We visited this abbey on our way from Étretat to Mont Saint-Michel Castle — it’s definitely a place worth including in your Normandy itinerary. Entrance to the abbey is paid, but access to the church itself is free. The church is located to the right of the main entrance. Parking is convenient — right under the abbey.

One of the must-see sites in Caen is the Abbaye aux Hommes, a former men’s abbey with centuries of history and an example of the blend of Norman Romanesque and early Gothic architectural styles. This abbey, founded in the 11th century, is one of the main attractions of the city of Caen and functions as a parish church. Part of the abbey has been transformed into a museum where visitors can learn about the history and architecture of the complex. The abbey, like several other historic buildings, is part of the campus of the University of Caen, creating a blend of history and modern academic life. The abbey also houses the tomb of William the Conqueror, making it a place of pilgrimage for historians and tourists interested in medieval history.

Come here as early as you can and allow 4 hours for the visit if you want to read every sign. Its absolutely worth it as you learn so so much. You learn about William the Conqueror, about Caen in Dday, about the high school that was once here. You can see the ruins from the bombings in the nearby buildings across the Abbaye. Lots of information provided and difficult to imagine what was once happening here.

I've seen this building last year for gala dinner held by horse genome project 2024. That was stunning with wall painting and colors.

Came to see William The Conquerors tomb, but the Abbey & its exhibitions next door are so much more! Definitely a must if you are visiting Caen

Very nice exhibits. Make sure to visit the cathedral as well. The tomb of William the Conqueror is in the church.

One of the most monumental cathedrals, it is significant both for its beauty and its long history. It is a must-see.

Our tour was just incredible! Ana was our guide and Sebastien was our driver. They were simply amazing and so knowledgeable. I thought I knew a lot about WWII until Ana shared some amazing stories and facts on our tour. Highly recommend!!!

It was amazing, well designed and very interesting. There’s also a bunker and a special price for students (€6). Many interesting displays are worth seeing, and I would definitely recommend visiting this place.

Fabulous museum. Excellent presentation of the historical path leading to WW2 and the subsequent events, not only in Europe but across the world. Balanced and even handed treatment of the role played by all sides (good and bad). Good blend of objects, images, videos and textual explanation. Perfect closure to a few days visiting the historical sites of the area. Highly recommended.

This is “THE” Normandy to take. Private tour with our wonderful guide Lena. Very knowledgeable and so informative. If you don’t want headphones and don’t want to read every placard this is the best way to get the Normandy experience. Even if you are not a WWII buff or into WWII history you will really enjoy this tour. I highly recommend it.

A pure and epic monument to the battle of Normandy and more. If you're travelling to or through Caen, this is a must see for all. Beautiful grounds, incredible memorials and history.

Good museum, you can spend alot of time here if you to know every detail of the war. Information, photos and displayed items also a 360 cinema

Mario (our guide) was so informative, funny and knowledgeable! He really made our trip memorable! And our driver (Leonie) was always on time and had the bus ready for us! She even had water waiting for us!

Modern stained glass at the east end; glorious ancient building.

Very early Churvh established by William the Conqueror because he married his cousin, Matilda ( 1st cousin??? Not sure): the Pope listened to the politics, and decided it was a good time to show his Strength and threatened to Annull the Marriage. So William, being Saavy, build 2 Churches ( Hommes & Dames) and forced the Pope to Honor the marraige. The pope didn't realize this Church & Hommes would last over 1000 years & solidify the Memory of Brave Will the Conqueror, while few remember the name of that Pope whats-his-face. Well Done Will!

Beautiful Location that is enriched in authentic paints, murals and sculptures. Abbaye aux Dames de Caen was peaceful and a location you can visit to reflect. The architectural detail is fabulous. Would recommend visiting if you go to Caen.

Stunning. A must-see if you are in Caen. Don't miss the adjacent gardens, which are also free to enter. There is a large cedar tree, and great views from here over the city. When I visited there was an art exhibition on in the Abbey. Part of the Abbey dates back to 1060.

Lovely church and moving to see the tombstone of Mathilda, wife of William the Conqueror.

Despite the crowds, this is so worth it. We did not opt for the tablets for our guided tour. The tablet offers very nice extras, such as simulations of what the room you are in would have looked like, but when touring the abbey, I thought it a pity that most visitors were checking the tablet rather than taking in the experience.

I visited it for the open ceremony of Les boréales. Magic historic space. Love it so much

Not much of a castle but mostly ruins and some wall and courtyard structures still standing along with some minarets. A nice place for a hangout and picnic during the nice weather! This was a quick visit and free as well.

Inside, there are several playgrounds for children and a nice park with benches where you can relax and rest. Within the walls, you’ll also find a café and a museum, and you can walk along the entire rampart. From the tower, you can enjoy a wonderful view of Caen from above.

