DD Wrecks: Unveiling Normandy's Submerged History
Explore a unique collection of WWII wreckage recovered from Normandy's seabed, offering a poignant glimpse into the D-Day landings and the underwater archaeology of Operation Neptune.
The Musée des Épaves Sous-Marines du Débarquement, or DD Wrecks museum, located in Commes near Port-en-Bessin, offers a unique and poignant perspective on the D-Day landings. This museum showcases an extensive collection of artifacts recovered from the seabed off the Normandy coast, including wreckage from Allied ships, planes, tanks, and personal effects lost during the intense battles of World War II. Founded by Jacques Lemonchois, a diver tasked with clearing dangerous wrecks in the area, the museum preserves these submerged historical treasures, educating visitors about underwater heritage and the human stories behind the wreckage. See recovered Sherman DD tanks, artillery, and personal items, offering a moving glimpse into the past. The museum provides a fascinating look at the underwater archaeology of D-Day, making it a worthwhile visit for history enthusiasts.
A brief summary to Musée des épaves sous-marines du débarquement. DD Wrecks
- Monday 10 am-12 pm
Local tips
- Allow ample time to explore the museum's extensive collection; plan for at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the exhibits.
- Combine your visit with other D-Day landing sites in the area, such as Omaha Beach and the Normandy American Cemetery, for a comprehensive historical experience.
- Check the museum's website for current opening hours, as they may vary depending on the season.
Getting There
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Driving
If driving from Bayeux, take the D6 towards Port-en-Bessin-Huppain. Continue on the D6, following signs for Commes. The museum is located on the Route de Port (D6) in Commes, just outside Port-en-Bessin. Parking is available near the museum. Note that parking can be limited during peak season.
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Public Transport
From Bayeux, the Ligne 120 bus towards Grandcamp-Maisy stops at Commes. From the 'Commes' bus stop, it's a short walk to the Musée des Épaves Sous-Marines, following the Route de Port. Bus fare is approximately €2-3. Check the Nomad Car Normandie website for the most up-to-date schedule.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis are available in Bayeux and Port-en-Bessin. A taxi or ride-share from Bayeux to the museum in Commes will cost approximately €25-€35. Taxi Arromanches also operates in Commes.
Discover more about Musée des épaves sous-marines du débarquement. DD Wrecks
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tour Vauban
1.7 km
Discover the historical significance and breathtaking views at Tour Vauban, a coastal fortress in Port-en-Bessin-Huppain, France.
Colleville-sur-Mer
6.5 km
Explore Colleville-sur-Mer, Normandy: a historic D-Day landing site, home to the solemn American Cemetery and stunning coastal scenery.
First Infantry Division Memorial
7.2 km
A poignant memorial in Colleville-sur-Mer honoring the U.S. Army's 1st Infantry Division's sacrifice during the Normandy campaign on Omaha Beach.
Pl. Charles de Gaulle
7.3 km
Discover Bayeux's central square, where General de Gaulle declared France's sovereignty, surrounded by history, shops, and Norman charm.
Bayeux British War Cemetery
7.3 km
Pay tribute to the fallen at France's largest Commonwealth war cemetery, a poignant memorial to WWII soldiers in the heart of Normandy.
église Saint-Laurent de Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer
9.2 km
Discover a historic Catholic church in Normandy, dating back to 1065, and a symbol of resilience for the Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer community.
Port artificiel d'Arromanches (Mulberry)
9.9 km
Witness the remains of the artificial harbor that helped liberate Europe at Arromanches-les-Bains, a key site of D-Day.
Emplacement du 1er CIMETIÈRE US en Normandie
10.3 km
Explore the First American Cemetery in Normandy, a poignant tribute to the heroes of D-Day, offering a reflective journey through history and sacrifice.
Omaha Beach Dog White
11.7 km
Explore Omaha Beach, a historical landmark in Normandy that honors the heroes of D-Day while offering breathtaking coastal views and a serene atmosphere.
National Guard Association Monument
11.7 km
Honoring the National Guard's pivotal D-Day role at the site of their courageous breakthrough in Vierville-sur-Mer, Normandy.
