This medieval Norman town houses the famous 70-meter tapestry depicting the 1066 conquest of England, and serves as a gateway to D-Day landing beaches and war memorials.
Bayeux's medieval streets wind past the Notre-Dame Cathedral's Gothic spires and along the River Aure, where ancient waterwheels still turn. In this Normandy town, you'll walk through the same museum halls as millions before you to see the 70-meter Bayeux Tapestry's intricate needlework. As the first French town liberated after D-Day, Bayeux sits just 10 kilometers from the D-Day beaches, with their bunkers, memorial sites, and museums.
Getting to Bayeux
Take a direct train from Paris Saint-Lazare station to reach Bayeux in 2.5 hours. If you're driving from Mont Saint-Michel, follow the A84 and D6 for about 1.5 hours. The town center spans just 800 meters across, making it easy to explore on foot.
Exploring the Medieval Center
Stroll through Rue Saint-Malo and Rue Saint-Martin, where local shops and cafes occupy buildings from the 14th to 18th centuries. The River Aure flows through town, with working waterwheels marking the locations of former tanneries. A 4-kilometer riverside path includes children's play areas and rest spots. Join Bayeux Discovery Walks' English-language tours at 9:30am daily from the tourist office.
The Bayeux Tapestry Museum
Examine 58 detailed scenes of William the Conqueror's invasion of England on this 70-meter embroidered cloth. Listen to audio guides in 16 languages while you walk along the tapestry, including special versions for children in French and English. The first-floor exhibition explains the tapestry's creation techniques and historical context. The museum will undergo renovations from September 2025 until October 2027.
Notre-Dame Cathedral
Step inside this 1077 cathedral to see its Norman-Romanesque and Gothic architecture. The original 11th-century crypt, western towers, and first level of the nave remain intact. Take a guided tour through the usually-closed chapter house and treasure room. The cathedral forms the centerpiece of a well-preserved Episcopal complex.
World War II Sites
Visit the Bayeux War Cemetery, where 4,648 soldiers rest, including 3,935 British and 466 German servicemen. The adjacent Memorial Museum of the Battle of Normandy displays military equipment, uniforms, and personal items from Allied and German forces. Study the detailed exhibits about Operation Overlord and the Battle of Normandy's progression through the region.
Day Trips to D-Day Beaches
Catch bus number 70 from Bayeux Saint Patrice stop to Omaha Beach. Buses run every hour from 10am to 5pm, with a 40-minute journey time. Local tour companies run guided visits to all five D-Day landing beaches, combining transportation with historical commentary from expert guides.
