Car Rental Bayeux

Bayeux itself is less than eight kilometres squared in size, making it easy to navigate. If your plans include a whole day of exploring the town, then you can find a spot in the free parking bays on the Boulevard Maréchal Leclerc. This is centrally located and less than a 10-minute walk away from the Musée de la Tapisserie. It’s advised to get in here nice and early to safely claim a space.

Alternatively, there are paid parking options – including the Parking Place aux Pommes located in the very centre of the town. Whichever option you choose, you can discover this fabulous medieval destination and all it has to offer.

Speed limits in towns, villages and cities are usually 50km/h, but the speeds will increase if you’re thinking of heading out on the open road.

When navigating the major highways, known as autoroutes, the limit is generally 130km/h in fine weather - dropping to 110km/h in wet conditions. Dual carriageway roads often have limits of 110km/h or less and other rural roads 90km/h, but always check signs as this can vary.

If you’re looking for a day trip outside the town, hop in your rental car from Bayeux to visit the coast of Normandy and the five D-Day landing beaches. At around 15 kilometres in distance away, it’s extremely accessible.

Another historic town, Caen, can be reached in just half an hour’s drive meanwhile – where a castle and museums await – and the romantic capital of Paris is around three hours by car to the east.

While this charming town is somewhat defined by its war history, today it is a fascinating, beautiful and serene place to visit.

Located on the banks of the River Aure, this picturesque medieval location offers visitors the chance to learn about the region's history and World War II, while taking in astonishing sights, peaceful gardens and iconic relics along the way.

Learn all about the Battle of Normandy

Opened in 1981, the Memorial Museum of the Battle of Normandy is a vast and justly renowned space that takes visitors on a journey through the Allied military operations of the summer of 1944.

Bayeux was one of the most crucial strategic sites of the Battle of Normandy, and was also the first mainland French town liberated in 1944, making this the perfect location to learn all about the events of that time.

In the town itself, meanwhile, you’ll find the largest Commonwealth cemetery of World War II in France. There are around 4,500 graves at the Bayeux War Cemetery, and almost 2,000 soldiers without an official burial site have a large Memorial dedicated to them there as well.

Visit the awe-inspiring cathedral

The Notre-Dame Cathedral in Bayeux is a Catholic masterpiece boasting Norman-Romanesque and Gothic architecture. It was also the original home of the Bayeux Tapestry.

William the Conqueror’s half-brother Odo of Bayeux first completed the structure, which was consecrated in 1077, but it was in the 13^th century that the building we see today largely took shape, after a fire caused significant damage to the original church and extensive reconstruction was ordered.

Gazing up at its looming towers and sky-piercing spires makes for a remarkable sight, and tours are available of its extraordinary interior too.

Marvel at the Bayeux Tapestry

The Musée de la Tapisserie de Bayeux is now the home of the world-famous Bayeux Tapestry.

Learn all about the 11th century Norman conquest of England with the help of this breath-taking 68-metre long wonder, hand-stitched to commemorate William of Normandy’s victories.

It is said this was created within just a few years of the Battle of Hastings – you can find out even more with the help of an audio-guide.

Day trip to the D-Day Landing Beaches

A popular pilgrimage for World War II veterans and their families, the five D-Day beaches in Normandy are certainly worth visiting.

The Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno and Sword beaches run from west to east along the coast, and are all accessible to visitors. Explore old tanks, defences and army bunkers along the sand, and set aside time to visit the many museums and memorials.

Stroll through the Botanical Gardens

Dating back to the 19th century, the Botanical Gardens of Bayeux cover an extensive area, and are a Historical Monument in the country.

Take a stroll through this relaxing green space and you’ll see just why. Designed by the Bühler brothers, the gardens provide the perfect opportunity for some quiet reflection after all you’ve learned about World War II, with thousands of different plants lining the pathways, and hundreds of trees – including a stunning ‘weeping beech’ that towers above its surroundings.

Car rental in Bayeux opens up all the history, culture and possibilities of this captivating area of northern France. Reserve direct today and start planning your trip.