Normandy offers a treasure trove of attractions, from historic cities and charming coastal towns to beautiful nature reserves and dramatic rocky coastlines. This stunning region in France boasts iconic sites like the WWII D-Day beaches and the medieval abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel, perched on a picturesque tidal island. You can also savor culinary delights such as the world-famous Camembert cheese, Calvados, and fresh seafood while enjoying the scenic landscapes that inspired renowned painters like Monet.
In this blog, you’ll discover more about Normandy’s top attractions, from historical landmarks to the most beautiful nature spots. Explore the diverse offerings of this splendid French region and get inspired by everything Normandy has to offer!
What Normandy is Famous For
Normandy, a region in northwestern France, is known for its rich history, stunning coastlines, culinary specialties, and artistic traditions. The area offers a wonderful blend of culture and nature, making it a perfect choice for your next vacation to France.
Normandy played a crucial role during World War II, particularly on D-Day, June 6, 1944. This day marked the beginning of Europe’s liberation by the Allies with the largest amphibious invasion in history. The landing beaches of Omaha, Utah, Juno, Sword, and Gold are now significant memorial sites, drawing thousands of visitors each year to honor the bravery and sacrifices of the Allied forces.
Normandy’s culinary traditions are also world-renowned. The region is famous for its cider and Calvados, the black pudding Boudin Noir, the Normandy apple tart Tarte Normande, and the iconic Camembert cheese from the village of the same name. The fertile land and mild climate make it ideal for farming, resulting in high-quality products and numerous cider farms scattered across the countryside. Besides Camembert, cheeses from Livarot, Neufchâtel, and Pont-l’Évêque are also Normandy specialties. The coastline offers a bounty of seafood, especially oysters, scallops, and mussels.
Normandy also has a deep connection with Impressionism. The picturesque landscapes and unique light attracted many artists, including Claude Monet and Eugène Boudin. Monet’s famous paintings of water lilies and the gardens of Giverny are directly inspired by the Normandy landscape. Museums like the Musée Eugène Boudin in Honfleur display works by these and other artists inspired by the region.
The 12 Best Attractions in Normandy
#1 Mont-Saint-Michel
Mont-Saint-Michel is one of France’s most iconic landmarks. It’s renowned for its massive tidal shifts, the largest in Europe, where the water level can rise up to fifteen meters. Located on a tidal island at the mouth of the Couesnon River in Normandy, it was originally accessible only at low tide. Today, visitors can reach the island via a raised pedestrian bridge completed in 2014, which replaced the old causeway and restored the natural water flow around the island.
The island covers about seven hectares and lies one kilometer from the coast. Mont-Saint-Michel is famous for its spectacular Gothic abbey dedicated to the Archangel Michael. Construction of the abbey began in the eleventh century and was completed in the sixteenth century. Over the centuries, the abbey has adapted to the challenges of its natural surroundings, making it a technical and artistic marvel.
Since 1979, Mont-Saint-Michel has been a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its cultural and historical significance. It attracts millions of visitors annually, so it’s advisable to plan your visit carefully. Note that you cannot park on or near the island, but shuttle buses are available to take you to Mont-Saint-Michel.
#2 Étretat
When you see the majestic chalk cliffs of Étretat, it’s easy to understand why Claude Monet chose to set up his easel here. Monet painted numerous canvases of the coastline, beautifully capturing the play of light and shadow on the white rocks. Étretat, located along Normandy’s rugged coast, is famous for its artistic heritage, cliffs, and gardens.
Read more: best things to do in Étretat
The Cliffs of Étretat are a spectacular natural wonder along the Normandy coast that you mustn’t miss. These impressive chalk formations, including Falaise d’Aval, Falaise d’Amont, and Aiguille Creuse, have been shaped by millions of years of erosion. The cliffs rise up to seventy meters above the sea, offering breathtaking views.
Another famous attraction is the artistic Jardins d’Étretat, situated atop the cliffs. Originally laid out in the nineteenth century, the gardens were redesigned in 2017. They feature art installations and artistically sculpted hedges. The viewpoints in the gardens provide stunning vistas of the chalk cliffs and the sea.
