What to do and see in Normandy? 21 must-sees in 2025

Updated on 17/09/2025 • by Tanguy REVAULT

What to do in Normandy 21 must-sees© © 4Max - stock.adobe.com

Churches and abbeys, castles and manor houses, towns steeped in history - Normandy is home to an exceptional heritage that's a must-see on a weekend getaway or vacation. The region also evokes the D-Day landings and the beaches that witnessed a turning point in history, historic events that are in themselves well recounted in museums. But Normandy is also about its beautiful landscapes, from the lush green countryside inland, to its coastline where chalk cliffs give way to small, renowned seaside resorts. There's so much to see and do in Normandy that it's impossible to be satisfied with a single stay, and in any case, the region is a call to return as often as possible. Here are 21 must-sees to help you plan your stay.

1. The Caen Memorial, in the footsteps of the Second World War

le Mémorial de Caen/Stéphane Dévé

When visiting the charming city of Caen, a visit to one of its main museums is a must: the Caen Memorial. Visitors are immersed in key moments of ^20th-century history, from the origins of the Second World War to the Cold War. It's a place for meditation, but also for learning about the different stages of the terrible conflict, the rise of fascism, the Shoah and the inevitable D-Day on the beaches of Normandy. Numerous films enhance the viewing and reading experience, and the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions.

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2. Honfleur's Vieux Bassin, architecture along the water's edge

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Le Vieux Bassin de Honfleur was created by Duquesne on Colbert's orders in 1681. Nestled in the Seine estuary, it's a great place to stroll, to see the charming slate-clad houses and hear the masts of pleasure boats bobbing on the waves. After a stroll along Quai Sainte-Catherine, the ideal place to relax is on a terrace and enjoy a drink in this majestic setting. Another popular activity is to observe the reflection of the houses in the harbor. Some are up to seven storeys high. A magical, natural spectacle.

Would you like to discover the fascinating history and secrets of this emblematic Norman town? Embark on a unique guided sidecar tour through the cobbled streets and picturesque heights of Honfleur! Click here to book your tour.

3. The D-Day Museum, still history

View of the memorial esplanade© © Matthieu Barrabé ? www.airstudio.fr

The Musée du Débarquement en Normandie is an emblematic site dedicated to the history of the Allied landings of June 6, 1944, during the Second World War. Located in Arromanches-les-Bains, on the Normandy coast, the museum offers a unique perspective on the events that shaped the destiny of the region and the world. The museum features a variety of interactive exhibits, films and collections of historical objects that trace the preparations, operations and aftermath of the Normandy landings. Visitors can discover the techniques and technologies used during the operation, observe detailed models of the landing sites and hear poignant testimonies from veterans. The Musée du Débarquement en Normandie is not only a place of remembrance and commemoration, but also an educational venue that enables visitors to better understand the scale of the operation and the historical significance of this major event. It's a must-see in Normandy for anyone interested in history, and in paying tribute to the men and women who sacrificed their lives for freedom.

4. Deauville beach, strolling along the water's edge

packShot - FOTOLIA

Along the Boulevard de la Mer, Deauville's two-kilometer long beach offers a unique setting. Here you'll find the mythical, colorful umbrellas that are renowned the world over, as well as the boards bearing the names of the directors who are honored each year at the unmissable American Film Festival. Behind the boards stand 450 Art Deco cabins. Visitors come to this unique beach for its enchanting, impressionistic setting. Here, you can settle into a deckchair and simply enjoy all the pleasures of the seaside: reading, swimming, relaxing and sporting activities.

5. Recollection at the Normandy American Cemetery

tOM PEPEIRA - ICONOTEC

Located in Colleville-sur-Mer and overlooking Omaha beach, the American cemetery is another place in Normandy where you can pay your respects to the soldiers who helped repel the enemy in the Second World War. The site is distinguished by its wide, well-manicured lawns and the perfectly aligned white crosses of the graves of 9,387 fallen soldiers. Complementing this ensemble are the Garden of the Missing, the chapel and the memorial. Of the many graves on the 70-hectare site, 307 are unknown.

Would you like to discover the region's history through a fully guided day trip to the D-Day landing sites, including a visit to the American cemetery and the D-Day beaches? Click here to reserve your tickets!

