But the truth is that Bayeux is a worthwhile destination in and of itself – and even makes a great day trip from Paris. The historic city center is a beautifully maintained, pedestrian-friendly area of half-timbered homes, fun shops and delicious, affordable restaurants.
Of course, the undisputed star of this otherwise sleepy Norman town is the famous Bayeux tapestry. Housed in a light-sensitive room and hung in a way that shows off its entire 230-foot length, it dates back to the 11th century and depicts the story of the events leading up to the Battle of hastings. It includes scenes as well as text, and uses a rainbow of colors in its design.
And what a design it is. Although it's behind temperature controlled glass and the lighting is low, you can get right up to it and see the intricate handiwork of the embroidery – obviously all done by hand. It's astonishing to see how even in the limited space they had, they were able to show facial expressions and even inconsequential details, such as foods on a table or tiles on a roof.
Medieval Bayeux is very much worth time away from paris, and viewing its famous tapestry is an afternoon well spent.
Tours & Tickets
Normandy Beaches Half-Day Trip from Bayeux
Pay tribute to the soldiers who fought on Normandy’s World War II beaches on this afternoon tour to Omaha Beach and Pointe du Hoc from Bayeux. Visit famous ... Read more
Location: Bayeux, France
Duration: 5 hours (approx.)
Private Tour to Bayeux, Honfleur and Pays d' Auge from Bayeux
Discover the history, culture and food of the Normandy region on this private tour of Bayeux, Honfleur and Pays d'Auge departing from central Bayeux. See the ... Read more
Location: Bayeux, France
Duration: 8 hours (approx.)
Private Tour: Caen Sightseeing and Bayeux Day Trip from Caen
Delve into the history of Normandy on a full-day private tour of Bayeux and Caen. Enter Bayeux Cathedral, see the famous Bayeux Tapestry at Bayeux Tapestry ... Read more
Location: Caen, France
Duration: 8 hours (approx.)
Private Tour: Bayeux Sightseeing and Caen Day Trip from Bayeux
Let a private guide introduce you to Normandy’s fascinating history on a full-day private tour of Bayeux and Caen. Start by exploring Bayeux's medieval ... Read more
Location: Bayeux, France
Duration: 8 hours (approx.)
Private Tour to Bayeux, Honfleur and Pays d' Auge from Caen
Discover the history, culture and food of Normandy on this private tour from Caen to Bayeux, Honfleur and Pays d’Auge. See the famous Bayeux Tapestry ... Read more
Location: Caen, France
Duration: 8 hours (approx.)