Caen travel guide

Photo of the church of San Pedro and the Castle of Caen.
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Introduction to Caen

Caen, France - When thinking about this commune in Calvados, France, images of the spectacular Mémorial de Caen, Caen Castle, and Colline aux Oiseaux instantly come to mind. As you explore beyond these attractions and read through this Caen travel guide, you'll find that this city in France is more than what we see in books and social media. Caen, and its community of more than 106.2 thousand people, is a culturally-rich and diverse travel destination offering plenty of unforgettable experiences.

Easily accessible from Caen – Carpiquet airport, Caen is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in France any time of the year.

You'll learn more fascinating facts about Caen as you explore this spectacular city.

Traveling to Caen is especially rewarding for anyone eager to connect with locals and learn more about their unique culture and traditions.

Get ready to explore and learn more about the city of Caen below!

History of Caen

Caen, a city steeped in history, is located in the Calvados department of Normandy, France.

Caen's history dates back to the Roman era, but it flourished significantly during the reign of William the Conqueror, who built the illustrious Caen Castle in the 11th century. This castle is one of the largest medieval fortresses of Western Europe and a symbol of the city's historical richness.

During the 100 Years War, the city suffered severe damage, but its revival came in the form of the University of Caen, established in the 15th century.

The city again faced devastation during the Battle of Normandy in World War II, but its resilient spirit led to extensive post-war reconstruction, preserving its historical heritage. Today, Caen is home to several historical monuments, museums, and is renowned for its architectural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.

Top services in Caen

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Caen, France. Check out the cheapest and most popular flights offered by 22 airlines that fly to France. Browse the 23 top-rated tours available to you in Caen. Compare the rates and services of the 3 types of places to stay in Caen and the 8 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Caen.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Caen, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Caen on your vacation in France.

Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Caen from our free 24/7 customer support. Continue reading to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Caen!

Best time to visit Caen

The best time to explore Caen, France is during the late spring and early summer months from May to June. During this period, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it perfect for outdoor exploration and sightseeing. Average temperatures range between 15°C to 20°C, ensuring comfortable conditions for walking tours around the city's historic sites. The sun shines for an average of 8 hours per day, providing longer days for leisurely exploration. Moreover, this time of year sees fewer tourists, offering a more relaxed and personal experience. Another excellent time to visit is September, when the city hosts the 'Festival de Beauregard', a popular music festival that attracts international artists. However, do note that this period can be busier with increased crowd levels. Regardless of the season, always check the weather forecast and major event schedules to ensure the best experience. Overall, planning your trip according to these guidelines will help you to make the most of your visit to Caen.

Local tip for visiting Caen

While most tourists in Caen are drawn to the popular attractions like the Château Ducal and the Abbaye aux Hommes, an insider tip from locals is to spend some time exploring the Quartier du Vaugueux. This historic district, full of narrow, winding streets, is a hidden gem that is often overlooked. The Quartier du Vaugueux is a place where you can experience the authentic Caen, away from the crowds. Here, you'll find charming medieval architecture, quaint shops, and some of the best restaurants in the city, serving local Normandy cuisine. The area is also home to the Saint Pierre Church, a stunning example of Gothic architecture. This insider tip is particularly valuable for those who appreciate history, architecture, and gastronomy, and want a more immersive and authentic experience in Caen.

Learn more about France

There are many reasons to visit the city of Caen, but a trip to France needs no explanation.

Exploring France, which spans 643,801 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. France offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

As the home country of many world-famous attractions like the spectacular Mémorial de Caen, Caen Castle, and the Colline aux Oiseaux, you’re all set for a unique and memorable travel experience in France.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about France.

What to see in Caen

Photo of church of Saint-Pierre in Caen.

Caen has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the city.

Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the city of Caen.

Top attractions in Caen

Home to plenty of top attractions, Caen is more than just a wonderful city in France. Caen is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of France.

One fascinating sight in Caen is the unforgettable Mémorial de Caen. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Caen. This remarkable attraction is located at Esp. Général Eisenhower, 14050 Caen, France and is open for visitors Monday - Sunday, between 09:30-18:00.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in France, check out our list of top attractions in Caen below. Discover the best places to visit in Caen, including the fascinating Mémorial de Caen, Caen Castle, Colline aux Oiseaux, L'Abbaye-aux-Hommes, and Caen Botanical Garden.

Map of attractions

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Caen.

Things to do in Caen

Photo of church Vieux St-Etienne in Caen in Normandie in France.

