Caen, France: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Caen, France? If you're planning to go to Caen, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Caen, France

Based on the climate and weather in Caen, France, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Caen, France

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Caen, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Caen, France by month

January

If you are traveling to Caen in January, you will notice that it can be very chilly. Daytime temperatures are in the 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Caen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Make sure to pick the right type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you are intending to see the must-see Abbey of Saint-Étienne, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you visit the Museum of Normandy, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

February is pretty cool. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Caen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Take care to choose the necessary type. Many adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are intending to see the must-see Abbey of Saint-Étienne, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you visit the Museum of Normandy, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

March in Caen is cold. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Caen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Make sure to get the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you are intending to see the must-see Abbey of Saint-Étienne, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you visit the Museum of Normandy, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

If you go to Caen in April, you will notice that it can be chilly. Daytime temperatures are in the 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Caen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be careful to find the correct type. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are intending to see the must-see Abbey of Saint-Étienne, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you visit the Museum of Normandy, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

If you visit Caen during May, you might find that it is chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Caen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Take care to find the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you are intending to see the must-see Abbey of Saint-Étienne, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you visit the Museum of Normandy, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

If you are traveling to Caen in June, you will notice that it is balmy. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Caen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Ensure that you choose the correct type. Many adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

If you are intending to see the must-see Abbey of Saint-Étienne, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you visit the Museum of Normandy, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

July in Caen is mild. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) to low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Caen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be sure to choose the right kind. Many adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you are intending to see the must-see Abbey of Saint-Étienne, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you visit the Museum of Normandy, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

If you go to Caen in August, you will notice that it is warm. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Caen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Check that you find the necessary kind. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

If you are intending to see the must-see Abbey of Saint-Étienne, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you visit the Museum of Normandy, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

If you vacation in Caen during September, you are likely to see that it is balmy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Caen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. It's important that you pick the necessary type. Many adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you are intending to see the must-see Abbey of Saint-Étienne, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you visit the Museum of Normandy, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

If you are traveling to Caen in October, you will notice that it is cool. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Caen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be careful to get the right type. Many adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

If you are intending to see the must-see Abbey of Saint-Étienne, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you visit the Museum of Normandy, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November is cold. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Caen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Ensure that you find the correct kind. Many adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you are intending to see the must-see Abbey of Saint-Étienne, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you visit the Museum of Normandy, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

If you vacation in Caen during December, you are likely to notice that it can be brisk. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 80 and 90% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Caen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be sure to find the correct type. Most adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are intending to see the must-see Abbey of Saint-Étienne, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you visit the Museum of Normandy, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Caen, France

Caen, a city located in Normandy, France, is a perfect destination for those who love history, art, and architecture. The city is known for its rich historical background and is often called the "City of William the Conqueror." There are plenty of things to see and do while in Caen, making it an ideal place to visit for both solo travelers and families. Here are the top tourist attractions in Caen France:

1. Caen Castle

Caen Castle is an impressive fortress that dominates the city. Constructed in the 11th century by William the Conqueror, the castle now houses two museums: the Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Normandy. The castle's architecture is an impressive combination of Romanesque and Gothic styles, making it a must-visit site for architecture enthusiasts.

2. Abbaye aux Hommes (Men's Abbey)

The Abbaye aux Hommes, also known as the Men's Abbey, is a beautiful monastery founded in the 11th century by William the Conqueror. The abbey boasts of a stunning interior and impressive architectural design, making it an ideal place for visitors interested in history, architecture, and religion. The abbey is also the final resting place of William the Conqueror, and his tomb is one of the highlights for many visitors.

3. Abbaye aux Dames (Women's Abbey)

If you are interested in visiting religious and historic sites, then the Abbaye aux Dames or Women's Abbey is a perfect destination for you. This impressive 11th-century abbey is the final resting place of William the Conqueror's wife, Matilda of Flanders. The abbey features many interesting architectural elements, including stunning Norman Romanesque arcades, a nave with a wooden roof, and a unique chapel built during the Gothic era.

4. Musee de la Tapisserie de Bayeux (Bayeux Tapestry Museum)

Located just a short distance from Caen is the Bayeux Tapestry Museum. The museum is home to the Bayeux Tapestry, an impressive 11th-century embroidered cloth that tells the story of the Norman Conquest of England. The tapestry, although over nine centuries old, is still in remarkable condition, and visitors can explore the museum's many exhibits, interactive multimedia displays, and insightful artifacts that help to provide context for the Bayeux Tapestry's historical significance.

5. Memorial de Caen (Caen Memorial)

For those interested in World War II history, the Caen Memorial is a must-visit site. The museum is an impressive exhibition of world history in the 20th century, with a particular focus on the events leading up to and during World War II. The museum has a unique collection of objects, documents, and photographs, along with interactive displays, that allow visitors to relive the experience of war and gain new insight into the events that shaped the world.

6. Saint-Etienne-le-Vieux (Old Saint-Etienne Church)

The ruins of the Old Saint-Etienne Church are among the most charming places in Caen. The church was once one of the most important religious sites in the city, and its ruins now serve as a reminder of its importance. Visitors to the site can explore the ruins and learn about the historical and architectural significance of the building.

In conclusion, Caen is a city of rich history and culture with a lot to offer visitors. From stunning Gothic and Romanesque architecture to fascinating museums that showcase the city's past and art, Caen is a must-visit destination for those interested in history, art, and architecture. Whether you're traveling solo, with friends, or as a family, Caen has something to offer everyone.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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