Other highlights include the old market hall Vieux Marché, the Chapelle Notre-Dame de la Garde, the Chemin des Douaniers hiking trail, and the beautiful pebble beach.
#3 D-Day Beaches & Memorials
The D-Day beaches in Normandy played a pivotal role in World War II. On June 6, 1944, the largest amphibious invasion in history, known as D-Day, began. The Allied forces attacked five main zones on the Normandy coast: Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno, and Sword Beach. This operation marked the beginning of the Allied victory over Nazi Germany and the liberation of Western Europe.
Utah Beach, on the western end of the invasion zones, faced relatively lighter defenses, allowing American troops to break through more quickly. Here, you can visit the Utah Beach Landing Museum, which provides a detailed account of the entire operation. Between Utah and Omaha Beaches lies Pointe du Hoc, famous for the heroic climb of the American Rangers on D-Day. Longues-sur-Mer features a well-preserved battery from the Atlantic Wall, complete with cannons and bunkers.
Omaha Beach, known as “Bloody Omaha,” saw the heaviest casualties due to strong German defenses and a rugged coastline. At Omaha Beach, you can visit the American Cemetery, where more than 9,000 soldiers are buried. There is also a museum with extensive information about D-Day. Scattered along the Normandy coast are numerous other war cemeteries.
Sainte-Mère-Église was the first village liberated on D-Day. It is famous for the paratrooper John Steele, who got caught on the church tower and pretended to be dead for hours to avoid enemy fire. The Airborne Museum in the village offers an impressive display of the airborne operations of the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions.
#4 Ile Tatihou
Imagine standing at the edge of the Normandy mainland, gazing out over a vast expanse of sand. The sea has retreated, revealing a path to Île Tatihou for the adventurous mudflat walker. As you make your way across the exposed seabed, you pass oyster farms and feel the fresh sea breeze on your face. This unique experience leads you to a hidden gem of Normandy: Île Tatihou.
Read more: how to visit Tatihou Island
This tidal island offers not only a unique walk but also a rich historical heritage and breathtaking nature. From the centuries-old Tour Vauban to the botanical gardens, the island is a treasure trove of discoveries. The island’s iconic tower, visible from the mainland, was designed by the famous military engineer Vauban and built to protect the port of Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue along with two forts.
The best way to visit Tatihou Island is to walk there during low tide, but you can also take an amphibious vehicle. At high tide, it functions as a boat, and at low tide, it drives over the seabed between the oyster farms.
#5 Bayeux
Bayeux is a charming town in Normandy, located about ten kilometers from the coast. It is best known for the famous Bayeux Tapestry. This impressive, nearly seventy-meter-long embroidery from the eleventh century tells the story of the Norman conquest of England in 1066. You can admire it at the Musée de la Tapisserie de Bayeux.
In addition to the tapestry, the town boasts a historic center with half-timbered houses and monuments. Bayeux was spared during World War II, so its old center has retained its historic charm. Stroll through cobblestone streets lined with half-timbered houses and enjoy the picturesque waterwheel on the Aure River. The Notre-Dame Cathedral, built in the eleventh century and later expanded, is a highlight. Inside, you’ll find medieval frescoes and an impressive crypt.
For history buffs, the Musée Mémorial de la Bataille de Normandie is a must. This museum offers an extensive exhibit on the Battle of Normandy, including a remarkable collection of military vehicles and equipment. The nearby British war cemetery commemorates the Allied soldiers who died during World War II.
North of Bayeux, along the coast, the Longues-sur-Mer battery is a fascinating site to visit. These bunkers and cannons were once part of the Atlantic Wall, a massive defensive line built by Nazi Germany along the western coast of Europe.
#6 Swiss Normandy
Swiss Normandy, or Suisse Normande, is a picturesque area in Normandy, south of Caen. This landscape is characterized by rolling hills, deep valleys, and winding rivers. The region gets its name from its resemblance to the Swiss landscape, though the “mountains” here are more like hills. While it may not be very Swiss, it is undeniably beautiful.
