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Closest Airport To Normandy France

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Closest Airport To Normandy France

Closest Airport to Normandy, France Travel Tips and Best RoutesNormandy is one of France’s most historically significant and scenic regions. From the D-Day landing beaches to charming towns like Bayeux and Rouen, it attracts tourists from around the world. One of the most common questions travelers ask is What is the closest airport to Normandy, France? This guide will answer that question while providing travel tips, airport details, and options for reaching Normandy with ease.

Understanding Normandy’s Location

Normandy is located in northwestern France, facing the English Channel. It consists of several departments, including Calvados, Manche, Orne, Eure, and Seine-Maritime. Because it’s a large region, the closest airport may vary depending on which part of Normandy you’re visiting.

Closest Airports to Normandy

Caen-Carpiquet Airport (CFR)

  • Location Just 7 km from Caen city center

  • Best for Central Normandy and D-Day beaches

  • Airlines Mostly domestic and European low-cost carriers

  • Pros Very close to popular historical sites

  • Cons Limited international flights

Caen-Carpiquet Airport is the most conveniently located airport within the Normandy region. If you are planning to visit Caen, Bayeux, or the Normandy landing beaches, this airport is ideal.

Deauville-Normandie Airport (DOL)

  • Location Near the coastal town of Deauville

  • Best for Eastern Normandy and coastal holidays

  • Airlines Charter and seasonal flights

  • Pros Close to beach resorts and Honfleur

  • Cons Limited regular service

This airport is a great entry point if you’re heading to the resort areas or starting your Normandy trip along the coast.

Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)

  • Location Northeast of Paris, approximately 250 km from Normandy

  • Best for International travelers

  • Airlines Major international hub

  • Pros Global flight connections

  • Cons Requires a transfer (train, bus, or car) to reach Normandy

Although not in Normandy itself, Charles de Gaulle is the most practical airport for international visitors. From CDG, you can rent a car or take a train directly into the heart of Normandy.

Other Airports to Consider

Paris Orly Airport (ORY)

Orly is another major airport near Paris, located slightly closer to Normandy than Charles de Gaulle. It also offers easy train or road connections to the region, especially for travelers heading toward Rouen or Evreux.

Rennes-Saint-Jacques Airport (RNS)

Located in Brittany, Rennes Airport can be an alternative for visiting western parts of Normandy, such as Mont-Saint-Michel. The drive from Rennes to the Normandy border is about 90 minutes.

Best Airport Based on Destination in Normandy

For D-Day Beaches and Bayeux

Best airport Caen-Carpiquet Airport Alternative Paris Charles de Gaulle with a rental car or train to Bayeux

For Honfleur and Deauville

Best airport Deauville-Normandie Airport Alternative Paris Orly or Charles de Gaulle followed by car or train

For Mont-Saint-Michel

Best airport Rennes Airport Alternative Paris airports with car rental to the southwest edge of Normandy

For Rouen

Best airport Paris Beauvais or Paris Orly Alternative Charles de Gaulle with train or car to Rouen

Transportation Options from Airports to Normandy

By Car

Driving is one of the most flexible ways to explore Normandy. Major rental car companies are available at all listed airports. The drive from Paris to Caen, for example, takes about 2.5 hours via the A13 highway.

By Train

France’s rail system is efficient and comfortable. From Paris, you can reach several Normandy cities by TGV or regional trains

  • Paris to Caen Around 2 hours

  • Paris to Rouen Around 1.5 hours

  • Paris to Bayeux Around 2.5 hours

Train stations are usually located near airport shuttle stops or accessible by local transit.

By Bus

Long-distance buses like FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus operate routes between Paris and cities in Normandy. Buses take longer but are budget-friendly, making them ideal for travelers on a tight budget.

Choosing the Right Airport for Your Trip

The best airport for your trip to Normandy depends on

  • Your point of origin

  • Your final destination in Normandy

  • Your transportation preferences

  • Flight availability and budget

For short stays, flying into Caen or Deauville can save time. For more extensive trips or better flight options, Paris airports are usually the best entry points.

Travel Tips for Visiting Normandy

  1. Book flights and trains early to get the best prices.

  2. Use a rental car if you plan to visit smaller towns and historical sites.

  3. Travel light, especially if you’re using public transport.

  4. Check seasonal flight schedules, especially for smaller airports like Deauville.

  5. Consider weather and events, as Normandy can be crowded during D-Day anniversaries in June.

While Caen-Carpiquet and Deauville-Normandie are the closest airports physically located in Normandy, many international travelers will find Paris Charles de Gaulle or Orly more convenient due to better flight availability. Choosing the right airport depends on your specific travel plans, destinations, and how you intend to get around. With proper planning, getting to Normandy is easy and rewarding whether you’re exploring the beaches, medieval towns, or stunning countryside.