Hotels in Caen

Caen Hotels

Founded by William the Conqueror - just before the Normans claimed the English throne in the Battle of Hastings – historic Caen was also fiercely fought for following the D-Day landings. The bloody battle raged for almost 2 months, with as much as 80% of the city facing destruction, but despite that, much of Caen’s historical charm has been preserved and restored. So explore a fascinating treasure-trove of chapels and museums, as you take a look behind the veil of Normandy’s rich history, and learn about the strategic significance of the Battle for Caen.

Things to see

Understand how the German humiliation at the Treaty of Versailles set Europe’s great nations on a collision course that would eventually leave indelible scars across Normandy’s verdant green landscapes, at the Memorial of Caen. You’ll see the very best and worst of humanity, as you learn about the Second World War’s impact, and see everything from the wings of airplanes - scratched and scorched in dog fights - to sombre monuments honouring the dead of all nations. Travel even further back in military history, by visiting the Abbaye aux Hommes. Inside, you’ll find the final resting place of William the Conqueror - the man who built the ‘Abbey of Men’ - three years before he won the throne of England in 1066’s Battle of Hastings. Step back outside to be met with the colour and pomp of a wedding ceremony spilling out from the adjoining Town Hall, before the bride and groom pose for photos in the picturesque gardens. You can also visit William’s wife, Queen Matilda’s final resting place - her tomb is located at the tranquil Abbaye aux Dames.

Hotels in Caen

Whether you want a charming and historical boutique hotel - where the corridors are lined with suits of armour - or a bold, contemporary option – where the forceful bubbles of a jet bath will soothe your aching muscles - the hotels in Caen always hit the right spot. You’ll be waddling after over-indulging on delicious crepes, croissants and buttery pain au chocolats offered by bed and breakfast options, or an apartment hotel is perfect if you’d rather self-cater. WiFi is often available free of charge, and rows of treadmills are offered if you want to work up a sweat. In your room, enjoy a leisurely lie-in, watching your flat-screen television, and breathing in the rich aroma of freshly-brewed filter coffee.

Where to stay

Downtown Caen is packed with hotels, making it easy to explore the Old Town - which was largely rebuilt after fires ravaged it during the war. The weathered, wooden facades of the Maisons a Pans de Bois buildings, which totter out crookedly over the street, are unmistakably old and charming, however, having been spared from the destruction. If you don’t mind staying a little outside of downtown, then strolls along La Colline aux Oiseaux’s boulevards of perfectly trimmed grass lawns - which bloom with colour thanks to the rich lilac cups of tulips that line the paths - are perfect for gentle wanders.

How to get to Caen

As one of the main areas of interest for those looking to explore the stories and memorials of World War II, Caen is beautifully located for visitors from right across Europe. The town can be reached from Paris in less than 3 hours by train or car, and it takes around the same time to reach the ports and Channel Tunnel terminals at Calais and Boulogne. Caen itself is also connected to Portsmouth in the UK via ferry, or you can sail to nearby Le Havre instead.