What are the nearest attractions to Abbaye aux Dames?

Attractions near Abbaye aux Dames: Caen Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des Beaux-Arts de Caen) Normandy Museum (Musée de Normandie) Caen Castle (Château de Caen)

What else should I know about attractions in Caen?

As well as visiting the Abbaye aux Dames, check out these trip ideas to make the most of your visit: Ways to Celebrate Christmas and New Year's Eve in Paris Famous Cemeteries in Paris Art Lover's Guide to Paris

Abbaye aux Dames - What To Know BEFORE You Go

The Basics

Restored in 1983, Abbaye aux Dames is a must-see attraction in Caean. William the Conqueror's wife Matilda is buried here, and its interior is a treasure trove of architectural details. Most walking tours of the city are private excursions that include multiple sites in Normandy, following in the footsteps of William the Conqueror, Joan of Arc, and Rollo in Caen but also Rouen and Bayeux. To get the most of the momentous medieval history of the city, opt for a walking tour with a Viking specialist. Or take a boat tour that passes by the abbey, offering historical commentary along the way.

Trip ideas

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When to Get There

The attraction is open to the public, however, only twice a day by guided tour, at 2:30pm and 4pm with prior arrangements made. Peak season for Caen, as well as the entire region of Normandy, is during the summer months. June especially sees many travelers who come to commemorate the anniversary of the D-Day landings.

Abbaye aux Hommes

Founded by William the Conqueror, this former Benedictine monastery—and counterpart to Abbaye aux Dames—is one of the most important Romanesque buildings in Normandy. Also known as Abbey of Saint-Étienne, the Abbaye aux Hommes (Men’s Abbey) is now City Hall (Hôtel de Ville). Visit the cloister and next-door Église St-Étienne (St Stephen’s Church)u2060—with its famous Romanesque nave, Gothic choir, and William the Conqueror’s tomb.

Abbaye aux Dames