29th Infantry Division Monument
11.7 km
Explore the 29th Infantry Division Monument, a historical landmark in Vierville-sur-Mer, honoring the valor and sacrifice of World War II soldiers.
Ryes British War Cemetery, Bazenville
11.9 km
A serene and historically significant war cemetery in Normandy, honoring the fallen soldiers of World War II.
Cimetière
18.0 km
Normandy's largest German war cemetery, a place of remembrance holding over 21,200 graves and a somber reminder of the Battle of Normandy.
Fût de canon
18.1 km
Explore the historic Fût de Canon in Cricqueville-en-Bessin, a significant World War II landmark surrounded by serene natural beauty.
The Pointe Du Hoc
18.3 km
Explore The Pointe Du Hoc, a historic landmark in Normandy, where bravery shaped the course of history amid breathtaking coastal views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Public Garden of Bayeux
6.0 km
Discover the serene beauty of the Public Garden of Bayeux, a botanical haven featuring diverse flora and tranquil paths perfect for relaxation and exploration.
WN 62 (Widerstandsnest 62)
7.2 km
Explore WN 62, a preserved German strongpoint on Omaha Beach, offering a chilling glimpse into the D-Day landings and the fierce battle that unfolded here in 1944, near the Normandy American Cemetery.
Overlord Museum
7.4 km
Visit the Overlord Museum in Colleville-sur-Mer for an insightful journey into the history of D-Day and WWII, showcasing remarkable artifacts and exhibits.
Normandy Time Riders, D-Day & Normandy Sidecar Tours
7.5 km
Discover the essence of Normandy with exhilarating sidecar tours, exploring D-Day sites and immersing in history's rich stories.
Museum of the Battle of Normandy
7.5 km
Discover the Museum of the Battle of Normandy: An essential stop for history enthusiasts exploring the Normandy region and World War II heritage.
Bayeux Tourist Office
7.5 km
Explore the rich history of Bayeux at the Tourist Office, your essential resource for navigating Normandy's landmarks and attractions.
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Bayeux
7.6 km
Discover the grandeur of Bayeux Cathedral, a Norman masterpiece where history, art, and faith converge, offering a timeless journey through centuries of Norman heritage.
NORMANDY EXCURSIONS
7.6 km
Experience the enchanting sights and rich history of Normandy with expertly guided tours from Normandy Excursions in Bayeux.
Normandy American Cemetery
7.7 km
A hallowed ground overlooking Omaha Beach, honoring the American soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the D-Day landings and the Battle of Normandy, a place for remembrance and reflection.
Bayeux Shuttle - Normandy & D DAY Tours
7.7 km
Discover the rich history of Normandy with Bayeux Shuttle's expert-led D-Day tours, exploring iconic World War II sites in an intimate setting.
Normandy D Day Tours
7.7 km
Discover the impactful history of the D-Day landings with Normandy D Day Tours, offering heartfelt experiences and expert guidance in Bayeux.
Bayeux Tapestry Museum
7.8 km
Discover the exquisite Bayeux Tapestry Museum in Bayeux, France, where history and art intertwine to tell the tale of the Norman Conquest.
Cap Normandy
7.8 km
Explore the scenic beauty and historical richness of Cap Normandy, a must-visit tourist attraction in Bayeux, France.
Normandy History Tours
7.8 km
Experience the profound history of Normandy with expert-guided tours of D-Day beaches, battlefields, and iconic memorials.
Normandy Sightseeing Tours
8.2 km
Explore Normandy's rich history and stunning landscapes with expertly guided tours from Normandy Sightseeing Tours in Saint-Vigor-le-Grand.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Le Botaniste
0.2 km
Discover exquisite French cuisine at Restaurant Le Botaniste in Port-en-Bessin – a fine dining experience amidst elegance and charm.
Château La Chenevière
0.2 km
Experience luxury and history at Château La Chenevière, your perfect retreat near Normandy's iconic D-Day beaches.
La Table des 2 Marcel
1.6 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at La Table des 2 Marcel in Port-en-Bessin-Huppain - where every dish tells a story.
