2026 Caen Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in January)

You see Sunrise, you see sunsets, but have you ever watched a moon rise? This one over the water at Juno Beach, FL occured after a storm had taken place earlier that day. The clouds moved out and the moon was able to shine in all her glory. Just luminous. #happynewyear #happynewyear

Sunsets do not have to be colorful to be magestic. This sunset at Juno Beach in Florida can still make you appreciate nature. Juno Beach is a city of less than 4,000- so you get a feel of "Old Florida". It is a great place to visit with young children because they can play in the sand and surf. #happynewyear #happynewyear

Located in Palm County not too far from West Palm Beach, FL is Juno Beach. This is not as well known a location as some of the other beaches in Florida, but it is lovely just the same. Not usually crowded and parking is easy to find. #happynewyear #happynewyear

#mytraveldiary Caen in France is a city that blends history with a lively modern spirit. Walking through the streets, you immediately notice the striking stone buildings, many of which date back centuries. The impressive Caen Castle and the Abbeys stand as reminders of the city’s deep connection to William the Conqueror, making it a fascinating place for history lovers. Yet Caen is not only about the past. The markets are bustling with fresh produce and local specialties, and the cafes invite you to sit back and watch daily life unfold. The city also has a vibrant student presence, which gives it a youthful energy. Between the historic sites, cultural attractions, and welcoming atmosphere, Caen in the state of Normandy is both enriching and enjoyable to explore.

Highlights of the Trip ✅ Impressionist Pilgrimage: Monet's Garden, Etretat Elephant Rock, Honfleur Old Port ✅ Medieval Wonders: Mont Saint-Michel "Pyramid of the Sea," Rouen Cathedral ✅ WWII History: Omaha Beach, American Cemetery, Caen Memorial ✅ Private Car Tour: Chinese-speaking guide + customized itinerary, avoid crowds and capture stunning photos! Day 1: Impressionist Art Journey Route: Paris → Giverny (Monet's Garden) → Rouen Cathedral → Honfleur Port Monet's Garden 🌸 Japanese-style water lily pond, wisteria-covered walkway, and candy-colored cottages—every snapshot feels like a painting. Arrive before 9 AM to avoid the crowds! Rouen Cathedral ⛪️ Monet painted over 30 versions of this Gothic cathedral! Don't miss the rose window with its play of light and shadow, and the Butter Tower (built using butter tax funds). Honfleur Old Port 🎨 16th-century colorful wooden houses reflected in the harbor. Walk along the boardwalk that inspired "Impression, Sunrise" for the best photos—sunset lighting is the most flattering. Day 2: Cliffside Coastlines and Saintly Marvels Route: Etretat Elephant Rock → Mont Saint-Michel → Overnight near Mont Saint-Michel Etretat Elephant Rock 🐘 A signature Normandy landmark! Three elephant-shaped rock formations (small, medium, large) rise like sculptures from the sea. Monet created dozens of paintings here. Climb to the top of Alabaster Cliff for panoramic views! Mont Saint-Michel 🌅 A UNESCO World Heritage "Island Abbey," breathtaking during high tide when it becomes a true island. Visit at sunset to see the bay bathed in red hues, and capture "mirror of the sky" reflections during low tide. Day 3: War History and French Countryside Route: Omaha Beach → American Cemetery → Return to Paris Omaha Beach 🕊️ The bloodiest battlefield of the Normandy landings. The bronze sculpture "Les Braves" is deeply moving. Walk along the beach to feel the weight of history. American Cemetery ⚓️ 9,000 white crosses arranged in perfect rows. The entrance wall is inscribed with the names of the missing, creating a solemn and emotional atmosphere. 🚗 Return: Head back to Paris in the evening. Your guide will thoughtfully arrange rest stops and recommend buying Normandy apple tarts and cheese! Private Car Tour Tips Vehicle Options: Choose a 5-seater (2-3 people + luggage) or a 9-seater (family/friends group). Mercedes vans are highly recommended for comfort. Chinese-speaking Guide: Flexible itinerary adjustments and recommendations for hidden photo spots! 🍤 Food Recommendations: 🦪 Normandy Seafood Platter: Oysters, sweet shrimp, mussels, paired with white wine! 🍖 Thyme-Seared Lamb Chops: Locally sourced lamb, tender and juicy 🍷 Cider (Cidre): Slightly sweet sparkling wine, perfect with crepes! 📸 Best Photo Spots: Japanese Bridge in Monet's Garden (light-colored dresses for dreamy shots) Top of Etretat Cliff (use a wide-angle lens for full views) Mont Saint-Michel Nightscape (tripod for long exposure)