6. A cultural moment at the Musée des Impressionnismes in Giverny

Musée des Impressionnismes© © François Guillemin

Normandy is a land of Impressionists, and Giverny in particular, where Claude Monet settled in 1881. Many artists followed him to apply the principles of Impressionism to the landscapes of Normandy. Since 2009, the Musée des Impressionnistes de Giverny has been dedicated to presenting the history of this exceptional artistic movement, as well as post-impressionism, and their influence on the art of the ^20th and ^21st centuries. The museum presents the artists who left their mark on Impressionism through monographic and thematic exhibitions. It also seeks to show visitors how the movement impacted the world and touched artists far beyond France's borders.

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7. Abbaye Notre-Dame du Bec-Hellouin, a religious monument of outstanding beauty

Abbaye du Bec-Hellouin© (c) Vincent GUERRIER

Founded by the knight Herluin at the beginning of the ^11th century on the banks of the river Bec, this abbey immediately catches the eye with its exceptional beauty. At first, it had a major intellectual influence, thanks to Lanfranc and Saint Anselme, before being used as a horse depot after the French Revolution. Since 1948, the Olivetan Benedictines have settled here and monastic life has resumed. The best way to visit is to let yourself be guided by a brother, who will tell you the history of the place and reveal its secrets. A must-see are the two Maurist buildings of the dormitories and the refectory, which houses Herluin's tomb, as well as the Saint-Nicolas tower, the cloister and the remains of the former abbey church.

8. La Cité de la Mer in Cherbourg: aquarium and maritime museum

franck GODARD

La Cité de la Mer is a must-visit theme park for the whole family, offering a wide range of experiences. Located in the heart of the last Art Deco Gare Maritime Transatlantique, the site traces the history of man and the sea through experiences ranging from a visit to the world's largest submarine to the contemplation of marine species in no fewer than 17 basins, not forgetting the discovery of the Titanic and its final hours, which called at Cherbourg on April 10, 1912. Also not to be missed is the permanent exhibition "Cherbourg 1944... and freedom came from the sea", a tour that takes visitors back in time to the 20 days between the D-Day landings on June 6, 1944 and the liberation of the port of Cherbourg on June 26.

9. Visit Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey

Mont-Saint-Michel© (c) 4Max - stock.adobe.com

It's impossible to list Normandy 's must-sees without mentioning one of France's most popular visitor attractions: Mont-Saint-Michel. The village, which is also an abbey, stands proudly amidst a beautiful seascape. Once you've arrived, take the time to visit the abbey church, cloister, monks' walkway and refectory. Then, after a stroll through the narrow streets, it's time to head for the heights for a breathtaking view of the Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel. This end-of-the-world site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Wondering what to do at Mont Saint-Michel? Check out our 13 must-do activities, as well as our article Traverser la Baie du Mont St Michel à pied - informations et conseils.

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10. Hiking in the Normandie-Maine Regional Nature Park

anne CROCHARD

Normandy is a destination renowned for the beauty of its coastline and its exceptional architectural heritage, but it's also worth mentioning its inland and rural landscapes. The Normandie-Maine Regional Nature Park unveils forest landscapes, hedged farmlands, marshes, ponds, orchards and rivers. For a walk in harmony with nature, flora and fauna, don't miss the Maison du Parc in Carrouges, Orne. It serves as a tourist information point and offers a museographic discovery area devoted to the environment and its relationship with man. It also offers a green setting for picnics and a chance to stock up on local produce.

11. A visit to the National Stud at Le Pin

anne CROCHARD

Normandy has a long history with horses. One of the most beautiful places to visit is the Haras National du Pin, built between 1715 and 1730 as the first royal stud desired by Louis XIV to produce horses for his kingdom. The various buildings, together with the surrounding landscape, form a remarkable ensemble of 1,100 hectares. As a reference center for horse-related professions, it welcomes visitors for guided tours . It also offers workshops and organizes shows. It is the third most visited site in Normandy.

12. Gourmet getaway at Vergers du Chouquet

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Normandy is also famous for its local produce. Let's head for the Pays d'Auge and the Vergers du Chouquet, where apples are king. Stop off for a guided tour of the farm, followed by a pleasant tasting session. Apple juice, carbonated apple juice, PDO cider, pommeau, Calvados, perry, cider vinegar: the family is proud to present its fine products, which can also be purchased on site. Proof that this is a place of the highest quality is the fact that the farm won a gold medal in 2011 at the Salon de l'Agriculture for its Pays d'Auge AOC cider. The farm is currently in the process of converting to organic farming.

