Mémorial de Caen: A Journey Through 20th-Century History
Explore 20th-century history, from WWII to the Cold War, at this Caen museum dedicated to peace and remembrance.
The Mémorial de Caen is a museum and war memorial in Caen, France, commemorating World War II and the 20th century with a focus on peace. It explores the causes and consequences of the war, the Holocaust, and the Cold War, with exhibits showcasing artifacts, documents, and personal stories.
A brief summary to Mémorial de Caen
- Esp. Général Eisenhower, Caen, 14050, FR
- +33231060645
- Visit website
Local tips
- Allow at least 3 hours to fully explore the museum's extensive exhibits.
- Consider a guided tour of the D-Day landing beaches in conjunction with your visit.
- Take advantage of the free parking available near the Mémorial.
- Check the museum's website for information on temporary exhibitions and special events.
- Visit the memorial gardens to reflect on the sacrifices made during the war.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Caen city center, take bus line No. 2 directly to the 'Caen Mémorial' stop. From the Caen train station, take the circular line Ellipse 6a or 6b. A single fare on the Twisto network costs €2. Alternatively, take tram line T1 from Gare SNCF to the Saint-Pierre stop, then transfer to bus No. 2 towards 'Caen Mémorial'. This option costs around €4.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Caen. A taxi ride from the Caen train station to the Mémorial de Caen typically costs between €12 and €15 and takes approximately 7 minutes. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available.
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Walking
The Mémorial de Caen is approximately a 4.2 km walk from the Caen train station, taking around 50 minutes. From the city center, follow the signs towards the Mémorial, keeping in mind that the route involves some uphill sections.
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Driving
If driving, take the A13 highway from Paris or the A84 from Rennes and exit at number 7 from the northern loop. Free parking is available at 10 Avenue du Maréchal Montgomery, a short walk from the Mémorial. Camper van parking is available for a fee: €13.70 per night, plus €5.50 for access to the service area. After two nights, the price increases significantly.
Discover more about Mémorial de Caen
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Vestiges du mur de l'abbaye aux Hommes,
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Cambes-en-Plaine War Cemetery
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Normandy beach race
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Bény-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery
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A serene and poignant memorial in Normandy, honoring the Canadian soldiers who fought and died during the Battle of Normandy.
Sword Beach
13.2 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and historical significance of Sword Beach, a must-visit destination along Normandy's stunning coastline.
Lighthouse of Ouistreham
13.5 km
Explore the iconic Lighthouse of Ouistreham, where maritime history meets stunning coastal views in Normandy, France.
Plage de Ouistreham
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Explore the stunning Plage de Ouistreham, a beautiful sandy beach in Normandy perfect for families, relaxation, and water sports enthusiasts.
D-Day Memorial, The Queen's Own Rifles of Canada and others
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Explore the D-Day Memorial in Bernières-sur-Mer, a historic tribute to valor on the Normandy coast, steeped in history and natural beauty.
Monument Signal du D-day
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Museum and the Merville Battery site
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Plage de Courseulles sur Mer
16.1 km
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Bretteville Canadian War Cenetery
16.6 km
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Gold Beach
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Experience the stunning beauty and historical significance of Gold Beach in Ver-sur-Mer, a serene escape on the Normandy coast.
British Normandy Memorial
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Ryes British War Cemetery, Bazenville
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Unmissable attractions to see
Vallée du Mémorial
0.1 km
Explore the Vallée du Mémorial in Caen, a serene memorial park honoring WWII heroes with beautiful gardens and reflective spaces.
United States Armed Forces Memorial Garden
0.1 km
Explore the United States Armed Forces Memorial Garden in Caen, a serene tribute honoring the bravery of American servicemen and women amidst beautiful surroundings.
Jardin Britannique du Mémorial
0.3 km
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Colline aux Oiseaux
0.6 km
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Vallée des jardins
0.8 km
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Caen Botanical Garden
1.3 km
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Place du Canada
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St. Stephen's Church
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L'Abbaye-aux-Hommes
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Abbaye-aux-Hommes
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Ducal Palace XIV century
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Caen Castle
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Église du Vieux Saint Sauveur
1.9 km
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Rond Point Fontette
2.0 km
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Musée de Normandie
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Essential places to dine
Le Sans Gêne
1.4 km
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Ju'ste Chez Moi
1.8 km
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Au Double Blanc
1.8 km
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Ô GLOBE
1.8 km
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Restaurant MAGMA
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Le Bistrot du Palais
1.9 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Le Bistrot du Palais in Caen—where every meal tells a story.
La Casinière
1.9 km
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A Contre Sens
2.0 km
Experience exceptional French cuisine at A Contre Sens in Caen – where every dish tells a story of tradition and innovation.
Monsieur Louis
2.0 km
Experience exquisite French and Mediterranean cuisine at Monsieur Louis in Caen, where every meal is crafted with passion and freshness.
Le Dauphin
2.0 km
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Crêperie la Galettoire
2.0 km
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L'Aromate
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Le Mancel
2.1 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Le Mancel in Caen's historic Château Ducal—where culinary excellence meets rich heritage.
La Porte Du Punjab
2.1 km
Discover the rich flavors of India at La Porte Du Punjab in Caen – a culinary gem serving authentic Indian and Pakistani dishes.
Balthazar
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Centrakor Saint Contest
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Boutique zéro déchet - Alternativi
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Atelier Boutic 10 ,CARTAGAG, serge Vandecasteele
1.9 km
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Marcelle Room
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L’Audacieux
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Centre commercial Côte de Nacre
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Romy Caen
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26 Rue Froide
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Midi à 14 Heures
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BASALT MARKET
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Lady C loveshop sexshop
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Shakti
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ess9nce
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Le Fridge
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It Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Le Baroudeur
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L'Antre Potes
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Le Tripot
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L'Antirouille
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Le Boudoir
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NONNA
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Les Quilles
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Kokomo
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El Mojito
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Ecto Bar
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Le Catumagos
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Speakeasy
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Broc' Café
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Vertigo
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Le Roof du Château
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