Overlooking the English Channel, Arromanches-les-Bains is a coastal commune where the D-Day Normandy landings took place. It was here that the Mulberry harbour was constructed to allow for the rapid unloading of cargo to support the World War II Allied invasion. Battle sites, military cemeteries and war museums surround the town.
Things to do in Arromanches-les-bains
Dominating the waterfront is the D-Day Museum, which details the events that took place on the surrounding beaches in June 1944. Its exhibits include an archival film illustrating the construction of the artificial harbour, with its remains visible outside. Also within the museum is a model of the harbour as it appeared during World War II.
A short walk away is the Liberators Museum, which showcases old uniforms and personal objects from veterans who fought in Normandy. Read stories of those who served and browse the dioramas that bring the events of World War II to life. At the Arromanches 360° Circular Cinema, you can see projected wartime images from French, Canadian and German archives. British military artefacts from the Memorial de Caen are also on display.
Arromanches-les-Bains makes an excellent base for visiting Gold Beach, where British troops landed before liberating the town of Bayeux. On the other side of Arromanches-les-Bains is Omaha Beach, which is still dotted with German bunkers. In addition to a museum documenting the invasion, there’s a stainless steel sculpture commemorating the American soldiers who fought at Omaha Beach.
Getting around Arromanches-les-bains
Arromanches-les-Bains is around 40 minutes’ drive from Caen and Caen–Carpiquet Airport, which has flights to destinations across France. Buses connect to Arromanches-les-Baines and the town centre is small enough to explore on foot. Renting a car is the most convenient way of getting around the area.