11 Things to Do in Bayeux

Bayeux is a charming little Norman village that will delight all history lovers, as its origins date back to the 1st century BC, during the height of the Roman Empire. Today, its community of around 15,000 inhabitants lives almost exclusively from tourism.

The village preserves all the beauty of the region among its cobbled streets, bars and restaurants. Many travellers come here to visit the World War II museums, see the imposing cathedral, enjoy the archaeological heritage and much more. Join me on this tour of beautiful Bayeux.

One of the things you cannot miss on your visit to this charming town is the Queen Matilda Tapestry, also known as the Bayeux Tapestry or the Conquest Tapestry. It is one of the oldest and most valuable treasures in France, as it was made in the 11th century.

It is one of the best known and most highly valued medieval works of art in the world, narrating the story of the Norman conquest of England in 1066. It is 70 metres long and 50 centimetres wide and is housed in the Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Bayeux in a U-shaped room.

It features a series of embroidered scenes. Each one depicts a key moment in the conquest, from William the Conqueror's departure from Normandy to his victory. You can see it on your own or book a guided tour of Bayeux, as many tours stop at the cathedral.

The Cathedral of Notre Dame de Bayeux (Our Lady of Bayeux) is a vast example of Norman Gothic architecture. It has a unique blend of Romanesque and Gothic elements that will leave you speechless. It also houses an impressive collection of works of art and historical objects.

The cathedral was built in the 11th century. The exterior of the church is absolutely breathtaking, with its tall towers and stone arches, and inside, its large stained glass windows create a magical atmosphere. Its artistic details, carved columns and vaulted ceilings are also noteworthy.

You will marvel at its frescoes, sculptures and many historical objects, which tell the story of the region and the cathedral itself. It is also home to the tomb of Bishop Odo, brother of King William the Conqueror. Included in the best tours of Bayeux, it is currently one of the most visited places in the region.

Useful information:

• Location: Rue du Bienvenu, 14400, Bayeux.
• Price: free admission.
• Opening hours: From 1 January to 31 March from 9am to 5pm. From 1 April to 30 June from 8.30am to 6pm. From 1 July to 30 September from 9am to 7pm. From 1 October to 31 December from 9am to 6pm.

If you are passionate about history, get ready because you have come to the right place. Bayeux has an enormous archaeological heritage that includes both Roman remains and vestiges of the Viking era.

Keep in mind that the town was founded in the 1st century BC, so it has witnessed many of the changes that the region has undergone. You can visit places such as:

• Jumièges Abbey, a Benedictine monastery founded in the 6th century, which was one of the largest and most powerful in France during the Middle Ages.
• Bayeux Cathedral, built in the 11th century, which we have already mentioned.
• The Normandy Battle Memorial Museum, which is a museum dedicated to World War II and the Battle of D-Day, one of the most important events of the war.

Beyond the historical beauty of this place, Bayeux is a truly charming town with a welcoming atmosphere and a vibrant cultural life. You are in the perfect place to experience French culture first-hand, and one of the most popular ways to do so is through its bars and bistros.

Despite being a small town, Bayeux has a vibrant arts scene. You'll find numerous art galleries and museums here, as well as festivals, from the famous Bayeux Fair to its own Circus Festival; there's a wide variety of events to choose from throughout the year.

And don't forget to try the delicious Normandy beer, which has become famous all over the world. If you fancy something different, you can book a self-guided bike tour from Bayeux to see the area from a different perspective.

The Normandy region is also renowned for its gastronomy. Its cheeses are among the most famous in the world. Camembert, Livarot, Pont l'Evêque and Neufchâtel are authentic delicacies that are well worth trying.

But its gastronomic charm is not limited to dairy products. With no less than 600 kilometres of coastline, the region's fish and seafood are also outstanding. Its oysters are highly sought after, as are its scallops and sea snails.

In addition, thanks to its abundant apple production, Bayeux is known for its cider, one of the most delicate in the world. For all these reasons, you cannot miss out on trying the cuisine of this French region. I assure you that you will not regret it.

