Making the most of Caen
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
The Port of Caen-Ouistreham is a commercial + cruise port operated by Ports de Normandie.
It’s connected to the sea by the 15 km long Canal de Caen à la Mer from Ouistreham to the city centre of Caen.
Ships access the canal and then arrive into the quay area in Caen itself (for smaller vessels) or dock at Ouistreham (for larger).
There is a bus service operated by Twisto: line 12 (and its 12 Express variant) connecting the port (Ouistreham) with the city centre of Caen. Tickets cost about €2 and the ride takes approx 19-30 minutes.
Sightseeing
Visit the Caen tourist site
Château de Caen (Caen Castle) Built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century. One of the largest medieval fortresses in Europe. Houses the Musée de Normandie and Musée des Beaux-Arts.
Mémorial de Caen (Caen Memorial Museum) One of France’s most important WWII museums. Covers D-Day, the Battle of Normandy, and peace efforts after 1945. Includes excellent exhibits, films, and memorial gardens.
Nearby places
Hillman Fortress & Batterie de Merville (nearby) WWII German bunkers and coastal defenses turned into small museums