This area is popular with nature lovers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, cycling, rafting, canoeing, and other outdoor activities are the most popular pursuits in the region. One of the most impressive sights is the Roche d’Oëtre, a rock formation that towers 118 meters above the Rouvre Gorge, offering stunning views. Here, you can take beautiful hikes and enjoy nature. Nearby is the village of Clécy, known for its charming half-timbered houses and the imposing Landeviaduct.
Tip: Drive the Circuit de la Suisse Normande. This signposted 79-kilometer route takes you through the highlights of the region, offering a comprehensive introduction to the beautiful landscapes, picturesque villages, and historical landmarks of Swiss Normandy.
#7 Basilique Sainte-Thérèse de Lisieux
The Basilique Sainte-Thérèse de Lisieux is one of the largest churches of the twentieth century, located in the city of Lisieux. This magnificent basilica, built in a neo-Byzantine style, is adorned with vibrant mosaics on its walls and ceiling.
The basilica was designed to honor Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, born in 1873 and passed away in 1897. She is one of the most beloved saints of the Catholic Church, known for her simple and profound spirituality. She wrote about seeing God in everyday things, and her book became a bestseller after her death. Thérèse was canonized in 1925 and is the patron saint of missionaries and France, alongside Joan of Arc.
Construction of the basilica began in 1929, shortly after her canonization, and was completed in 1954. The basilica covers an area of 4,500 square meters and features an impressive dome standing 95 meters high. The interior is decorated with marble and numerous mosaics. Her relics are housed in the southern part of the basilica, while the crypt contains the relics of her canonized parents, Louis and Zélie Martin. The crypt is open to visitors. Next to the basilica, there’s a room with wax figures depicting the life of Thérèse, which some may find a bit overdone.
The Basilique Sainte-Thérèse is a major pilgrimage site, attracting millions of visitors annually. Some might find it a bit kitschy, like a religious convention center, while others will be impressed by the number of visitors and the stunning mosaic art.
#8 The Dairy of Isigny-sur-Mer
In the heart of the Normandy D-Day beaches lies the charming village of Isigny-sur-Mer, where I once spent two months working at a campsite. While the village itself is quaint but not particularly remarkable, it is famous among the French for its typical Norman delicacies: butter and caramels!
When I worked in Isigny, I discovered the delicious treats produced in the village. The renowned Isigny dairy factory has a small shop where you can buy local delicacies directly from the source. “Beurre d’Isigny” is a household name in France, and you can even find it in Normandy’s Lidl stores. From cookies made with Isigny butter to French cheeses, Isigny dairy products are found in nearly all souvenir shops throughout Normandy. At the factory itself, you can purchase this exclusive butter and cheese. But perhaps the best recommendation: try a delicious and extremely creamy ice cream! They come in various flavors, but vanilla is the best.
Tip: I wouldn’t particularly recommend the campsite in Isigny. However, if you’re traveling by camper, there’s a free camper spot near the dairy, the village center, and the campsite. It’s beautifully situated by the water, with clean toilets and a large playground.
#9 Deauville
Deauville is an elegant seaside resort on the Côte Fleurie in Normandy, also known as the Flower Coast. This 40-kilometer stretch runs from Honfleur to Cabourg and is known for its scenic beaches and charming coastal towns. The name refers to the beautiful gardens and blooming plants in the coastal landscape.
As a luxury resort town, Deauville is famous for its grand villas, boutiques, marina, golf courses, and casino. The town was developed in the nineteenth century by the Duke of Morny and has since become a prestigious holiday destination. The luxurious architecture, including many early twentieth-century villas like the iconic Villa Strassburger, stands out.
Deauville’s beach is lined with the famous “Planches,” a wooden boardwalk from 1923 that stretches over 700 meters. The beach is exceptionally wide at low tide, making it a popular summer attraction. The town is also known for its casino, built in 1912, and the annual American Film Festival, which has attracted film stars from around the world since 1975.
Tip: Parking in and around Deauville is mostly paid, but we found a free spot by the harbor for our camper.