Bayeux occupies a special place in the history of the Second World War, as it was one of the first towns to be liberated by the Allied forces. Visiting the D-Day beaches is an adventure and a deeply moving experience.

The first and furthest of these beaches is Utah Beach. Then there is Omaha Beach (the most famous of all), Juno Beach, Gold Beach (where the D-Day Museum is located) and finally Sword Beach.

If you decide to book an excursion to the D-Day beaches in Normandy, your guide will tell you all about what happened during those dark days when the war was coming to an end.

Normandy is much more than D-Day. For many, it is the region that represents the perfect blend of charm and history. During your trip, you can enjoy the beauty of the French countryside and coastline to the fullest by joining one of the best tours of Normandy from Bayeux.

You can discover dreamlike places such as Rouen and Giverny, marvel at the landscapes that inspired Claude Monet, and visit the square where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake.

In Rouen, you can admire the Gros Horloge (Great Clock) and the Gothic cathedral, which has the tallest spire in France. In Giverny, on the other hand, you will feel like you are inside an impressionist painting, surrounded by nature. This is where Monet lived with his family throughout his life.

Without a doubt, one of the most charming places in all of France and one of the best day trips from Bayeux is a visit to Mont Saint Michel. To get there, you have to cross a footbridge that is completely submerged when the tide rises, giving Mont Saint-Michel a unique appearance.

Located on a small rocky island, this tiny village can be explored with all your senses and you will feel as if you have travelled back in time. Narrow stone streets lined with restaurants and souvenir shops lead the way to the top, where the Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel is located.

Although there are excursions from Paris, booking an excursion to Mont Saint-Michel from Bayeux is better, as it is much closer.

There is no better feeling than pedalling through green fields while enjoying majestic views. In this case, I suggest booking a self-guided bike tour from Bayeux and exploring the charming town and its surroundings on two wheels.

This activity can be done on a traditional bike or you can opt for an e-bike and save some energy while touring the city. This option makes it suitable for everyone, regardless of their physical condition.

Visit the most beautiful and important places in Bayeux and its surroundings and, if you feel like it, continue on to the D-Day beaches. You can hire a bike equipped with GPS and a helmet. This is a unique and different experience to enjoy some of the most beautiful Normandy landscapes in the open air and get some exercise.

If you're in Bayeux, one of the must-see attractions is the incredibly beautiful Botanical Garden. Declared a Historic Monument, this free public park is one of the most beautiful gardens in Normandy.

Built in the 19th century by the Bühler brothers, its more than 2.6 hectares are home to numerous botanical species, including the famous weeping beech tree.

Ideal for finding peace and taking a leisurely stroll, the Bayeux Botanical Garden is one of those places you simply must visit. Along the way, you will discover details and stories from the city's past.

Useful information:

• Location: 55 route de Port-en-Bessin, 14400 Bayeux.
• Price: free admission.
• Opening hours: 1 April to 30 September from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. 1 to 31 October from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. 1 November to 28 February from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 1 to 31 March from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Opened in 1874, the Baron Gerard Museum in Bayeux is a museum that combines art and history. It has an extensive collection of historical artefacts and works of art, ranging from prehistoric times to the 20th century. Its beautiful medieval tapestries are particularly noteworthy.

In addition, the museum houses an important collection of Gallo-Roman objects and an interesting collection of paintings and sculptures from the 19th and 20th centuries. The Baron Gerard Museum is a must-see for those interested in the history and art of Normandy.

Useful information:

• Location: 37 rue du Bienvenu, 14400 Bayeux.
• Price: from £7.50 per person. Children under 10 years old go free.
• Opening hours: from 1 February to 30 April from 10 am to 12.30 pm and from 2 pm to 6 pm. From 1 May to 30 September from 9.30 am to 6.30 pm. From 1 October to 31 December from 10 am to 12.30 pm and from 2 pm to 6 pm.