Ranville War Cemetery: A Tribute to History and Sacrifice
Discover the poignant history of Ranville War Cemetery, honoring the brave souls of World War II in a serene and reflective setting.
Nestled in the serene landscape of Ranville, the Ranville War Cemetery stands as a poignant tribute to the sacrifice of soldiers during World War II. This military cemetery is the final resting place for many soldiers who fought bravely in the Normandy Campaign, offering visitors a place for reflection and remembrance. With its meticulously maintained grounds and historical significance, it provides an insightful glimpse into the past, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and those wishing to pay their respects.
A brief summary to Ranville War Cemetery
- 1 Rue du Comté Louis de Rohan Chabot, Ranville, 14860, FR
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and beautiful lighting for photographs.
- Take time to read the inscriptions on the headstones; many tell unique stories of bravery and sacrifice.
- Combine your visit with a tour of nearby historical sites, such as Pegasus Bridge, for a fuller understanding of the Normandy Campaign.
- Respect the solemnity of the site; maintain a quiet demeanor and refrain from picnicking within the cemetery.
- Consider visiting on significant anniversaries or memorial days to witness commemorative events and ceremonies.
Getting There
-
Car
If you're driving, the most straightforward route to Ranville War Cemetery from popular locations along the Normandy Coast is as follows: Start on the D514 road heading east from Caen. Follow the D514 for about 12 kilometers until you reach the junction with the D75 road. Turn onto the D75 and continue for another 5 kilometers. Then, turn right onto Rue du Comté Louis de Rohan Chabot. The cemetery will be on your left. There is free parking available near the cemetery.
-
Public Transportation
To reach Ranville War Cemetery using public transportation, take a train from Caen to the nearby town of Caen, then transfer to a local bus. From the train station in Caen, you can catch Bus Line 2 heading towards Ranville. The bus will drop you off at a stop near the cemetery. After getting off the bus, it’s a short walk of about 200 meters to the cemetery located at 1 Rue du Comté Louis de Rohan Chabot. The bus fare is approximately €1.50.
-
Bicycle
For those who prefer cycling, you can rent a bicycle in Caen. Use the same route as the car by cycling along the D514 towards Ranville. The ride is approximately 17 kilometers and should take around 1 hour. Make sure to wear a helmet and follow local cycling rules. There are bike racks available at the cemetery.
-
Walking
If you are staying in the vicinity and prefer to walk, you can enjoy a scenic route from the center of Ranville. Start at the center of the village and walk down Rue de la Mairie, then take a left onto Rue du Comté Louis de Rohan Chabot. The cemetery is about a 1.5 kilometers walk from the village center, which should take roughly 20-25 minutes. This route is suitable for all ages.
Discover more about Ranville War Cemetery
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lighthouse of Ouistreham
5.5 km
Explore the iconic Lighthouse of Ouistreham, where maritime history meets stunning coastal views in Normandy, France.
Cambes-en-Plaine War Cemetery
9.3 km
Discover the poignant beauty of Cambes-en-Plaine War Cemetery, a serene tribute to the valor and sacrifice of soldiers from World War II.
L'Abbaye-aux-Hommes
10.0 km
Explore L'Abbaye-aux-Hommes, a historical abbey in Caen showcasing stunning architecture and rich heritage, a must-visit for culture and history enthusiasts.
Vestiges du mur de l'abbaye aux Hommes,
10.0 km
Discover the timeless beauty of the Vestiges du Mur de l'Abbaye aux Hommes, a historical landmark in Caen, rich in history and architectural wonder.
Sword Beach
10.2 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and historical significance of Sword Beach, a must-visit destination along Normandy's stunning coastline.
Colline aux Oiseaux
10.5 km
Discover the natural beauty and tranquility of Colline aux Oiseaux, a picturesque city park in Caen, perfect for relaxation and family fun.
Abbaye d'Ardenne
12.0 km
Discover the serenity and rich history of L'Abbaye d'Ardenne in Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe, a peaceful retreat steeped in heritage.
Halles médiévales de Dives-sur-mer
13.2 km
Discover the rich history and vibrant culture at the Halles médiévales de Dives-sur-Mer, a medieval market hall in the heart of Normandy.
Château de Fontaine-Henry
14.8 km
Discover the enchanting Château de Fontaine-Henry, a historical landmark in Normandy showcasing exquisite architecture and rich French heritage.
Beach Temple
14.9 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Beach Temple in Houlgate, a serene public beach perfect for relaxation and coastal exploration in France.
Bény-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery
16.1 km
Explore the Bény-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery, a serene site honoring the sacrifices of WWII soldiers amidst beautiful Normandy landscapes.
D-Day Memorial, The Queen's Own Rifles of Canada and others
16.5 km
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
16.7 km
Explore the powerful legacy of bravery at the Monument Signal du D-day in Bernières-sur-Mer, a historic tribute to the D-Day landings.
