For travelers with a layover in Caen, the proximity of CFR to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 50 minutes via Twisto Bus Line 3, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
A few things to sort out before you leave CFR:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for France. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Caen takes about 50 minutes by Twisto Bus Line 3. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
What’s Worth Seeing in Caen
For a layover visit to Caen, we’d suggest Château de Caen and Abbaye aux Hommes (St. Stephen’s Abbey). Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Perfect for a short walk when you need fresh air after a long flight.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside CFR, you can spend time at CFR Airport Bar-Brasserie or try CFR Airport Shop. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from Caen-Carpiquet Airport into town:
- Twisto Bus Line 3: About 50 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 70 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Eating Well on a Caen Layover
In Caen
If you make it into town, Le Bouchon du Vaugueux is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try L’Aromate.
Inside CFR
If you’re staying in the terminal, Le Bar-Brasserie CFR is your main option. Airport Quick Bites & Snacks works too if you want something quick.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Quick budget math for your Caen layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$11 |
| Meal | ~$22 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$43 |
Cards are increasingly accepted in Caen, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at CFR for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Caen or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Luggage Storage Options
Luggage storage options at CFR can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Caen for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Resting at the Airport
Long overnight layover? Your options at CFR include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in France also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Caen count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave CFR. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.