In July 2020 Lore went on her first trip since the start of the pandemic, to Normandy in the north of France. It felt different and familiar at the same time. Lore appreciated the trip more than usual and could not stop taking pictures. Everyone was careful: we avoided the most crowded places and skipped a few activities that did not feel safe. Normandy is close to Belgium, easy to reach by car and full of postcard scenery. These are the six places we would add to your list.
Related: read about our autumn weekend on the Opal Coast, a little further up the coast.
At a glance
- How long: 4–5 days for a road trip
- Best time: May–June and September
- Getting there: Drive from Belgium or take a ferry or train to Caen; Paris is a common gateway
- Good for: Road trips, coastal towns and history
Top sights
- Honfleur
- Etretat
- Caen
- Saint-Malo
- Mont-Saint-Michel
- Deauville
Six places to add to your Normandy list
1. Honfleur
Honfleur is a pretty harbour town with tall, narrow houses along the water. It is an easy place for a slow walk and a coffee by the boats, and it is popular for photos. We saved Honfleur for last, and it felt like we had kept the best for last.
2. Etretat
Etretat is known for its white chalk cliffs and the natural arches rising from the sea. The grassy cliff tops are a good place to sit and look out over the water, as you can see in our photos.
3. Caen
Caen is one of the larger cities in Normandy. It has a long history, and it is a good base if you want some city life between the coast and the countryside.
4. Saint-Malo
Saint-Malo is a walled port town on the coast. Strictly speaking it lies in neighbouring Brittany, but it is often added to a Normandy trip.
5. Le Mont Saint-Michel
The abbey on its tidal island is one of the most recognisable places in France. Check the visiting information before you go, and expect crowds in high season.
6. Deauville
Deauville is a classic seaside resort, with a long beach and a relaxed promenade.
Good to know
- Normandy is best explored by car, since the places are spread along the coast. From Belgium most visitors drive.
- In 2020 we avoided the most crowded places, which worked well. Early morning and the shoulder season are usually calmer.
- Pack a windproof jacket, even in summer, because the coast can be breezy.
- A good camera or phone is useful: the cliffs, harbours and beaches are very photogenic.
Heading further south? Our road trips through the Côte d’Azur and Provence and our favourite European road trips have more ideas. If you are planning something closer to home, start with our Belgian weekend guide.
FAQ
What are the best places to visit in Normandy?
Our shortlist is Honfleur, Etretat, Caen, Saint-Malo, Le Mont Saint-Michel and Deauville.
Is Normandy worth a trip from Belgium?
Yes, it is within easy driving distance and varied: harbour towns, white cliffs, a historic city, seaside resorts and a famous abbey.
Is Saint-Malo in Normandy?
Not exactly. It is in Brittany, just across the regional border, but it often features on Normandy itineraries.
How do you get around?
Mostly by car. That also gives you the freedom to avoid the crowded places at busy times.
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