The capital of lower Normandy is a bustling industrial and cultural centre, with a wealth of medieval abbeys and a magnificent castle. William the Conqueror founded the city in the 11th century, and was laid to rest here, although after the plundering of his coffin in the 16th century only one of his thighbones remained in the city, and this was then stolen during the French Revolution. Fortunately William’s legacy still remains in nearby Bayeux, and its fabulous tapestry.

Caen was heavily bombed during the Second World War, and the war is commemorated in the moving Caen Memorial museum. The city’s beautiful 11th century abbeys and the castle’s art collection, which includes Rubens and Monet, escaped the bombing and are a must-see for any visitor. After the devastation of the war, the local limestone was used to restore much of the town to its former glory.  Stroll through the streets and squares, such as the rue Ecuyère, rue Froide and rue Saint Martin, to explore hidden courtyards and medieval, narrow streets. Most of the main historical buildings are located on the left bank of the River Orne, which passes through the city centre.

Top Attractions

Caen Memorial

This peace memorial is the second most popular museum in France, after the Louvre, and a must-see for any visitor to Normandy. It is a moving, emotionally-charged museum, giving you an hour-by-hour account of D-Day. The museum also organises tours of the landing beaches, battlefields, and graveyards, of the Second World War.

Caen Castle

The castle is one of the largest medieval fortresses of Western Europe, and was built by William the Conqueror in around 1060. It is beautifully preserved, and gives fantastic views of the city. It is famous for its large round towers, and houses the Musée des Beaux-Arts, with one of the world’s finest collections of European Art.

The Abbaye-aux-Hommes and Abbaye-aux-Dames

William and his wife Mathilde built these two beautiful abbeys to atone for the “sin” of their marriage. The Pope had excommunicated them for their marriage because they were distant cousins. Their tombs are located in their respective churches, although William’s coffin and remains were plundered.

Festyland

This theme park is a short drive from Caen, and has over 30 attractions to keep the kids entertained.

Markets

There is a Friday market on the Fosse St-Julien, and a Sunday market at Place Courtonne. Stock up on local specialities, such as Calvados, and cheeses.

Nearby

Two of France’s unmissable attractions are a short drive from Caen. The famous Bayeux Tapestry, situated 16 miles west-northwest of Caen, is a stunning piece of work from the 11th century, depicting the Battle of Hastings. Mont St Michel is a World Heritage site, and its Benedictine Abbey is an exquisite and magical sight, perched on the top of a rocky islet rising dramatically out of the sea.

Eating & Drinking

Normandy dishes are rich and tasty, usually involving lots of cream, butter and cheese. Oysters from Utah Beach are reputed to be superb and have a distinct hazelnut flavour.  Normandy is also famous for its cheese and cider.

In Caen, the Vaugueux quarter has a number of excellent restaurants. L’Insolité, Le bouchon du Vaugueux and La Bourride are highly recommended. La Petite Auberge specialises in inexpensive Normandy dishes.

Further from the centre, Pressoir is a Michelin-starred restaurant. The restaurant has a rustic décor and its renowned chef, Yvan Vautier, has modernised traditional Norman cuisine. The food is quite pricey but delicious and specialties include scallops and fresh oven-preserved tomatoes.