A wonderful experience which is free. The castle grounds are extensive and the view from the towers is spectacular. There are several art installations in the grounds including a Rodin. A good shop and also a nice restaurant

This historic site is really interesting with it having a medieval castle ( with its walls still being mostly intact) and a museum to look around. I really enjoyed looking around and being able to have a first person experience with one of Caens most historic landmarks. The views of the city below are beautiful with you being able to see miles in every direction. Would definitely recommend for lovers of history.

I don't know who was in charge of placing the museum entrance to the other side of the main building where you can't find it, not too smart. I mean seriously how much income are you losing because you're hiding THE FRONT DOOR!? I was ready to buy a ticket when I entered the building that looks like it should be the entrance to the museum, but I was abruptly brushed off with "Go to the other entrance on the other side." I looked for it, I could not find it. So I kept my money in my pocket and look at all the ancient buildings and the un-celebrated RODIN modestly hanging out by the path. I had just paid a lot to see his creations at the Musée d'Orsay in Paris and it was awesome to see Rodin's Working Man sculpture right there out in the open. The 2000 year old buildings were great and the many benches and wide Open spaces were relaxing as a public park. Mid afternoon, there was a cafe but it wasn't open. If I were the Mairie of Caen paying these people, I wouldn't. Their incompetence and lack of people skills is costing money that you could use to pay better employees.

Large castle on a hill in the centre of the city. Nice to walk around (free entry and open until 22:30). There are some museums inside as well.

Was really surprised we were able to access the castle at anytime, it is a beautiful place to wander around and look over the city from atop the walls! Well looked after, great stop when in Caen!

The exhibition is not foreign tourist friendly. The information about the paintings and other things are all in French! I understand that museum is located in France. But do you expect that every tourist coming to Caen for a couple of days who wants to learn about French history, culture and art will know French language?

A solid, no-nonsense museum about Normandy’s history and culture. Lots of artifacts from prehistory to modern times, but nothing that’ll leave you stunned. More of a quiet detour than a must-see — great if you’re into history, or just need a break from the crowds. Nice enough, just don’t expect fireworks.

Relatively small but informative museum. It was about the Caen area through the ages and had some interesting artifacts (found the hand made lace very interesting) for English speakers only some of the information is provided in English but if you know how to use Google lens you'll be fine.

Normally I don't visit on site museums but I decided to visit this one and was not disappointed . There was lots to see and also much more than simple art. Lots to discover about the history of Normandy and William the Conqueror in particular.

Nice museum about the history if Normandie. Not related to WW2

Interesting museum, full of facts, figures and life in Normandy

From the stone age to today everything you could want to know about Normandy.

I really had a good dinner at this small cozy restaurant. The food was absolutely delicious, I mean the bread was even warm and soft when they were served! The price was reasonable and the staff was friendly. I couldn’t fault a thing! Really spent a great night at this restaurant.

Absolutely wonderful. Lovely french cuisine. Small but perfect menu that offered a superb choice. The food was absolutely delicious and we couldn't fault a thing. Great selection of wine. The staff were super friendly and helpful. Would definitely recommend it if you would like to try out a great, classic local bistro.

Must-visit restaurant in Caen. Remarkable food: looks fantastic and tastes out of this world. Cozy atmosphere and hospitable service. Absolutely must to visit!

Excellent menu and cuisine! Good wine! Charming atmosphere. We loved everything we ordered...and would definitely go back!

Just the right size. Magic comes from the diminutive kitchen. Hand written menus on display boards... simple but great wine list. She helped pair for each course. A great culinary experience. Our favorite spot in Caen!

Absolutely incredible. As an American who doesn't speak French I felt very welcomed. Everything was perfect! The best food I've eaten in France so far!

Great atmosphere, busy, but service still attentive. Menu looked good, french cuisine with a twist. Only 4xstars as steaks could have been better, but the taste of the sauces was great

Top notch food, service and atmosphere! Will definitely come back in September.

Amazing restaurant. We had the menu saveur with the paired wines and every course was delicious. The staff were attentive but we never felt rushed (we were in there nearly 3 hours). It's not a cheap place but that's no surprise with the quality of the food and the restaurant as a whole.

First of all, the staff was very friendly and helpful in explaining the different types of tasting menu. We chose the Incognito Tasting Menu which was interesting. Quality of ingredients and flavor were great. It fell a bit flat on the crab meat dish, but everything else was fantastic. Interior feels a bit dated and might need a little bit of refreshing. Over-all, a wonderful experience.

Delicious place, food is beautiful and good. High level service.

Extremely friendly and Md made us feel most welcome Food was delicious my wife had the excellent vegetarian menu while I had the a La carte the scallops were stunning Would certainly revisit if in Caen again

Honestly, the experience was quite disappointing. The dessert was excellent but the appetizers were far too salty and the entree of white fish was really bland and served with cold vegetables. The main of St. Jacques was well cooked but nothing exciting. The service was smothering at times and the waiters visited our table almost every 5 minutes which killed the atmosphere and interrupted our conversations.... at one point I was still chewing the food in my mouth when she removed my plate & then she stood there waiting. My partner still had his appetiser on the plate & was chewing, she said "I'm waiting to take your plate" so he was forced to take the remaining food in his hand. Not really good service and far too efficient, just felt like even though the restaurant was quiet, they were in a rush to get people out. I'm surprised this is a star restaurant and would not return.

