Top 10 Foods to Savour on a Family Holiday in Normandy, France
Normandy, a picturesque region in northern France, it is renowned for its lush green landscapes, dramatic coastal cliffs, and a culinary heritage that will tempt even the fussiest eater. From creamy cheeses to crisp apple-based delicacies, there’s so much to explore, it can feel overwhelming to know where to start! But don’t worry – we’ve curated a list of the top 10 foods that you simply must try during your family holiday in Normandy.
Let’s dive into this feast for the senses.
1. Crepes
Normandy’s thin, buttery crepes are perfect for a sweet treat. Traditionally topped with sugar, jam, or even Normandy’s famous caramel beurre salé (salted butter caramel), they’re a hit with kids and adults alike. Try them freshly made at a creperie by the coast or at one of the local markets.
2. Galettes (Galette bretonne)
The savoury cousin to crepes, galettes are made with buckwheat flour and are often stuffed with delicious fillings like ham, cheese, eggs, or mushrooms. They’re naturally gluten-free and hearty enough to please even picky eaters.
We can’t get enough of these when visiting Normandy and are two favourite places to grab a galette are the La Licorne in Falaise, and Le Recto Verso in Arromanche. Be warned they are surprisingly filling.
3. Camembert de Normandie
A trip to Normandy wouldn’t be complete without tasting this world-famous cheese. Camembert is creamy, rich, and best enjoyed with crusty baguette. Make it a family adventure to visit the village of Camembert, where the cheese originated.
We love our trip to the Camembert museum but it wasn’t the best Camembert we ever had.
Our most unforgettable Camembert experience happened completely by accident. One day, while driving from village to village, we lost track of time and missed the lunch window—many places in Normandy stop serving food after 2 PM. With hunger setting in, we took a chance at a small hotel with a tiny restaurant. The kind lady who ran it took pity on us and offered to make something, despite the kitchen being closed.
About 20 minutes later, she returned with a dish that we still talk about to this day: baked Camembert, thick-cut ham, and crispy golden chips. The cheese was warm, gooey, and utterly perfect, melting into the salty ham and crunchy fries. It was simple, rustic, and absolutely delicious—one of the best meals we’ve ever had in France and one we have never forgotten.
4. Pont-l’Évêque
Another iconic Normandy cheese, Pont-l’Évêque, has a creamy texture and mild yet complex flavour. It’s one of France’s oldest cheeses and pairs beautifully with local ciders, a taste adults will appreciate.
5. Apples and Cider
Normandy is apple country, and you’ll find apples featured in various forms – fresh, baked into tarts, or fermented into cider. Adults can enjoy a glass of sparkling cider or Calvados (apple brandy), while the kids can savor fresh apple juice.
We love enjoying a bottle of Normandy cider with lunch—crisp, refreshing, and light at around 4% alcohol, making it the perfect midday indulgence.
Our first visit to Normandy was when we truly fell in love with the region, and it was there that we discovered the Cider Route. This scenic drive winds through Normandy’s picturesque countryside, leading to charming, small-scale cider producers. Along the way, we had the chance to sample and purchase their exceptional cidre, Pommeau, and Calvados, each offering a true taste of Normandy’s rich apple-growing heritage.
6. Isigny Butter
Renowned for its creamy texture and rich flavour, Isigny butter is a staple in Normandy cooking.
We just love to spread it all over fresh French bread. Lovely and dangerously moreish.
Learn more about why Isigny butter is so distinctive.
7. Seafood
Normandy’s coastline ensures a bountiful supply of seafood. Treat your family to moules marinières (mussels cooked in white wine, garlic, and cream) or freshly shucked oysters from the markets of Dieppe or Trouville-sur-Mer.
We aren’t big seafood eaters, but at some point during a Normandy holiday I will always have a lunch of Moules-Frites.
8. Teurgoule
This slow-cooked rice pudding, flavored with cinnamon, is a traditional dessert that has been passed down through generations. It’s a comfort food your family will want to savor on a chilly evening.
9. Normandy Tarte aux Pommes
This apple tart features thinly sliced apples layered over buttery pastry and glazed with apricot jam. Simple yet sublime, it highlights the region’s love affair with apples.
This is one of our favourite items to have with each visit to Normandy and it is so tasty don’t worry about serving it with cream or ice-cream or anything else. It doesn’t need it.
You can pick them up in the local supermarket and they taste great. But, if you really want to give your taste buds a treat than grab one from the local patisserie. We often pick one up when we get our morning Croissants and bread.
10. Caramel Beurre Salé
Normandy’s signature salted butter caramel is a must-try. Whether drizzled over ice cream, tucked into crepes, or simply enjoyed by the spoonful, its sweet-salty balance is pure indulgence.
Be warned, these are addictive. I sat in the car for twenty minutes waiting for the others once at a Cider farm and before I knew it I had worked my way through an entire bag. They were delicious but my jaw hurt from chewing and my teeth were a little bit sensitive for the next day or two.
Conclusion: Normandy in France is a Culinary Wonderland
Normandy is a food lover’s paradise, offering a mix of rustic charm and sophisticated flavors. Whether your family is enjoying buttery pastries, sampling creamy cheeses, or slurping up mussels by the sea, there’s something to delight every palate.
The variety and quality of food in Normandy make it the perfect destination for families. Not only will you come away with full bellies, but you’ll also create lasting memories of meals shared in a region steeped in history and culture. So pack your appetite and set off on a delicious adventure in Normandy – your taste buds will thank you!
Since becoming parents we have fallen in love with Normandy holidays and have been there many times in the last ten years and the food has always been fantastic and we have had a great time.
For more tips on visiting Normandy then check there other pages we have put together: