Things to do in Normandy

Normandy, in northern France, offers a rich mix of history, culture, coastal beauty, and culinary delights. Here’s a curated list of top things to do:

🇫🇷 Historical Highlights

1. D-Day Beaches & WWII Sites
   • Omaha, Utah, Juno, Gold & Sword Beaches – Walk where the Allies landed.
   • American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer – Poignant tribute above Omaha Beach.
   • Arromanches-les-Bains – Remains of the Mulberry Harbour and a museum.
   • Pegasus Bridge – Key British site with a museum.
2. Bayeux
   • Bayeux Tapestry – 70m long embroidery telling the story of William the Conqueror.
   • Bayeux Cathedral – Beautiful Norman Gothic church.
3. Caen
   • Caen Memorial Museum – Comprehensive WWII and Cold War museum.
   • Château de Caen – Castle built by William the Conqueror.

🏰 Architectural & Cultural Sites

1. Mont-Saint-Michel – Iconic abbey on a tidal island. Go early or stay overnight to avoid crowds.
2. Rouen
   • Rouen Cathedral – A Monet subject; stunning Gothic architecture.
   • Joan of Arc Sites – Including the spot of her execution and a modern church.
3. Honfleur – Charming old port town, home to Impressionist history and seafood restaurants.

🌊 Nature & Coastline

1. Étretat Cliffs – Dramatic white chalk cliffs and arches, popular with hikers and photographers.
2. Normandy Bocage & Countryside – Rolling hills, cider orchards, half-timbered farms.
3. Giverny – Monet’s house and gardens, especially beautiful in spring/summer.

🍎 Food & Drink

1. Taste Calvados (apple brandy) – Visit a distillery (like Père Magloire or Château du Breuil).
2. Try Camembert, Livarot & Pont-l’Évêque cheeses – Visit cheese farms.
3. Seafood & Crêpes – Especially along the coast in places like Dieppe and Honfleur.
4. Cider Route (La Route du Cidre) – Scenic drive through orchards with tasting stops.