13. Marvel at the cliffs of Étretat

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On the Côte d'Albâtre lies a priceless jewel, the cliffs of Étretat. The Manneporte, the Porte d'Aval and the impressive chalk cliffs have never failed to inspire artists, so incredible is the natural landscape on offer. Among them were the Impressionists, many of whom set up their easels here and let their brushes dance on their canvases. A path runs along the beach along the cliffs at low tide, leading to another curiosity: the Trou à l'Homme. If you're passing through Étretat, take the opportunity to visit the Clos Arsène Lupin, the old market and the experimental garden. The latter offers yet another breathtaking view of the cliffs.

14. Visit Rouen's Notre-Dame Cathedral

Notre-Dame de Rouen Cathedral© rh2010 - Adobe Stock

Rouen's Notre-Dame Cathedral is a jewel of Gothic art. Begun in the ^12th century on the foundations of a former basilica, it underwent several periods of construction and reconstruction, and almost didn't survive the bombings of the Second World War. Its current appearance dates from the last quarter of the ^19th century. It is undoubtedly one of France's most beautiful cathedrals, with its many architectural details and the beauty of its tall cast-iron spire. Inside, you'll find various tombs, including those of the Dukes of Normandy. Would you like to embark on a journey through the ages to discover the history of the town, the final moments of Joan of Arc's life and the legend of Saint-Ouen Abbey? Click here to book your guided city tour!

15. Getting to the MuMA in Le Havre

Saint-Joseph church and Auguste Perret buildings in Le Havre© (c) Friedberg - stock.adobe.com

The MuMA - Musée d'art moderne André Malraux, is just a stone's throw from the sea, in the astonishing city of Le Havre. Its surprising, resplendent architecture is dedicated to light and space. Before entering the museum, take the time to immerse yourself in its architecture. Once inside, visitors will discover works spanning a broad period from the ^15th to the ^20th century. The main focus is on modern painting, with an extensive collection from the 1850-1920 period, featuring artists such as Delacroix, Courbet and the Impressionists Degas, Renoir, Pissarro, Sisley and Monet. There are also paintings by Matisse, Friesz and Marquet. In addition to its permanent collections, this cultural landmark in Le Havre hosts a number of interesting temporary exhibitions.

16. The Chausey Islands, a Norman paradise

Îles Chausey© (c) KaYann - Fotolia

If you're visiting Normandy, don't hesitate to set sail for this archipelago 17 km off the coast. There are numerous islets spread over no less than 65 hectares. La Grande Île awaits walkers for a visit to the village of Blanvillais, the old fort, the Lambert tower and the lighthouse. The Chausey Islands are a destination where you can enjoy long walks to observe the flora and fauna, fish and plunge your gaze into the turquoise waters. It's the perfect place to relax and unwind, just off the coast of Granville. Will you have the privilege of spending a night in his unique hotel?

17. The Pays d'Auge, villages and heritage with character

The Pays d'Auge is one of Normandy's top destinations. Here, you can wander through lush, green countryside, enlivened here and there by the daily bustle of cows. It's also here that you'll discover a beautiful heritage, with churches, manor houses, castles and villages that invite you to lose yourself in their narrow streets.Beaumont-en-Auge is sublime, with its traditional half-timbered houses and colorful facades. Beuvron-en-Auge is another favorite, with its succession of half-timbered houses. And don't miss the Pays d'Auge's small town halls, such as those in Saint-Laurent-du-Mont. These small buildings are astonishing for their function.

18. Follow the Cider Route

The Route du Cidre criss-crosses Calvados over a distance of 40 km. The drive is a feast for the eyes, as you pass through typical Auger landscapes. The lush green countryside and orchards are the stuff of gourmet delights. Travelers will meet many producers who work the apple with finesse and love to get the best out of it. They produce top-quality ciders, as well as calvados and pommeau. The meetings are an opportunity to learn more about the production methods, but also to taste the crus and leave with quality products in the bag.

