Things to do in Normandie
Discover the best attractions and experiences Normandie has to offer
Historic Monuments
Normandy is dotted with medieval fortresses, abbeys and iconic sites that tell the story of its past.
Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey
A dramatic island abbey rising above tidal flats; a must-see medieval fortress and religious site.
Bayeux Cathedral
A fine example of Norman Romanesque architecture at the heart of Bayeux.
Abbaye aux Hommes (Caen)
William the Conqueror's grand Romanesque abbey, now a striking civic building.
Jumièges Abbey
Ruinous but magnificent ruin set beside the Seine, a symbol of Norman monastic life.
Museums
From war heritage to fine arts, Normandy’s museums showcase the region’s history and culture.
Musée de la Tapisserie de Bayeux
Home to the famous Bayeux Tapestry, telling the story of 1066 in cloth.
Memorial de Caen
A comprehensive museum and memorial dedicated to World War II and the Battle of Normandy.
Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen
A historic collection of European painting housed in a grand building.
Religious Monuments
Normandy’s cathedrals and abbeys display centuries of religious art and architecture.
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen
A masterpiece of Gothic architecture famed for its facade and stained glass.
Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey
The iconic abbey perched on a tidal island with panoramic views.
Abbaye du Bec-Hellouin
A pristine medieval abbey surrounded by a quiet scenic village.
National & Theme Parks
Outdoor spaces and family-friendly parks showcase Normandy’s natural and playful side.
Parc naturel régional des Marais du Cotentin et du Bessin
A vast coastal wetland region ideal for hiking and birdwatching.
Parc naturel régional du Perche
Rolling countryside and forests perfect for scenic walks and cycling.
Zoo de Jurques
A family-friendly zoo with a variety of animals in a compact park.
Festyland
A theme park in Caen offering family-friendly rides and shows.
Neighborhoods
Explore the distinctive districts that give each town its character.
Le Vieux Rouen
The historic old town with timber-framed houses and narrow lanes.
Le Havre – Perret District
UNESCO-listed modernist district built by Auguste Perret after World War II.
Caen – Vieux Caen (Old Town)
Medieval and wartime reconstruction blend in this historic center.
Free Things to Do
Great ways to experience Normandy without spending a euro.
Etretat Cliff Walk
Walk the clifftop paths for spectacular sea views and sea arches.
Omaha Beach and D-Day Coast Walks
Stroll along the beaches and shoreline where WWII history unfolded.
Rouen – Gros-Horloge and Old Town
Explore the medieval streets and the famous clock tower.
Deauville Beach Promenade
Enjoy a long stroll along the Normandy coast.
Gastronomy
Normandy’s cuisine centers on dairy, apples, and cider.
Calvados tasting at a local distillery
Sample Normandy’s famed apple-based spirit with a guided tasting.
Camembert de Normandie tasting
Try the iconic soft cheese in its native region.
La Route du Cidre (Cider Route) in Pays d'Auge
Cruise through orchards and cider houses along the scenic route.
Normandy apple tart tasting
Savor tarts featuring local apples and creamy desserts.
Nightlife
Evenings in Normandy range from live venues to relaxed pubs.
Le 106 (Rouen) – live music venue
An iconic club and concert space hosting DJs and bands.
Le Zénith de Caen
A large venue hosting national and international concerts.
Entertainment
The region hosts theatres and performing arts spaces.
Opéra de Rouen Normandie
A historic opera house offering classical performances.
Le Volcan (Le Havre) – Scène Nationale
A major cultural venue with diverse stage performances.
Théâtre de Caen
A central theatre presenting plays and shows.
Sports
From stadiums to golf courses and water sports.
Stade Océane (Le Havre)
Home stadium for football matches and events.
Golf de Deauville Saint-Gatien
Championship golf course set near the coast.
Surfing and beach sports on the Cotentin coast
Ride the waves or try coastal activities along the shoreline.
Off the Track
Hidden corners and scenic routes off the typical itinerary.
Beuvron-en-Auge – picturesque village
A traditional half-timbered village known for hedged lanes and hedgerows.
Cap de la Hague – coastal cape
Dramatic cliffs, lighthouses, and wild sea views at the tip of Cotentin.
Abbey and village of Bec-Hellouin
Romantic abbey ruins and a scenic hillside village.