Caen is a historic city known for the Church of Saint-Pierre, Abbaye aux Hommes, and Caen Castle. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. So, whether you're exploring the museums or eating the delicious cuisine, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip to Caen, all while staying within budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Caen?
You should plan to spend around $157 (€152) per day on your vacation in Caen. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $71 (€69) on meals
- $36 (€35) on local transportation
- $125 (€121) on hotels
A one week trip to Caen for two people costs, on average, $2,195 (€2,128). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$1,098
€1,064
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$2,195
€2,128
-
One Month
Per person
$4,704
€4,560
-
One Week
For a couple
$2,195
€2,128
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$4,391
€4,256
-
One Month
For a couple
$9,409
€9,120
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Caen cost?
A one week trip to Caen usually costs around $1,098 (€1,064) for one person and $2,195 (€2,128) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Caen on average costs around $2,195 (€2,128) for one person and $4,391 (€4,256) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Caen will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Caen on average costs around $4,704 (€4,560) for one person and $9,409 (€9,120) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Caen expensive to visit?
Caen is a smaller destination that charms visitors with a variety of travel styles, expenditure habits, and budgetary considerations. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.
Caen has the potential to be expensive, but you can manage your budget by eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.
On average, budget travelers spend $68 (€64) per day, mid-range travelers spend $160 (€152) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $339 (€322) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Caen.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Caen is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Bratislava or Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Caen Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Caen?
The average Caen trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Caen travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Caen cost?
Caen on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$26
(€26)
|
$62
(€61)
|
$132
(€128)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$16
(€15)
|
$36
(€35)
|
$72
(€69)
|
|
Food 2
|
$30
(€29)
|
$71
(€69)
|
$154
(€149)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$8
(€8.05)
|
$20
(€19)
|
$42
(€41)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$3-10
(€3-10)
|
$9-26
(€8-25)
|
$21-64
(€21-62)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. While some think they can visit Caen with minimal expenses, most people don't enjoy traveling that frugally. Consider what you prioritize on vacation. Do you prefer luxury hotels or budget stays? Hostels or hotels or vacation rentals? Are fun activities and dining out important to you? Your overall budget will depend on all of these questions.
Caen on a Shoestring Budget?
You might consider yourself a budget traveler, but if you're not ready to give up some comforts, prepare to spend a lot more than the $68 per day that younger budget travelers manage.
Backpackers will usually stick to this shoestring budget by staying in hostel dorms, dining at the cheapest spots such as fast food places, using public transit, and mostly visiting free attractions.
In addition, the city provides solid public transit, making it easier for budget travelers to skip costly taxi or Uber fares. For many travelers to Caen, food is a key attraction, yet budget-conscious visitors often stick to street food or hostel cooking, missing out on the delicious local dining experiences.
Do You Fit the Profile of an Average Traveler?
If you're traveling for leisure as a couple or family, you'll probably prefer a mid-range hotel, dine at well-known restaurants, and explore the major museums and attractions that charge entry fees. When visiting Caen, you'll want to see the Church of Saint-Pierre, Abbaye aux Hommes, or Caen Castle. Remember, most activities come with a cost. Therefore, it's reasonable to anticipate that your daily budget will be around $160 per person, per day.
Caen boasts a wide array of hotels and vacation rentals. When traveling with others, you can share accommodations with a partner, friend, or children, thus reducing your expenses. Families should prioritize hotels and restaurants that are geared toward kids. Astrid Caen is an excellent family-friendly option, while Ibis Styles Caen Centre Gare is also superb. You can find additional family and couple-friendly hotels in our hotel guide for Caen here.
Want to Experience a Luxurious Trip?
