Practical Information: Caen

Mobile Connectivity

Stay connected with local SIMs or eSIM options.

Options & Access

Major Providers: Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom, Free Mobile operate in France.
Prepaid SIMs: Buy in phone shops, larger supermarkets, or Tabac.
ESIMs: A convenient alternative for compatible phones, buy and activate online.

Internet & Postal Services

Access Wi-Fi and use national postal services.

Access & Use

Wi-Fi: Widely available in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and public areas.
Mobile Data: Reliable 4G/5G coverage around Caen and Normandy.
La Poste: National postal service with branches in Caen. Stamps also at Tabacs.

Language Basics

French is the official language. English is common in tourist areas.

Helpful Phrases

Bonjour (bohn-ZHOOR): Hello
Merci (mehr-SEE): Thank you
Parlez-vous anglais? (par-LAY voo ahn-GLEH?): Do you speak English?

Translation Tools

Bridge language gaps with modern resources.

Recommended Apps & Books

Google Translate or DeepL for real-time translation.
Download languages for offline use.
A Compact French phrasebook is invaluable for basic communication.

Communication Phrases

Greetings & Politeness

Bonjour: Hello
S'il vous plaît: Please
Merci: Thank you
Au revoir: Goodbye

Questions & Understanding

Parlez-vous anglais?: Do you speak English?
Je ne comprends pas: I don't understand
C'est combien?: How much is it?
Oui/Non: Yes/No

Language Tip

Making an effort to speak a few French phrases is always appreciated by locals. English is generally spoken at major tourist attractions (like the Mémorial de Caen), larger hotels, and some restaurants, notably by younger staff. Outside of these areas, English proficiency might be limited.

Business Hours & Schedules

Familiarize yourself with typical operating hours for businesses in Caen.

Retail & Shops

Generally open from 9:00/10:00 AM to 7:00/7:30 PM, Monday to Saturday. Smaller shops may close for lunch.

Dining Times

Lunch 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM; dinner 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM (or later). Many close between services.

Attraction Hours

Museums/Attractions usually 9:30/10:00 AM to 5:00/6:00 PM. Many close Mondays or Tuesdays.

Financial Services

Know banking hours and ATM locations.

Banking & ATMs

Banks: Generally open 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Tuesday to Saturday.
ATMs (DAB): Widely available outside bank branches and major shopping areas, 24/7.
Use reputable bank ATMs to avoid extra fees.

Public & Seasonal Notes

Public holidays and seasonal variations to keep in mind.

Important Considerations

Public Holidays (jours fériés): Banks, post offices, shops, and museums may close.
Seasonal Closures: Some smaller attractions may close during low season (November-March).
Verification: Always verify opening hours in advance.

Operating Hours

Essential Services

Shops: 9/10 AM - 7/7:30 PM (Mon-Sat)
Supermarkets: 8:30/9 AM - 8/9 PM (Mon-Sat)
Pharmacies: 9 AM - 7 PM (Mon-Sat)

Important Closures

Many smaller shops close for lunch (12:30 PM - 2:00 PM).
Most retail rarely opens Sundays.
Banks are closed Mondays and Sundays.

Planning Note

Check specific websites for current hours, as they vary, especially for museums and attractions. France observes numerous public holidays (jours fériés). On these days, banks, post offices, and many shops and museums may be closed or operate with reduced hours. Restaurants and major tourist attractions often remain open but may have special holiday hours.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Navigating local customs smoothly enriches your travel experience.

Greeting Customs

Polite greetings are a sign of respect in France.

Practices

Formal: Use "Bonjour Monsieur" or "Bonjour Madame" when addressing strangers.
Leaving: Use "Au revoir" when departing.
Informal: "Salut" for friends. "La bise" (light cheek kiss) for friends/family.

Appropriate Attire

Dress respectfully for different settings.

Dress Code Insights

General: Smart-casual clothing. Avoid overly revealing clothes.
Churches: Shoulders and knees covered as a sign of respect.
Restaurants: Casual attire for bistros; smart casual for mid-range and fine dining.

Dining & Tipping

Understand French dining customs for a pleasant meal.

Dining Practices

Bread: Place bread directly on the tablecloth or a bread plate.
Seating: Wait for staff to seat you in sit-down restaurants.
Quiet: French dining tends to be more subdued. Keep your voice down.

Photography & Taboos

Be mindful of permissions and sensitive topics.

Considerations

People: Ask permission before photographing individuals.
Religious Sites: Photography usually allowed without flash. Be respectful.
Sensitive Topics: Avoid discussing personal finances, politics, or religion.

Social Considerations

Etiquette Reminders

Avoid "French-bashing" or negative comparisons.
Approach D-Day sites and discussions about WWII with reverence.
Always ask permission before photographing children.

Inclusivity Notes

France generally fosters gender equality.
LGBTQ+ rights are strong; discrimination is illegal.
Caen is generally welcoming, notably in urban areas.

Respectful Interactions

Community Engagement

A simple handshake works for initial introductions.
Adapt to the local pace of life, especially in dining.
Be mindful of local meal times and noise levels.

Public Behavior

Be discreet with photography and avoid flash where prohibited.
Do not touch or climb on religious artifacts.
Respect private property at all times.

Etiquette Summary

Adopting local customs and showing politeness enriches your travel experience and fosters positive interactions. Always use formal greetings like 'Bonjour Monsieur' or 'Bonjour Madame' when entering establishments. A simple 'Merci' and 'Au revoir' counts as a good gesture.

Accessibility Information

Caen progresses in accessibility, though historical sites may present challenges.

Mobility Infrastructure

Public transport and some attractions are designed with accessibility in mind.

Features

Public Transport: Twisto tram system and newer buses have ramps.
Modern Museums: Mémorial de Caen offers excellent accessibility.
City Layout: Some city center areas have cobblestones which make navigation hard.

Accessible Attractions

Discover sites in Caen that prioritize accessibility.

Accessible Destinations

Mémorial de Caen: Fully accessible with ramps, elevators, and wide pathways.
Twisto Network: Many tram and bus lines feature accessible vehicles.
Modern Shopping Centers: Les Rives de l'Orne are typically wheelchair accessible.

Impairment Services

Available Support

Information in Braille: Sometimes available at major attractions.
Audio Guides: Offered at sites for a richer experience.
Specific Assistance: Public services might offer support upon request.

Local Contacts

Caen Tourist Office: Recommended for specific, up-to-date accessibility information.
Accommodations: Inquire about accessible rooms and facilities.
Attractions: Ask about entry and navigation for specific sites.

Accessibility Note

Contact the Caen Tourist Office directly for current accessibility details on accommodations, attractions, and transport. Historical sites like the Château or older churches may present challenges due to stairs, cobblestones, or uneven surfaces.

Practical Information