Caen suffered terrible destruction during World War II but has managed to rebuild itself to become a popular destination for travellers to France. Far from being just a port which tourists simply pass through Caen itself has a great deal to offer.
Places of interest
Le Memorial de Caen - Large museum dedicated to the memory of World War II and in particular the D-Day landing beaches which are near Caen. Organised bus trips are available to take you around the main landing beaches. In addition to the exhibits on war there is also a gallery of Nobel Peace Prize-winners since 1901, the first and only of its kind anywhere in the world. Admission fee applies
Caen centre - Despite suffering terrible destruction during the war many of Caen's historical buildings remain in the town centre. In particular the Place Sauver with historical mansions and a church dating back to the 12th Century.
Shopping
Markets - An excellent way to pick up locally produced Normandy specialities. Markets are held on an almost daily basis in various locations throughout Caen selling a variety of goods. Contact the local tourist office for more information at the address below. In addition to food markets, between March and November there is an art market in Caen on the last Saturday of the month with many artists from around the region selling the works.
Caen – the port is at the seaside village of Ouistreham 15km from the Caen city ring road which connects the AutoRoute to Paris (2hrs 34mins 150 miles) and the South, dual carriage way to Brittany or the main south road towards the Loire.
Tourist Information
Office de Tourisme
Place St Pierre
14000 Caen
Tel: 00 33 2 31 27 14 14
Fax: 00 33 2 31 27 14 13
Day crossing time is 6 hours. Overnight sailings from Portsmouth arrive 06.30 next day. Overnight sailings from Caen arrive 06.15 next day. Ships operating this route are: Normandie, Mont St Michel.