Bayeux (pronounced BAY-yoo, not BUY-yoo) is a great town in Normandy that makes the perfect base for visiting WWII sites as well as the gorgeous, lush interior towns – and it has a wonderful city center that’s navigable and friendly. Here’s how you get to Bayeux from Paris, a trip of about 226 kms (or 141 miles):
Trains from Paris to Bayeux leave from Paris St-Lazare station, in the 8th arrondissement. Métro lines 3, 9, 12, 13 and 14 as well as the RER E stop there. The first one in the morning leaves a little after 8AM, and run almost hourly, or every two hours, after that. As of May 2011 tickets cost €35.10 one way. The ride takes between 2 and 2.5 hours – the latter because you have to switch trains in Caen (pronounced CAHN) – so it’s easier for you and faster to take the direct train.
If you’re going to rent a car in Paris and drive out to Bayeux, it’s going to take about 3.5 hours – although, highway-wise, it’s a pretty straight shot once you get out of Paris. Highway signs and exits are well-marked in France, so you want to get on the A13 and follow the signs for Caen (you won’t see signs for Bayeux for a while). Then get off at 37 Bayeux/Balleroy/Saint-Lô, and then the D572 to Bayeux.
Once you’re there, of course, stick around for a while! Check out hotels in Bayeux, hostels in Bayeux, and our pick for the top 10 things to do in Normandy.