Plage de Courseulles sur Mer
18.1 km
Explore the tranquil beauty and rich history of Plage de Courseulles sur Mer, a perfect beach destination on the Normandy coast.
Bretteville Canadian War Cenetery
19.1 km
Explore the Bretteville Canadian War Cemetery, a serene tribute to the valor of soldiers who fought for freedom during World War II in beautiful Cintheaux.
Unmissable attractions to see
Horsa Bridge Stele
1.3 km
Visit the Horsa Bridge Stele in Ranville, France, a poignant historical landmark honoring the bravery of D-Day paratroopers in World War II.
Memorial Pegasus
1.6 km
Discover the heroic tales of D-Day at Memorial Pegasus, a poignant war museum in Ranville, France, honoring the bravery of airborne troops.
Original "Pegasus Bridge" in the museum grounds
1.6 km
Explore the Original Pegasus Bridge Museum in Ranville, a crucial historical site from World War II, showcasing valor and fascinating exhibits.
Pegasus Bridge
1.7 km
Discover the historic Pegasus Bridge in Bénouville, France, a symbol of Allied bravery during World War II, surrounded by rich history and serene landscapes.
Les Vikings An 911
4.3 km
Explore the Viking era at Les Vikings An 911, a cultural theme park in Hérouville-Saint-Clair showcasing the rich legacy of Norse history and legend.
Parc Ornavik
4.4 km
Experience the enchanting history and thrilling rides at Parc Ornavik, a unique theme park in Hérouville-Saint-Clair, perfect for family adventures.
Château de Beauregard
4.4 km
Explore the elegance of Château de Beauregard, a historical castle in Hérouville-Saint-Clair, surrounded by exquisite gardens and rich French history.
Église Saint-Samson
5.0 km
Explore the serene Église Saint-Samson in Ouistreham, a stunning Catholic church rich in history and architectural beauty, perfect for moments of reflection.
Normandy Classic Tour
5.0 km
Explore Normandy's rich history and stunning landscapes at the Normandy Classic Tour in Ouistreham, a captivating journey awaits.
Normandy beach race
5.1 km
Experience the thrill of beach racing at the Normandy Beach Race in Ouistreham – a unique blend of speed, culture, and stunning coastal views.
Site fortifié Hillman
5.3 km
Visit the Site fortifié Hillman: A historical landmark in Normandy, rich in World War II history and breathtaking views.
Museum and the Merville Battery site
6.1 km
Discover the Merville Battery Museum, a captivating war museum in Normandy, revealing the history of World War II through immersive exhibits and artifacts.
Le Grand Bunker - Museum of the Atlantic Wall
6.3 km
Discover the haunting history of World War II at Le Grand Bunker, a unique war museum showcasing the Atlantic Wall's compelling narrative in Ouistreham.
Beach Riva Bella
6.6 km
Discover the enchanting Beach Riva Bella in Ouistreham, a serene coastal retreat offering sun, sand, and a taste of Normandy's rich culture.
Plage de Ouistreham
6.7 km
Discover the serene beauty of Plage de Ouistreham, a stunning beach in Normandy, perfect for relaxation, family fun, and seaside adventures.
Essential places to dine
La Rose Des Vents
5.0 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at La Rose Des Vents in Ouistreham - where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Le Goeland
5.4 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at Le Goeland in Ouistreham – where every dish tells a story of local flavors.
La table d'hôtes
5.8 km
Experience authentic French dining at La Table d'Hôtes in Ouistreham - where tradition meets taste in every dish.
les cabines
5.9 km
Discover the authentic taste of France at Les Cabines in Ouistreham - where culinary excellence meets coastal charm.
La Ferme Saint Hubert
6.1 km
Discover culinary excellence at La Ferme Saint Hubert in Colleville-Montgomery, where every dish tells a story of French gastronomy.
Les Tisons
6.2 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Les Tisons in Ouistreham - a culinary haven for food lovers seeking delightful flavors.
Restaurant la Voile Blanche - Ouistreham Riva Bella
6.4 km
Discover exquisite French cuisine at Restaurant La Voile Blanche in Ouistreham – where every dish tells a story.
Casino Barrière Ouistreham
6.5 km
Experience thrilling gaming, exquisite dining, and vibrant nightlife at Casino Barrière Ouistreham – where every visit feels like a celebration.
ÕYAT
7.1 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at ÕYAT in Colleville-Montgomery, where every dish celebrates local flavors and culinary artistry.
La Cabane du Vivier
7.2 km
Experience fresh seafood and stunning coastal views at La Cabane du Vivier in Colleville-Montgomery.
La Table des Matieres
8.7 km
Experience the rich flavors of Normandy at La Table des Matières – where culinary tradition meets modern elegance in Caen.
Stéphane Carbone Restaurant
8.7 km
Experience the essence of haute French cuisine at Stéphane Carbone Restaurant in Caen - where tradition meets innovation.
Anouche
8.8 km
Experience the rich flavors of Mediterranean cuisine at Anouche, Caen's top-rated restaurant offering an unforgettable dining experience.
