Musée des Beaux-Arts de Caen: A Normandy Treasure
Explore six centuries of European art within Caen's historic castle walls at the Musée des Beaux-Arts, a treasure trove of paintings and sculptures.
Located within the historic Château de Caen, the Musée des Beaux-Arts (Fine Arts Museum) boasts an impressive collection of European paintings, sculptures, and engravings from the 15th to the 21st century. It is considered one of France's finest museums, particularly for its 16th- and 17th-century European paintings.
A brief summary to Museum of Fine Arts, Caen
- Le Château, Caen, 14000, FR
- +33231304770
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the week, ideally outside of school holidays, to avoid crowds.
- Take advantage of free admission on the first weekend of every month.
- Explore the sculpture park surrounding the museum.
- Check the museum's website for family activities and workshops.
Getting There
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Walking
The Musée des Beaux-Arts is located within the Château de Caen, a short walk from the city center. From Place Saint-Pierre, walk north towards the castle entrance. Once inside the castle grounds, follow the signs to the Musée des Beaux-Arts. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes. No costs are associated with this approach.
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Public Transport
The Twisto tram and bus network serves the Château de Caen. Take tram lines T1, T2, or T3 or bus lines 1, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 11, 12, 20, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, or 101 to the 'Château' stop. From the tram or bus stop, enter the Château de Caen and follow signs to the Musée des Beaux-Arts. A single Twisto ticket costs €1.60 and is valid for one hour. A 24-hour ticket costs €4.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Caen. A taxi from the Caen train station (Gare de Caen) to the Musée des Beaux-Arts takes approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is €7-€9.
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Parking
Several parking options are available near the Château de Caen. The closest parking is Parking Château, located at 60 Av. de la Libération. Hourly parking rates vary, but expect to pay around €1.90 for 1 hour, €4.90 for 3 hours, or €16.00 for 24 hours at Parking Gare de Caen P1. Street parking is also available, but it can be difficult to find cheap parking. Parking fines in Caen are €30.
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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Vestiges du mur de l'abbaye aux Hommes,
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Discover the historic remains of the Abbaye aux Hommes' fortifications on Rue du Carel in Caen, a testament to Norman history.
Cambes-en-Plaine War Cemetery
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A serene and moving tribute to the Commonwealth soldiers who fell during the Battle of Normandy, located near Caen, France.
Lighthouse of Ouistreham
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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.
Sword Beach
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Discover the tranquil beauty and historical significance of Sword Beach, a must-visit destination along Normandy's stunning coastline.
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.
Bretteville Canadian War Cenetery
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Museum and the Merville Battery site
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D-Day Memorial, The Queen's Own Rifles of Canada and others
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Monument Signal du D-day
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Plage de Courseulles sur Mer
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Gold Beach
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British Normandy Memorial
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Ryes British War Cemetery, Bazenville
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Halles médiévales de Dives-sur-mer
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Unmissable attractions to see
Le Parc des Sculptures
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British 3rd Infantry Division Memorial
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Visit the British 3rd Infantry Division Memorial in Caen to honor the bravery of soldiers and explore a significant piece of World War II history.
Porte des Champs
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Explore the Porte des Champs, a historic gateway in Caen Castle, offering a journey through centuries of Norman and French history with stunning city views and architectural marvels.
Caen Castle
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Musée de Normandie
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Maison des Quatrans
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St Peter's Catholic Church
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Caen Tourist Office
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Église Saint-Sauveur de Caen
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Église du Vieux Saint Sauveur
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The Abbey of Sainte-Trinité
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Abbaye aux Dames de Caen
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Église Saint-Jean
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Parc Michel d'Ornano
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Place du Canada
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Essential places to dine
Le Mancel
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Restaurant L'Avenue 21
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El Olivo
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La Porte Du Punjab
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L'Embroche
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Restaurant L'INSOLITE
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Maison La Poterne
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Le Repaire des Nones
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Les Fils à Maman Caen
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Le Bouchon du Vaugueux
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Le Buquet's
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Dollys
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Le Dauphin
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Ju'ste Chez Moi
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Bœuf & Cow
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Le Petit Souk
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La Frenchie bulle
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Fripe à la mode de Caen
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K-Way Caen
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Made In Dé
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PIMKIE
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It Shop
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Le Fridge
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Midi à 14 Heures
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Romy Caen
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26 Rue Froide
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Heula
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Fossil Store
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Printemps
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HEMA
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Le Roof du Château
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Kokomo
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Moon & Sons
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La Station
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Le Tripot
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Jungle Bar Caen
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L'Antre Potes
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Jolly Roger
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Le Baroudeur
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Papa Jerry
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Delirium Café
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Les Quilles
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