Top Things to Do in Normandy: 8 days itinerary from Rouen to Mont St Michel and D-Day Beaches
- 31 de mai. de 2024
- 13 min de leitura
Atualizado: há 5 dias
Discover the Best Things to Do in Normandy, France
Dreaming of a trip to northern France? Normandy is a region where breathtaking scenery meets a tapestry of fascinating history.
From the magical silhouette of Mont Saint-Michel rising above the tides, to the moving D-Day beaches, Normandy promises an unforgettable journey.
This 8-day itinerary is your ultimate travel guide to the top things to do in Normandy. We've handpicked the region's unmissable highlights:
stroll through Monet’s enchanting gardens at Giverny,
wander the medieval streets of Rouen,
marvel at the striking cliffs of Étretat,
and gaze at the legendary Bayeux Tapestry.
Each day brings a new adventure, perfectly woven into an easy-to-follow travel plan.
Whether you’re captivated by Impressionist art, intrigued by World War II history, enchanted by quaint seaside towns, or inspired by grand cathedrals and castles, Normandy has something for everyone.
Get ready to explore the very best of Normandy with this detailed itinerary – your perfect companion for a memorable French escape!
Essential Things to Do in Normandy: 7 Highlights
Giverny and Monet’s Gardens: Step Into the Living Canvas of the Impressionist Master
Rouen: Experience Centuries of History and Gothic Grandeur
Normandy Beaches: Sun-Kissed Sands and Timeless Elegance
Étretat: Marvel at Nature's History Etched in Cliffs
Bayeux: Unravel the Secrets of the Bayeux Tapestry
D-Day Sites and Landing Beaches: Walk Through History on the Shores of Liberation
Mont St Michel: An Ethereal Vision Rising Above the Tides
If you want to hop to a specific attraction, below a handy table of contents to get you started. You can also jump to the frequently asked questions.
The Normandy region and its rich history
Where Is Normandy, France?
Nestled in northwest France, Normandy is renowned for its captivating blend of history and natural beauty.
Sweeping coastlines, dramatic cliffs, and lush countryside create an unforgettable backdrop for centuries of important events.
Normandy’s Pivotal Role in History
Normandy made global headlines during World War II as the site of the legendary D-Day landings, which marked the beginning of France’s liberation from Nazi occupation.
The beaches, memorials, and museums still resonate with the memory of this turning point in world history.
But Normandy’s significance stretches far beyond WWII. Its capital, Rouen, has been at the heart of French history for centuries.
Rouen staged battles and power struggles and witnessed the trial and execution of Joan of Arc. This event had a profound impact on the nation’s identity.
During the French Revolution, Rouen was a major center of resistance against the monarchy and the nobility.
The city was crucial for the National Assembly and the Committee of Public Safety. Both were instrumental in the execution of King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette.
Normandy’s Cultural and Artistic Legacy
Normandy also boasts a vibrant artistic and cultural heritage.
Rouen has inspired generations of creatives: Claude Monet famously painted its cathedral, capturing Normandy’s unique light, while celebrated authors like Gustave Flaubert and Marcel Proust immortalized the city in French art and literature.
Visitors today can marvel at Normandy’s medieval architecture, historic towns, and the iconic cliffs of Étretat, all of which showcase the region’s enduring charm and significance.
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Roadmap Overview & Itinerary
Start your trip by leaving Paris and heading to Rouen. On the way, stop at the beautiful Giverny Gardens.
The journey continues towards the picturesque villages of La Côte Fleurie (Flower Coast). Discover the luxurious Deauville, home of the American Film Festival. Visit Trouville, Cabourg, Honfleur, and Houlgate. And from there, go to the cliffs of Étretat.
Head to Bayeux, home of the famous Bayeux Tapestry and rich in historical heritage.
Immerse yourself in D-Day history with a tour of the Omaha Beach and Utah Beach landing beaches.
End your trip on the majestic island of Mont St Michel! An architectural marvel with beautiful ocean views.
If you don't like hopping from hotel to hotel, I recommend doing 2 to 3 bases. The villages are pretty close, and I prefer to drive 1 hour along beautiful roads.
Suggestion:
Rouen to visit the city, Giverny and Monet's house and garden
Trouville or Cabourg as a base for the flower coast and Étretat
Bayeux and the D-day landing beaches
Mont St Michel to enjoy the tides
Day 1: Giverny and Monet's Garden
Giverny was home to Claude Monet for over 40 years and served as inspiration for some of his most famous works. The city's main attractions are the artist-designed Gardens. Admire the vibrant colors and lush florals.
