Top 3 Itineraries in Caen

No matter how long you plan to stay, there’s a perfect trip to Caen.

A 3 to 5-day stay in Caen offers just enough time to soak in the highlights

For a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation, city breaks in Caen are ideal. With a few extra days, you can dive deeper into Caen’s most iconic landmarks, stroll through charming neighborhoods, and savor local cuisine at a leisurely pace.

For those who crave freedom and discovery, road trips through Caen offer the perfect opportunity to explore beyond the city. With the open road ahead, you’ll uncover France's most scenic landscapes, visit charming towns, and discover hidden gems along the way.

For sun seekers, beach vacations in Caen offer the perfect escape. Whether 5, 7 or 10 days, spend them unwinding on sandy shores, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and soaking up the coastal beauty.

Explore all the best trips for every travel style below and make your next trip to Caen truly unforgettable!

If you’re as convinced as we are that Caen belongs on your bucket list, you're in luck. The best trips to Caen are just a quick search away.

Enter your dates below to discover the best travel packages in Caen and start planning your next trip!

Discover the perfect Caen itinerary with our handpicked list. Whether you're in Caen for a short stay or a longer visit, there's an itinerary for you.

With detailed routes, top attractions, and insider tips, these 3 itineraries will help you experience the best of Caen without missing a thing. Dive into our list and learn how to plan the ultimate trip to Caen!

A scenic 5-day road trip through Paris, Versailles, Ouistreham, Caen, and Ifs is one of the best ways to experience France. With the freedom to travel at your own pace, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to make spontaneous stops between the planned activities on your itinerary.

A 5-day itinerary means that Caen can easily be combined with other top destinations in France without stress. While it’s possible to travel between Paris, Versailles, Ouistreham, Caen, and Ifs by public transport, renting a car in France opens up a whole new level of freedom!

So, with 5 days to spend, all you need is a rental car, some hotel reservations, and this iconic road trip itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Caen

• Arrival city: Ifs
• Accommodation: hotel in Caen, e.g., Chambres d'Hôtes Les Vieilles Digues
• Sightseeing: Forêt d'Ifs

Begin your road trip adventure by picking up your rental car at the airport upon arrival in Caen. Drive to your centrally located hotel, which offers convenient access to local attractions. Spend the day exploring nearby sights, and in the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional flavors and soaking up the atmosphere.

Day 2: Explore Ouistreham, Caen, and Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe

• Destinations: Ouistreham, Caen, and Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe
• Driving distance: 269.77 km, approx. 3 hours and 40 minutes
• Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Paris, e.g., Colmar Hotel
• Sightseeing: Mémorial de Caen, Caen Botanical Garden, Colline aux Oiseaux, and Le Grand Bunker - Museum of the Atlantic Wall
• Recommended tour: Normandy D-Day Small-Group Day Trip with Omaha Beach, Cemetery & Cider Tasting from Paris

Set out on a day of discovery and visit Mémorial de Caen, Caen Botanical Garden, Colline aux Oiseaux, and Le Grand Bunker - Museum of the Atlantic Wall. Take time to enjoy the scenery and local highlights of Ouistreham, Caen, and Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe, with the freedom to stop at whatever sight catches your interest. By the end of the day, check-in at a new hotel, located in central Paris.

Day 3: Discover Paris

• Destinations: Paris
• Driving distance: 20.25 km, approx. 1 hour and 26 minutes
• Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Paris, e.g., Colmar Hotel
• Sightseeing: Tuileries Garden, Champ de Mars, Sacré-Cœur, Musée d'Orsay, and Eiffel Tower
• Recommended tour: Day Trip to Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches with Cider Tasting and Lunch from Paris, France

Spend the day exploring Tuileries Garden, Champ de Mars, Sacré-Cœur, Musée d'Orsay, and Eiffel Tower. Take scenic drives or walking tours to experience the area’s charm at your own pace.

Day 4: Experience Paris and Versailles

• Destinations: Paris and Versailles
• Driving distance: 260.24 km, approx. 3 hours and 34 minutes
• Accommodation: hotel in Caen, e.g., Chambres d'Hôtes Les Vieilles Digues
• Sightseeing: Louvre Museum, Palace of Versailles, Luxembourg Gardens, and Arc de Triomphe
• Recommended tour: Private Day Tour including Normandy Landing Beaches & Battlefields from Caen

Continue your journey through Paris and Versailles, where you can explore Louvre Museum, Palace of Versailles, Luxembourg Gardens, and Arc de Triomphe. Make time for a break at a cozy café or scenic picnic spot. Wrap up the day by checking in at a hotel in the heart of Caen.

Day 5: Enjoy Sightseeing in Caen

• Destinations: Caen
• Driving distance: 1.77 km, approx. 25 minutes
• Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Paris, e.g., Colmar Hotel
• Sightseeing: Caen Castle
• Recommended tour: Eiffel Tower Guided Tour by Stairs with Optional Summit

Drive through Caen, stopping to visit Caen Castle. Don't forget to embrace the opportunity to explore smaller towns and hidden gems along the way. Conclude your day by settling into a centrally located hotel in Paris.

Day 5: Bid Farewell to Caen

• Departure city: Caen
• Driving distance: 1.77 km, approx. 25 minutes
• Sightseeing: Caen Castle

Savor an hour or two for souvenir shopping or revisiting a favorite spot before it’s time to say goodbye to Caen. Drop off your rental car at the airport a couple of hours before departure for a seamless end to your trip.