#10 Granville
Granville is a charming harbor town that pleasantly surprised us. The town is divided into two main areas: the old Haute-Ville and the more modern lower town. The old Haute-Ville, or upper town, is the most interesting for visitors. This ancient part of the town is surrounded by fifteenth-century city walls. Here, you’ll find the impressive Église Notre-Dame du Cap Lihou, a seventeenth-century church with beautiful stained-glass windows. The Place Cambernon, a picturesque square full of cozy cafes and shops, is perfect for a relaxing break.
Granville is also famous for its beaches and promenade. Plage du Plat Gousset offers broad sandy beaches and a tidal pool, perfect for a day of relaxation. You can stroll along the promenade and enjoy the views. On the Pointe du Roc, you have a stunning view over the bay of Mont Saint-Michel. Here, you’ll also find the Phare du Cap Lihou, an impressive lighthouse.
Another highlight is the Musée Christian Dior, located in the former villa of the famous fashion designer. The museum is surrounded by beautiful gardens. While there is an admission fee for the museum, the gardens are free to explore and worth a visit. Additionally, a day trip to the Chausey Islands, a picturesque archipelago just fifteen kilometers off the coast, is highly recommended.
#11 Honfleur
Honfleur is a picturesque harbor town in Normandy, located on the southern bank of the Seine estuary, opposite Le Havre. With its old half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and medieval atmosphere, Honfleur is one of the most visited attractions in the region. It can be quite touristy, with many souvenir shops and restaurants catering to visitors. However, if you can look past this, you’ll discover one of the most beautiful towns in Normandy.
Read more: best things to do in Honfleur
The town is known for its scenic harbor, Le Vieux Bassin, surrounded by colorful half-timbered houses and lively cafes and restaurants. This old harbor dates back to the seventeenth century. It was once an important center for trade and exploration, including Samuel de Champlain’s expeditions to what is now Quebec in 1608.
Tip: Nearby, you’ll find Rue de la Prison and Rue des Petites Boucheries, charming streets that perfectly capture the medieval charm of the town.
One of the most unique attractions in Honfleur is the Église Sainte-Catherine. We were particularly impressed by this wooden church built by shipbuilders in the fifteenth century. It’s the largest wooden church in France and has a distinct appearance, with an interior resembling the hull of an overturned ship.
Honfleur also has a vibrant art scene, thanks in part to artists like Claude Monet and Eugène Boudin, who were inspired by the beautiful light at the mouth of the Seine. The Musée Eugène Boudin offers an extensive collection of impressionist works by Boudin and his contemporaries.
You can also visit the Maison Satie, a museum dedicated to the eccentric composer Erik Satie, who was born in Honfleur. Finally, a walk to the Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-Grâce, located on a hill with panoramic views over Honfleur and the Seine, is highly recommended.
#12 Côte d’Albâtre
The Côte d’Albâtre, or Alabaster Coast, is an impressive stretch of coastline in Normandy, extending from Le Havre to Le Tréport. This 140-kilometer-long area is known for its breathtaking white chalk cliffs that stand in striking contrast to the waters of the English Channel. The coastline features dramatic cliffs, beautiful pebble beaches, and charming fishing villages. Since the nineteenth century, this coast has inspired artists like Monet and Boudin.
One of the most iconic spots on the Côte d’Albâtre is Étretat, famous for its natural rock formations like the arches of Falaise d’Aval and l’Aiguille. The nearby Jardins d’Étretat offer panoramic views over these impressive cliffs.
Fécamp is another highlight, known for its rich maritime history and the imposing Palais Bénédictine. In Dieppe, one of France’s oldest seaside resorts, you can enjoy culinary specialties like scallops and visit historical sites such as the Château-Musée de Dieppe.
The coastline is also popular with hikers. The GR 21, a long-distance hiking trail, stretches from Le Tréport to Le Havre. This route offers walks along the cliffs with breathtaking views of the sea and the Norman countryside. A few years ago, the GR 21 was even voted the most beautiful long-distance trail in France.
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