Case is very beautiful city and quite , also ferry run from Caen to uk and Ireland

#favouriteitinerary Explore the historic city of Caen, rich with medieval charm and World War II history. Visit the Château de Caen, once home to William the Conqueror, and the Abbaye aux Hommes, an architectural masterpiece. In the afternoon, head to the Normandy coast for a breath of fresh sea air. Whether it’s Sword Beach, Juno Beach, or Ouistreham, the coastline offers a mix of historic significance and natural beauty. Enjoy a peaceful walk along the shore or relax with a seaside meal before returning to Caen.

Caen is reachable from Paris directly with TER from St Lazare station. The city center was heavily destroyed during WWII and hence, only little remains from the old city. However, several sights are worth coming here for a day trip. L'abbaye aux hommes, which is a small but interesting visit, and the famous memorial of caen, about the WWII.

The Caen castle is one of the historic sights you'll visit during the Caen trip. When I visited there was quite a lot of renovation going on. We were told it's over a thousand years old. So, the preservation efforts are important and bound to be helpful for those who visit the site in the future. Besides the massive surroundings of this stone walled castle. You get to see the Caen art museum and the History museum. While some of the signs and inscriptions were in English, it still allows for appreciation of heritage artefacts. You get great views of the city from the ramparts. Perhaps, more information along the way and descriptions would help elevate the experience. Bring some water or something to snack on. The cafe inside stayed shut during our visit. #myhiddengems #caencastle #france #summerdestinations #normandy #100waysoftravel #europe

Caen city has a very long history; Caen Castle located in the middle of the city is one of the largest medieval enclosures in Europe. It was built of Caen stone around 1060. Today, a thriving student population injects modernity. #normandy #Caen #castle #France2023

Must-buy apple wine, Cidre, Calvados when you come to Normandy🍎🥃 🏷 Apple distillate, not exported to Korea, so you must buy it! 🏷 It was a bit strong for me, but People who know a lot about alcohol say they get drunk on the refreshing apple scent🍎 🏷 The packaging is pretty and the price is cheap compared to the quality, so it's good as a gift #HotPlace #Couple #TravelNearParis #Normandy #EuropeTravel #FranceTravel The store I went into let me try a variety of things, and they were so kind that I ended up buying Calvados☺️

Just in Juno Beach in Normandy, the locals who know how to live can not forget the memories of the past wars. In summer, it is a tourist attraction. In the winter, they will hold a scallop festival. Set up sheds on the beach, sell scallops, sell oysters, sell mulled wine... We set off from Paris in the morning and just had lunch here. The scallops are abundant in the waters of Normandy, and most of the restaurants here also feature scallops. We just picked one and went in, the tin foil scallop, its really sweet, dont want it! The oysters on the small stalls, bought directly to you to eat, with the savory sea water, ... there are mulled wine, is also limited in winter. Cook with the fruit, hot in the cup. One cup, I can't remember how many cups I drank. There are many other delicious foods, barbecues, hot dogs, hams... I really swallowed this note. Anyway, I recommend everyone to go! The atmosphere is also very good, there are band performances, although the average age of the band members is a bit high, but the spirit is commendable, commendable! Tip: If you are departing from Paris, driving is still very convenient, about two hours. If you are a tourist, you can join a local Chinese travel agency. There is a special day trip to the Normandy Scallop Festival. Is it particularly intimate?