Which travel tips for Normandy in my travel guide ?
Struggling to choose where to go, find the perfect tour guide or pick a hotel or restaurant that meets your expectations ?
While the internet is flooded with information, narrowing down your options is time-consuming and challenging.
Who better to trust than a local expert in tourism?
Gain access to my curated selection and planning your trip will be will be greatly facilitated !
Welcome to my FREE travel guide !
While I’m not a historian, I provide summaries of each site, highlighting key facts to help you plan your visit to the D-Day landing beaches in Normandy. Additionally, I recommend interesting websites and books for further exploration.
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My e-travel guide aims to simplify trip planning by offering essential information in advance.
And while you’re here, whether you’re planning your sightseeing, dining choices or activities, it’ll serve as a valuable resource throughout your stay !
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If you have any questions, feel free to contact me at :
normandy@mybest-traveltips.com
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CONTENT OF MY TRAVEL GUIDE
My selection of sites & guided tours
In addition to the D-Day landing beaches, there are numerous other fascinating attractions in this region of Normandy waiting to be explored from Bayeux. I provide guidance on where to go and how to explore these sites, whether independently or with top-rated tour companies and guides. Additionally, I suggest some enjoyable hiking trails.
My selection of accommodations
Looking for accommodation options like hotels, guesthouses or rentals ? My curated selection caters to all budgets and preferences.
My selection of restaurants
I’ve personally tested and continue to evaluate the restaurants I recommend. Having worked with many of them in the past, my suggestions are grounded in both personal and professional experiences.
My selection of unusual experiences
Looking for unique experiences in the area ? I recommend exciting activities like a jeep tour of the D-Day beaches, a dramatized tour to immerse yourself in the 1944 landing, a scenic ULM flight over Mont-Saint-Michel or a boat tour through the marshes of Carentan. With my blend of personal and professional expertise, I have a list of captivating activities sure to delight you !
Ready to make the most of your stay ?
Discover the iconic D-Day Beaches, delve into the charm of Bayeux and uncover hidden gems across Normandy…
Need guidance on exploring these treasures ? Let me show you the way !
Bayeux proudly claimed the 5th spot among France’s most visited towns in 2015, according to Tripadvisor.
WHERE TO STAY ?
1- A FEW DAYS IN BAYEUX
I suggest spending a few days in Bayeux, a charming medieval town conveniently situated near the D-Day landing beaches. It’s an ideal base for exploring the highlights of Normandy, especially if you don’t have a vehicle. Many excursions to the D-Day beaches and Mont Saint Michel depart from here.
Fortunately, Bayeux escaped destruction during the war (it was liberated on June 7, 1944), preserving its historical charm with stunning manor houses from the 16th to 18th centuries, picturesque half-timbered houses along the main street, a magnificent cathedral, and enchanting watermills that still spin!
Bayeux draws numerous visitors, offering accommodations ranging from hotels to charming guesthouses and holiday rentals. You’ll find an array of excellent restaurants to savor local cuisine.
Explore three museums, including the renowned Bayeux Tapestry, along with the British war cemetery and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
During the high season, the bustling city center boasts quaint shops to browse through.
The River Aure meanders through the city, providing picturesque walking paths along its banks. I’ve called Bayeux home for 18 years and its beauty never ceases to captivate me. Come and discover this gem of a city for yourself !
Wondering what to explore from Bayeux ?
Here are some must-visit destinations !
Close to Bayeux
- THE D-DAY LANDING BEACHES : Bayeux serves as the perfect base for visiting the American sector of Utah and Omaha Beaches, as well as the British sector of Gold Beach.
- THE BESSIN REGION : This area, surrounding Bayeux, is steeped in cultural heritage, boasting castles, gardens, abbeys, and local producers offering cider, calvados, pommeau and delightful ice creams.
- CAEN : As the capital of Calvados, Caen is renowned for William the Conqueror’s ducal castle, the two abbeys he commissioned and the Memorial Peace Museum. This museum is dedicated to the history of the 20th century and peace, with a focus on WW2, the D-Day landing, and the Battle of Normandy.