Enrich your travel experience in Caen by joining tours and activities. Caen offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking. Take the opportunity to catch the top attractions on a tour, stay active with an adventurous excursion, or learn something new about the local history or culture of the city.

Discover the most popular experiences in Caen below.

Most popular experiences in Caen

Traveling is all about gaining new experiences. You can have that and more in the city of Caen.

Caen offers numerous tours and activities for travelers to choose from. Historical Tours, Private Day Trips, and Guided Day Trips are only a few of the many experiences you can book for your holiday in France.

Explore the most popular experiences you can join in Caen by clicking on one of the top-rated tour categories below.

Top tours & tickets starting in Caen

Travelers in Caen can choose from 10 categories of top-rated tours and tickets. If you're curious about what the most frequently recommended experiences in the city are, Cultural Tours is the answer.

The most popular tour in Caen is the fantastic Guided Tour in an Old Convertible Car on the Côte de Nacre. By joining this highly recommended tour, travelers get to learn more about what makes Caen one of the best travel destinations in France.

Caen also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience in the city. The affordable Caen Like a Local: Customized Private Tour is the cheapest tour in the city, and is a popular Historical Tour. This experience costs around 48 EUR and allows travelers a great time in Caen. This Historical Tour is available in 2 languages: English, and French. Around 3 travelers have given this activity an average rating of 2 stars out of 5.

Secure an unforgettable experience for your upcoming trip to Caen and book a top-rated tour in the city. Discover the best tours, activities, and tickets in Caen below.

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Search for things to do in Caen

Discover the best things to do in Caen. Choose from 23 fantastic tours and activities available in the city.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Caen. Click the green button to view your options.

What to eat in Caen

Caen, a city in northwestern France, boasts a rich culinary tapestry, a delightful fusion of traditional Normandy flavors and innovative gastronomy. The Saint-Pierre area is one of the best places to eat in Caen, offering everything from lively street food stalls to high-end restaurants. Here, you can feast on local specialties like 'Tripes à la mode de Caen', a slow-cooked tripe stew, or 'Teurgoule', a cinnamon-infused rice pudding. The Marché Saint-Pierre, a vibrant farmers market, is a must-visit for food lovers, offering a wide array of fresh local produce and artisan cheese. For a more upscale dining experience, head to 'Le Dauphin' or 'A Contre Sens', renowned for their sophisticated interpretations of Normandy cuisine. Don't miss the opportunity to pair your meals with locally produced cider or Calvados, a traditional apple brandy. Remember, dining in Caen is more than just a meal, it's an immersive experience into the heart of Normandy's culinary heritage.

Best Shopping in Caen

When it comes to shopping, Caen offers an eclectic blend of fashion, local craftsmanship, and unique souvenirs. The Rue Saint-Pierre, the city’s main shopping street, is the best place to go shopping in Caen. Lined with a variety of shops, from high-end fashion boutiques to independent retailers offering locally made crafts, it provides a delightful retail experience.

Don't miss the Saint-Pierre Market, a vibrant local market where you can find fresh produce, antiques, and artisanal products. This marketplace is a testament to the city's vibrant local culture and is a must-visit for any tourist. For a more modern shopping experience, head to the Mondeville 2 Shopping Centre, boasting over 120 stores, including international and French brands.

While shopping in Caen, look for Calvados, a local apple brandy, and Camembert cheese, which make for perfect souvenirs. Additionally, the city is known for its beautiful lace and tapestry, reflecting Caen's rich history and craftsmanship. Remember, most shops close on Sundays, so plan your shopping spree accordingly.

Best Free Things to Do in Caen

Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Caen, France, without spending a dime. Among the best free things to do in Caen, a visit to the iconic Abbaye aux Hommes and Abbaye aux Dames is a must. These twin abbeys, founded by William the Conqueror and his wife, are steeped in history and architectural grandeur. Next, immerse yourself in WWII history at the Hillman Bunker, a preserved German fortification that played a significant role in the Battle of Normandy. Another intriguing spot is the Parc de la Colline aux Oiseaux, a beautiful 17-hectare park perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, and a panoramic view of the city. Finally, enrich your senses wandering through the bustling streets of Vaugueux, a medieval quarter filled with half-timbered houses and historical charm. These activities prove that you don't need to spend to enjoy the best of Caen.

Vacation packages in Caen

Photo of typical french buildings in Caen.

The best and easiest way to visit Caen is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in France.