If you're looking for a luxurious getaway that offers top-notch amenities and exceptional service, you should budget around $339 per day. To enjoy a nicer hotel, dine at renowned restaurants, indulge in extravagant activities, and use taxis or private drivers to explore the city, prepare for a luxury price tag. Many high-end visitors also prefer unique experiences such as Private Custom Tour with a Local Guide in Caen - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Caen
Hotel prices in Caen can really fluctuate, especially between budget and luxury options. Expect higher costs during peak summer season, when rates climb from an off-season average of $81 up to around $151. From $63 for budget options to $205 for luxury hotels, there's something for everyone. Hostels, particularly dorms, are typically cheaper. Book early or travel in the low season for better prices.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Caen for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $125 (€121). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $62 (€61) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Caen? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Caen include:
- Best Western Plus Le Moderne starting at $101
- Ibis Styles Caen Centre Gare starting at $124
- Hotel Francois d'O starting at $56
- Hotel La Fontaine Caen Centre starting at $84
- Astrid Caen starting at $88
You can save money on accommodation by staying outside the city in Caen thanks to a great public transit system, though your transportation costs and time spent commuting may rise.
If you plan your trip outside of summer and during the low or shoulder season, you'll find better accommodation rates and fewer tourists.
Transportation Budget in Caen
Caen has a very efficient public transit system. There are buses and trams that travel throughout the city. If you want to save some money while getting around quickly, public transportation is the way to go. Taxis and rideshares can also be found all around the city.
Caen offers a fairly walkable experience in some areas, simplifying your sightseeing adventures. The city center is best explored on foot.
Public Transit: 
(great)
Walkability: (good)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $36 (€35) per person, per day, on local transportation in Caen. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Caen is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$36
€35
A few of the typical transportation options and hotel transfers include:
- Caen Carpiquet Airport (CFR) to Caen - Arrival Private Transfer for $113 details
- Caen to Caen Carpiquet Airport (CFR) - Departure Private Transfer for $113 details
- Caen Airport (CFR) to Caen - Round-Trip Private Transfer for $226 details
How much does it cost to go to Caen? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Caen will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Caen
In Caen, the food is fantastic, and you should definitely take the opportunity to enjoy all the local flavors. There's a market that's at its best on Sundays where you'll find fresh produce and other local ingredients. There are also Michelin starred restaurants, seafood restaurants, and other traditional dishes. Head to the Vaugueux Quarter for traditional dishes.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Caen can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Caen is $71 (€69) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$71
€69
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Caen is around $73 (€69) per person, with previous travelers spending from $31 to $157. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Caen are as follows:
- Breakfast: $7 to $22
- Lunch: $11 to $29
- Dinner: $22 to $51
- Coffee: $6
- Fast Food or Street Food: $11
Caen's main specialty dishes are those of the Normandy region such as Agneau de pre-sale (meadow salted lamb), Teurgoule (rice pudding with milk and cinnamon), and A la Normandie/Vallee d'Aguge (poultry of Normandy). A few restaurants to watch for include: Abracadabra, if you're in the mood for Pizza; A Contre Sens, for something with a little modern twist; and Le Bistro 102, if you want to try some of the local cuisine.
Many hotels provide breakfast at no additional cost, while others charge extra. The quality and price can vary widely from hotel to hotel. Knowing this ahead of time can help you decide if you should budget more. You might find the hotel's buffet is a worthwhile investment, or perhaps a nearby bakery or cafe could be a cheaper alternative.
Instead of constantly buying drinks, bring along a water bottle. It's also great for the planet.
Thinking about a tour? Check which meals are included beforehand. You might need to budget for some meals on your own, which can add to your expenses.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Caen
It's no surprise that Caen sees many visitors since it offers museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and family-friendly activities.
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Caen typically cost an average of $20 (€19) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$20
€19
A few of the most popular sights are:
- The Church of Saint-Pierre (Free)
- Abbaye aux Hommes for €6
- Caen Castle for €5.50
- The Memorial de Caen for €20
- Abbaye aux Dames (Free)
The Chateau Ducal is a great place to start your visit. This castle was built by William the Conqueror to house and protect his residential palace. The castle was destroyed in the war but the massive and impressive ramparts remain. These provide great views of the city and are a popular place to relax as well as to visit the Towers which remain. From the ramparts you also have excellent views of the fourteenth century church of St Pierre, parts of which survived the war and some of which has been reconstructed.
