Visit Old Caen
Must-sees in old Caen
There are a number of sites not to be missed on your first visit to Caen! Conveniently, they're all located within a few minutes' walk of each other!
Caen Castle
Built in 1060 by William the Conqueror, Caen Castle has been home to the Dukes of Normandy and the Kings of England.
Remodelled over the centuries, its architecture reflects the evolution of each era. It is even one of the largest medieval fortresses in Europe!
Today, the castle is home to a number of sites open to visitors:
- The Musée de Normandie, which focuses on the way of life of local populations from prehistoric times to the Industrial Revolution.
- Saint-Georges church (11th-16th centuries)
- The Sculpture Park, where you can admire modern and contemporary works.
Good to know: Since March 2023, the Château de Caen has been undergoing works for two years. The Musée de Normandie remains open to the public. Some of the sculptures can be seen at Caen town hall.
The Men's Abbey and the Ladies' Abbey
These are Caen's two abbeys, founded in the second half of the 11th century.
The Abbaye aux Hommes is the burial place of William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy. You can visit the abbey church of Saint-Étienne (11th-13th century) and admire the monastic buildings built around a Tuscan-style cloister.
The Abbaye aux Dames houses the tomb of Mathilde of Flanders, Duchess of Normandy, and an abbey church dedicated to Sainte-Trinité, a masterpiece of Norman Romanesque art. Both the Men's Abbey and the Ladies' Abbey can be visited on their own or with a guide.
The Vaugueux medieval quarter
The oldest district in Caen, it is located a stone's throw from the castle.
The cobbled streets lined with timber-framed and Caen stone houses, miraculously preserved from the 1944 bombings, are a delight to stroll through. In the Middle Ages, this poor district was known as the "Val des Gueux".
The Vaugueux district is home to many shops and restaurants, as well as :
- Caen Fine Arts Museum
- Saint-Pierre church
- The Abbaye aux Dames
- The Normandy Castle and Museum
Book your 3-star hotel in Caen
The Best Western Royal hotel welcomes you to Caen city centre, a five-minute walk from Caen Castle and the Vaugueux district.
Our 3-star hotel will seduce you with its elegant architecture and its 47 rooms with a cosy and contemporary atmosphere. Some of them offer a view of the famous Place de la République.
Local produce features prominently at the breakfast buffet, as well as at the Bar de la Couronne, where you can sample Calvados and local beers in a cosy setting.
➤ Discover the hotel
Book your stay at our hotel in Caen at the best rate directly on our website!
