​Normandy, France: The Ultimate Road Trip Guide, Places to Visit & Where to Stay
Normandy France
Normandy completely won me over. It's the kind of region that makes you want to slow down: driving along quiet country roads, discovering tiny villages with half-timbered houses and stopping somewhere along the way for local cider, Camembert or a glass of Calvados. The countryside feels wonderfully unhurried, which is exactly what I loved most about travelling through this part of France.
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Of course, Normandy is famous for its fascinating history, D-Day beaches and dramatic coastline, but for me, the smaller experiences made our road trip particularly memorable. Wandering through picturesque villages, staying in a beautiful countryside B&B, finding a good coffee spot and taking the time for long French lunches made me realise that Normandy is a perfect destination for slow travel in France.
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And then there's the food. Normandy is the home of Camembert, cider and Calvados, and discovering these regional specialities is part of the experience. Add historic cities like Rouen and Bayeux, the gardens of Giverny and villages such as Gerberoy, and there's easily enough to fill several days, or provide a reason to return.
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If you're planning a Normandy road trip, this travel guide brings together the places we genuinely enjoyed: from where we stayed and the prettiest villages we discovered to things to do, coffee stops and restaurants worth adding to your itinerary.
Fancy Normandy? Explore Hotels Normandy
Where we stayed in Normandy: Bed & Breakfast L'Epicerie du Pape
L’Épicerie Du Pape is a charming B&B located in the village of Vascœuil, Normandy, housed in a former country house and featuring two guest rooms, a tent lodge, a cozy cabin, and a retro caravan option. We stayed in one of the guest rooms with the claw-foot bathtub. The decor is full of “brocante” (antiques/second-hand) details curated by the owners, creating a rustic yet aesthetic ambiance. Guests can enjoy relaxing in the garden, cooling off by the pool. Breakfast is amazing and gives you such a welcome morning vibe. Nearby villages worth visiting in Normandy include Gerberoy, Lyons-la-Forêt, and Rouen.
Read about our stay at L’Épicerie Du Pape
Villages Normandy France
​​One of the things I loved most about our Normandy road trip was driving through the countryside and discovering its small towns and villages along the way. Half-timbered houses, quiet country roads, local markets and little restaurants make this part of France perfect for slow travel. Some places are worth visiting for an hour or two, while others are perfect for spending an entire afternoon shopping, eating and simply enjoying the atmosphere. Normandy is home to some of the most picturesque villages in France, many of which are part of the official “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France” (The Most Beautiful Villages of France).​​
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Gerberoy
Gerberoy is often described as one of the most beautiful villages in France, and it's easy to see why. The tiny village is known for its colourful roses, beautiful gardens and historic half-timbered houses.
Often referred to as the “village of roses,” Gerberoy bursts into color every summer with climbing roses adorning its medieval houses. Walking through its cobbled streets feels like stepping back in time. Be prepared for Instagram madness.
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It is also quite touristy, so I wouldn't necessarily plan an entire day here. For us, Gerberoy was the perfect short stop during our road trip: wander through the picturesque streets, admire the flowers and take some beautiful photos before continuing through the Normandy countryside. If you visit during rose season, the village is especially photogenic.
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Lyons-la-Forêt
Lyons-la-Forêt feels completely different. Surrounded by one of Normandy's largest beech forests, this charming village is a lovely base for exploring the quieter countryside. Nestled in the heart of a lush forest, this village is celebrated for its traditional timber-framed houses and lively market square. It’s no wonder it has inspired artists and filmmakers alike.
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What I particularly enjoyed here was the area surrounding the village. If you like cycling, bring or rent a bike and explore the peaceful roads and forests nearby. It's a wonderful way to experience rural Normandy at a slower pace, combining a visit to the village with a few hours cycling through the countryside.
Honfleur
Of the coastal towns we visited, Honfleur was one of my favourites. Its picturesque harbour, narrow streets and colourful historic buildings make it beautiful to explore on foot, but what I particularly enjoyed was combining sightseeing with shopping and good food.
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With its postcard-perfect old harbor, lined with tall, narrow houses, Honfleur is well worth a visit. Today, it remains a quite little village, full of galleries, restaurants, and boutiques (and tourists). For coffee go to Villa Gypsy, a concept store and coffee shop in one or try La Maison Du Tripot for brunch/lunch.
Trouville sur Mer
Just two hours from Paris, Trouville-sur-Mer has been a beloved seaside escape since the 19th century, when Parisians first flocked there for the new fashion of sea bathing and a charming long weekend escape. Today, the village still draws weekend visitors with its wide sandy beach, bustling fish market (fresh oysters and mussels, yum!) and charming Belle Époque villas.
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Take your time wandering through the independent boutiques and galleries before heading towards the harbour for lunch. Normandy is famous for its seafood, and Honfleur is exactly the kind of place where I'd recommend ordering fresh fish or seafood and settling in for a long French lunch.
Deauville
Neighbouring Trouville-sur-Mer and Deauville are easy to combine and make a great addition to a Normandy road trip. Although they're close together, each has its own character, so I'd definitely take the time to explore both.
Deauville is known for its grand casino, horse racing, and luxurious boardwalk. Around Rue Desire le Hoc you’ll find nice boutique shops.
Things To Do Normandy France
Normandy offers an endless list of things to see and do, blending history, culture, and natural beauty in a way few regions can. We loved the combination of it all and really enjoyed our road trip. Here are a few of my tips of Things To Do.
Rouen
Known as the “City of a Hundred Spires,” Rouen boasts a magnificent Gothic cathedral that famously inspired Monet. Its medieval streets and ties to Joan of Arc make it a city steeped in history.
Bayeux
This small town is world-renowned for the Bayeux Tapestry, a remarkable 11th-century embroidery depicting the Norman conquest of England. Its charming old town make it a delightful stop. For coffee go to Bisette. From Bayeux its only a 20 min drive to Arromanches-les-Bains: known for its D-Day history and the remains of the Mulberry Harbour used during the Allied landings in 1944
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Fondation Claude Monet, Giverny
Exploring the beautiful house and flower and water garden of Claude Monet was on the list for a long time. Monet lived in Giverny for forty-three years, from 1883 to 1926. The little village thrives on this Master of Impressionism. Try to ignore all the Japanese and Chinese tourists and school classes and you will have a wonderful time. Combination tickets with the Garden, House and Museum are available for 9.30am or 14.00pm.
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Mont Saint-Michel
Perhaps Normandy’s most iconic landmark, this island commune rises dramatically from the sea, crowned by its medieval abbey. Pro tip: go visit Mont Saint-Michel as early in the day as possible, otherwise it gets so incredibly crowded with tourists that it’s no longer enjoyable.
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Omaha Beach
Normandy’s coastline is a powerful reminder of World War II history. A visit to Omaha Beach, one of the D-Day landing sites, is a deeply moving experience, especially when combined with a visit to the nearby American Cemetery. Both free to visit. You can easily park near both landmarks. Alternatively, its a nice long walk along the beach (which we did). For lunch go to EOLIA Snack-Shop: A clubhouse with panoramic views over Omaha Beach. Reasonable priced.
Étretat
Famous for its dramatic white cliffs and natural arches, Étretat has long inspired artists and writers, like the stories of Lupin. A walk along its cliffs offers breathtaking views over the English Channel. We didn't visit the village (which does get very crowded with tourists).
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