Le Bistronome
8.8 km
Experience the essence of French cuisine at Le Bistronome in Caen - where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
La Planche A
8.9 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at La Planche A in Caen, where fresh ingredients meet culinary passion for an unforgettable dining experience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Liberty Boutique
1.8 km
Explore Liberty Boutique in Bénouville for unique gifts and local delicacies that capture the spirit of Normandy.
Mondial Plus Décoration Ouistreham
4.1 km
Discover a treasure trove of unique home goods and outdoor furniture in Ouistreham, perfect for enhancing your living space.
Mondial Plus Menager Literie et Loisirs Ouistreham
6.1 km
Explore the finest home goods and outdoor furniture at Mondial Plus in Ouistreham, where style meets comfort for every taste and budget.
Bookstore waves and words
6.2 km
Explore the charming 'Waves and Words' bookstore in Ouistreham, where literature and coastal tranquility unite in a perfect reading retreat.
Smyths Toys Caen
7.6 km
Discover endless fun and imagination at Smyths Toys Caen, a premier toy store in Mondeville, offering a vast selection for children and families.
Mondeville 2
7.8 km
Experience the best of shopping and dining at Mondeville 2, a premier mall in Normandy offering endless choices for tourists and locals.
B&M
8.0 km
B&M in Mondeville offers a diverse shopping experience with amazing deals on gifts, home goods, toys, and more for every traveler.
Centre commercial Côte de Nacre
8.1 km
Explore a diverse shopping experience at the Centre Commercial Côte de Nacre, where fashion, food, and fun come together in Caen!
Fripe à la mode de Caen
8.7 km
Explore unique vintage fashion at Fripe à la mode de Caen, where every piece adds a story to your wardrobe in the heart of Caen, France.
Les Rives de l'Orne
8.9 km
Discover Les Rives de l'Orne, a premier shopping mall in Caen offering diverse shopping, exquisite dining, and vibrant entertainment options along the beautiful Orne River.
Le Dressing de Minette
9.1 km
Discover unique fashion and accessories at Le Dressing de Minette, a charming clothing store in Caen, ideal for tourists seeking local style.
Le Comptoir Irlandais
9.2 km
Explore Le Comptoir Irlandais in Caen for an authentic Irish shopping experience, featuring clothing, gourmet foods, and unique gifts.
Fossil Store
9.2 km
Explore the Fossil Store in Caen for exquisite fashion accessories, timeless watches, and quality leather goods that capture the essence of style.
Printemps
9.2 km
Explore the elegance of Printemps in Caen, a premier department store offering fashion, beauty, and lifestyle products in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.
Le Petit Souk
9.3 km
Explore Le Petit Souk in Caen: a charming gift shop featuring unique toys and home goods, perfect for families and gift seekers.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Surf BAR Franceville Beach
6.8 km
Discover Surf BAR Franceville Beach, a perfect seaside retreat for refreshing drinks and breathtaking views in the heart of Normandy.
Le Trappist
8.9 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and extensive beer selection at Le Trappist, a top beer hall and pub in Caen, perfect for both locals and tourists.
Jolly Roger
8.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Caen at Jolly Roger, a cocktail bar known for its creative drinks and lively atmosphere.
La pagaille
8.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at La Pagaille, a lively bar in Caen, offering a diverse drink selection and an inviting atmosphere.
Delirium Café
8.9 km
Discover the lively ambiance and extensive drink selection at Delirium Café in Caen, a must-visit bar for every traveler.
Jungle Bar Caen
9.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Caen at Jungle Bar, where cocktails, tapas, and sports create the ultimate social experience.
Papa Jerry
9.0 km
Discover the lively ambiance at Papa Jerry in Caen, where exceptional drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await every visitor.
Au Chef Raide
9.0 km
Discover the cozy charm of Au Chef Raide in Caen, where delightful drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await every visitor.
Moon & Sons
9.0 km
Discover the charm of Moon & Sons, a premier pub in Caen offering a diverse drink selection and delicious desserts in a cozy atmosphere.
Gini's Bar
9.0 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Spanish cuisine at Gini's Bar in Caen, the perfect spot for tapas and good times.
La Station
9.1 km
Discover La Station, a charming bar in Caen offering a delightful atmosphere, diverse drinks, and a vibrant social scene perfect for tourists.
Le Roof du Château
9.1 km
Unwind at Le Roof du Château, a cocktail bar blending historical charm with modern mixology in the heart of Caen.
Le Catumagos
9.2 km
Le Catumagos in Caen offers a cozy atmosphere, friendly service, and a delightful selection of beverages for a memorable night out.
Le Baroudeur
9.2 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and eclectic drink selection at Le Baroudeur, a must-visit bar in the heart of Caen.
Kokomo
9.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Caen at Kokomo, a lively bar known for its welcoming atmosphere and diverse drink selection, perfect for socializing.
