Curator’s statement
Normandy is full of rich history, dramatic landscape and coastal beauty. This area of France is full of rolling hills and quaint villages. Significant in history, this area holds sacredness and beauty for the sacrifices made. Normandy is not to be missed.
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Where to stay in Normandy, France
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Things to do in Normandy, France
Beaches
Omaha, Utah, Juno, Sword and Gold Beach are the most famous. But each beach has something different to see, I would try to hit as many as you can.
Omaha has the American Cemetery, Utah has an old Higgins boat and the Utah Beach Landing Day Museum.
My favorite was the town of Arromanches-les-Bains off Gold Beach. Here you will see what is left of the artificial harbor from D-Day.
In between Omaha and Gold Beach, you'll find the Batterie Allemande de Longues-Sur-Mer, a German gun battery which still houses the original guns from D-Day.
Museums
The Memorial Museum of Omaha Beach, an absolute must.
The Juno Beach Centre: This is the only Canadian museum. Guided tours of the beach and bunkers.
D-Day Experience, museum has a historical house on site and a flight simulator.
Overlord Museum, this has displays and talks about the battle of Normandy up until the liberation of Paris.
Liberators Museum, personal stories of veterans who were there.
Must-Sees
The town of Bayeux: A very charming town with medieval architecture. Make sure you see the tapestry, from the 11th century. It's incredible!
The Cliffs of Etretat: This is about a 2-hour drive from Bayeux. Take a few days and enjoy it as you drive through the town of Honfleur. A picture-perfect town, the inspiration for many of Monet's paintings. A beautiful drive with the chalky cliffs of Etretat as the end reward.
Mont-Saint-Michel: Plan on spending the night on the island. Only a few hotels on the island. You will need to park your car and take the free shuttle (or walk) in. Strongly recommend booking well in advance as there are only 2–3 hotels. Staying on the island will help you beat the crowds when you tour the Abby the next morning.
Day tip
Plan a day to just explore the communes in this region of France. The rolling hills, the chateaus so dreamy.
Places to eat & drink in Normandy, France
Le Florentin: Local pizzeria in Bayeux. Located in the center of town, it's just yummy!
Le Pommier: French cuisine in Bayeux. Gorgeous views of the cathedral.
Le Breard: A Michelin-starred restaurant in Honfleur. To die for.
Hotel La Mere Poulard: Food is pretty limited on Mont-Saint-Michele. This is a solid choice, but it can get very crowded!
Need to know
Something I was overcome with was wandering around the towns, looking at the homes. So many homes and businesses still put out one of each, an American, Canadian, French and English flag. They decorated their windows with American soldiers and signs of liberty. I find the whole area very emotional and I was filled with gratitude for so many who sacrificed it all.
Travel Advisor
Laura Meyer
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Normandy page.