Top Family-Friendly Attractions in Normandy

31 Oct 2025, 13:32 by Rachel Lewis

Normandy is packed with exciting experiences for the whole family. From historic sites to outdoor adventures, there’s something to delight every age.

These are just a few of our favourite attractions and there are many more to discover. Some form part of our Normandy multi-activity family holiday and others are options for you and your family should opt-out from our activities, or even extend your stay in the region after your holiday with us.

1. Mont Saint-Michel

No visit to Normandy is complete without seeing the spectacular UNESCO world heritage site, Mont Saint-Michel. Kids and adults alike will be captivated by its medieval streets, towering spires, and dramatic tides. Exploring the abbey and winding streets together makes for a truly memorable family adventure.

As part of your Family Adventure Holiday at the Château, our experienced local guide will take you across the bay for an exciting quicksands experience.

2. Normandy Beaches and D-Day Landing Sites

The Normandy coastline is beautiful, with miles upon miles of long sandy beaches so for families looking for a bit of R&R, a trip to the beach is perfect for an impromptu picnic, beach games or just to chill out. The wide, sandy beaches of Normandy are perfect for running, paddling, or building sandcastles.

History-loving families can explore the D-Day landing sites, learning about the region’s important past through interactive museums and memorials that engage all ages.

3. Charming Towns, Villages and Countryside

From cobbled streets in Honfleur to the rolling green hills dotted with farms, Normandy’s villages are perfect for slow-paced family exploration. Take a walk together, visit local markets or enjoy a picnic by the river — simple experiences that create lasting memories.

Granville

Built on a headland and nicknamed Monaco of the North, the old town has narrow cobbled streets with houses built from local granite. The upper town is surrounded by ramparts dating back to the 15^th century with a fishing and sailing port below. Granville offers panoramic views towards the islands of Jersey and Guernsey to the north and Mont Saint-Michel to the south.

Villedieu-Les-Poêles

Known for its arts and crafts, Villedieu-les-Poêles is a quaint little town around 25 minutes’ from the Château. Steeped in history, with copper and metalworking dating back to the Middle Ages. A visit to the town's Bell Foundry, Copper Workshop and Pewter Museum is recommended together with the Tuesday morning market.

Avranches

Avranches is a small market town sitting on the top of a granite hill, towering over Mont Saint-Michel and is just 10 - 15 minutes’ drive from both of our centres in Normandy. Steeped in history, the town has many religious buildings, a keep, ramparts and the historic monument of “Grand Doyenne” dating from the 12th century (a rare urban mansion from the Romanesque period).

4. Food Experiences the Whole Family Will Love

Normandy is famous for its cheese, cider, and seafood, and there are plenty of family-friendly ways to experience these delights. Visit a local farm, try your hand at butter-making, or sample fresh pastries — tasty activities that kids and adults both enjoy.

Local markets

French markets are a staple of French culture and are always lively colourful affairs, selling local produce, French ‘fashion’ and accessories, and plenty of seasonal fruit and veg. The vendors are typically very friendly, so there is no better place to practise your French and pick up souvenirs.

Cheese

Normandy is famous for its cheeses, which are enjoyed all over France and worldwide. Renowned speciality cheeses include Camembert, Pavé d’Auge, Livarot, Pont-l’êvêque, the heart-shaped Neufchatel, Boursin, Brillat-Savarain, and Brin de Paille often named after their village or town of origin. Take a visit to one of the many local cheese farms and producers.

Seafood

The cold Atlantic waters serve as the ideal breeding grounds for clams, mussels, scallops, and oysters with regional dishes readily available at colourful harbourside restaurants along the 600km of Normandy coast. You can also sample the local delights at our seafood extravaganza evening which includes langoustines, oysters, lobster, snails and is an optional extra at your Château family adventure holiday.

5. Outdoor Adventures for All Ages

From hiking along dramatic cliffs to kayaking on calm rivers, Normandy is a playground for families who love the outdoors. A whole week of activities is included in our Normandy multi-activity family holiday, so you can be sure everyone has a chance to try something new and exciting.

From coasteering on the wild shores to rail biking through the stunning countryside, as wells as horse riding, canoeing, cycle hire and tree climbing, there is fun for all the family across Normandy.

Tips for Families Visiting Normandy

Visiting Normandy with the whole family is a breeze when you plan a few simple things ahead:

Pack for outdoor adventures: Comfortable shoes, rain jackets, and layers are essential for activities at the Château and exploring further afield.
Include everyone in the activities: Our Family Adventure Holiday offers something for all ages, ensuring grandparents, parents, and children can all join in the fun.
Try local food together: Sampling local cheeses, ciders and pastries is a tasty way to engage kids with the culture — and a great excuse for a snack break!
Book your travel early: Channel crossing prices increase the later you book so it's best to get it sorted earlier on. Take a look at our guide to crossing the channel →

Make Your Normandy Family Holiday Unforgettable

Wherever you choose to visit, you will not be disappointed with Normandy. many of our families join us for the week then extend their stay in this wonderful region. Highly recommended!