The estimated cost for a rental car and accommodations for each night along this route is around 678 EUR, providing a value-for-money way to experience what's beyond Caen.

Looking for something different? Explore more road trips with a stop in Caen for alternative itineraries, routes, and durations.

Enjoy a 8-day city break in Caen with the perfect itinerary, designed to showcase the city’s top sights, local flavors, and hidden corners.

No need to stress over the details – we’ve curated the perfect 8-day itinerary to give you a seamless outline for your trip. Use this itinerary to capture the best of Caen without the hassle of planning.

Day 1: Begin Your Journey in Caen

Arrive in Caen and start your trip with a relaxing walk through town, discovering highlights like Parc Claude-Decaen.

Take in the local charm as you wander the streets, and as evening approaches, indulge in a delicious dinner at a local restaurant. La Ficelle is a top-rated recommendation. Say 'cheers' and set the tone for an amazing vacation ahead!

Day 2: Discover Caen's Most Iconic Attractions

Enjoy your first full day in Caen by heading out for some must-see sightseeing. Explore around town and visit popular attractions like the iconic Mémorial de Caen and Colline aux Oiseaux.

Choose a walking tour to embrace a relaxed exploration. Alternatively, go for a tour by bus or bike to cover a larger part of Caen in the same amount of time.

In the evening, head out for another lovely dinner and raise a glass to a fantastic day of exploring!

Day 6: Connect With the Local Culture in Caen

No Caen itinerary is complete without learning something about the local culture. The large selection of cultural tours in Caen has something for every traveler.

If you prefer sightseeing on your own, head out to explore Vallée des jardins and Caen Botanical Garden, other popular attractions in Caen.

End the day with a sunset walk and dinner around Vallée des jardins.

Day 8: Savor Your Final Moments in Caen

Spend your last few hours in Caen soaking up the charm of the city at your own pace. Stroll through favorite spots or revisit local markets before bidding farewell to the city.

We recommend booking your transfers from Caen in advance.

For more inspiration, explore the complete selection of city breaks in Caen, all including pre-planned itineraries you can customize to suit your style. Start with a ready-to-go Caen travel plan and make it your own by selecting tours, accommodations, and more.

A 7-day beach vacation in Caen offers the perfect mix of sun, sand, and relaxation.

Highlights of the best beach vacation itinerary in Caen:

• Beaches: Spend your days at Normandy beach.
• Accommodation: Enjoy a relaxing stay close to the beach at places like Les Villas d’Arromanches for easy access to nearby dining and activities.
• Dining experiences: Savor the flavors of the coast at Au Fût et à mesure, La Ficelle, and Restaurant Paul Bocuse, and other nearby dining spots.
• Nightlife: Enjoy live music and late-night entertainment at bars like Hôtel Villa Andry et Bar Panoramique, L' Antiquaire, and Kokomo, and more.
• Cultural experiences: Explore Mémorial de Caen, Caen Castle, Le Grand Bunker - Museum of the Atlantic Wall, Colline aux Oiseaux, and Museum Commando No. 4, local markets, and souvenir shops.

With a well-planned 7-day beach vacation itinerary in Caen, you can fully unwind, knowing your time is optimized for some of the best local beaches and daily activities.

Day 1: Begin Your Beach Escape in Caen

Arrive in Paris, settle into your hotel, and take in the sea breeze as you prepare for 7 days of relaxation and adventure. Enjoy a refreshing swim at Normandy beach or explore the attractions near your accommodation as you settle in Caen.

Day 2: Relax at a Top Local Beach

Enjoy a day under the sun at Normandy beach, a top beach in Caen. In the afternoon, make sure to visit Normandy American Cemetery, Omaha Beach Memorial, and Museum D-Day Omaha for an exploration of local attractions. As evening approaches, head to one of the best restaurants in the area to taste the freshest local dishes.

Day 6: Explore the Local Scene

Spend a sun-filled day at Normandy beach. In the afternoon, explore the local scene by visiting Longues-sur-Mer battery and Tour Vauban. As the day winds down, enjoy a meal and a refreshing drink while admiring the beautiful views.

Day 7: Unwind by the Beach

Relax and rejuvenate with a beach day at Normandy beach. Bring a book, lounge under an umbrella, and enjoy the day with a refreshing drink in hand. As evening falls, enjoy a beachside dinner.

Day 7: Say Farewell to Caen

Wrap up your trip with a leisurely morning exploring any missed highlights in Caen. Pick up last-minute souvenirs, grab a coffee at a beachfront café, and savor one last view of the sea before you say goodbye.

For more beach vacation ideas, explore all beach vacations in Caen. Whether you're seeking a brief escape or an extended stay by the sea, these trips offer pre-planned, customizable itineraries, making it simple to enjoy the best of Caen's coastline.

As you explore Caen, you’ll find countless layers of history, art, and local charm waiting to be uncovered.

Finding the right place to stay is essential for a comfortable trip. This is why we've also gathered our top recommendations for the best places to stay in Caen for you.

Wherever your journey takes you, we’re here to make every step memorable. From expert tips to local insights, count on us to help you experience Caen in a way that feels truly unforgettable!