Booking a vacation package to Caen means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accomodation, and a rental car, to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Caen to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Caen is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

On our website, you will find 154 unique vacation packages to Caen, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Continue to the next section to learn more about what types of vacations you can book in the city of Caen.

Popular types of vacations in Caen

The most popular way to experience Caen is by visiting the city as part of a road trip across multiple destinations in France. However, it is also common for travelers to go to Caen on both shorter and longer getaways, to get a break from everyday life, relax, and experience something new.

With Guide to Europe you can find road trips, city breaks, and weekend getaways in France, ranging from budget to luxury. Whether you’re planning a multi-day road trip across France, or you just want to enjoy a few days exploring Caen, there is a vacation package for you.

Discover the most popular vacation packages in Caen below.

Top vacation packages in Caen

Travelers have a great selection of vacation packages to choose from in France. In fact, you can choose from as many as 154 different top-rated vacation packages to take you to Caen, and even more if you expand your search to include a bigger area of France.

To help narrow your choices down, here are some of the best vacation packages for exploring the city of Caen.

For an epic vacation, discover Caen and other top destinations in France on a top-rated holiday like the 10-Day France Road Trip from Caen traveling south to Paris, Angers, Nantes, and Vannes. This vacation package provides travelers with tons of opportunities to experience not only the most popular attractions in Caen, but also in other top places to visit in France. If St Peter's Catholic Church, Mémorial de Caen, Caen Castle, L'Abbaye-aux-Hommes, and Chateau Guillaume-le-Conquérant are on your bucket list, this is the perfect vacation package for you.

If you would like to go on a budget vacation in Caen, book the popular Cheap 3-Day France City Break in Caen and spend as little as 394 EUR. This vacation will take you on a journey to experience some of the most incredible attractions and sights in Caen, including the fantastic St Peter's Catholic Church, Mémorial de Caen, Caen Castle, L'Abbaye-aux-Hommes, and Caen Botanical Garden.

Get more Caen vacation ideas on this site and discover the greatest selection of vacation packages in Europe. Scroll down to find the best vacation packages in France that match your needs and budget.

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Find vacation packages in Caen

Discover and compare 154 vacation packages that take you to the wonderful city of Caen.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Caen get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in France. Your customized holiday package to Caen is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Caen

To get to the city of Caen the fastest way possible, travelers from outside France can travel by plane. International travelers can fly to Caen by booking flights with any of the 2 airlines that offer direct flights to Caen – Carpiquet airport. Some airlines that operate flights to Caen – Carpiquet airport are Air France, Volotea, Air Canada, TAP Portugal, and Airlink (SAA). Go to this page to compare all flights to Caen.

To reach the city of Caen, travelers can choose from various airport transfer options available at Caen – Carpiquet airport.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Caen, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you. Discover more about the cheapest and most popular flights to Caen – Carpiquet airport and Caen below.

Find cheap flights to Caen

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Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Caen, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in France. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to Caen, France, in July.

The cheapest one-way flight to Caen costs around 133 EUR and is offered by the airline Air France.

The cheapest round-trip flights to Caen cost approximately 196 EUR in total. The departure flight leaves on July 13 and the return flight is scheduled on July 26. The flight time is around 4 hours per way.

The return flight is operated by Biarritz Pays Basque.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to France and the city of Caen from your city of departure.

Popular flights to Caen

Travelers visiting Caen in France can fly to Caen – Carpiquet airport directly from 36 destinations worldwide.

The three most popular routes to Caen – Carpiquet airport and the city of Caen in France depart from Caen – Carpiquet airport in Caen, France, Roberts International airport in Monrovia, Liberia, and Owen Roberts International airport in Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands.

Travelers can fly to France by choosing from from 2 weekly flight(s) from Caen; from 1 weekly flight(s) from Monrovia; and from 1 weekly flight(s) from Grand Cayman.

The airline that operates most flights to France is Brussels Airlines. Brussels Airlines offers 1 scheduled flight routes to France.

Discover the most popular flights to Caen below. Click to view flights to Caen, France from destinations all across the globe.

Where to stay in Caen

Photo of picturesque ancient abbey of St. Stephen in Caen.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Caen is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience.

The best place to stay in Caen usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodation in downtown Caen offers a ton of benefits.