Le Bistrot d'à Côté
1.7 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at Le Bistrot d'à Côté, where fresh seafood meets charming ambiance in Port-en-Bessin-Huppain.
La Rapière
7.7 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at La Rapière in Bayeux - where every dish is a celebration of local flavors and culinary artistry.
Le Quarante-Neuf : Hôtel et Restaurant
7.8 km
Discover exquisite cuisine and comfortable lodging at Le Quarante-Neuf in Saint-Vigor-le-Grand—where every meal tells a story.
La Sapinière
8.6 km
Experience delightful dining at La Sapinière - where local flavors meet craft brewing in stunning Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer.
Restaurant Brasserie Bar La Crémaillère
9.4 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Restaurant Brasserie Bar La Crémaillère in Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, a culinary gem near Normandy's historic beaches.
D-DAY House - Restaurant Bar Saint Laurent Sur Mer
9.7 km
Experience delectable cuisine at D-DAY House while immersing yourself in the rich history of Normandy's D-Day beaches.
Restaurant L'Omaha
9.9 km
Savor authentic French cuisine at Restaurant L'Omaha in Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, where every meal is an exquisite culinary journey.
La Baraka
11.7 km
Discover the culinary treasures of Normandy at La Baraka, where local flavors meet cozy ambiance in Saint-Côme-de-Fresné.
La Ferme de la Rançonnière - Hôtel de charme en Normandie
15.4 km
Experience rustic charm at La Ferme de la Rançonnière—your perfect escape in Normandy with exceptional hospitality and local cuisine.
Restaurant de L'Ile Benoist
21.1 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at Restaurant de L'Ile Benoist in Courseulles-sur-Mer - where fresh flavors meet French culinary tradition.
Restaurant La Maison Bleue
21.1 km
Experience authentic French cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood at Restaurant La Maison Bleue in Courseulles-sur-Mer.
Hôtel - Restaurant : Au P'tit Mousse
21.3 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Au P'tit Mousse in Courseulles-sur-Mer, where delicious meals meet breathtaking marina views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
D-day Militaria
1.7 km
Explore the rich history of World War II at D-Day Militaria, a premier collectibles store in Port-en-Bessin-Huppain, France.
Carrefour
6.5 km
Discover Carrefour in Bayeux: A vibrant hypermarket offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and a mix of everyday essentials for every traveler.
Centrakor Bayeux
6.6 km
Explore Centrakor Bayeux for exquisite home goods, outdoor furniture, and unique decor to enhance your living space and memories of France.
E.Leclerc BAYEUX CEDEX
6.8 km
Discover the culinary treasures of E.Leclerc Bayeux, where fresh produce, gourmet foods, and local delicacies await in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.
Aure du commun
7.6 km
Explore the delightful offerings of Aure du commun, a quaint gift shop and bookstore in the historic city of Bayeux, France.
Fantastic Attic
7.6 km
Explore Fantastic Attic in Bayeux, a hidden gem offering antique treasures, unique gifts, and scenic charm that enchants every visitor.
Boutique Coquelicot Poppies Shop
7.8 km
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Arromanches Souvenirs
9.8 km
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Les Sablés d'Asnelles
12.4 km
Experience the exquisite flavors of Normandy at Les Sablés d'Asnelles, where delightful pastries and cozy surroundings await.
la boutique du débarquement militaria
21.7 km
Explore La Boutique du Débarquement: A unique souvenir store in Courseulles-sur-Mer, rich in military history and local charm.
L'Air Marin
26.4 km
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La Sainte Aubaine
26.6 km
Explore La Sainte Aubaine in Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer for a unique antique shopping experience that captures the essence of history and craftsmanship.
FORUM+
28.5 km
Discover a world of home goods at FORUM+, where style meets functionality in Carpiquet's finest shopping destination.
Centrakor Saint Contest
29.9 km
Discover stylish home goods and outdoor furniture at Centrakor Saint Contest, the perfect shopping spot for tourists seeking quality and charm.
Centre commercial Côte de Nacre
31.7 km
Explore a diverse shopping experience at the Centre Commercial Côte de Nacre, where fashion, food, and fun come together in Caen!
