làThe place for a city breakOpen airRelax Posted on 27.02.2023
Want to discover Caen la Mer on foot or by bike, but above all without a car? This is the perfect destination for a car-free getaway and a weekend of sustainable tourism. The city of Caen is close to the sea and can be reached by train: ideal for a stay as a couple, with family or friends!
As soon as you get off the train at Caen station, you are only a 10-minute walk from the historic centre of Caen. The city of 1000 years of history has many treasures to reveal and original activities to try.
Discover the city of Caen
There are several ways to discover the historic centre of Caen:
- On foot, with the Routes in Caen, go in search of the little secret corners, inner courtyards, architectural details or works of street art that give Caen’s historic streets their charm.
- For a fun discovery, opt for a ride on a gyropod!
- Fascinated by history and anecdotes? Follow the guide on a guided tour of the emblematic monuments: Men’s Abbey, Ladies’ Abbey, Castle…
- With a local during a walk accompanied by a Greeter, these inhabitants who show you the city from another angle: theirs!
Shopping at the market
To stock up on local and seasonal products, don’t hesitate to visit the markets in Caen.
You can choose to stroll around the authentic Saint-Sauveur market on Friday mornings or the emblematic Sunday market on the port! As a bonus, Isabelle, greeter and food blogger, can accompany you to the markets to help you discover their must-sees!
Veggie & vegan lunch addresses
To the rhythm of the water
From April to September, go to the Fil de l’Orne water sports centre for a peaceful trip from the town centre. By paddle, pedalo or electric boat, you can go down the river at your own pace and move from the hustle and bustle of the city to the calm of the surrounding meadows and nature in just a few minutes.
Wake up your taste buds for dinner
For the evening, go to one of the many gourmet restaurants in the city. The Vaugueux district is the place to be. You can also take away from the cheese shops, delicatessens and other local product shops.
Our good restaurants to enjoy
Our accommodation addresses in Caen
Setting sail for Ouistreham
Cycling on the Vélofrancette
To get to the sea by bike, nothing could be easier: follow the Vélofrancette cycle route along the Caen to the sea canal. In a few minutes and for €1.50, you can rent a Vélolib for the day from the Twisto network (+ €2/hour rental).
Along the 1.5 hour walk, admire the many historical monuments: the Petit Lourdes (replica of the Lourdes Basilica), the famous Pegasus Bridge, the Ornavik Viking Park, the Château de Beauregard or the Château de Bénouville… All of this makes for a pleasant stroll along the water’s edge.
fter 15km of cycling on a beautiful flat road, you will see the Ouistreham lighthouse in the distance, a sign of your arrival on the coast. Don’t forget to stop at the fish market, which has a very special atmosphere.
A dedicated bus line to link Caen to the sea
You can also reach the sea by bus from Caen city centre. For €1.50, line 12 of the Twisto bus network takes you to the seaside in 30 minutes.
Sensations on the beach of Ouistreham
A few metres further on and the sea is there! The open sea is calling you? Let yourself be tempted by an introductory session to sand yachting on the large sandy beaches of the Côte de Nacre.
For a gentler activity, opt for the sound walk “La Délicate” which takes you on a journey down memory lane: from the Occupation during the Second World War to the life of the seaside resort today. Emotions guaranteed!
After this exciting day, take time to relax with a seafood platter on the waterfront or a drink overlooking the beach.
Our gourmet addresses
How about a family trip?
Travelling with your family? The programme fits perfectly! Just add new activities:
- Shiver with an Escape Game
- Visit the Caen Memorial, a museum for peace
- Stroll through the many parks and gardens
- Immerse yourself in the Viking world of Ornavik
- Experience the thrill of the Festyland theme park
Good plan! To make the most of your experience, book your City pass Caen la mer! Free entry to major sites, discounts in restaurants & shops and transport for 24, 48 or 72 hours.
We like
- Discover the secret corners of Caen
- Cycling on the Vélofrancette
- Learn to sail on the beach of Ouistreham
