Normandy, with its stunning coastline, storied history, and delicious cuisine, makes for a perfect respite from the urban hustle of Paris, and we’re here to help you get the most from your visit.
We’re sharing everything you need to know to plan your trip to Normandy, including tips on getting around, what to see, and what to eat.
By the way, if you want to share the charming towns and scenery of Normandy on Instagram, don’t forget to bring your iRoamly France travel eSIM.
Let’s dive in!
How to Get to Normandy from Paris
Train:
By far the easiest and most comfortable option is the train. You can hop on a railbound chariot in Paris and be in Normandy’s heart less than ninety minutes later. Tickets range from $26 to $55, depending on how far in advance you buy and which service you opt for. Point of departure is Paris Saint-Lazare, and with plenty of services to choose from, it’s a fast and comfortable option for travelers keen to prioritize speed and ease.
Bus:
Traveling to Normandy by bus is a more economical approach, though you may need to brace yourself for a longer journey. Travel times range from one to around two hours, depending on destination, and tickets can go for anywhere between $2 and $19. You may need to switch services en route, but if your wallet is light, this can be a fantastic way to explore the region on a budget.
Plane:
Normandy is so tantalizingly close to Paris that flying there doesn’t make practical sense. If you’re coming from abroad, you can fly into Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, and then take the train to Normandy, which will be quicker, cheaper, and far more convenient than a domestic flight.
Self-drive:
If freedom and flexibility are your travel watchwords, then consider hiring a car for the journey into Normandy. The drive takes around two hours on the A13 highway, and is dotted with scenic spots like Evreux, Rouen, and Caen. Perfect for those planning multiple stops or wanting to explore the Normandy of the countryside.
Biking:
It’s not for everyone, but cycling through Normandy is a wonderful experience for active adventurers. More than 310 miles (500 kilometers) of cycle paths traverse the region, taking you through rolling fields, picturesque villages, and by the sea. Physically demanding, but a fantastic way to experience the region.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Normandy?
Low Season: November to March
If you don’t mind the cold, then low season in Normandy can offer a quiet and reflective getaway. November through March is wet and chilly, but also surprisingly peaceful, and you can score some great deals on accommodation and tours.
High Season: April to October
Everything we’ve heard about the high season, from April to October—peaking during summer—is that it’s busy. If you’re in Normandy at the height of the season, you can expect higher prices and crowds of tourists. However, summer weather makes this a great time for outdoor activities like cycling or beachcombing.
Best Season to Travel
June to August
If you can handle the most popular time of year for tourists, then June, July, and August are warm and sunny months to visit Normandy. Expect average temperatures around 21°C (70°F) throughout the region.
Visitors in June may find themselves amid the yearly commemorations of the D-Day landing, an emotional and educational event.
August is particularly busy with French tourists, leading to higher hotel prices and longer queues at attractions. For a less busy experience, consider booking in late June or early September, when the weather is still warm and the tourist crush is ebbing.
Three days is usually plenty of time to see all of the top sites in Normandy, but you may opt to linger in the quieter corners or to spend more time at the sites that take your interest. Here’s a selection of the destinations you won’t want to miss:
Top 10 Places You Must Visit in Normandy
1. Mont Saint-Michel
Mont Saint-Michel is one of the must-see places in France. A tidal island topped with an imposing medieval abbey that seems to emerge from the sea itself, Mont Saint-Michel's narrow lanes are a trip back in time.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the hordes.
Route reference: Catch a train from Paris to Pontorson, then a shuttle bus to Mont Saint-Michel.
Tip: The famous omelet at La Mère Poulard is worth the hype!
2. D-Day Landing Beaches
The Omaha and Utah beaches are always harrowing places to walk, but seeing the bracingly bright white sand at the heart of the D-Day landings is essential, as is the sobering cemetery for almost 10,000 American servicemen.
Best Time to Visit: Peak season is April to October.
Route reference: Train to Carentan or Bayeux, then a bus or auto rental to D-Day Landing Beach.