19. The Bayeux Tapestry, an exceptional work of art

The Bayeux Tapestry is a monumental work of art. An embroidery on linen canvas created in the ^11th century, it is 70 m long and 50 cm high. Listed in UNESCO's "Memory of the World" register, it is preserved in the Bayeux Tapestry Museum. This masterpiece of Romanesque art recounts the conquest of England in 1066 by William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy. It attracts thousands of visitors a year, who tour the museum not only to admire its details, but also to learn a great deal about its long history. The Tapestry comprises 58 scenes.

20- Norman Switzerland, land of hikes

A natural region of Normandy, Suisse Normande stretches across theOrne and Calvados departments. It's so named for its rolling hills, even if the peaks are only 300 m high. The scenery is nothing short of magnificent, with deep, steep-sided valleys, wooded hills, rivers and gorges flowing with white water. It's a romantic area, perfect for walkers, but also for canoeists and rock climbers. One of the most exceptional sites is the Roche d'Oëtre. A natural belvedere overhanging the Rouvre gorges by more than 100 m.

21. Barfleur, pearl of the Cotentin

Barfleur is one of France's most beautiful villages. An authentic Cotentin village with large granite houses, typical streets, a beautiful church and a picturesque harbor alive with the comings and goings of fishing boats. Barfleur has managed to remain an authentic little port town, untouched by mass tourism. A stroll through its streets and harbor can be complemented by a trip to the beach. It offers a breathtaking view of the impressive Gatteville lighthouse, which you can take a closer look at after a stroll in the refreshing sea air.

How to get to Normandy

Normandy lies at the gateway to the Paris region, and is one of the best weekend destinations within 2 hours of Paris. With the capital as a reference point, it's easy to get there by car, as all you have to do is take the A13, which crosses the region and passes through the towns of Rouen and Caen. As Émile Zole's novels attest, the Paris-Normandie railway lines are among the oldest in France. While the TGV does not currently run here, a large number of Intercités trains take passengers to Normandy's major cities, such as Le Havre, Cherbourg, Deauville and Granville.

What's the most beautiful place in Normandy?

Normandy is a magnificent region, with its varied landscapes and communes. The place that always attracts visitors in droves is Mont-Saint-Michel. Discovering this architectural gem set in the middle of the sea is always a special moment. Just crossing the bay and observing this Norman nugget is a thrill. On site, of course, you'll see the abbey, follow the Grande Rue, stroll through the Musée de la Mer et de l'Écologie and stop off at the Mère Poulard restaurant for a bite to eat. A multitude of activities are possible around Mont-Saint-Michel: hiking, a kayak trip overlooking the bay or a microlight flight.

Where to spend 3 days in Normandy?

The first day of your Normandy tour starts with a visit to the magnificent city of Rouen, famous for its cathedral and picturesque alleyways. We then head for the cliffs of Étretat to admire their unique rock formations. The next day, we discover the D-Day beaches of the Second World War for a real trip back in time, then explore the charming port town of Honfleur, famous for its colorful houses and its Vieux Bassin. On the third day, we head for the Pays d'Auge and its interior. After enjoying the Normandy coastline as it should be, it's always a pleasure to change scenery and walk through lush green landscapes and charming villages. Stop off in the stores and restaurants to sample cider, camembert and many other local specialties.

What to do in Normandy when it rains?

No problem if it rains during your stay in Normandy. It's a good time to visit the many museums in the region. Head for the Caen Memorial, the Musée des Beaux-Arts in Rouen, the Bayeux Tapestry Museum or the Musée de Normandie in Caen. There are also a large number of churches, abbeys, châteaux and manor houses to discover. From Château de Carrouges to the Abbey of Notre-Dame de Fontaine-Guérard in Radepont, there's no shortage of options. It could also be the opportunity to follow the Cider Route. Here, you can enjoy the beauty of the countryside while stopping off at producers to discover their beverages.

What to do in Normandy with your family

Normandy is a great region to discover on a family trip. Visits to the D-Day landing beaches, museums and historic sites are fascinating for everyone. In Rouen, you can take part in an escape game. In the Normandy countryside and along the coast, cycle paths invite you to enjoy the countryside on two wheels. And then there are the amusement parks, where you can experience the ultimate in fun. In Bretteville-sur-Odon, Festyland offers a multitude of attractions, including for thrill-seekers. There's also the Paléospace in Villers-sur-Mer, where you can immerse yourself in the world of the Jurassic period.

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