Curator’s statement
This trip is special to me because it weaves together everything I love about France — its rich history, artistic legacy and stunning landscapes. Wandering through the medieval streets of Rouen and Bayeux feels like stepping into the past. Standing on the D-Day beaches is a powerful and humbling reminder of history. Exploring Monet’s dreamy gardens in Giverny adds a touch of artistic magic, and the sight of Mont Saint-Michel rising from the sea is nothing short of breathtaking. Every stop on this journey tells a story, making it an experience I’ll never forget.
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Things to do in France
Rouen: A beautiful medieval city with stunning half-timbered houses and deep historical ties, including the site where Joan of Arc was tried and executed.
Bayeux Tapestry Museum: Home to the incredible 70-meter-long embroidered tapestry that tells the story of the Norman conquest of England in 1066.
Normandy D-Day sites: A powerful and moving experience visiting Omaha Beach, the American Cemetery and other key sites that shaped World War II history.
Mont Saint-Michel: A breathtaking island abbey that rises dramatically from the sea, offering stunning views, winding medieval streets and a magical atmosphere.
Giverny (Monet’s House & Gardens): The enchanting home and gardens of Claude Monet, where his famous water lily paintings came to life.
Places to eat & drink in France
La Rapière (Bayeux): A charming, intimate restaurant known for its warm atmosphere and refined French cuisine, featuring local ingredients and expertly crafted dishes.
L’Alcôve (Bayeux): A cozy and elegant spot offering creative takes on classic French dishes, with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal produce.
L’Angle Saint Laurent (Bayeux): A sophisticated yet welcoming restaurant serving beautifully plated dishes that highlight the flavors of Normandy.
Le Pré Saint Michel (Mont Saint-Michel - Michelin Guide): A refined dining experience just outside the island. It offers beautifully prepared seafood and regional specialties in a more relaxed setting.
Le SaQuaNa (Caen - Michelin Two-Star Restaurant): A culinary gem by Chef Alexandre Bourdas. This two-star Michelin restaurant blends French tradition with Asian influences, creating a truly unique and unforgettable dining experience.
Need to know
Rent an automatic (if needed): Most rental cars in France have manual transmissions, so if you prefer an automatic, book well in advance.
Pick up your car outside Paris: Driving in the city can be stressful. Consider renting from a location on the outskirts, such as a train station.
Know the speed limits: Limits vary: highways (130 km/h or ~80 mph), rural roads (80 km/h or ~50 mph); and cities (50 km/h or ~30 mph). Speed cameras are common, so be mindful.
Plan parking in advance: Historic towns like Bayeux and Mont Saint-Michel have limited parking. Research parking options ahead of time to avoid stress.
Arrive early at Mont Saint-Michel: It gets crowded quickly, so aim to arrive in the morning or late afternoon for a more peaceful experience.
Book key attractions in advance: Sites like Monet’s Gardens in Giverny and Normandy D-Day tours can sell out, so reserve your tickets ahead of time.
Try local specialties: Normandy is known for its cider, Camembert cheese and fresh seafood — be sure to indulge in the regional flavors along the way!
Travel Advisor
Elyse Marshall
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