Completely deserves its Michelin star. We took the surprise menu on the first evening and were so pleased that we came back few days later with family for the lunch menu. Innovative dishes, excellent cooking. You can see the "brigade" at work behind a glass window. The only down side is the dark design of the dining hall...but it is purely subjective

Phenomenal and very good value for the quality of the food and the experience. Really highly recommend

I had a fantastic experience at this restaurant! The food was top-notch and the service was exceptional. The planned menu with wine is a must-try, and definitely worth the price. The staff were very knowledgeable about the dishes and made sure that everything was explained thoroughly. The atmosphere is pleasant and welcoming, making it a great choice for special occasions or a night out. Although parking can be a bit tricky, it's well worth the effort. I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for an unforgettable dining experience in Caen.

A simply amazing experience! We had the 4 course "surprise" menu and every single item (including the amuse bouche) was a memorable. The locally sourced lamb course was both excellent and very creative as was the fish (lieu jaune prepared in a sushi style with courgette sauce and quinoa). Make no mistake, you are at the frontiers of taste here. Add in the flawless and very welcoming service, the excellent wine list, and the beautifully restored dining room and you have one of the best addresses in all Normandy (and perhaps in all of France). Very much recommended. We hope to return -- often.

This is a "must go" place. We chose the planned menu with wine, which came out about 60Euro. 5 on the menu but it's actually 7 courses. AMAZING food, and the staff are so wonderful. The chef made sure that the food came out right in time so that we have a steady flow and none got cold, etc. For the price, the menu is way worth more than its costs!

My friend Maurice and I had the tasting menu with matching wines. An excellent menu with splendid service. The price is very good value considering the standard of food and wine.

So far.... the best 1 star that we have gone to on this trip... playful, sometimes odd, but overall a very pleasant experience! Would recommend to go

A nice and pleasant place to go. I took my wife to this restaurant for her birthday . it was a great night. the food was exeptional. the two girls were so kind and they explaind us every thing about the food very well.we will go back as we enjoyed it so much. the quality of food is top of the top. once again a nice place to go.

A Wonderful experience and must dine! Food was superb, service first class and very attentive staff. A pleasure to dine and well worth the Michelin star !

Menu of seven courses @Eu78 per person, with paired wine. Food and wine and service were all exquisite. Will definitely visit again.

Great food and service. Glad we chose to stay here and had dinner here.

Restaurant Ivan Gautier, Caen, Normandy, FRANCE A la carte or any of three menus available. We chose the 'chef's choice' menu where all courses were a total surprise, selected by the chef. LE MENU (translated to English by Lionel, Reception) Appetizer : Norman “bleu” cheese emulsion ( Made in La Talboisière close to Tinchebray ) - parsley sorbet – “bleu” cheese crackers Starter : Seabream – Nori – juice and cream shrimps Fish : Cod fish rubbed with salt – sea spinach – mustard seed, onions and capers Meal : Piece of veal collected from rib steak – coffee juice and lemon verbena emulsion – small grenaille potatoes with verbena pesto – verbena crumble Dessert : Ice parfait with thyme on crusty hazelnut biscuit – peach coulis – avocado ice cream – crude and baked peach marmalade – milk and hazelnut emulsion.

The service was outstanding, but specially the young brunette waitress who really did an effort to explain to me every dishes she served in English (I don't know French). We had de "I trust the cheff menu" and it was delicious; however, what we enjoyed the most was the dessert, a litchi fruit served on a spoon that melted in your mouth with an explosion of flavors. The rest of the menu was good, even risky at some points, but not so surprising. It has to be said that we left completely full. Overall, it was a great experience: good food and excellent service.

Good food and great service. Unfortunately that day I was in a hurry and was only able to stay for 1 hour, but the staff was very flexible, understandable, and was able to serve my lunch within that time range.

We did the chef's menu. It was creative and delightful. The mackerel was delectable. All other dishes were well prepared and exceptionally plated.

Excellent service, lovely setting. Surprising, always perfect compositions. Great value. Highly recommended!

An elegant evening with beautiful and delicious selections! The perfect place for a special occasion, or a place to make an occasion special!

Lots of choices and Nice meat selection however it average for me. Their chocolate cake was delicious. Overall a decent experience

Brilliant experience and a really enjoyable meal. Lots of delicious options and the welcome and service was top drawer!

Very good buffet with veggies cooked on plancha. I recommend going with an empty belly because there is a lot of food to choose from. Very large variety of veggies, with uncommon ones. Same for the choices of meat, all from local butchers and producers.

Magnificent. Helpful staff. Delicious food. Delicious desserts.

Nice place with cool concept. I liked both food and people working there, good job 👍

Amazing place where you can enjoy your evening with your family or friends

Excellent restaurant, super service.