Must-see places in Caen, Normandy – Visit Caen for the must-sees

Things to see and do in Caen

Welcome to Caen, a city where thousand-year-old history blends harmoniously with dynamic modern life. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of culture, or simply in search of new discoveries, the city has plenty to seduce you. From iconic monuments and charming medieval streets to fascinating museums and soothing green spaces, every corner of this Norman city offers a unique experience. Get ready to explore hidden treasures and must-sees, a destination that promises to captivate your spirit and enrich your memories.

Places not to be missed

Caen Castle

The Château, built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, is one of the largest medieval castles in Europe. This emblematic monument offers a fascinating insight into Norman history, and is now home to two must-see museums: the Musée des Beaux-Arts and the Musée de Normandie. Take a stroll along the ramparts, and you’ll enjoy breathtaking views over the city and its surroundings, while discovering the centuries of history that have shaped this impressive fortress.

The Men’s Abbey and the Ladies’ Abbey

The two abbeys founded by William the Conqueror and his wife Matilda are jewels of Norman Romanesque architecture. The Abbaye aux Hommes, with its imposing Saint-Etienne church, is a perfect example of the grandeur of Romanesque art. On the other side of town, the Abbaye aux Dames, home to the Trinité church, is equally impressive. The two abbeys are not only major historical sites, but also places of serenity and architectural beauty, offering an insight into Caen’s history.

The Caen Memorial

Considered one of the best war museums in the world, the Mémorial is a must for understanding the events of the Second World War and the Normandy Landings. Through poignant exhibits and historical artifacts, it retraces the crucial stages of this dark period in history. The Caen Memorial not only commemorates the victims of war, but also promotes peace and reconciliation, offering visitors a profound educational and emotional experience.

These iconic Caen sites each offer a unique window on the city’s rich and complex history. Whether you’re passionate about the Middle Ages, architecture or the world events of the 20th century, Caen has something to offer all lovers of culture and history.

1944 – 2024: 80th anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy

In 2024, we will commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy, decisive events in the Second World War that marked the beginning of the liberation of occupied Europe. On June 6, 1944, known as D-Day, Allied forces launched one of the most daring military operations in history, landing on the beaches of Normandy under a deluge of fire to establish a beachhead on the European continent. The ensuing Battle of Normandy lasted several weeks and saw intense fighting across the region, turning towns like Caen into battlefields.

In 2024, numerous commemorations, ceremonies and educational events will take place across Normandy to honor the courage and sacrifice of the soldiers and civilians who took part in this crucial campaign. It’s an opportunity to remember, educate new generations and celebrate peace restored, while paying tribute to those who changed the course of history.

Places not to be missed

Caen is packed with historical and cultural highlights that will delight visitors of all ages. Start with the Château de Caen, an impressive fortress founded by William the Conqueror, now home to the Musée des Beaux-Arts and the Musée de Normandie. Next, discover the majestic Abbaye aux Hommes and Abbaye aux Dames, two jewels of Romanesque architecture founded by William and his wife, Matilda. The Caen Memorial is an essential stop-off point for understanding the history of the Second World War and the Normandy Landings through poignant exhibitions. Don’t miss Old Caen, with its charming medieval streets, half-timbered houses and historic churches such as Saint-Pierre. Finally, take a stroll through the Jardins de l’Abbaye-aux-Dames, a tranquil setting offering magnificent scenery and breathtaking views. Each of these sites offers a unique window on Caen’s rich and varied history.

Caen as a family and on foot: we say “yes”!

A family walking tour of Caen is a great way to soak up the history and charm of this Normandy town, while enjoying some quality time together. The city is ideal for exploring on foot, with its many historic sites and green spaces within easy reach. Start with a visit to the Château de Caen, where children can imagine themselves as knights and explorers as they tour the ramparts and visit the museums. Then stroll through Vieux Caen to admire half-timbered houses and churches, while discovering charming boutiques and cafés.

The route will probably take you to the magnificent Jardins de l’Abbaye-aux-Dames, perfect for a picnic break or outdoor relaxation. The Abbaye aux Hommes and Abbaye aux Dames also offer a peaceful and enriching setting for children curious about architecture and history. Last but not least, a stroll along the banks of the Orne or through the Colline aux Oiseaux park will round off your visit in style, with green spaces and playgrounds for the young ones. Caen is a city where exploring on foot with the family becomes an unforgettable adventure!

Caen, a seaside town to explore with friends

Caen, just a few kilometers from the coast, is the ideal destination for a getaway with friends, combining historical discovery and seaside relaxation. Enjoy a rich history as you explore iconic sites such as the Château de Caen and the Abbeys aux Hommes and aux Dames, while savoring the authenticity of its medieval streets. After a day of sightseeing, head to nearby beaches such as Ouistreham or Courseulles-sur-Mer for a moment of relaxation by the ocean.

Caen’s surroundings also offer a wealth of outdoor activities: bike rides along the coastal paths, water sports or simple strolls along the sandy beaches. You can also enjoy a good meal in the region’s many restaurants, where local specialities such as fresh seafood and Norman dishes await you. With its proximity to the sea and its many attractions, Caen is the perfect destination for a memorable stay with friends.

Our good advice

To make the most of your visit to Caen, here are a few practical tips. Start by wearing comfortable shoes, as the city is pleasant to explore on foot and you’ll no doubt want to stroll its charming cobbled streets.

Be prepared to vary your visits between historic sites, such as the Château de Caen and the abbeys, and moments of relaxation in green spaces, such as the Parc de la Colline aux Oiseaux.

Don’t forget to sample the local specialities in the many cafés and restaurants, where you can enjoy typical Normandy dishes such as crêpes and cider.

Finally, check museum and attraction schedules in advance to avoid surprises and maximize your time on site. With these tips in mind, you’re all set for an enriching and enjoyable discovery of Caen.

Guided tour of Caen’s historic center

Choosing Caen Tourisme to explore Caen means opting for a rich, personalized guided experience that immerses you in the heart of local history and culture. Our experienced, young, dynamic and bilingual guides offer a unique perspective on Caen’s hidden treasures and iconic sites. Their in-depth knowledge of the city, combined with their passion for Norman heritage, guarantees a captivating and informative visit.

We are committed to offering a personalized service to meet your specific needs and expectations, whether for groups of friends, families or individual visitors. Our tours are designed to be enriching and interactive, allowing you to discover Caen at a comfortable pace while benefiting from valuable anecdotes and information. What’s more, we make a point of welcoming English-speaking visitors at no extra charge, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all.

By choosing Caen Tourisme, you also benefit from our responsiveness and flexibility in organizing your visits, allowing you to adapt to your schedule and interests. Our aim is to offer you a memorable discovery of Caen, through an authentic and exciting prism. Book with us for a complete immersion in the charm and history of this captivating city.