Deauville is a charming seaside town located in northwestern France. It is one of the closest beaches to Paris, making it ideal for a day trip. In this article, I will introduce this lovely town and share my experiences there.
A lovely cityscape with half-timbered buildings
Deauville is a resort located in the Normandy region of France, well-known as a vacation destination since the 19th century. In addition to its beach, it is famous for its casinos, horse racing, and American film festivals. The streets are adorned with charming half-timbered buildings, creating a fairytale-like ambiance. The half-timbered style, also known as timber framing, is a distinctive architectural style commonly found in Northern Europe. This design features exposed pillars and frameworks on the exterior of buildings. In the center of Deauville, luxury brand boutiques are interspersed among the half-timbered structures. This setting not only exudes a sense of luxury but also offers an element of charm, providing a unique shopping experience that differs from the atmosphere in Paris.
Plage de Deauville
Unlike Southern France, which includes destinations like Nice and Biarritz, Deauville’s beach is calm and serene. Colorful beach parasols are set up along the shore. The Promenade des Planches features plates engraved with the names of movie stars, creating a delightful experience as you stroll and search for your favorite star’s name. Deauville is also known for its connection to cinema. Since 1975, it has hosted the annual Deauville American Film Festival (Festival du cinéma américa in de Deauville).
Taste mussels
Normandy is renowned for its seafood, so be sure to try some delicious dishes while you’re in Deauville. As I walked down the streets filled with restaurants, I noticed many people enjoying mussels served in large pots. I often saw diners enjoying a galette, a savory French crêpe that is one of Normandy’s specialties.
Access
About two and a half hours by train from Paris Saint-Lazare station. Get off at Trouville-Deauville station (Gare de Trouville-Deauville)
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