy has various attractions that appeal to diverse travelers. Some of the must-see attractions include:

• Mont Saint-Michel

This UNESCO World Heritage site is an iconic island surrounded by water, which becomes an islet during high tides.

• D-Day landing beaches

These beaches along the coast of Normandy witnessed the turning point of World War II when the Allied forces landed there.

• Bayeux Tapestry Museum

The Bayeux Tapestry Museum showcases the amazing tapestry that tells the story of the Norman Conquest of England in 1066.

• Honfleur

Honfleur is a charming town famous for its picturesque port, traditional architecture, and art galleries.

4. What is the best way to travel around Normandy?

The best way to travel around Normandy depends on your preference and what you want to experience. If you want to explore the countryside, hiking, and cycling are great options. If you want to travel between towns and major cities, car rental is a great option since public transportation can be limited. Train services are available between major cities but may not be frequent or convenient for remote areas.

5. What is the traditional cuisine of Normandy?

Normandy is known for its delicious cuisine, which features seafood, cheeses, and apples. Some of the traditional dishes include:

• Moules frites

This dish features mussels served with French fries and often enjoyed with cider.

• Camembert Cheese

Normandy is the birthplace of Camembert cheese, which is a rich and creamy cheese made from cow’s milk.

• Tarte Tatin

This classic French dessert features caramelized apples baked with puff pastry and is often served with ice cream.

6. What are the typical souvenirs to buy in Normandy?

If you want to take home some souvenirs from Normandy, you can consider some of the following items:

• Calvados and cider

These are traditional alcoholic drinks made from apples and pears.

• Local cheese

Normandy has various types of cheese, including Camembert, Pont l’Evêque, Livarot, and Neufchâtel.

• Handicrafts

Normandy is known for its handicrafts, including pottery, lace, and tapestry.

• Clothing merchandise

Normandy has a range of clothing clothes and accessories to buy, including maritime-themed items, beret, and scarf.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Normandy

Normandy is a beautiful region in France known for its iconic landmarks, delicious cuisine, and rich history. The best way to explore this region is by spending your time wisely and making the most out of your trip. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you make the most of your time as a tourist in Normandy.

Step 1: Visit the Beaches and Memorials

Normandy is synonymous with the D-Day landings of June 6, 1944. A visit to the beaches and memorials is a must-do on the itinerary of any first-time traveler to the region. A guided tour across the D-Day Beaches, Bunker and Memorial Museum will provide an in-depth look into the historical events that took place in Normandy during World War II. Taking a trip to the American Cemetery and Memorial located in Colleville-sur-Mer will give you an opportunity to pay tribute to the heroes that fought for the liberties of other nations.

Step 2: Spend Time Exploring the Gothic Architecture

Normandy is home to some iconic structures of Gothic architecture dating back several centuries. The Notre Dame Cathedral in Rouen is the centerpiece of Norman architecture, with its remarkably long nave, elaborate portals, and a stunning bell tower. Another example of Gothic architecture in the region is the stunning Abbaye aux Hommes and the Abbaye aux Dames, which are former monastic buildings converted into churches. A visit to any of these significant landmarks will provide a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Normandy.

Step 3: Experience the Local Cuisine

Normandy cuisine is renowned for its seafood, cheese, and apples. The Camembert cheese, Calvados apple brandy, Cider, and Oysters are some of the must-try dishes in the region. One of the best ways to enjoy the local cuisine is to sign up for a cooking class in any of the culinary schools in Normandy. This will not only give you a chance to sample the regional food, but you will also learn how to prepare them.

Step 4: Sample the Local Cider and Spirits

Cider, Calvados, and Pommeau are the most famous alcoholic beverages in Normandy. The culture of cider in Normandy is so deeply rooted that many apple orchards are now tourist attractions. A tour of a local cider distillery is therefore essential for anyone touring the region. The Calvados, on the other hand, is a strong apple brandy distilled in oak barrels. You can take a distillery tour or visit the local tasting rooms to sample the region’s famous tipples.

Step 5: Go on a Nature Walk

Normandy is a region that enjoys a temperate maritime climate, which means it has mild and wet winters and cool summers. The region’s landscape is fascinating, with rolling hills, lush green fields, apple orchards, and apple cidre houses dotted around the countryside. One of the best ways to explore the region’s natural beauty is to take a bike ride or trek across the trails of the Parc Naturel Regional des Boucles de la Seine Normande.

Step 6: Visit the Local Museums and Art Galleries

Normandy is a rich cultural hub with influential artists like Monet and Gauguin often credited for their contribution to the Impressionist movement. Impressionism was born in the late 19th century when artists began to embrace modernism and no longer painted to capture realistic images. Some of the most famous museums in the region include the Musee des Beaux-Arts in Rouen and the Musee Eugene Boudin in Honfleur. These galleries offer an immersive experience, displaying top-quality artworks by famous artists throughout history.

Book Your Tour Now

Normandy is a must-visit region for anyone who loves history, culture, and delicious food. From exploring the rich artistic creations to sampling local cuisine and enjoying the natural beauty of the landscape, Normandy has something for everyone. With this guide, you can make the most of your time as a tourist in Normandy and leave with unforgettable memories.