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
L'Écailler
1.5 km
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La Paillote
6.9 km
Discover La Paillote, Bayeux's vibrant cocktail bar, where delightful drinks and a friendly atmosphere await every visitor.
La Gitane
7.7 km
Discover La Gitane, a cozy bar tabac and Irish pub in Bayeux, where local drinks and friendly atmospheres await every traveler.
Pub Fiction
7.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Bayeux at Pub Fiction, a lively bar with a friendly atmosphere and an extensive drink selection.
Le Conquérant
7.8 km
Discover Le Conquérant, a cozy Irish pub in Bayeux, where traditional hospitality meets local charm, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
EOLIA Bike Café
9.6 km
Discover EOLIA Bike Café, a charming bar in Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer offering refreshing drinks and a cozy atmosphere for cyclists and tourists alike.
The Mary Celeste
9.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Mary Celeste bar in Arromanches-les-Bains, where local charm meets affordable drinks and friendly faces.
Normandy Bar
25.1 km
Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and local charm at Normandy Bar in Isigny-sur-Mer, where delightful drinks meet friendly ambiance.
L'Antirouille
32.4 km
Experience the charm of Caen at L'Antirouille, a cozy bar and bistro offering local flavors and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Le Baroudeur
32.7 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and eclectic drink selection at Le Baroudeur, a must-visit bar in the heart of Caen.
Le Boudoir
32.7 km
Discover the charming atmosphere of Le Boudoir in Caen, where exquisite cocktails and lively music create the perfect night out.
L'Antre Potes
32.7 km
Discover L'Antre Potes in Caen, where a cozy atmosphere meets a delightful beverage selection for an unforgettable local experience.
Le Tripot
32.8 km
Discover Caen's vibrant nightlife at Le Tripot, where creative cocktails and live music create the perfect atmosphere for a memorable evening.
NONNA
32.9 km
Discover Nonna Bar, a cozy bar in Caen that offers a perfect blend of great drinks and vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
Les Quilles
32.9 km
Experience the charm of Les Quilles, a top wine bar in Caen offering an exceptional selection of wines and a cozy atmosphere for all wine lovers.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Monte Cristo - Thue et Mue
21.2 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife at Monte Cristo in Thue et Mue - a disco club that promises unforgettable nights filled with dance, drinks, and fun.
L' Écume Des Nuits - Caen
32.9 km
Discover the dynamic nightlife of Caen at L' Écume Des Nuits, a premier night club and bar offering unforgettable experiences and late-night fun.
El Che Guevara BAR - Caen
33.0 km
Discover Caen's vibrant nightlife at El Che Guevara BAR, where cocktails, music, and dancing create an unforgettable experience.
Le FARNIENTE - Caen
33.1 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Le FARNIENTE, a vibrant night club and bar in Caen, offering music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences.
Olly's Caen
33.4 km
Discover the exhilarating nightlife at Olly's Caen, a top night club in Caen, where unforgettable moments and great music await.
QG - Caen
33.5 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Caen at QG, where music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences await you.
Le 32
33.7 km
Experience the heartbeat of Caen's nightlife at Le 32, a vibrant night club and bar that promises unforgettable evenings of music and dance.
Nuit Blanche
33.7 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of Caen at Nuit Blanche, a vibrant night club offering a mix of music and dance in a lively atmosphere.
What’s
33.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Caen at What’s, the ultimate destination for music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences.
No Limit Night Club - Caen
33.9 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife at No Limit Night Club in Caen - where music, dance, and fun create unforgettable memories.
MiLTON Club
34.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Saint-Lô at MiLTON Club, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await.
Les marches des Caen Runners
34.4 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Les Marches des Caen Runners, a vibrant night club in Caen, France, perfect for dancing and socializing.
Le Sunset Club
34.6 km
Discover the energy of Saint-Lô at Le Sunset Club, where music and dance create unforgettable nightlife experiences.
Le Cercle
36.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Le Cercle in Ouistreham, where music, dance, and excitement await every night.
Havana Club
40.5 km
Dive into the lively nightlife at Havana Club, where music, dance, and vibrant atmosphere come together for an unforgettable evening in Merville-Franceville-Plage.