- FALAISE : Explore the city where William the Conqueror was born and visit his castle, providing insights into his life and times.
More than 1 hour drive from Bayeux
- MONT SAINT-MICHEL : a must-see destination ! You can easily take a day trip from Bayeux or opt for a magical overnight stay on the island itself ! The drive from Bayeux to Mont Saint-Michel takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- THE FAMOUS SEASIDE RESORTS ALONG THE COASTLINE AND PAYS D’AUGE : Cabourg, Deauville, Trouville, Honfleur : I recommend spending at least one night in this area to fully experience its charm, and don’t miss exploring the picturesque countryside of Pays d’Auge.
While a day trip from Bayeux to these destinations is possible, you may not have enough time to see everything. Therefore, I suggest planning a few days to truly immerse yourself in the beauty of the region. See below for further details.
2- Spend a night or more in Honfleur and Pays d'Auge for an unforgettable experience.
I highly recommend staying at least one night in Honfleur, a charming port-town nestled in the heart of Pays d’Auge, known as the cradle of Impressionism.
Discover the allure of its historic center as you wander through its picturesque narrow streets adorned with stunning half-timbered houses. Explore its distinctive wooden church and delve into its rich artistic heritage by visiting some of the four museums. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a nice restaurant and explore the lovely shops while admiring the art galleries.
Close to Honfleur and en route from Bayeux, make a pit stop in Deauville to enjoy its beautiful beach, renowned boardwalk, upscale boutiques, and luxurious hotels. I particularly adore the allure of Hotel Barrière Le Normandy, whether it’s just for a glance, a drink, or an indulgent overnight stay if you’re able to splurge on a 5-star experience.
For a more authentic experience, venture into Trouville with its charming fishing port, picturesque streets, quaint half-timbered structures and boutique shops.
If you have access to a vehicle, venture into the scenic countryside of the Pays d’Auge. Known for its typical villages, thatched cottages, charming churches, stud farms and historic castles and manors, it offers a glimpse into authentic Norman life. Explore local cheese makers and family cider producers and consider spending the night in a typical Norman village, away from the hustle and bustle of the touristy coast.
While the Normandy coast is undoubtedly captivating, experiencing the true essence of the region and uncovering its rich heritage requires venturing inland.
Take the time to immerse yourself in the Norman countryside and « feel the terroir » for a truly authentic experience.
3- SPEND A NIGHT ON MONT SAINT-MICHEL
It is an exceptional experience and highly recommended for visitors ! If possible, aim to be there during high tide to witness the awe-inspiring natural spectacle it offers !
While Mont Saint-Michel is bustling during the day, it transforms into a tranquil haven at night with very few visitors. This provides a unique opportunity to wander along the ramparts almost entirely alone ! Trust me, it’s an experience not to be missed—I did it a few years ago with my husband. Plus, if you’re lucky enough to visit during high tide and a full moon, the sight is simply breathtaking and unforgettable !
HOW TO VISIT THESE PLACES ?
FROM BAYEUX
In Bayeux, you’ll discover numerous tour companies and guides offering group tours to the D-Day Beaches and Mont Saint-Michel.
However, if you wish to explore other mentioned sites such as Honfleur, Trouville, Deauville and the countryside of Pays d’Auge, I recommend having access to a vehicle. Whether it’s your own car, a rental or the services of a private guide with transportation included, having mobility will enhance your experience and allow you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of these destinations.
How should you plan your trip and where’s the best place to stay for maximizing your visits ?
Which tour company or guide is the right choice for your needs ?
In my travel guide, you’ll discover my selection of :
– must-see sites
– accommodation options
– restaurants
– activities to enjoy
– tour companies in Bayeux and local guides tailored to your interests !
MAKE SURE NOT TO MISS OUT MY ESSENTIAL RECOMMENDATIONS !
