Now a peacful town 10 minutes from the coast, Caen has a war torn history. William the Conqueror recognised its strategic value when he built the castle Chateau Ducal.
More recently the town was severely damaged in WWII during the D-Day landing. Caen is a suitable starting point for any D-Day tour with Juno Beach Center, Pegasus Memorial and Arromanches all nearby. Although practically destroyed in the fighting Caen has since been rebuilt to replicate most of its original character, which is considerable.
For families with young children a welcome antidote to Caens sobering history is nearby Festyland amusement park. Or for older families there is the fine Arts Museum and L'Abbatial Sainte Etienne de Caen.