Day Trips from Paris to Normandy
Normandy is a historic region in northern France, most celebrated for its scenic landscapes covered in green fields and charming villages and famous World War II sites. A day trip to Normandy from Paris is highly recommended if you have a day spare. Some don’t know what to do in Normandy and in a single day there are left. Here you have some of the must see in Normandy:
1. Mont Saint-Michel
Mont Saint-Michel is one of the most iconic landmarks in France, literally because the monument is a medieval abbey built on rocky islet where tidal water is around. Mostly a UNESCO World heritage site, an attraction that gets millions of visitors each and every year. Enjoy Gothic architecture, climb the winding streets and take in panoramic views of the bay.
2. D-Day Landing Beaches
During World War II, Normandy was an important stage, namely that of the D-Day Invasion in 1944. Go to the original D-Day landing beaches such as Omaha Beach, Utah Beach, and Gold Beach where Allied forces had landed to liberate France. Visit museums, memorials and know the brave soldiers who fought for freedom.
3. Honfleur
Honfleur is a charming port town with half-timbered houses and an active art community in which it is located on the estuary where Seine River meets the English Channel. Wander by the picturesque Vieux Bassin (Old Harbor), visit art galleries, eat lobsters and other wonderful seafood at one of the local restaurants.
4. Rouen
Rouen, the Capital of Normandy with, its lovely cathedrals, well preserved medieval architecture. Rouen Cathedral, the inspiration for Monet’s famous series of paintings, is visited and the historic quarter offers a journey through narrow streets with buildings of timber framed houses.
5. Bayeux
Bayeux is a chateaubling town with numerous tight history, where home lies the Bayeux Tapestry, a UNESCO Globe Heathitage site. Were impressed with 11th–century tapestry depicting events leading up to Norman conquest of England. Beautiful Bayeux Cathedral and the historic center with medieval buildings do not to be missed.
6. Giverny
Just not really in Normandy – but a really nice day trip from Paris is Giverny. Renowned impressionist painter Claude Monet was also known to be born and reside in its home. Head to Monet’s house and gardens, which served as the inspiration for many of his famed water lily series, to mention a few.
7. Caen
Informative about the history of Normandy, the largest city, Caen is perfectly balanced between history and culture, and modernity. Visit the historic Caen Castle, visit the memorial museum focusing on World War II and the Battle of Normandy, walk the lively Vaugueux neighborhood with its restaurants, cafes and other shops.
8. Etretat
Etretat is a place you should visit if you love passionate landscapes of the coast. Enjoy some of the best known white cliffs and natural arches in the United States, which have inspired scores of artists and writers. Hike along the cliffs taking a scenic path or laze on the pebble beach.
Conclusion
Normandy makes for an easy, one day trip from Paris, both in terms of beauty, history and culture of this splendorous region. Normandy has it all: Medieval architecture, World War II history, coastal towns and scenic landscapes and you will not be disappointed. Select one or a few of these Paris day trip destinations and decide what you wish to make memories of.
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