Things To Do
in Ifs

Ifs is a charming commune located in the Calvados department in Normandy, France. It lies just a few kilometers from the historic city of Caen and offers a blend of modern living and rich heritage. Known for its peaceful environment and lush green spaces, Ifs provides a welcoming atmosphere for both residents and visitors.

The town is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding Normandy region, famous for its beautiful landscapes and historical significance.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Ifs
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the Parc de la Vallée des Jardins, enjoying the beautiful landscaping and tranquility.

afternoon
:

Visit the local market at Place des Themises to experience local produce and artisan goods. Grab lunch at a nearby café with outdoor seating.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Normandy dinner at Restaurant Le Bougnat, followed by a stroll around the illuminated town center.

day 2
Day 2: Exploring Nearby Attractions
morning
:

Take a short trip to the historic city of Caen and visit the Caen Memorial Museum for a deep dive into WWII history.

afternoon
:

Explore the Château de Caen and its beautiful gardens, followed by a visit to the Abbaye aux Hommes.

evening
:

Return to Ifs and relax at a local bar, sampling some ciders produced in the Normandy region.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Mid-range Restaurant$20
Coffee$3
🍞Loaf of Bread$2
🍎Dozen Eggs$3
🥛Liter of Milk$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical heritage and cultural experiences.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and parks.
  • Close proximity to the city of Caen for additional attractions.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Less tourist infrastructure than more popular destinations.
  • Public transport options may be limited.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
  • "Où sont les toilettes?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Ifs

Visit one of these nice places.

Parc de la Vallée des Jardins

A beautifully landscaped park with gardens and walking paths, perfect for nature photography.

Château de Caen

The historic castle provides stunning views of the surrounding area and is an iconic landmark.

Abbaye aux Hommes

A magnificent abbey with impressive architecture, ideal for capturing the essence of Normandy.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ifs

Ifs offers a delightful culinary experience with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and traditional Normandy dishes.

Ifs Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Coq au Vin

A classic French dish made with chicken braised slowly in red wine, mushrooms, and lardons.

Must-Try!

Tarte Tatin

An upside-down caramelized apple tart that is a must-try for dessert lovers.

Camembert

Famous soft cheese from Normandy, known for its rich flavor and creamy texture.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Place des Themises Market

A vibrant local market held weekly, offering fresh produce, cheeses, and baked goods.

Cider Stands

Street vendors selling locally-produced cider, a staple in Normandy.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ifs experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild winters and cool summers. Average temperatures range from 2°C (36°F) in January to 22°C (72°F) in July. Rainfall is common throughout the year, especially in autumn and winter, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

Always greet with 'Bonjour' when entering shops or restaurants.

Dining Etiquette

Keep your hands on the table (but not elbows) during meals and try to finish everything on your plate.

Respect for Local Culture

Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially during religious events.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ifs is generally a safe place for visitors, with low crime rates. However, as in any town, it's wise to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and keep valuables secure.

Tipping in Ifs

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm temperatures and longer days, ideal for exploring the region's beaches and festivals.

Autumn

Cooler weather with beautiful fall foliage, great for photography and hiking.

Winter

Cold temperatures with occasional snow, offering a serene atmosphere and holiday festivities.

Nightlife Guide

Ifs at Night

Ifs has a relaxed nightlife scene with a few bars and cafés where locals gather for drinks and conversation. While it may not be bustling with clubs, the nearby city of Caen offers more vibrant nightlife options, including live music venues and nightclubs.

Hiking in Ifs

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentier des Douaniers

A coastal hiking trail offering stunning views of the cliffs and sea, located about 30 minutes from Ifs.

La Vallée de l'Orne

A picturesque hiking path along the Orne river, suitable for a leisurely day hike amidst nature.

Airports

How to reach Ifs by plane.

Caen Carpiquet Airport

Located approximately 10 km from Ifs, this airport offers domestic flights and connections to some international destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ifs is quite walkable, with many essential services, parks, and attractions located within a short distance. The town features pedestrian-friendly streets, making it easy to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Ifs has a significant population of families, attracted by the peaceful environment and good schools.

Students

With nearby educational institutions, students form a vibrant part of the community, contributing to the local culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is immensely popular in the region, with local teams and youth leagues actively participating.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored pastime, with many residents taking advantage of the scenic routes around Ifs.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ifs is generally light, with the town being easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation options include buses connecting to Caen and surrounding areas, making it convenient for visitors.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ifs.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check in advance.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are becoming more common, especially in larger restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Ifs is accessible, with local clinics and hospitals available for residents and visitors. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and most healthcare professionals speak English.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide