Rouen to Bayeux and Caen: Private day trip

Founded in the 1st century BC, Bayeux was part of the Roman Empire's coastal defense. During the Middle Ages, the town was repeatedly sacked and pillaged, be it by 9th century vikings or 15th century English kings. During the Battle of Normandy, Bayeux was the first city to be liberated, and fortunately saw little damage as most German forces were relocated to Caen. Today, this historic center is still lined by charming stone or timbered-framed houses, watched over by the striking 11th century Bayeux Cathedral. Its modern history is also preserved, with the Memorial Museum of the Battle of Normandy, the Bayeux War Cemetery (the largest of its kind in Normandy), and the Memorial des Reporters all remembering the fallen. But the town's main attraction is undoubtedly the UNESCO-listed Bayeux Tapestry, which depicts the Norman conquest of England through seventy scenes spanning 70 metres (230 ft) of embroidery.

Founded by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, the Norman King’s castle that still stands to this day. However, Caen is perhaps best known for the bombing that destroyed 80% of the city during World War II. While it doesn’t have the same historic charm as other Norman towns, Caen does offer visitors some fascinating landmarks. The curtain wall and dried moat of William the Conqueror’s castle, one of the largest medieval fortresses in Europe, now houses the Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Normandy. During his reign, William ordered two abbeys to be built -the ‘Men's Abbey’ is now the final resting place of his thigh bone - all that remains of the legendary king. Visitors can also head to the Memorial of Caen, built in an old bunker, which is widely considered to be the best World War II museum in France.