This seaside town is only two hours from Paris and famous for its ‘high society’ image with luxurious hotels and prestigious establishments. It is often referred to as the Parisian Riviera. The race course (Hippodrome Deauville La Touques), luxury shops, Casino Barriere de Deauville, extravagant festivities and International Film Festival and Jazz Festival are just a few of the things that make Deauville so popular. There are pristine sandy beaches, and plenty of sporting activities to keep you busy, such as horse riding along with beach at low tide, golf, water sports and tennis.
Authentic French markets are held three mornings a week, stocking everything from organic fruit and vegetables to spices, cheese and olives. The Marche aux Poissons is the place to go if you like fresh oysters, mussels and other seafood. You can buy raw or cooked, which you can enjoy at one of the tables outside. There is the Musee Villa Montabello, which was built in 1865 and houses impressionist works of art, historical photographs and temporary exhibitions. You can take a leisurely stroll down the famous promenade, Les Planches, with painted beach huts and celebrity names written on the changing cabins. The sailing school is revered, with sailing events and regattas taking place throughout the year and drawing in sailors and tourists from all over the world.
You could visit the neighbouring Trouville, a little more casual and less glitzy with some lovely restaurants and seaside cafes. If you don’t mind a drive (78 km), you could go see the Bayeux Tapestry in Bayeux. Although made in the UK, it is housed in the museum here and quite a thing to behold. Not too far from here are the landing beaches from the Second World War. There is a spectacular memorial on Omaha beach including the statue, “Spirit of American Youth Rising From the Waves” and a landing museum.
Deauville-Normandy Airport is located just 7 km from the city and most towns and cities have a good network of TGV trains.
