Destinations

Your Essential Travel Guide to Normandy

Normandy

What to do in Normandy

An unforgettable getaway to France is just across the channel! Take a UK to Normandy ferry and arrive in the heart of Seine-Maritime in just 4 hours.

Rich in history and boasting stunning coastal areas as well as picturesque French villages, you won’t want to miss a visit to this beautiful region. Take a ferry to Normandy and upon disembarkation in Dieppe, you’ll be just over 2 and a half hours away from Disneyland Paris, and even closer to the City of Love itself.

There are endless opportunities to discover in Normandy. From speciality gastronomy to breath-taking countryside, there is something for everyone.

How to get to Normandy

How to get to Normandy

Catching the ferry to Normandy is easy from the UK. DFDS runs daily direct ferry crossings to Normandy on our Newhaven to Dieppe route. Alternatively, cross from Dover to Dunkirk or Calais and access the rest of Northern France easily via car. Drive from Calais to Normandy in under 2 hours!

Cross the channel and discover a world of opportunities. Whether you dream of venturing on a once-in-a-lifetime road trip around Northern France, or taking a relaxed city break with family, visit Normandy with a DFDS ferry and your holiday will begin the moment you step onboard.

What to do in Normandy?

Immerse yourself in the beauty and history of Normandy! For your cultural indulgences, one of the region’s most famous landmarks is Mont St Michel, an island commune that defies time with its traditional cobbled streets and abbey perched on a rock above the village.

If history is your thing, why not marvel at the Bayeux Tapestry? This unparalleled masterpiece dates back to the 11th Century and tells the unique story behind battles and conquests 1000 years ago! The Bayeux Tapestry Museum is one of countless captivating places to visit in Normandy.

And, if you’re wondering what’s the best month to visit Normandy, June to August promises the best weather. Make the most of the sun and take a tour along Cider Route though orchards, farmhouses, and picturesque French villages. One of the best cities to visit in Normandy is Rouen: explore its majestic medieval quarter with ancient winding streets on a walking tour that will transport you back in time. There is no better way to explore all that Normandy has to offer - an unforgettable experience await

What famous landmarks to see in Normandy?

Crossing the Channel with a ferry to France has long been the gateway to countless journeys of inspirations and exploration. The region is especially famous for being the site of the D-Day Landings during World War II, as well as being home to some of France's most magnificent cathedrals, including Rouen, Bayeux and Lisieux.

If you’re craving a holiday by the sea surrounded by natural beauty, Normandy is the place for you. Whether traveling with friends, with family or exploring solo, there is plenty to see and do, from exploring charming medieval villages to hiking through picturesque forests.

What is Normandy famous for?

Normandy is a region that truly celebrates delectable gastronomy! If you’re wondering what to eat and drink in Normandy, you will be spoiled for choice. There’s something for everyone, from the production of locally made cider, perry, apple juice and calvados (why not try this tour and tasting experience?) to its delectable shellfish. Not forgetting it was also where this delightful treat brioche originated from.

If you're looking for something really special, be sure to visit President Cheese Farm in the heart of Camembert. Check out their traditional cheese-making methods while you’re there too – an experience not to be missed during your stay here in Normandy's fabulous cuisine scene!

FAQ

DFDS provides regular direct ferry routes between Newhaven and Dieppe, taking you by ferry from UK to Normandy. Alternatively, take a DFDS ferry from Dover to arrive in either Calais or Dunkirk, which are just 2 hours’ drive from Normandy.

The best way to get to Northern France is taking a ferry to Normandy - DFDS provides a regular direct ferry route between Newhaven and Dieppe. Ferry travel is a great way to explore some of the stunning scenery along the coastline of Northern France, or captivating destinations such as Caen, Cherbourg and Le Havre.

Generally, June to August is considered peak tourist season, with warm and sunny weather and plenty of attractions to explore. If you’re looking for cheaper travel, consider traveling in spring or autumn and take advantage of DFDS’s special offers on ferries from Newhaven to Dieppe. Explore Normandy’s beautiful villages and hidden gems away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist season.

If you're interested in exploring some of the D-Day beaches, a few days should be enough. A full tour of Normandy, including other popular sites such as Mont Saint-Michel and Rouen, can take up to a week or more. DFDS offers direct ferry routes from the UK to Dieppe, so no matter how long your stay is, travelling by ferry makes an ideal choice.

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