Abbaye aux Dames

Overview

Abbaye aux Dames is a historic abbey founded by Matilda of Flanders, the wife of William the Conqueror. It is a significant example of Norman architecture and houses the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Caen.

The abbey is a prime example of Norman Romanesque architecture and has historical ties to the Norman Conquest.

Historical Site Architectural Landmark

Location

Address

Place Reine Mathilde, Caen, Normandy

Neighborhood: Caen City Centre

Coordinates

49.180400, 0.371800

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM

tuesday 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 9:30 AM - 8:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Admission

Adults

€10

Children

€5 (under 12 free)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

3 hours

Full Experience

half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild

• flowers
• gardens

summer

warm to hot

• extended hours

autumn

cool

• fall colors

winter

cold

• holiday lights

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book ahead
Check weather
Respect quiet zones

What to Bring

essential

ID tickets comfortable shoes

seasonal

jacket umbrella sunscreen

not allowed

large bags drones food

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

• uneven surfaces
• stairs

Medical facilities: first aid available

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, credit/debit cards

Currency

EUR

Typical Costs

entry €10

parking €5

food €15

souvenirs €20

Dress Code

casual, comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing, high heels

Booking Tips

• 2 weeks
• official website
• 48 hours
• available

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

Bike rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Abbaye aux Dames Official App

Size: 60 MB

Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Tickets, Events calendar

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Café

Charging Stations: Rest areas

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Caen-Carpiquet Airport

Distance: 10 km

Travel Time: 20 minutes

taxi

€20-25 20 min

public_transport

€5 30 min

From City Center

Distance: 1 km

walking

bus

€1.50 10 min

taxi

€8-10 5 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Historic importance, beautiful architecture

Historical Significance: Founded by Matilda of Flanders, significant in Norman history

Insider Tips

Free entry early morning for locals
Best local food at the café near the main entrance

Local Recommendations

• Try local café for cider and crêpes
• Ask for guide Marie

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Bonjour

thank_you Merci

where_is Où est

how_much Combien

beautiful Beau/Belle

ticket Billet

Guide Languages: French, English, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main entrance

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Low angle for grandeur

Result: Stunning architectural shot

#historicarchitecture #normandy #travelfrance

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, gardens

prohibited areas exhibitions, indoor areas

flash photography not allowed

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy prohibited

tripod policy restricted

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Château de Caen

Distance: 500m

Walking: 7 min

Type: Historical Site

Musée des Beaux-Arts de Caen

Distance: 200m

Walking: 3 min

Type: Museum

Jardin des Plantes de Caen

Distance: 800m

Walking: 10 min

Type: Park

Saint-Pierre Church

Distance: 1km

Walking: 12 min