Staying at the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Caen and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally-located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Caen planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Caen, you'll find 3 different types of places to stay catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in France can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Caen. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range hotels to budget-friendly accommodations in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Caen.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Caen in the next sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Caen

A trip to the fascinating Caen, France, means opportunities to relax at any of the 3 different types of places to stay in the city. Overall, travelers can choose from the following: 99 hotels, 95 vacation rental apartments and 6 cottages. While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Caen provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Among all these choices available in the city, Hotel Crocus Caen Memorial is one of the top picks of travelers in Caen.

The hotel is located at 2 Rue De La Folie, Rond Point Du Débarquement and boasts many great utilities, including Bar, Family rooms, and Restaurant.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Caen. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

In Caen, travelers looking for an economical yet top-rated place to stay usually choose Apart'Hotel Caen, Appart'City Caen. For approximately 52 EUR, guests can book a comfortable Unknown at this popular hotel.

Below is a list of all 3 different types of places to stay in Caen. Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Caen

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Caen for the unique experience they provide. So if you're the kind of traveler who prefers staying at hotels, you'll be glad to know that the city is home to around 200 hotels.

Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Caen provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Caen are created equal, finding the best in the city often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Caen.

Ivan Vautier Hotel, Spa & Restaurant offers the most luxurious rooms and is perfect for travelers looking for the ultimate 5-star hotel experience in Caen. If comfort, convenience, and affordability are your non-negotiables, check out Hotel Novotel Caen Cote de Nacre, the top 4-star hotel in the city. When all you need is a pleasant place to rest and sleep in between your activities in Caen, the highest-rated 3-star hotel, Apart'Hotel Caen, Appart'City Caen, is for you.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in the Caen. Travelers are encouraged to book early as these hotels quickly reach capacity.

Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel by clicking the cards.

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Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the city of Caen on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the city of Caen that match the information provided.

Car rental in Caen

Photo of Caen Castle.

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Caen. Caen has 8 car rental companies ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Caen start from 30.86 EUR per day or 215.99 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Fiat 500 (Electric).

If you prefer driving a manual car, you’ll find multiple options for rent in Caen, starting from 20.99 EUR per day or 146.96 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Fiat 500.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Caen, France, below.

Popular types of car rental in Caen

Discover and choose from our broad range of popular car rental options in the city of Caen to find the best car for your travel plans. Travelers in Caen can choose from small cars, medium cars, large cars, estate cars, mini vans, SUVs, convertibles, premium cars, camper vans, mini campers, vans, cars. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Renting a car is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore France at their own pace. The most popular type of car rental among small groups of travelers in Caen is a TopLevel.

Another very popular type of car to rent in Caen is a TopLevel. This car is particularly popular among couples and solo travelers touring the city of Caen.

Check out all options available in Caen and book the car rental for your upcoming adventures in France below.

Search for car rental in Caen

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Caen. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Caen, France, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Transportation in Caen

Navigating Caen, France, is easy due to its comprehensive and efficient transportation system. The city is served by a well-organized public transit system, comprising of buses and trams, managed by Twisto. These services run frequently and cover a wide area, including the city center and surrounding suburbs.

Taxis are another convenient way to travel within Caen. They are readily available at taxi stands, hotels, and can also be hailed on the streets. For those who prefer to drive, there are several car rental companies in the city offering a range of vehicles to choose from.

For a unique local experience, you might want to try the Vélolib' service, a bike-sharing scheme which allows you to rent bikes for short trips. Caen is a bike-friendly city with numerous cycling paths. Alternatively, you can explore the city on foot as the city center is compact and most attractions are within walking distance from each other.

Popular destinations to visit after Caen

Photo of the Abbey of Saint-Etienne is a former Benedictine monastery and town hall in the French city of Caen.

The city of Caen is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in France. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that France has it all.

France is calling, and the country is asking you to experience its culture and diversity to the fullest! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in France that are as magical as the city of Caen. The most popular travel destinations in France are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in France

When unsure of where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in France. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Caen

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A taste of France through a visit to Caen can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Caen to another remarkable destination in France.

To begin your search for the best or cheapest flights from the city of Caen to other spectacular locations in France, jump to the last section of this travel guide.

Popular domestic flights from Caen

Travelers in France can catch flights to domestic airports in Nice, Nantes, Montpellier, Marseille, and Lyon. Domestic flights in France are operated by 2 airlines: Air France, and Volotea. There are around 19 scheduled flight routes operating to Caen on a weekly basis.

From Caen, travelers can book scheduled flights to 15 domestic destinations.

Search domestic flights from Caen

Traveling to another city or region in France? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Caen to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in France on the selected dates.

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