Caen: The Complete Guide

In the heart of Caen’s historic centre—around the Château and the Abbaye aux Hommes—charming townhouses and boutique inns place you within easy walking distance of cobbled lanes and traditional bistros. Hôtel des Quatrans occupies a 17th-century townhouse with exposed beams and period décor, while Hôtel Le Rabelais blends modern comfort with a shaded courtyard and serves Norman specialties each morning. Just around the corner, Best Western Plus Hôtel Malherbe offers sound-proofed rooms and a refined lounge bar overlooking medieval ramparts.

A short stroll from the gare SNCF and the lively Saint-Pierre district, contemporary hotels and serviced apartments cater to travellers seeking convenience and local cafés at their doorstep. Oceania Hôtel Caen Centre sits opposite the train station with sleek rooms, an indoor pool and a restaurant serving regional cuisine, while Appart’City Confort Caen Centre provides spacious studio apartments ideal for families or longer stays.

Venturing toward the Memorial and the Port de Plaisance, suburban retreats offer a quieter pace amid green spaces and waterfront vistas. Hôtel Mercure Caen Côté de Nacre perches beside the marina of Port de Plaisance, with contemporary rooms overlooking the boats and a riverside terrace for evening apéritifs. A few minutes’ drive away, Kyriad Premium Caen Nord – Memorial welcomes guests with modern décor, free parking and easy access to the Caen Memorial museum and surrounding peace gardens.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Caen. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Caen: Spring (March – May)

Spring is a wonderful time to visit Caen, as the city begins to bloom and the weather becomes milder. Temperatures are pleasant, typically ranging from 10°C to 17°C (50°F to 63°F), making it ideal for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions like the Caen Castle and the Abbaye-aux-Hommes. This season also offers fewer tourists, allowing for a more relaxed visit to the city’s museums and historical sites.

Caen: Summer (June – August)

Summer in Caen can get warm, with temperatures reaching between 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), and it’s the peak tourist season. This is a great time to enjoy the local festivals, outdoor events, and visit the beaches of Normandy nearby. However, expect larger crowds at the popular sites, such as the Memorial of Caen and the city’s beautiful parks and gardens.

Caen: Autumn (September – November)

Autumn is one of the best times to visit Caen, as the weather is still mild, with temperatures between 14°C and 22°C (57°F to 72°F). The fall foliage adds a lovely touch to the city’s historic sites, and there are fewer tourists than in the summer months. This season also offers a chance to experience the local harvest festivals and the regional cuisine, making it a great time for food lovers.

Caen: Winter (December – February)

Winter in Caen tends to be chilly, with temperatures ranging from 3°C to 8°C (37°F to 46°F). While the weather may not be ideal for outdoor activities, this is a great time to experience the city’s festive atmosphere, especially around Christmas. Many of the museums and historical sites are less crowded, allowing for a more peaceful and reflective visit to landmarks such as the Abbey of Saint-Étienne.

How to Visit Caen: Getting to Caen by Train

Caen is easily accessible by train from various parts of France, including Paris. The city’s central train station, Gare de Caen, is well-connected, with frequent services from Paris Saint-Lazare station that take about two hours. This is one of the most convenient ways to reach Caen, especially for those traveling without a car. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place.

How to Visit Caen: Getting to Caen by Car

Driving to Caen is another great option, especially for those looking to explore the surrounding areas. Caen is located just off the A13 highway, which connects Paris to the Normandy region. The drive from Paris to Caen takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, offering scenic views of the countryside along the way. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

How to Visit Caen: Getting to Caen by Plane

While Caen does not have a major international airport, it is accessible via the Caen–Carpiquet Airport, which is about 15 minutes from the city center. The airport mainly serves domestic flights, but there are also connections to other European cities. Alternatively, you can fly into larger nearby airports such as Paris Charles de Gaulle or Deauville and then take a train or drive to Caen.