I had a super bucolic picnic in these Gardens!
Walk the winding paths adorned with wildflowers!
Admire the iconic Japanese bridge over the lily pond.
Explore Monet's pink home, decorated with his personal collection of Japanese prints.
Don't forget to visit the small but charming church of Giverny, where Monet is buried
If you have time, visit the Impressionism Museum in Giverny. This museum houses a collection of impressionist and post-impressionist works.
Giverny is a peaceful retreat that offers a glimpse into the life of one of the greatest masters of Impressionist Art.
Giverny is an excellent destination for a day trip from Paris!
Day 2: Rouen and Notre-Dame de Rouen Cathedral
The historic city of Rouen, the capital of Normandy, is surprising. I didn't expect to see much besides the Cathedral and the memorial to Joan of Arc. However, the historic center is charming, with alleys full of shops and cafes. Preserved medieval architecture and other magnificent buildings.
Admire its impressive Gothic Cathedral, immortalized in the works of the famous painter Claude Monet.
Visit the site where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake during the Inquisition.
We recommend walking through the city's cobblestone streets and enjoying the architecture.
Go to the Museum of Fine Arts, which houses a collection of European art.
The Gros Horloge, a 14th-century astronomical clock, is another must-see attraction!
So is the ancient market where Joan of Arc was martyred, now marked by a modern church dedicated to her.
Don't miss Les Vitrines de Rouen, where you can admire stunning ceramic murals showcasing historic scenes from the city. They provide a unique perspective on its past.
From Rouen, let's head to Normandy beaches!
A day trip from Rouen to Mont Saint-Michel is easily doable with good planning. It is a 2h45 drive, and you can stop by Caen or the D-day beaches on your way! |
Day 3: Cabourg and Houlgate
On day three, visit the coastal towns of Cabourg and Houlgate.
Cabourg
Cabourg is known for its beautiful beaches and the famous Marcel Proust promenade. A seaside promenade that pays homage to the writer who frequented the city. The length of the beach is massive!
Cabourg is not only a place of natural beauty but also a center of cultural and sporting activities. In the summer, the city hosts music festivals and horse races.
Houlgate
Houlgate offers a perfect combination of beach, nature, and history. Houlgate flourished during the Belle Époque, a period known for optimism and elegance.
This era left a mark on the city's architecture with the construction of Norman and Anglo-Norman-style villas and cottages.
The constructions made of wood and brick feature charming details like slate roofs, ornate porches, and flower gardens. Norman architecture is the best preserved in the region. So, walk through the city center after the beach to enjoy it!
Day 4: Étretat and Étretat Cliffs
On day four, take a trip to the coastal town of Etretat, famous for its stunning limestone cliffs. You can walk to the top and enjoy impressive views of the ocean.
There is also a beautiful beach to relax and soak up the sun. Be sure to visit the Notre-Dame de la Garde church, built on one of the cliffs.
The city of Étretat is famous for the Arc de Étretat, a natural rock formation extending over the sea. A spectacular setting for photos.
For adventure lovers, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding provide a unique perspective on the grandeur of the cliffs.
Tip: Don't go on holidays or weekends, especially in high season!
We were surprised by a crowd of cars parked 3km from the center. Yes, 3 km. As we didn't know what it was, we continued and spent 1h30 in a traffic jam we'd never seen before. No place to park. We had to go back and leave the car back there. 3km from the center! Having lunch was impossible! Huge queues at the doors of absolutely every restaurant. We bought a sandwich at Carrefour and ate it on the sidewalk! |
If you are a fan of the Arsène Lupin detective stories by novelist Maurice Leblanc, don't miss the Le Clos Lupin - Maison Maurice Leblanc museum in Étretat. A fun experience! For those unfamiliar, watch the recent series on Netflix before you go!
Day 5: Deauville/Trouville and Honfleur
The Flower Coast owes its name to the verdant landscape of its interior and the flower gardens of its seaside resorts. A tradition inherited from the 19th century, where newly built villas are adorned with lush gardens, rivaling each other in beauty.
Deauville
There, you will find a charming historic center, a casino, and an elegant beach. The city is a popular destination among the rich and famous. It is known for its annual film festival and vintage car race.
