How to Spend 2 Days in Normandy

With two days in Normandy, it’s possible to visit regional highlights such as the Bayeux Tapestry and Mont-Saint-Michel as well as the D-Day landing beaches. Here are our top tips for making the most of your time.

Day 1: Bayeux and the battlefields

Morning: Head straight to Bayeux to take in the town’s star attraction before the crowds arrive. Dating back more than 1,000 years, the UNESCO-listed Bayeux Tapestry is among the most famous artworks in France. Opt for an audio guide to learn more about William the Conqueror and the fateful events of 1066.

Afternoon: A tour of Normandy’s World War II sites takes you to the battlefields and D-Day landing beaches dotted along the coast. A typical itinerary might include Omaha Beach, Juno Beach, Pointe du Hoc, and the Airborne Museum or the Arromanches 360 Circular Cinema. Prebook your tickets to avoid unnecessary wait times.

Night: Sample the region’s culinary delicacies at one of the many restaurants nearby. Traditional dishes include fish stew à la Normande (with a cream sauce), Camembert cheese, and tarte aux pommes (apple tart). Pair your meal with a glass of Calvados (apple brandy), a popular local specialty.

Day 2: Mont-Saint-Michel

Morning: A UNESCO World Heritage Site just off the southern coast, Mont-Saint-Michel is one of Normandy’s must-sees. Tours of the island monastery run from Caen, Bayeux, and other cities, and typically include a guided walk. Climb up to the hilltop ramparts for a magnificent view along the coast.

Afternoon: Explore the Mont-Saint-Michel village, browsing the shops for souvenirs and handicrafts. Stop at one of the many restaurants for lunch—a popular choice is a Breton galette (a buckwheat pancake) accompanied by local cider.

Night: Seaside towns such as Cabourg, Ouistreham, and Luc-sur-Mer host lively night markets during the summer months, while a light show takes place several nights a week in Bayeux. If you’re looking to party, go to Caen, a student city crammed with bars, nightclubs, and live music venues.