Head straight to Bayeux to take in the town’s star attraction before the crowds arrive. Dating back more than 1,000 years, the UNESCO-listed Bayeux Tapestry is among the most famous artworks in France. Opt for an audio guide to learn more about William the Conqueror and the fateful events of 1066.

A tour of Normandy’s World War II sites takes you to the battlefields and D-Day landing beaches dotted along the coast. A typical itinerary might include Omaha Beach, Juno Beach, Pointe du Hoc, and the Airborne Museum or the Arromanches 360 Circular Cinema. Prebook your tickets to avoid unnecessary wait times.

Sample the region’s culinary delicacies at one of the many restaurants nearby. Traditional dishes include fish stew à la Normande (with a cream sauce), Camembert cheese, and tarte aux pommes (apple tart). Pair your meal with a glass of Calvados (apple brandy), a popular local specialty.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site just off the southern coast, Mont-Saint-Michel is one of Normandy’s must-sees. Tours of the island monastery run from Caen, Bayeux, and other cities, and typically include a guided walk. Climb up to the hilltop ramparts for a magnificent view along the coast.

Explore the Mont-Saint-Michel village, browsing the shops for souvenirs and handicrafts. Stop at one of the many restaurants for lunch—a popular choice is a Breton galette (a buckwheat pancake) accompanied by local cider.

Seaside towns such as Cabourg, Ouistreham, and Luc-sur-Mer host lively night markets during the summer months, while a light show takes place several nights a week in Bayeux. If you’re looking to party, go to Caen, a student city crammed with bars, nightclubs, and live music venues.