Explore the luxury boutiques and gourmet restaurants. Or stroll along the beach! Notice the famous colorful umbrellas and beach huts named after movie stars.
A walk around the hippodrome can be a fun way to experience local culture.
Trouville
To get to Trouville from Deauville cross a bridge on foot.
In Trouville, the atmosphere is more relaxed and familiar. Unwind on the beach! Sample fresh seafood at local restaurants and explore the charming fishing port.
Honfleur
Heading east, arrive at Honfleur! It is a picturesque medieval town that once inspired several Impressionist artists.
Get lost in the narrow cobblestone streets! Admire the Vieux Bassin (the old port basin)! Visit the Eugène Boudin Museum, dedicated to the work of the local painter.
Honfleur is considered the most beautiful village in Normandie.
I didn't think so. I preferred the charm of Bayeux, the still-untouched architecture of Houlgate. Or the Deauville's effervescence.
But go, and tell me later.
Day 6: Bayeux - Unravel the Secrets of the Bayeux Tapestry
What is the Bayeux Tapestry?
The Bayeux Tapestry is a stunning embroidered fabric that chronicles the events that led to the Norman conquest of England in 1066. A masterpiece of medieval art, it is almost 70 meters long and 50 centimeters wide.
It is a detailed visual account of the Battle of Hastings and the events that preceded it. The scenes embroidered with colored wool threads offer valuable insights into daily life, military organization, and customs of the time.
You can visit the Battle of Normandy Memorial Museum and enjoy the tapestry on display.
Bayeux Cathedral
Many talk about Rouen Cathedral, but Notre-Dame de Bayeux is grand and beautiful. A notable example of Norman-Romanesque architecture.
Its richly ornamented facade, with detailed sculptures and imposing portals, impresses from the first glance. The central tower, 77 meters high, dominates the city's skyline.
The interior is spacious and bright, divided into three naves. The massive columns and semicircular arches create an atmosphere of grandeur and solemnity. Colorful stained glass windows filter natural light, projecting a kaleidoscope of colors onto the stone floor.
If I had to choose between Rouen or Bayeux Cathedral, I would choose the second. It's wonderful!
The City Center
The city also has a charming historic center, where you can stroll and enjoy the medieval architecture. It is also an excellent base for discovering the beaches and history of D-Day.
Tours to Mont St Michel from Bayeux
Take a guided day trip from Bayeux to Mont St Michel and relax while listening to local history. Book the one below with GetYourGuide: "Our guide, Michael (Mikhail), was what really made our day in Normandy the wonderful experience it was"!
5 beaches of D-Day
Are you a history lover? Check our full post on D Days Beaches and the Normandy invasion.
Day 7: D-Day and Landing Beaches
Stay in Bayeux to tour the D-Day beaches, one of the most important events of the Second World War, WW2.
This day is an opportunity to reflect on the historical events on these beaches.
Pointe du Hoc: strategic landing site for the Allies during the war.
I would start at Pointe du Hoc to get a more concrete idea of what the soldiers faced during the disembarkation.
Pointe du Hoc is a towering rocky promontory between Utah and Omaha Beaches. It was one of the most important strategic points on D-Day.
Climbed by American Rangers under intense fire, the mission to destroy German artillery batteries was fundamental to the success of the landing.
Today, we can explore bunkers, bomb craters, and trails and gain a powerful insight into the bravery and sacrifice of Allied soldiers. Super informative!
D-Day beaches
Omaha, Utah, Sword, Gold, and Juno hold poignant memories of the Allied invasion.
Explore the bunkers, memorials, and museums that tell stories of heroism and loss.
Walk the sands where thousands of soldiers first set foot on French soil! Reflect on the magnitude of Operation Overlord.
Battle of Normandy Memorial Museum in Caen
Get a comprehensive overview of the conflict.
Colleville-sur-Mer American Military Cemetery.
It is the largest American cemetery outside the United States.
Day 8: Visiting Mont Saint-Michel - An Ethereal Vision Rising Above the Tides
Finish this Normandy travel itinerary in style with a visit to the iconic Mont Saint Michel! A rocky island topped with an impressive medieval abbey. The site is considered a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It is one of the most famous tourist attractions in the region and in France.
To get to the city, you can walk or hop aboard one of the free buses that run around the island. Explore the narrow, charming streets with several shops and restaurants. Indulge in the delicious flavors of the region with shucked oysters and other mouthwatering seafood.
