Caen City Guide

Local food highlights traditional Normandy recipes, with more vegetarian and vegan options appearing. International eats are easy to find downtown. Late-night food is limited to fast food and some bars.

Caen’s nightlife is active around the Port and Vaugueux, with many bars and a few clubs. Nights are lively, mostly thanks to students.

Coffee culture is traditional but evolving. Most cafés serve espresso, but a few specialty coffee shops are cropping up in the center.

Tipping isn’t required since service is included, but rounding up or leaving a small amount for great service is kind.

SIM cards are sold at mobile provider stores and some supermarkets. eSIMs are also available. Bring your passport for registration.

The city center is quite clean and well kept. Waste collection and recycling work well.

24/7 services are rare. A few late-night shops, emergency hospital care, and some fast food are all you’ll find after normal hours.

Major supermarkets like Carrefour, Auchan, Leclerc, and Lidl carry local and international food. Fresh markets add variety but are open only on specific days. Most stores close Sundays, but some smaller shops have limited hours.

Card payments work in most shops and restaurants. Cash is mostly needed at local markets or for smaller buys.

ATMs are easy to find, especially at main bank branches. Fees are low for European cards, but international fees might apply.

Most schools teach in French, but a few private ones may offer bilingual programs. Public and private options are available. International-style schools are limited.

There is a small but slowly growing digital nomad and expat community. Most connections happen in coworking spaces or online groups.

Caen has several large parks and riverside areas good for relaxing or exercise. Parks are easily reached from most neighborhoods.

The city is good for runners, with scenic routes along the Orne river and parks. It's safe and has running clubs.

Several gyms are spread around the city, offering good equipment and memberships to suit different needs.

Tennis courts are common. Clubs offer several surfaces, and you can usually rent equipment.

Padel courts are growing in number. Most are in local sports clubs.

Yoga studios offer several styles, with both membership and drop-in classes. English-language instruction can be limited.

Several clubs offer judo, karate, boxing, taekwondo, and some Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or MMA. Traditional and modern styles are both available. English instruction is uncommon.

No skiing near Caen. The area is too flat.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing are all available on the river and coast. Rentals are easy to arrange.

You’ll need to drive west along the coast for surf spots. Surf is best in autumn and winter; wetsuits are a must. Mostly suited for beginners on smaller days.

Diving is possible along the Normandy coast, often exploring WW2 shipwrecks. Conditions can be tough, with limited rental and training options.

Quality healthcare is available at hospitals like CHU de Caen Normandie. Most pharmacies are easy to spot by a green cross and offer basic advice. English is spoken in larger hospitals.

Tap water is safe to drink and meets high standards.

Caen is friendly for families, with plenty of parks and activities for kids. Many restaurants and attractions are kid-friendly.

Caen has a welcoming atmosphere with annual pride events and generally high acceptance. Legal protections are strong under French law.

Dogs are welcome in parks and some restaurants. Vets and pet stores are easy to find. Many accommodations are pet-friendly if you ask ahead.