espinach1

We plan on driving to the Normandy area and are likely to be driving through all of the beautiful small towns on a Sunday. Is it a good idea or will shops and restaurants be closed on that day? Our plans are not set so we are very flexible.

camperdown9

Hi

In rural France most shops tend to be closed on a Sunday. You might find a bakers open or Petit Casino (mini market/convenience store) open for a few hours on a Sunday morning but thats about all.

In many rural towns independent stores tend to also remain closed on Mondays!

Many restaurants do however open on Sundays, at least for lunch.

Hope this helps

Alex

FrankS

10:30am Sunday mass would be a great time to visit one of the great Cathedrals of France and the Tapestry museum. A short walk away to Lion D Or which should be open for lunch or breakfast?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bayeux_Cathedral

StCirq

As noted, you may find a store or two open on Sunday morning for the folks who forgot to pick up milk and a baguette on Saturday, but in small towns everywhere in France, most things are shut down on Sundays. You'll find cafés and restaurants open, though, so you won't starve.

I don't know why FrankS suggests going to mass - you could be any religion - (or assumes you'll be in Bayeux - Normandy is huge), but it's true that churches are almost always open, so that's a possibility on a Sunday in any town.

Ozarksbill

Well, I do think Mass at the wonderful Bayeux cathedral plus seeing the Tapestry sounds like a good Sunday outing. D Day beaches nearby of course.

Ackislander

Country towns and villages in many parts of Europe -- except the most heavily touristed places like San Gimignano -- give a new meaning to the word "quiet". If you are old enough, it will remind you of the Sundays of your childhood. Even in Paris, supermarkets have to close by 1 or 1:15.

espinach1

Thanks for the information, everyone.