Car Hire Caen - Mini guide to Caen

Caen

The capital of the Lower Normandy region, Caen is home to over 100,000 inhabitants, almost 200,000 if the suburbs are included. Located only nine miles (15 kms) inland from the English Channel, it is a popular stop-off point for crossings between France and the UK. It is possible to take vehicles on the ferry, making the transfer easy by hire car during your holiday.

In the reign of William the Conqueror, many beautiful buildings were erected in Caen, but unfortunately Caen stood in the way of allied and German forces during the battle of Normandy during WWII.

But 1944 was not the first year Caen had been decimated due to a great battle. Its proximity to the English Channel was unfortunate when Kind Edward III laid siege to the town in 1346. When troops found plans by the Normans to invade England, it gave the English more reason to continue their campaign. The Castle of Caen is the only remaining building from that time, having withstood the efforts of English soldiers to smash it to ruins.

Visitors to Caen today will take pleasure in the Chateau de Caen, which has stood the tests of time and still remains one of the largest edifices of its kind in Europe. Despite its bloody history, the building now houses the Caen Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Normandy.

Caen is easily accessible by road, with the town itself posing no serious driving hazards, making it a worthwhile stop on your holiday as your cruise around Europe in your rental car.

Car hire deals in: France

We rent the following types of cars: Economy (Vauxhall Corsa or equiv.), Mini, Small family (Ford Focus or equiv.), Medium family (Toyota Avensis or equiv.), large family (BMW 5 series), 4x4, SUV, Convertible, Van, Sports car, Luxury cars.

Hire cheap cars from the following suppliers, Ebookers, Opodo, Avis, Expedia, Sixt, Thrifty and budget rental prices from EasyCar, Budget, Holiday Autos, Economy, 121carhire.