What to see
The Château de Caen, one of the largest medieval fortresses in Europe, houses museums of Normandy and fine arts. William the Conqueror is buried in the Abbaye aux Hommes, and his wife Matilda in the Abbaye aux Dames.
The Caen Memorial is one of the best museums of the Second World War in France, covering the war, D-Day and the Battle of Normandy. Allow at least half a day.
As a base
Caen was heavily damaged in 1944 and largely rebuilt. It has more hotels than Bayeux and quick access to Sword and Juno beaches.