Renting an apartment in Caen means settling into the city of William the Conqueror, with its fortified castle, Romanesque abbeys and Memorial dedicated to peace. Rebuilt after 1944 and open to the sea, it is the ideal gateway to the D-Day beaches.
Where to stay in Caen?
City centre / Castle
Around the ducal castle and the shopping streets (Rue Saint-Pierre). Everything within walking distance: the best choice.
Le Vaugueux
Old Caen, largely spared by the destruction of 1944: cobbled lanes and restaurants. Charming and central.
Presqu'île / Marina
A district undergoing a major revival along the canal, modern and lively.
Train station / Right bank
Convenient for the train, a few minutes from the centre.
Practical information
Caen is easy to cross on foot, with the tram and buses (Twisto) for the rest. The sea (Ouistreham) is 15 minutes away and the D-Day beaches 20–40 minutes by car. Trains from Paris Saint-Lazare take about 2 hours. Expect to pay around €60–95 per night.
Things to see and do in Caen
William the Conqueror's castle, the Abbaye aux Hommes and the Abbaye aux Dames, the Mémorial de Caen, the Vaugueux district, the marina, and a trip to the D-Day beaches.
Frequently asked questions
Which area should I stay in when visiting Caen?
The centre / castle area to do everything on foot, Le Vaugueux for old-world charm, the Presqu'île for a modern setting.
How much does an apartment in Caen cost?
On average €60–95 per night in the centre, a little more in summer and during the D-Day commemorations.
Is Caen close to the D-Day beaches?
Yes: the sea is 15 minutes away and the D-Day beaches 20–40 minutes by car.
Can you get to Caen by train?
Yes: about 2 hours from Paris Saint-Lazare, with the station a few minutes from the centre.