Bayeux, France

Welcome to Bayeux, a charming commune located in the Calvados department in Normandy, northwestern France. This historic city is best known for the Bayeux Tapestry, which depicts the events leading up to the Norman conquest of England. In addition to its rich history, Bayeux is also famous for being the first major town secured by the Allies during Operation Overlord. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip to Bayeux.

Bayeux is located just 7 kilometers (4 miles) from the coast of the English Channel and 30 km (19 mi) northwest of Caen. The city is easily accessible by train as Bayeux station has rail connections to Caen, Cherbourg, Granville, and Paris. If you’re driving, Bayeux is located at the crossroads of RN 13.

One of the main attractions in Bayeux is the Bayeux Tapestry, which is displayed in a museum in the town center. The tapestry was made to commemorate events in the Norman Conquest of England in 1066 and is almost certainly designed and stitched in England, as evidenced by its English spellings. The large Norman-Romanesque and Gothic Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Bayeux, consecrated in 1077, was probably the original home of the tapestry.

If you’re interested in history, you can also visit the Bayeux War Cemetery, which includes the largest British cemetery dating from the Second World War in France. There are 4,648 graves, including 3,935 British and 466 Germans. Most of those buried there were killed in the invasion of Normandy.

Bayeux is also a great place to explore on foot. The city is bisected by the River Aure, which offers panoramic views from a number of locations. You can take a stroll through the charming streets of the city and admire the many mansions that were built after the Battle of Formigny when Bayeux returned to prosperity.

Finally, Bayeux is a great place to sample local cuisine. The city is located in the Bessin, which is known for its seafood. Be sure to try the local specialty of moules-frites (mussels and fries) and wash it down with a glass of local cider.

Whether you’re interested in history, exploring charming streets, or sampling local cuisine, Bayeux has something to offer everyone. Plan your trip today and discover this hidden gem in northwestern France!