Best Things to Do in Bayeux

Bayeux is a small Norman village with charm for all history lovers, since its origins date back to nothing less than the 1st century BC, in the middle of the Roman Empire. Today, its community of some 15,000 inhabitants lives almost exclusively from tourism.

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

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

It is one of the best known and most valued medieval works of art in the world that tells the story of the Norman conquest of England in 1066. It is 70 meters long and 50 centimeters wide, housed in the cathedral of Notre-Dame de Bayeux in a U-shaped room.

It features a series of embroidered scenes. Each depicts a key moment of the conquest, from the departure of William the Conqueror from Normandy, to his victory. You can see it on your own or book a guided tour of Bayeux, as many 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 artwork and historical artifacts.

The cathedral was built in the 11th century. The exterior of the church is absolutely breathtaking, with its high towers and stone arches, and inside its large stained glass windows create a magical atmosphere. In addition, its artistic details, carved columns and vaulted ceilings stand out.

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

Information of interest:

• Location: Rue du Bienvenu, 14400, Bayeux.
• Price: free admission.
• Hours: January 1 to March 31 from 9 am to 5 pm. From April 1 to June 30 from 8:30 am to 6 pm. From July 1 to September 30 from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm. From October 1 to December 31 from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.

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 remains from Roman times and vestiges of the Viking era.

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

• The Abbey of Jumièges, a Benedictine monastery that was founded in the 6th century and was one of the largest and most powerful in France in the Middle Ages.
• The Cathedral of Bayeux, built in the 11th century and of which we have already spoken.
• The Battle of Normandy Memorial Museum, which is a museum dedicated to the Second World War 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 town that truly charms, 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 art scene. You can find numerous art galleries and museums here, as well as festivals, from the famous Bayeux Fair to its own Circus Festival; there is a wide variety of events to choose from throughout the year.

And be sure to try the delicious Norman beer, which has become very famous all over the world. Also, if you fancy something different, you can book a self-guided bike tour from Bayeux to see the area from a different point of view.

The Normandy region also stands out for its gastronomy. Its cheeses are among the most famous in the world. Camembert, Livarot, Pont l'Evêque and Neufchâtel are real delicacies worth tasting.

But not all its gastronomic charm remains in dairy products, being also a region with no less than 600 kilometers of sea coast, its fish and seafood have been able to stand out. Its oysters are highly sought after, as well as 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 can not miss the gastronomy of this French region, I assure you that you will not regret it.

Bayeux occupies a luxurious place in the history of World War II, since it was one of the first villages liberated by the Allied forces. Visiting the landing beaches is an adventure and a deeply moving experience.

The first and farthest of these beaches is Utah Beach. Then there is Omaha Beach (the most famous of them all), Juno Beach, Gold Beach (where the Landing Museum is located) and finally Sword Beach.

If you choose to book a tour of the Normandy Landing Beaches your guide will tell you all about what happened in 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 make the most of the beauty of the French countryside and coast by joining one of the best tours of Normandy from Bayeux.

You can visit dream places like Rouen or Giverny, marvel at the landscapes that inspired Claude Monet and visit the square where Joan of Arc was burned.

In Rouen you will appreciate its Great Clock (Gros Horloge) and its 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. It is here that Monet lived with his family throughout his life.

Undoubtedly, one of the most charming places in France and one of the best day tours to do from Bayeux is to go to Mont Saint Michel. To get there you have to cross a footbridge that, when the sea rises, is completely submerged, giving Mont Saint-Michel a unique appearance.

Located on a small rocky island, this small village is toured with all the senses and you will think you have traveled back in time. Small stone streets lined with restaurants and souvenir stores mark the way to the top, where the Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel is located.

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

There is no more pleasant feeling than pedaling through green fields, enjoying majestic views. In this case, I propose you to book a self-guided bike tour from Bayeux and explore the charming town and its surroundings on a bike.

This is an activity that you can do on a traditional bike or opt for an e-bike and save some energy while touring the city. This option makes it an activity suitable for any type of person, regardless of their physical condition.

Visit the most beautiful and important places in Bayeux and its surroundings and, if you are up for it, continue to the landing beaches. You can rent a bike equipped with GPS and helmet. This is a unique and different experience to enjoy in the open air some of the most beautiful Norman landscapes and get some exercise.

If you find yourself in Bayeux, one of its must-sees is its incredibly beautiful Botanical Garden. Declared a Historic Monument, this free public park is one of the most beautiful Norman gardens.

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

Ideal for finding peace and for a leisurely stroll, the Bayeux Botanical Garden is one of those places that you cannot miss. On your tour you will be able to come across details and stories of the city's past.

Information of interest:

• Location: 55 route de Port-en-Bessin, 14400 Bayeux.
• Price: free admission.
• Hours: from April 1 to September 30 from 9 am to 8 pm. From October 1 to October 31 from 9 am to 7 pm. From November 1 to February 28 from 9 am to 5 pm. From 1 to 31 March from 9 to 19hs.

Inaugurated in 1874, the Baron Gerard Museum in Bayeux is a museum that combines art and history. It has a large collection of historical artifacts and works of art, ranging from prehistoric times to the twentieth century. It is worth noting its beautiful medieval tapestries.

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.

Information of interest:

• Location: 37 rue du Bienvenu, 14400 Bayeux.
• Price: from 7.50 euros per person. Children under 10 years old do not pay admission.
• Hours: from February 1 to April 30 from 10 am to 12:30 pm and from 2 pm to 6 pm. From May 1 to September 30 from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm. From October 1 to December 31 from 10 am to 12:30 pm and from 2 pm to 6 pm.