Visiting Bayeux, Normandy can be a truly wonderful experience. You can visit the beautiful Cathedral Notre-Dame de Bayeux and you can visit the Museum of the Battle of Normandy. You can also visit the Mont St. Michel and other attractions.
Visit the Cathedral Notre-Dame de Bayeux
Located in the center of Bayeux, the Cathedral Notre-Dame de Bayeux is a remarkable religious building. This magnificent structure is over 900 years old and is a must see attraction in the region.
The cathedral is a blend of Gothic and Romanesque architecture, mostly from the 13th century. The interior is beautiful and feels airy. During the day, the cathedral is illuminated by colored lights. You will find an 11th-century crypt and a Romanesque chapter house.
One of the most prominent attractions in Bayeux is the Bayeux Tapestry. This beautiful tapestry is almost 1000 years old. It is now part of the Museum of the Bayeux Tapestry. It is a huge tourist draw and was a significant event in Normandy's history. The tapestry is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The cathedral was built to replace a Carolingian church that burned down in 1047. It was later rebuilt in Gothic style. In the 18th century, a Neo-Gothic cap was added. The upper parts of the cathedral are soaring and elegant.
The cathedral's spire is 95 metres high. It is surrounded by gargoyles, who stare down on the exterior of the cathedral. The cathedral is free to enter, but there are no public parking spaces. The best way to visit the cathedral is to take a guided tour. You can purchase guide books from the Tourist Office in the cathedral.
Visit the Museum of the Battle of Normandy
Visiting the Museum of the Battle of Normandy is a great way to learn about the American effort during the war. Located in Bayeux, it offers an authentic look at the Allied invasion and military equipment used during the fighting.
The museum features a variety of vehicles, uniforms and military equipment. It also displays artifacts and contemporary items from both sides of the war. The museum is also home to the WWII section of the Caen Memorial.
The D-Day Experience is an excellent, well-constructed museum that is designed to make history more understandable for younger visitors. The museum has a large collection of items and exhibits, including a C-47, authentic weapons and equipment and a clifftop with bomb craters. The museum is open daily from 9:30 to 18:30.
The Falaise Memorial is another wonderful museum in Normandy. It's a great place to explore the relationship between civilians and soldiers during the German occupation. It also contains a fascinating film. It's also available for discounted admission for military personnel and their families. It's open from 10 am to 6 pm and is a great destination for a family outing.
The Pegasus Bridge Museum has a wide selection of World War II artifacts. It also features the original Pegasus Bridge, which was built for the British 6th Airborne Division. Its rooftop provides a panoramic view of the city and Orne River.
Visit Mont St. Michel
Located off the coast of Normandy, Mont St Michel is a must see in France. It's a medieval monastery and an island fortified in the middle of a huge bay. This island is a religious pilgrimage site. If you want to visit, you'll have to plan ahead. It's a very popular tourist destination in the summer. You may have to wait in line to get in, so it's a good idea to buy your tickets in advance.
You'll need to arrive early to avoid traffic. There are plenty of restaurants, so you'll want to grab a bite to eat. Several of them accept advance group reservations.
The Grand-Rue is lined with shops selling souvenirs. You can also find a few museums on the island.
If you're visiting in the fall, you'll be treated to some of the highest tides of the year. You'll want to be prepared with waterproof clothing and protection from the wind.
If you're planning to climb the mountain, you should check out the Mont St. Michel Abbey. It was built by Benedictine monks in the 10th century. The church offers a good break from the climbing.
You can also take a guided tour of the abbey. There are several museums, religious rooms, and other places of interest.