Beautiful beaches, historic old towns and fascinating museums – Normandy has this and much more to offer.
Normandy is located in northern France on the English Channel and is one of the most popular travel destinations in France. The region impresses with a varied landscape, ranging from spectacular cliffs on the coast to rolling hills inland. The wide beaches of the English Channel invite you to relax, while the impressive cliffs of Étretat and the picturesque villages along the coast awaken the desire to explore. Normandy has a rich and eventful history. The famous Allied landings in World War II took place here, an event that shaped the history of the 20th century. The region is also closely linked to William the Conqueror’s Norman conquest of England, which led to the creation of the British Kingdom. Normandy not only offers a rich history, but also a wide range of cultural offerings. Historic cities such as Rouen, Caen and Bayeux fascinate with their cathedrals, castles and museums. Another highlight is the Norman cuisine with its regional specialties such as Camembert, Calvados (apple brandy) and the famous Norman apple tart – a true feast for gourmets. So you see, Normandy has a lot to offer. So that you don’t miss any highlights in the region, I would like to introduce you to the 10 best sights in Normandy.
Mont Saint Michel
Mont-Saint-Michel is the top attraction in Normandy and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. It is a rocky island crowned by a spectacular medieval abbey. This is a masterpiece of architecture and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding bay, known for its tides.
Read also: Top Tourist Attractions in Normandy
Landing beaches
The landing beaches in Normandy are historical places of great importance. The Allied landing in World War II took place here on June 6, 1944, a crucial moment that led to the liberation of Europe. The beaches – Utah Beach, Omaha Beach, Gold Beach, Juno Beach and Sword Beach – are now memorials and museums commemorating the brave soldiers who fought and sacrificed that day.
Caen
The city of Caen is characterized by its well-preserved old town, lined with half-timbered houses, cobbled streets and historic churches. Notable attractions include the Castle of Caen, the abbey churches of Saint-Étienne and Sainte-Trinité, and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, a renowned art museum. Caen has also played an important role in the history of the Second World War, particularly as the site of the Normandy landings. The Memorial de Caen is an impressive museum and memorial commemorating these events.
Étretat
Étretat is a picturesque coastal village known for its breathtaking natural beauty. The coast of Étretat is characterized by impressive rock formations, including the famous Porte d’Aval bridge and the 55-meter-high Aiguille rock pinnacle. These unique formations were formed by the erosion of limestone over centuries and offer spectacular views of the English Channel.
Le Havre
Le Havre is an important port city and one of the country’s most important commercial ports. The city is known for its modern architecture, which is partly due to the destruction of the Second World War. Le Havre city center was rebuilt by the famous architect Auguste Perret and is now considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its innovative concrete architecture. Attractions include the Musée d’Art Moderne André Malraux with an impressive collection of modern art and the botanical garden “Jardins Suspendus”.
Vernon
Vernon is a charming town on the Seine and known for its picturesque old town. One of Vernon’s most notable attractions is the Église Notre-Dame, a Gothic church with ornate stained glass windows. Additionally, the waterfront promenade along the river is a popular place for walking and relaxing.
Rouen
Rouen is the capital of Normandy and is characterized by its well-preserved old town, which is characterized by historic half-timbered houses, churches and narrow streets. One of Rouen’s most impressive landmarks is the cathedral, considered one of the most significant examples of Gothic architecture in France. Rouen also has a close connection to the story of Joan of Arc, the French national heroine. Here she was interrogated and convicted in the 15th century. Individual memorials and museums commemorate their lives and their deeds.
Honfleur
Honfleur is a picturesque port town located at the mouth of the Seine. The picturesque old town of Honfleur is characterized by well-preserved half-timbered houses, narrow cobblestone streets and the pretty Vieux Bassin (Old Harbor) lined with beautiful buildings. The city is also known for its world-class seafood cuisine. The restaurants along the harbor offer fresh oysters, fish and other local delicacies.
Bayeux
Bayeux is a charming city with a well-preserved old town and an impressive Gothic cathedral. One of Bayeux’s standout attractions is the Musée de la Tapisserie de Bayeux, home to the famous Bayeux Tapestry, an impressive 11th-century embroidery depicting William the Conqueror’s conquest of England.
Évreux
The city of Évreux is crossed by the River Iton and is the capital of the Eure department. The symbol of the city is the imposing Notre-Dame Cathedral with its bell tower from 1465 with an elegant spire and the beautiful portal on the north side of the church, designed by Jehan Cossart in the 16th century.
