I have booked a few full-day WWII Normandy landing tours in Bayeux, France on July 5 and 6. I am looking for recommendations on sites to see right in Bayeux that are within walking distance of the the Bayeux train station as I will not have a car.
Any recommendations on a reasonably priced hotel in Paris that is near Saint-Lazare station is appreciated!
The number one must see in Bayeux is the Tapestry whether it is walking distance or not --- absolute must.
Thank you janettravels44 - I'll be sure to see the tapestries. I read about them and definitely have this on my list!
Also worthwhile are the cathedral (in the center of town) and the very good invasion museum along the ring road west of the train station. There's also a British war cemetery near the museum. Prior to the pandemic the tourist office offered a walking tour of the historic center that I enjoyed, but it may be scheduled in the morning, before you arrive.
You can see the locations of the key tourist sights in Bayeux on Google Maps. The train station is south of the center, just beyond the ring road. Google Maps will estimate walking times for you at 20 minutes per mile.
Excellent suggestions. I will have a full day to explore on my own.
I'll add to the chorus for the Museum of the Battle of Normandy (one of the best in the region IMHO), the Tapestry and the Bayeux Cathedral. Once you are in downtown where the latter two are located, it is also nice to just walk the little paths and sidewalks next to the river with the picturesque watermill. It is a nice, park-like area. If the weather is conducive, I almost always stop for a drink or a meal outdoors at the Hôtel Reine Mathilde. Nice light dining fare right near the river with friendly service. Of course, there are also other, even better restaurants in town if you want something less casual.
Thanks Pharmer Phil!
Does anyone know if it's best to purchase the train tickets from/to Paris in advance or can I purchase the day of travel? Do they ever sell-out during tourist season requiring that it's best to buy them ahead of time?
You should already be able to buy them. It will be cheaper, much cheaper. Reservations are now mandatory on the route so I assume it sells out. It used not to be the case (but you could be standing all the way to Caen on busy days, so...).
Good to know. I will buy them now!
