Private Tour: Bayeux Sightseeing and Caen Day Trip from Bayeux

Bayeux, France

Let a private guide introduce you to Normandy’s fascinating history on a full-day private tour of Bayeux and Caen. Start by exploring Bayeux's medieval streets, with visits to Bayeux Cathedral and Bayeux Tapestry Museum. Then, head to Caen, the city of William the Conqueror, the most famous of the dukes of Normandy. See his palace remains at Château de Caen and burial site at the Romanesque Abbey of St-Etienne (Men's Abbey). The itinerary on this private tour is flexible, however all entrance fees are at your own expense.

After a pickup from your Bayeux hotel in the morning, start your full-day tour by discovering the historical town with your private guide. Founded by the Romans, Bayeux was later one of the major towns of the Dukedom of Normandy.

Your first stop is Bayeux Cathedral, built in the 11th century at the request of the unpopular Earl of Kent, Odo, who was also the Bishop of Bayeux and William the Conqueror’s half-brother. Next, visit Bayeux Tapestry Museum to view the impressive Bayeux Tapestry, a famous art piece that depicts the events leading up to the Norman conquest of England.

Set out on foot through Bayeux’s medieval streets, flanked with centuries-old half-timbered houses. Depending on your interests, your guide will give you the option of a visit to the Conservatoire de la Dentelle to see lace makers at work or a visit to Baron Gérard Fine Arts Museum. Stop at Bayeux War Cemetery, the largest World War II cemetery of Commonwealth soldiers in France, before breaking for lunch on your own.

Then it’s off to Caen for your comprehensive tour of the city of William the Conqueror, the most famous of the dukes of Normandy. Listen to your guide revealing Caen’s long and complicated, yet significant, history while pointing out buildings erected during his reign. Hear the story behind the controversial marriage of William and Mathilda of Flanders as you visit the Abbey of St-Etienne (also known as Men's Abbey or Abbaye aux Hommes), a former monastery that is considered one of Normandy’s most remarkable Romanesque buildings.

Continue to Château de Caen (Caen Castle), situated on a rocky outcrop with wonderful views over the city. Here you’ll see the archaeological remains of Vieux Palais (Old Palace), William's former palace.

Your last stop is the Abbey of Ste-Trinité (Women’s Abbey, or Abbaye aux Dames), the counterpart of the Men’s Abbey, where Queen Mathilda is buried. Your tour then finishes in the evening with a drop-off at your Bayeux hotel.