Spend a moment of reflection at the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial.
3. Rouen
The Gothic cathedral is one of the great beauties of the city, but there's also the site in the center where Joan of Arc was martyred to visit and an old town perfect for sauntering.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer – Rouen in full bloom is a delight.
Route reference: Around an hour by train from Paris.
Tip: Get to the Musée des Beaux-Arts – the fine art is outstanding.
4. Honfleur
This is a tiny gem of a port town that captivated so many artists and poets, including Monet. Cobblestone streets and a pretty harbor make it utterly enchanting.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring or early summer sees the least crowds.
Route reference: Short train to Le Havre, then bus or taxi to Honfleur.
Hit the local markets for regional seafood and produce.
5. Étretat
The dramatic white cliffs and arches shock the first time you see them, especially if you take one of the hiking trails along the clifftops.
Best Time to Visit: The summer skies make for the best photos and experience.
Route reference: Train to Le Havre, then bus or taxi.
Tip: You’ll need the camera here.
6. Caen
William the Conqueror’s castle isn’t the only historic site, it’s also a city that had a hard time in WWII. A great city for branching out to various other destinations.
Best Time to Visit: Spring or early autumn for the peak seasonal draws.
Route reference: Train to Caen from Paris.
A bit of reading before arriving will enrich a visit to the Caen Memorial Museum.
7. Giverny
The home of Impressionist artist Claude Monet, the gardens of his house are the star of a visit, especially when they’re in full bloom.
Best Time to Visit: April through October, obviously enjoying the gardens when they’re at their best.
Route reference: Train from Paris to Vernon station, then a short jaunt on the bus to Giverny.
Tip: Be there as the museum opens to avoid tour groups.
8. Bayeux
Home to the incredible Bayeux Tapestry, the whole town reflects the Norman medieval and sees a lot of tourist traffic for it.
Best Time to Visit: Bayeux's climate is so mild, either spring or fall wouldn’t be a bad idea!
Route reference: Train direct from Paris.
Take an audio guide tour of the Bayeux Tapestry.
9. Villers-sur-Mer
This beach escape is beautiful and romantic, a place to walk along the sand, through the colorful rows of beach huts, and to enjoy the sound of the surf.
Best Time to Visit: The summer season when the beaches are in full swing.
Route reference: Train to Deauville and a bus or taxi to Villers-sur-Mer.
Tip: Fish and seafood of the highest quality at the cafés.
10. Fécamp
The Palais Bénédictine and its liqueur distillery are one reason to head to this coastal town, but the soaring cliffs – and the velvety black beach at their base – are another.
Best Time to Visit: Spring to early autumn, watch the high season.
Route reference: Train to Le Havre, followed by short drive or bus to final destination.
The Palais Bénédictine really is worth a tour.
What Are the Delicacies in Normandy?
1. Camembert
A creamy, soft cheese that needs no introduction – Camembert was born in Normandy. Try it melted and gooey or simply served with fresh bread.
2. Cider
Normandy’s apple-producing prowess extends to its ciders, which range from unbearably dry to sickly sweet. It can be poured at meals or enjoyed on its own on a sunny day.
3. Calvados
An apple brandy made from cider apples, this drink is another regional gem. Sip it neat after dinner or use it as a cocktail base. It's one of the most famous France representatives, especially in regions like Calvados.
4. Tarte Normande
This dessert staple involves apples, cream, and just a hint of calvados. Best end to a meal in Normandy.
5. Moules de Bouchot
Mussels from the coast of Normandy, farmed on mussels, are some of the sweetest in France. The more traditional preparation sees them served with frites – an excellent reason to eat mussels for lunch or dinner.
Summary
A region brimming with history, natural wonder, and culinary delights, Normandy makes for a satisfying, easy trip from Paris.
Whether you’re exploring the sights of Le Mont Saint-Michel or lazing on its sandy beaches, Normandy has a little something for everyone.
Accessible by a range of different transport methods, and with more highlights than you can shake a camembert at, this region is France at its most classically enticing.