7 day itinerary
Giverny, Rouen, Etretat, Ouistreham, Caen, Moont Saint Michel, Baieux
Itinerary
What a delightful journey you have ahead of you! This itinerary will take you through some of the most picturesque spots in Normandy, filled with art, history, and stunning landscapes. Let’s dive into your 7-day adventure!
Day 1: Giverny
Morning:
Start your trip in Giverny, the home of the famous painter Claude Monet. Visit the . Stroll through the beautiful gardens, especially the water lily pond that inspired many of his masterpieces. Don’t forget to snap some photos!
Lunch:
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local café, perhaps , where you can savor some French cuisine.
Afternoon:
After lunch, visit the to learn more about the Impressionist movement. The museum often has fascinating exhibitions that complement Monet’s work.
Evening:
Take a peaceful walk around the village, soaking in the charming atmosphere. Have dinner at a local bistro, and if you’re up for it, enjoy a glass of Calvados, a local apple brandy!
Day 2: Rouen
Morning:
Head to Rouen, the capital of Normandy. Start your day at the , a stunning Gothic masterpiece that Monet painted multiple times.
Lunch:
Grab a bite at , one of the oldest restaurants in France, known for its traditional Norman dishes.
Afternoon:
Explore the , a beautiful astronomical clock, and wander through the medieval streets of the old town. Don’t miss the to learn about the city’s rich history.
Evening:
Enjoy dinner at a local brasserie, and if you’re lucky, catch a glimpse of the cathedral illuminated at night. It’s a sight to behold!
Day 3: Étretat
Morning:
Travel to Étretat, famous for its stunning chalk cliffs. Start your day with a hike along the cliffs for breathtaking views of the coastline. The and are must-see spots!
Lunch:
Have lunch at a seaside café, enjoying fresh seafood while listening to the waves.
Afternoon:
Visit the and take a leisurely stroll along the beach. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider trying some water sports!
Evening:
Dine at a local restaurant with a view of the cliffs, and enjoy the sunset over the sea. It’s a magical experience!
Day 4: Ouistreham and Caen
Morning:
Head to Ouistreham, a charming coastal town. Visit the , one of the D-Day landing beaches. Take a moment to reflect on the history of the area.
Lunch:
Enjoy lunch at a beachside café, perhaps trying some local specialties like moules marinières (mussels).
Afternoon:
Travel to Caen and visit the , which provides a deep insight into World War II and the Battle of Normandy.
Evening:
Explore the historic center of Caen, including the . Have dinner at a cozy restaurant, and try some local cider!
Day 5:
Morning:
Make your way to the iconic . Arrive early to beat the crowds and explore the abbey. The views from the top are absolutely worth the climb!
Lunch:
Enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants on the island, perhaps trying the famous .
Afternoon:
Wander through the narrow streets, visiting the quaint shops and enjoying the unique architecture. Don’t forget to take a walk around the bay if the tide allows!
Evening:
As the sun sets, the island is beautifully illuminated. Have dinner at a local eatery before heading back to your accommodation.
Day 6: Bayeux
Morning:
Travel to Bayeux, home of the famous Bayeux Tapestry. Start your day by visiting the tapestry museum to see this incredible piece of history.
Lunch:
Have lunch at a charming café in the town center, enjoying some local pastries.
Afternoon:
Visit the , a stunning example of Norman architecture. Take a leisurely stroll through the town, exploring its quaint streets and shops.
Evening:
Dine at a local restaurant, perhaps trying some traditional Norman dishes like teurgoule, a rice pudding flavored with cinnamon.
Day 7: Relax and Reflect
Morning:
Spend your last day relaxing. You could revisit any favorite spots or take a leisurely walk in the countryside.
Lunch:
Enjoy a farewell lunch at a local bistro, soaking in the ambiance one last time.
Afternoon:
If time allows, consider visiting the to pay your respects and reflect on your journey through Normandy.
Evening:
Head back to your accommodation, pack up, and enjoy a final dinner, reminiscing about the beautiful experiences you’ve had throughout the week.
And there you have it! A week filled with art, history, and stunning landscapes in Normandy. Enjoy every moment of your adventure! 🌍✨