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Visiting Normandy, France is like being transported directly into a charming French fairytale. The region is steeped in history and characterized by natural beauty, gorgeous half-timbered houses, impressive Cathedrals and so much more.
It was also the home of Monet who lived and painted in the region for many years. A true testament to the inspiring natural beauty of Normandy. From the birthplace of Impressionism to the impressive island town of Mont Saint Michel, there’s a lot to discover in Normandy.
The below list of towns in Normandy will take you on a historical and coastal journey through the region, stopping at the best of what Normandy has to offer.
Many of the villages in the region boast historic Normandy features and you’ll be transported into a medieval world in some areas. From visiting Monet’s gardens to the largest wooden church in France, the historic towns below should be on the top of your list.
Known for its history and architecture, Rouen is the historic capital of Normandy. Populated with half-timbered houses and medieval lanes winding throughout the village, this is a historically rich destination.
The medieval village is 2000 years old and the spectacular Gothic Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen dates back to 1200. The stained glass windows of the cathedral are something to behold and a visit to this architectural wonder is a must when in Rouen.
Rouen is also an art lover’s paradise and is known for having some of the finest art collections in France. At the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen, you can enjoy work from many famous artists including Monet.
If Opera is what you are after, the Opera de Rouen offers exceptional classic and contemporary shows. After an evening of entertainment indulge in a French feast at the La Couronne, which is France’s oldest inn dating to 1345.
Honfleur is a picture-perfect Normandy town often referred to as the ‘jewel of Normandy’ and it’s not hard to see why. The harbour port lined with gorgeous 16th to 18th Century houses mixed with creamy and colourful facades has been captured in more than one painting.
Art historians claim that Honfleur is the birthplace of Impressionism. Inspiring and attracting many renowned writers, painters and artists such as Camille Corot, Georges Seurat, Eugine Boudin and even Claude Monet.
Roaming the winding cobbled streets is a great way to explore Honfleur. You’ll come across some beautiful small churches but the Medieval Church of Saint Catherine is the real winner. It was built in the 15th Century by sailors and is the largest wooden church in France.
This beautiful medieval town is known for its historical importance during WWII. Astonishingly many of the historical buildings from before the war remain and it was the first city liberated during the mighty battle. A remembrance service is held annually on the 6th of June at the Bayeux Cathedral, another impressive Gothic structure and National monument of France.
Most people visit Bayeux to see the exceedingly long, 1000-year-old Bayeux tapestry, housed in the Bayeux Tapestry Museum. The tapestry chronicles events such as the Battle of Hastings and the Battle between William the Conqueror and King Harold II.
A great way to explore Bayeux is strolling through the canal paths where you’ll find stunning gardens and peaceful parks. The local market selling fresh produce and wonderful cheeses is also a pleasure to browse.
While Normandy is filled with old-world charm, impressive cathedrals and medieval cobbled lanes, it also has some picturesque coastal towns to boast. Below are the most charming towns and villages on the Normandy coastline.
Mont Saint Michel is one of the most iconic places in France. It’s a fortified island with a small village and an abbey at the top. The medieval coastal city also became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. The splendour of Mont Saint Michel looks like the set of a medieval movie as its grand spires and impressive architecture rise dramatically from the sea.
Although exquisitely beautiful even from afar, the star of Mont Saint Michel is undeniably the gorgeous abbey crowning its top. Known as La Marvieille or The Marvel, the abbey has many fascinating rooms, a cloister, and boasts stunning surrounding scenery.
Today only a few people live on the island but you’ll find houses, towers, churches and narrow streets waiting to be explored.
Characterized by dramatic cliffs and mesmerizing scenery, the town of Etretat is another gem along the coast. The waves that crash along the jagged and chalky coastline have inspired many artists over the years namely; Monet, Matisse, Boudin and Courbet.
It’s not hard to understand why this gorgeous rugged coastline was so loved by artists, with the naturally formed arches strutting into the sea and creating a unique and wild scene. The cliff known as the Elephant and Needle was particularly favoured and can be seen in many seascapes.
The best way to experience the beauty is by walking along the paths of the cliffs. On the way, you’ll come across the Chapel of Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde. The gorgeous chapel with the backdrop of the exquisite coast is a charming and mysterious experience.
So, there you have it, the best and most charming cities in Normandy. From dramatic coastal cliffs to tapestries chronicling some of the most epic French battles, Normandy really won’t disappoint.
Whether you are an art lover, keen historic traveller or just in search of some of the most beautiful places in the world, start with these towns in Normandy, France.
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