Down below the ramparts the main town lies in between the superb Abbaye aux Hommes on one side and the impressive Abbaye aux Dames on the other. The Abbaye Aux Hommes is a really beautiful building and incorporates the Abbey of St Etienne where much of the town sought shelter during the 1944 bombings. Miraculously the church suffered little damage. Some of the abbey buildings are now used as Caen Town Hall.
The Chateau de Benouville (designed by renowned architect Claude Ledoux) is an important neo-classical style castle built close to Caen in the 18th century.
The Musee des Beaux Arts and the Musee de Normandie are situated inside the ramparts. The Musee des Beaux Arts has an excellent display of Italian, French, and Flemish paintings and the Musee de Normandie houses displays showing the history and development of Normandy.
On the edge of the town center, the Caen Memorial is quite a recent addition to the town and is a very impressive museum that explains the history of war in the region during the 20th century. Exhibits and displays help explain both world wars including the Normandy landings and the battle for Normandy as well as the Nazi genocide and the Cold War.
In the summer Caen's pleasure port, which is close to the Abbaye aux Dames, is a lively place with lots of cafes and restaurants. Caen has a market every Friday that takes place along the Fosses St Julien near the Ducal Castle. There is also a Sunday market in the Place Courtonne.
Museums and Attractions:
Caen stands out for its impressive museums and notable landmarks. There are many monuments around town commemorating the city's long history. You'll want to see Château de Caen, Pegasus Bridge, Mémorial de Caen, Musée de Normandie, and Musée des beaux-arts de Caen.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Caen. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Guided Tour in an Old Convertible Car on the Côte de Nacre for $89 details
- Private Guided Bike Tour of Cabourg and Dives in French for $71 details
- Small Group Guided D-Day Tour and Mémorial de Caen Museum for $199 details
Nightlife Budget in Caen
If you're looking for nightlife, Caen has some options, but it's less active than in other more popular locales. The nightlife scene stays active thanks to the 30,000 students living in town. Head to the Rue Ecuyère for a pub crawl or hit up any of the other bars around town.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $17 (€17) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Caen per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$17
€17
Enjoying the nightlife is exciting, but if you want to save money, drinking less is an easy way to do it.
Enjoy the nightlife, but stay cautious, especially if you're drinking. Thieves or criminals may target you, so stay close to trusted friends and avoid wandering off alone.
Travel cost data last updated: Dec 5, 2024
Traveling in Caen
Caen, France
Caen is a city in France on the coast in the Calvados department of Lower Normandy. Caen is known for its historical buildings built during the reign of William the Conqueror, who was buried there. The town was destroyed almost completely in 1944 during WWII and it is a remarkable achievement that Caen has kept so many of its historical monuments given the terrible battle that besieged the town following the Normandy beach landings. After the war the town passed through 15 years of reconstruction, and continued to improve afterwards. In recent years the town has made further significant efforts and Caen now has an attractive, carefully restored, historic center. The city has also preserved the memory of its past by erecting a memorial and a museum dedicated to peace, the Memorial de Caen. The city is often considered the archetype of Normandy.
Neighborhoods & Around
The main neighborhood of interest is the city center, where you will find both the modern city as well as what remains of the old town. Between the Abbaye aux Hommes and the ramparts is the Rue St Pierre, a lively pedestrian street of attractive buildings and good shops that crosses the heart of Caen. Rue Ecuyere and Rue St Saveur and other streets nearby are also worth a stroll. Also in the centre you can explore the 'old' Vaugueux Quarter, affectionately known as little Monmartre. There are also many parks and gardens in and near the center of Caen, including the nicely maintained Jardin des Plants next to Place Blot.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.