Best Time to Visit Normandy

The best time to visit Normandy is between May and October when the weather is most pleasant, and numerous events and festivals take place across the region. However, Normandy's unique charm can be experienced year-round, each season offering its own highlights.

Spring (April to June)

• Why Visit: Spring is an ideal time to explore Normandy as the weather begins to warm up, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). The countryside comes alive with blooming flowers, and attractions like the Monet's Garden in Giverny are at their most colorful. Spring is also less crowded compared to the summer months, providing a more peaceful experience at popular sites such as Mont Saint-Michel and the D-Day landing beaches.

• Events:

  • D-Day Anniversary (June 6): June marks the annual D-Day Festival, commemorating the Allied landings in Normandy during World War II. Events include military parades, fireworks, reenactments, exhibitions, and guided tours along the historic beaches, such as Omaha Beach and Utah Beach. The anniversary celebrations are both solemn and educational, providing a deep insight into the region's history.

    
    

Summer (July to August)

• Why Visit: Summer is the peak tourist season in Normandy, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). It's perfect for beach outings along the Normandy coast in places like Deauville, Trouville, and Étretat, where you can enjoy sunny weather and beautiful sea cliffs. The region also comes alive with festivals, outdoor markets, and plenty of activities.

• Events:

  • Deauville American Film Festival (early September): This prestigious film festival, held in the chic seaside resort of Deauville, celebrates American cinema. Film screenings, celebrity appearances, and red-carpet events make this an unmissable event for film enthusiasts visiting Normandy at the end of summer.

    
    

Autumn (September to November)

• Why Visit: Autumn brings cooler temperatures, ranging from 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F), but it's also harvest season in Normandy. The region’s orchards are full of ripe apples, and it’s a fantastic time to explore cider and Calvados distilleries. The fall foliage enhances the picturesque countryside, making it perfect for exploring historical towns like Bayeux and Rouen.

• Events:

  • Fête du Cidre (Apple Cider Festival, October): Held in towns across Normandy, this festival celebrates the apple harvest with cider tastings, apple picking, and local food markets. The Apple Fair in Vimoutiers is a popular event where visitors can sample various ciders and learn about the traditional production methods.

  • Dieppe Herring and Scallop Festival: Held annually in November, this lively festival celebrates two of Normandy's prized seafood delicacies—herring and scallops. The streets of Dieppe come alive with market stalls offering fresh seafood, local dishes, and artisanal products. Visitors can enjoy tastings of grilled herring, scallop-based dishes, and traditional Normandy ciders while listening to live music and taking in the festive atmosphere. It's a must-visit for seafood lovers and a great way to experience the region's maritime heritage.

Winter (December to March)

• Why Visit: Winter in Normandy is mild, with temperatures averaging between 3°C to 10°C (37°F to 50°F). While not the peak tourist season, this is an excellent time to experience Normandy’s charming Christmas markets, especially in towns like Rouen, Caen, and Honfleur. The winter mist adds a mystical ambiance to the region’s historic sites, including the Mont Saint-Michel and medieval castles.

• Events:

  • Christmas Markets (December): Cities like Rouen, Caen, and Bayeux host festive Christmas markets featuring artisanal crafts, local products, and seasonal treats. The streets are beautifully decorated, and the scent of mulled cider fills the air, creating a magical holiday atmosphere.

  • Granville Carnival (February): One of the oldest and largest carnivals in France, the Granville Carnival is a pre-Lenten celebration filled with parades, costume contests, music, and dancing. It’s a lively and colorful event that attracts thousands of visitors to the seaside town of Granville.