Are you planning a trip to Normandy France and wondering where to stay? With its rich history, charming streets, and central location, Bayeux is the best town to stay in Normandy France. Whether you are interested in WW2 history, local gastronomy, or exploring beautiful towns and scenic landscapes, Bayeux has it all.
In this guide you will learn why Bayeux makes the perfect base, what to see in town, which nearby destinations are easy to reach, and how to get there from Paris. You will also discover the best ways to explore Normandy, whether by car or small group tours.
1. Why Bayeux is the Ideal Base in Normandy
Central Location for WW2 Sites & Other Normandy Must-See
Bayeux is ideally located for exploring Normandy’s most famous attractions. It is just a short drive from the D Day beaches and WW2 memorials, making it perfect for history enthusiasts. You can find a list of our favorite WW2 sites here
The town itself was the first major settlement liberated after D Day, and its museums and memorials provide important context before visiting the beaches.
Beyond WW2 sites, Bayeux is also a convenient base for discovering other Normandy highlights. From here you can reach:
– Mont Saint Michel, about 2 hours and 30 minutes by car, with its stunning tidal island and medieval abbey Mt St Michel is an absolute must-see in Normandy.
– Honfleur and Deauville, just over 1 hour away. Honfleur is famous for its picturesque harbor and art galleries, while Deauville is known for its beaches, luxury shops, and annual film festival.
– Caen, about 30 minutes drive, offering Caen Castle, museums, and WW2 heritage sites.
– Calvados and cider farms, where you can taste traditional apple brandy and explore orchards.
Walkable and Charming Town
Bayeux itself is incredibly walkable. Its cobbled streets, historic buildings, cafes, shops, and the magnificent cathedral make the town a delight to explore. Even if you are not staying overnight, a visit to Bayeux is highly recommended for its charm and character.
2. Things to Do in Bayeux
Museums and Cultural Attractions
– Bayeux Cathedral, a stunning example of Norman Gothic architecture.
– Bayeux Tapestry IMPORTANT: The Bayeux Tapestry Museum is closed for renovation work until October 2027. Visit the museum’s website for more information
– Baron GĂ©rard Museum (MAHB), featuring regional art and history.
– Conservatoire de la Dentelle, where you can learn about the craft of Bayeux lace.
In addition to museums, Bayeux has a vibrant local market that reflects the heart of Normandy. The market takes place every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday in the town center, offering fresh produce, cheeses, cider, seafood, flowers, and artisan products. Strolling through the market is a perfect way to experience local life, sample regional specialties, and even pick up unique souvenirs.
Dining and Hotels
From boutique inns to comfortable hotels, Bayeux offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Many are located within walking distance of the town center, making it easy to explore its charm, museums, and markets.
Bayeux also has a lively restaurant scene, where you can enjoy traditional Normandy cuisine. Regional specialties include fresh seafood, creamy cheeses, apple cider, and Calvados brandy. Pair a local dish with a glass of cider or a Calvados tasting for a true Normandy experience.
Many restaurants even feature produce and products sourced directly from the market, offering a true farm-to-table experience.
3. How to Get to Bayeux from Paris
You can take a direct train from Paris Saint Lazare to Bayeux. The journey typically takes about 2 hours and 12 minutes to 3 hours. Trains arrive at Bayeux station, which is just a short walk from the town center. If you prefer to drive, the journey takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes to 3 hours depending on traffic, following the scenic route via the A13 autoroute, which allows for stops in charming towns like Giverny or Rouen along the way.
4. Best Ways to Explore Normandy
Renting a Car
For full flexibility to visit the WW2 beaches, cider farms, Mont Saint Michel, and coastal towns, renting a car is the best option. Unfortunately many of the must-see sites in Normandy won’t be accessible by train.
Small Group Tours
If you prefer not to drive, small group tours provide a stress free way to see all the highlights. The best part is that you don’t need to plan anything or do any research. On our 7 Day Normandy Tour, you will visit key sites, enjoy cultural experiences, and taste local cuisine while we take care of all the logistics. Traveling with a small group also means you are not alone on your journey. You will meet like-minded travelers who share your interests, creating opportunities to bond, share stories, and make new friends along the way.
