Normandy Day Trips from Paris by Train: History, Coastline and Charming Towns

Honfleur Harbour, Normandy

Normandy is one of the easiest regions to reach from Paris, making it ideal for a weekend escape by rail. With fast connections to Caen and Rouen, charming coastal towns, impressive medieval cities and the powerful history of the D-Day landing beaches, Normandy offers a varied and rewarding short break without the need for a car.

This guide covers what to see, how to get around, what Norman dishes really are, where to eat, where to stay, and how to make the most of 48 hours in the region.

Why Go?

Normandy offers a contrast to Paris: wide beaches, half-timbered houses, apple orchards, lively harbours and atmospheric medieval towns. The region’s history ranges from William the Conqueror to the Second World War, giving weekend visitors a mix of culture, scenery and emotional storytelling. Its food is rich, rustic and comforting, and its coastal towns feel calm and restorative.

A Bit of History

Normandy’s history is long and layered. William the Conqueror ruled from Caen before crossing the Channel to become King of England in 1066. Centuries later, the D-Day landings on June 6th, 1944, marked a turning point in the Second World War and left a powerful legacy along the Normandy coast. The region’s architecture, abbeys and quiet farmland reflect this deep historical heritage.

What to Expect

Normandy feels slower and more spacious than Paris, with coastal breezes, historic centres and open countryside. Caen and Rouen both make convenient bases: Caen for the D-Day beaches and Bayeux, Rouen for medieval architecture and riverside charm. Public transport makes key destinations easy to reach, especially if you plan ahead.

Five Things to See and Do

Bayeux & the Bayeux Tapestry: An exceptionally preserved medieval town with the world-famous tapestry telling the story of the Norman conquest of England.

D-Day Landing Beaches: From Omaha Beach to Utah Beach and Pointe du Hoc, these sites and memorials offer an emotional and educational insight into WWII history.

Mont-Saint-Michel (from Caen): One of the most iconic sights in France. Reachable via train to Pontorson followed by a shuttle to the island.

Rouen Cathedral & Old Town: A masterpiece of Gothic architecture surrounded by half-timbered houses, cobbles and the site where Joan of Arc was executed.

Honfleur Harbour: A postcard-perfect port filled with tall houses, galleries and seafood restaurants. Reachable with a train to Trouville-Deauville then a short bus ride.

Food Culture

Norman cuisine reflects its landscape: dairy-rich pastures, orchards full of apples, and a long coastline supplying excellent seafood. Expect cream-based sauces, apples and cider in many dishes, cheeses with strong character, and comforting home-style recipes. Normandy is also known for its Calvados (apple brandy), traditional markets and simple, hearty cooking.

Normandy Food Explained

Camembert: A soft, creamy cheese from the region’s farms, often baked, eaten with bread or served warm.

Moules à la Crème: Mussels cooked with cream, garlic and white wine, served with fries.

Teurgoule: A traditional rice pudding baked slowly with cinnamon for a caramelised top.

Andouille de Vire: A smoked sausage with a very distinctive flavour, loved by locals.

Cider: Normandy’s signature drink, made from local apples and served dry, sweet or sparkling.

Calvados: A strong apple brandy enjoyed as a digestif.

Where to Eat

Le Bouchon du Vaugueux (Caen): A cosy restaurant in Caen’s historic district offering traditional Norman dishes with local produce.

La Table du Grand Luxembourg (Bayeux): A refined yet relaxed restaurant serving modern Norman cuisine with seasonal ingredients.

Le P’tit Castel (Rouen): A warm, inviting spot known for generous portions, regional specialities and friendly service.

Brasserie des Deux Augustins (Honfleur): Classic seafood plates right on the harbour front, ideal for lunch on a day trip.

Where to Stay

Hotel des Quatrans (Caen): A comfortable, central hotel with a modern feel and easy access to Caen’s main sights.

Hotel Churchill (Bayeux): A charming, centrally located hotel perfect for exploring Bayeux on foot.

Hotel de Bourgtheroulde (Rouen): A historic luxury hotel with spa facilities in Rouen’s old town.

Ibis Styles Caen Centre Paul Doumer: A reliable, budget-friendly option close to transport and restaurants.

Off the Beaten Track

Falaise: Birthplace of William the Conqueror with an impressive castle and peaceful countryside.

Villers-sur-Mer: A quiet stretch of the Norman coastline, ideal for a peaceful beach walk.

Cabourg: A romantic seaside town with a long promenade and belle-époque architecture.

How to Get There by Train

From Paris to Caen: Direct trains from Paris Saint-Lazare in around 2 hours.

From Paris to Rouen: Direct trains from Saint-Lazare in about 1 hour 20 minutes.

From Caen to Bayeux: A short 15-minute TER ride.

To Mont-Saint-Michel: Train to Pontorson from Caen or Paris, then a quick shuttle to the island.

Perfect Weekend Itinerary

Day 1Take the train from Paris to Caen. Explore Caen’s castle and historic quarter. Afternoon trip to Bayeux and the tapestry. Dinner in Caen.

Day 2 Join a bus or local tour to the D-Day sites, or visit Honfleur via Trouville-Deauville. Return to Paris in the evening.

Real Travel Guides – Real Travel. By Rail.