Les Franciscaines
145b Av. de la République, Deauville, France, 14800
Originally a Franciscan convent and orphanage (used as a hospital during both world wars), this 19th-century Deauville landmark has been given new life as an arts and culture center. The historic venue hosts events, exhibitions, and workshops throughout the year, and has a shop for local crafts, books about Deauville, and other unique items.
The basics
Les Franciscaines offers 45-minute guided tours each Saturday and Sunday, which provide an overview of the facilities, including the FabLab (a digital co-working space with equipment such as 3D printers and laser cutters) and a multimedia library. You can also attend an event, catch a temporary show, or dine at Le Réfectoire. The restaurant highlights locally sourced ingredients and fusion dishes like Norman tacos and bagel sandwiches.
Things to know before you go
Sticking around in Deauville? Consider purchasing “Friendciscaines,” an annual pass that includes library borrowing privileges, discounted exhibition tickets, and savings at the restaurant and boutique.
Discounts on events and temporary exhibits are offered to students 26 or younger and job-seekers, while teens and children 16 and younger can enter exhibits for free.
Les Franciscaines is wheelchair-friendly, with elevators to take visitors to upper floors.
Creative workshops take place throughout the year for both children and adults. Events and workshops are presented in French; inquire in advance if Les Franciscaines offers translation in English.
How to get there
Deauville is a two-hour drive from Paris and around one hour from Le Havre, a port city with ferry connections to England. There are regular trains between Paris Saint-Lazare and the Trouville-Deauville station; from there, you can walk to Les Franciscaines in under 20 minutes. The arts center is near the beach and the Casino Barrière de Deauville, each less than a 10-minute walk away.
When to get there
Les Franciscaines (including the shop and Le Réfectoire restaurant) is open Tuesday to Sunday, from mid-morning to evening. The center is closed on Mondays, as well as on Christmas Day and Labor Day (May 1). Summertime is the most popular season in Deauville, when the coast fills with beach-goers, but the quieter, often snowy winter is another great time to visit.
Try your luck at the Casino Barrière de Deauville
Another historic landmark in Deauville, this elegant casino was constructed back in 1912. Visitors can play slot machines, table games, and rounds of poker, or dine in one of the restaurants. You can also see a show in the Italian-style theater, which hosts concerts, theater productions, and comedy throughout the year.
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