4 day itinerary for Normandy

Itinerary

Normandy is such a beautiful region in France, rich in history, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Here’s a delightful 4-day itinerary that will let you soak in the best of what Normandy has to offer. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Caen and Exploring the City

Morning:

• Arrive in Caen, the capital of Lower Normandy. If you’re flying in, the Caen-Carpiquet Airport is quite convenient.
• Start your day with a lovely breakfast at a local café. Try a buttery croissant or a pain au chocolat with a café au lait.

Midday:

• Visit the Caen Memorial Museum, which is dedicated to the history of World War II and the Battle of Normandy. It’s a profound experience that sets the tone for your trip.
• Afterward, stroll through the Château de Caen, a medieval castle built by William the Conqueror. The views from the ramparts are fantastic!

Afternoon:

• Enjoy lunch at a bistro in the city center. Try some local specialties like tarte aux pommes (apple tart) for dessert!
• Spend the afternoon exploring the Abbaye aux Hommes (Men’s Abbey) and the Abbaye aux Dames (Women’s Abbey). Both are stunning examples of Norman architecture.

Evening:

• Have dinner at a cozy restaurant. Don’t miss out on trying coq au cidre (chicken in cider) or some fresh seafood.
• If you’re up for it, take a leisurely evening walk along the Orne River.

## Day 2: The D-Day Beaches

Morning:

• After breakfast, head out early to the D-## Day beaches. Start with Omaha Beach, where you can reflect on the events of June 6, 1944.
• Visit the American Cemetery and Memorial nearby. The rows of white crosses are both beautiful and poignant.

Midday:

• Grab a quick lunch in the nearby town of Colleville-sur-Mer. A sandwich or a crêpe would be perfect!
• Next, visit Pointe du Hoc, where the Rangers scaled the cliffs. The views are breathtaking, and the craters left from the bombings are a stark reminder of the past.

Afternoon:

• Head to Utah Beach and visit the Utah Beach Museum. It’s smaller but very informative.
• If time allows, stop by Sainte-Mère-Église, famous for its paratrooper who got stuck on the church steeple during the invasion.

Evening:

• Return to Caen for dinner. Try a local cider to wash down your meal. It’s a must in Normandy!
• If you’re feeling adventurous, check out a local bar for some live music or a quiet drink.

## Day 3: Mont Saint-Michel

Morning:

• After breakfast, set off for Mont Saint-Michel (about a 1.5-hour drive from Caen). Arrive early to beat the crowds!
• Explore the island, starting with the Abbey. The architecture is stunning, and the views from the top are simply magical.

Midday:

• Enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants on the island. Try the famous omelette de la Mère Poulard—it’s a bit touristy but worth it!

Afternoon:

• Spend some time wandering the charming streets, visiting the shops, and soaking in the atmosphere. Don’t forget to take lots of photos!
• If the tide is right, take a walk along the bay for a different perspective of the Mont.

Evening:

• Head back to Caen or consider staying overnight near Mont Saint-Michel for a more relaxed evening. If you stay, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant with views of the Mont.

## Day 4: Honfleur and Deauville

Morning:

• After breakfast, drive to Honfleur (about 1.5 hours from Caen). This picturesque port town is a favorite among artists.
• Explore the Vieux Bassin (Old Harbor) and the charming streets lined with half-timbered houses.

Midday:

• Have lunch at a seafood restaurant by the harbor. The fresh fish and shellfish are a must-try!
• Visit the Église Sainte-Catherine, a unique wooden church built by shipbuilders.

Afternoon:

• After lunch, take a short drive to Deauville, known for its beautiful beaches and upscale vibe. Stroll along the boardwalk and check out the famous beach huts.
• If you’re feeling lucky, you can visit the Deauville Casino or just enjoy a coffee at a beachside café.

Evening:

• For your final dinner, indulge in a nice meal in Deauville. Try some local specialties, and don’t forget to toast with a glass of Calvados, the local apple brandy!
• If you have time, take a sunset walk on the beach to wrap up your Normandy adventure.

Tips:

• Make sure to check the opening hours of attractions, especially in the off-season.
• Renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility in exploring the region.
• Don’t rush! Take your time to enjoy the scenery and the local culture.

I hope this itinerary helps you have an unforgettable time in Normandy! Bon voyage! 🌍✨