Local Transportation: Caen

Public Transportation: Twisto

Caen's public transport network, managed by Twisto, offers a reliable way to get around the city and its immediate surroundings. Caen does not have a metro system. Its public transport relies on a modern tramway and an extensive bus network.

Tramway: The tramway system comprises three lines (T1, T2, T3). These lines cover areas of the city, including the train station (Gare de Caen), the university campus, the city center (Saint-Pierre), and various residential districts. Caen's tramway uses rubber-tired vehicles (Translohr system), which present a smooth and quiet ride. The trams are comfortable and generally run on time.
Bus Network: A comprehensive network of bus routes serves the entire city of Caen and its surrounding communes. These routes connect areas not covered by the tram, reaching neighborhoods and points of interest farther afield. Buses are a practical choice for reaching specific locations or for exploring outside the main tram corridors.

Routes & Ticketing

Route Maps & Hubs: Main hubs include Gare de Caen, Saint-Pierre (city center), and Université. Maps are available at Twisto agencies, Tourist Office, or Twisto app.
Single Ticket (Ticket Unitaire): Valid for one hour with unlimited transfers. Purchase from bus drivers (cash), tram stop machines, or Twisto agencies (~€1.70).
10-Trip Pass (Carnet de 10 voyages): Reduced fare per trip (~€13.50). Available from tram stop machines and Twisto agencies.
Day Pass (Pass Journée): Unlimited travel for 24 hours from first validation. Good for extensive travel within a single day.

Twisto App

Download the official Twisto mobile application for real-time schedules, route planning, and network maps.

Google Maps

Integrates Twisto public transport routes and schedules for convenient planning. Use it to find the quickest way.

Accessibility

Twisto trams and most modern buses feature ramps, designated spaces, and audible announcements for accessibility.

Hours & Validation

Operating Hours

Trams: Generally operate from early morning (~5:30 AM) until late evening (~0:30 AM). High frequency during peak hours (every 10-15 minutes).
Buses: Operating hours vary by route, typically similar to tramway, but with lower frequency on many lines.
Some routes may have limited or no service on Sundays; check schedules for weekend travel.

Ticket Validation

Tickets must always be validated upon boarding buses or trams using machines near the doors.
This rule applies even if you have a pass; failure to validate can result in a fine.
Some machines accept contactless bank card payments directly, simplifying the ticketing process.

Caen Transportation Costs

Single Ticket

€1.70

-Trip Pass

€13.50

Taxi short ride

€8 - €15

Taxi Airport

€20 - €30

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services offer convenient, direct transportation, notably for specific routes or during off-hours.

Licensed Taxis

Identification: White vehicles with a "Taxi" sign on the roof and a visible meter inside.
Hailing: Hail on the street (green roof light for availability) or find at designated stands (e.g., Gare de Caen).
Fares & Payment: Fares are metered. Additional charges may apply for luggage, night rates, or airport transfers. Cash accepted; most taxis accept credit cards.
A short ride within the city center might range from €8 to €15.

Ride-Sharing Services

Uber: Available in Caen, though driver availability and coverage might be less extensive compared to larger cities. Still a useful option during off-peak public transport hours.
BlaBlaCar: A popular carpooling service in France, mainly for intercity travel rather than short urban ride-sharing within Caen.
Safety: When using apps, verify the driver's identity and vehicle details against the app's information before entering the car.
Share your trip details with a trusted contact for added safety.

Airport/Station Taxi Arrangements

Designated taxi stands are conveniently located directly outside Caen-Carpiquet Airport.
Taxi stands are also present outside Gare de Caen, the main train station.
This setup simplifies finding a taxi upon arrival at both transport hubs.

For early morning or late-night arrivals, pre-booking a taxi can guarantee availability.
Contact local taxi companies directly for pre-bookings.
Ride-sharing apps also present a pre-booking option, depending on driver presence.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Major international companies (Hertz, Europcar, Avis, Budget, Sixt, Enterprise) have offices at Caen-Carpiquet Airport and near Gare de Caen.

Bicycle Rental

Caen operates Vélolib, a public bike-sharing system. Several independent shops offer bicycle rentals, including electric bikes.

Specialty Vehicles

Motorcycle and scooter rentals are less common for tourists. No tuk-tuks, jeepneys, cable cars, or funiculars are present in Caen.

Driving & Parking

Driving Laws & Conditions

Requirements: Valid national driver's license, plus International Driving Permit (IDP) for non-EU citizens.
Road Network: France boasts an excellent network of well-maintained motorways (autoroutes, which are toll roads) and national roads.
Speed Limits: Strictly enforced (e.g., 130 km/h on autoroutes, 50 km/h in urban areas). Speed cameras are common.
Alcohol Limit: Strict legal limit of 0.05% blood alcohol content.

Parking in Caen

Street Parking: Paid parking zones are prevalent in the city center. Look for signs indicating "Payant" (paying) and "Horodateur" (ticket machine).
Underground Car Parks: Several secure, paid underground parking garages are available (e.g., Parking Paul Doumer, Parking République, Parking Château).
P+R (Park and Ride): Peripheral parking lots connected to the tram and bus network offer a cheaper parking alternative.
Tolls (Péages): Motorways typically have tolls, payable by credit card or cash.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Caen's city center is highly pedestrian-friendly, with numerous pedestrianized streets, especially around Rue Saint-Pierre and within the Château de Caen grounds.

Walkable city center and scenic riverbanks.

Walking Tours

The Caen Tourist Office offers guided walking tours. Self-guided options are available online or with a detailed city map from the Tourist Office.

Guided insights or independent exploration.

Bicycle Infrastructure

Caen has a growing network of dedicated cycle lanes (pistes cyclables) and shared paths. Normandy actively develops extensive cycling routes.

Increasing bike-friendly routes across the city.

Safety for Walkers & Cyclists

Cycling Safety

While infrastructure improves, cyclists should remain vigilant, especially when sharing roads with vehicle traffic.
Helmets are recommended (and mandatory for children under 12).
Use bike lights at night and wear reflective clothing.

Pedestrian Safety

No specific "no-go" areas exist for pedestrians in Caen.
Exercise general urban caution in less-trafficked areas, specifically after dark.
Be aware of traffic, especially when crossing streets outside designated pedestrian zones.

Accessibility Services

Public Transport Accessibility

The Twisto public transport system is increasingly accessible.
Modern buses and trams feature ramps and designated spaces for mobility needs.
Taxis can be pre-booked to accommodate specific mobility needs.

Historical Site Limitations

Some historical sites (e.g., the Château, older churches) may have limited accessibility.
This is due to ancient architecture, involving stairs or uneven surfaces.
Contact specific attractions in advance to inquire about their accessibility provisions.

Final Local Transport Tip

Caen is best explored on foot for its central areas and by public transport or bicycle for broader city coverage.

Consider a car rental for day trips to the D-Day beaches and other Norman towns.

Local Transportation