Top 9 best towns to visit in Normandy 

A holiday in northern France gives you the perfect opportunity to explore. If you fancy a glorious road trip, then read on for The Originals Hotels' guide to the best towns in Normandy. Book now your getaway and get up to 30% discount for your accommodation with our Smooth Rate. 

The magic of Mont Saint-Michel 

One of the most beautiful villages in Normandy, the tidal island of Mont Saint-Michel simply can't be missed. The enormous building that dominates the town may appear to be a fortress, but it's actually an  11th-century abbey. Book your tickets in advance to explore this fascinating building, once a destination for religious pilgrims from across Europe. 

Sweets and sights in Rouen 

Rouen is the capital of the region, and mustn't be missed. The cobbled streets of the centre are utterly charming, while the spectacular spires of the Cathédrale Notre-Dame can be seen from all over the city. 

While here, satisfy your sweet tooth with Pavé du Vieux Marché pralines and local artisan chocolates. Normandy's most famous fruit has even been turned into a sweet, Sucre de Pomme apple sweets. Stay in The Originals City, Hotel Notre Dame, Rouen to be close to the city centre, making it easy to explore the so-called city of 100 spires. 

Art in Honfleur 

Honfleur must be considered one of the prettiest villages in Normandy - so it's no wonder that it's inspired many great artists over the centuries. You can see some of the finest works in the local Impressionist Museum. Be sure to explore the old port, too, and if the weather's good, don't miss the sandy charms of Plage du Butin. 
 
 

History in Beuvron-en-Auge 

The tiny town of Beuvron-en-Auge boasts a beautiful historic chapel that is worth visiting. The nearby Château de Grangues was once the sight of WWII war crimes, but today is a quiet, peaceful building worth looking at. While here, be sure to indulge in some calvados, the delicious local apple brandy. 

Monet's magic in Giverny 

Giverny may be the best town to stay in Normandy if you love art! Claude Monet was this town's most famous resident. Today, you can visit his preserved house, as well as an Impressionist museum. Many of the landscapes around Giverny will be instantly recognisable from Monet's most famous works. 

Beaches and museums in Le-Havre 

Le-Havre was reconstructed after WWII, so has a modernist feel that sets it apart from other Norman towns. The ancient cathedral survived the war, though, and is still worth visiting. Many wonderful museums can be found here, but if you're in the mood to relax, the white sand beach is the perfect spot. 

The Originals Boutique, Hotel Océane, Le Havre is set in a gorgeous 19th century building, one of the few in the city still standing. Use it as your base to explore Le-Havre. 

1000 years of history in Caen 

Caen Castle is one of the most intriguing sights in all Normandy. This fortress was built by William the Conqueror before his English campaign, and can still be visited today. History buffs should also hit the Memorial Museum, dedicated to WWII, the Cold War and, in particular, the Normandy Landings. 

The calm, leafy surroundings of The Originals City, Hotel Otelinn, Caen will help you relax after spending your day exploring this fascinating city. 

Incredible nature in Étretat 

Étretat is known for its stunning white cliffs, which jut out of the sea in intriguing formations. Go for a hike to admire the Porte d'Aval, the Falaise d'Aval, and the dramatic L'Aiguille. Visit at sunset for some unforgettable views. 

Medieval sights in Bayeux 

You probably studied the Bayeux Tapestry at school, and here you can see it in the flesh, in its very own dedicated museum. As well as this fascinating slice of Norman history, Bayeux boasts a stunning cathedral and a medieval centre with cobbled streets and half-timbered buildings. 

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