The tides surrounding Mont Saint-Michel add to its mystical allure. The island can be accessed on foot during low tide but is surrounded by water at high tide.
When the tide is low, you can take a scenic walk to the village and ascend a long staircase of 365 steps to reach the historic abbey.
Find out about tide times and stay one night at Mont St Michel. Watching the tide come in is a spectacle in itself! In 20 minutes, the Mont becomes an island! The next day, when the tide is low, return to the mainland.
The island has been a pilgrimage destination for centuries!
An alternative is a personalized guided tour of Mont Saint-Michel and its surroundings.
Explore the experiences offered by GetYourGuide and Viator.
Visit the Mont Saint Michel Historical Museum for an insight into the site's history and architecture. At dusk, enjoy the spectacle of the tides, which transform the mountain into an island, providing a magical and unique view.
Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting Normandy:
Q1: What are the absolute must-do things in Normandy?
Based on our guide, the essential highlights include visiting Monet's Gardens in Giverny, exploring historic Rouen, seeing the Bayeux Tapestry, experiencing the D-Day Landing Beaches, marveling at the Étretat cliffs, and visiting the iconic Mont Saint-Michel.
Q2: How many days do you need to visit Normandy?
While you can see some highlights in 3-4 days, this guide outlines an 8-day itinerary which allows for a comprehensive experience covering Rouen, the coast, Bayeux, D-Day sites, and Mont Saint-Michel without rushing too much. At least 5-7 days are recommended for a good overview.
Q3: What is the best way to get around Normandy?
Renting a car is highly recommended, especially for visiting the D-Day sites and exploring the countryside, as locations can be spread out. Public transport exists between major towns like Rouen and Bayeux, but a car offers much more flexibility for this type of itinerary.
Q4: When is the best time to visit Normandy?
Spring (April-June) and Fall (September-October) are often considered the best times to visit Normandy. The weather is generally pleasant, landscapes are beautiful (blooming flowers in spring, autumn colors in fall), and there are fewer crowds than in peak summer (July-August).
Q5: What are the 5 D-Day landing beaches
The five main Allied landing beaches on D-Day (June 6, 1944) were codenamed: Utah Beach, Omaha Beach, Gold Beach, Juno Beach, and Sword Beach. Our guide includes tips for visiting key sites related to these landings.
Q6: Is Mont Saint-Michel worth visiting?
Absolutely! Mont Saint-Michel is a unique UNESCO World Heritage site featuring a stunning medieval abbey perched on a tidal island. Exploring its narrow streets, watching the dramatic tides, and visiting the abbey is a truly memorable experience and a highlight of any Normandy trip.
Q7: Can you recommend a base for visiting the D-Day beaches?
Bayeux is an excellent base for exploring the D-Day landing beaches. It's centrally located relative to sites like Omaha Beach, the American Cemetery, Pointe du Hoc, and the Bayeux Tapestry itself. Caen is another option, slightly larger and further east.
Q8: How far is Mont St Michel from Normandy beaches?
Mont Saint-Michel is approximately 147 kilometers (about 1 hour and 35 minutes driving) from the Normandy D-day beaches (Omaha Beach) and 156 Kilometers (about 1 hour and 37 minutes driving) from well-known and beautiful beaches such as Cabourg.
Conclusion: Your Unforgettable Normandy Adventure Awaits
Normandy truly offers the perfect mix for a memorable vacation—rich history, stunning beaches, breathtaking natural beauty, and undeniable charm.
With this carefully crafted itinerary, you’ll discover the most iconic places in Normandy and experience the region’s top attractions.
From wandering through Monet’s colorful gardens in Giverny, to witnessing the awe-inspiring tides at Mont Saint-Michel, reflecting at the historic D-Day beaches, and strolling Rouen’s medieval streets, every day brings something new and unforgettable.
Don’t forget to indulge in Normandy’s delicious cuisine! Savor creamy Camembert cheese, sip authentic apple cider, and visit a traditional Cidrerie. Explore local markets for fresh produce and unique regional crafts—perfect souvenirs of your journey.
Let this itinerary be your guide to an extraordinary adventure in Normandy. Pack your bags and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime!
When to go?
Normandy's charm unfolds beautifully in spring, with blooming landscapes and mild weather. For an extra special touch,consider extending your trip to experience the magic of Paris in spring.
Why not in fall, when the leaves transform into a breathtaking palette of colors?And autumn in Paris is the perfect season!
Bon Voyage!