If you’re considering a visit to Guernsey, you’ll be captivated by this island located in the English Channel. With its enchanting landscapes, rich history and culture, Guernsey offers a unique experience. Here, you’ll find detailed itineraries, tips on what to do, where to eat and everything you need to know before exploring this British paradise!
Guernsey is an island steeped in history. From Roman occupation, through Viking invasions and Norman rule, the island is a true cultural mosaic. This mix is evident in the architecture, cuisine and local traditions.
An important chapter in Guernsey’s history is the German occupation during the Second World War, from 1940 to 1945. This period left its deep scars and today, many tourist attractions tell this story.
The Guernsey War Tunnels, an underground complex built by the Germans, have been transformed into a museum documenting the occupation and local resistance. Another highlight is the Dollmann Battery, a coastal fortification that offers insight into the military strategy of the time.
If you’re heading to Guernsey, one of the most striking reminders of its complex past are the old German bunkers scattered across the island. Built during the German occupation of the Channel Islands in World War II, these bunkers were part of Hitler’s “Atlantic Wall”—a vast network of fortifications designed to repel Allied invasions. Guernsey, along with the other Channel Islands, was heavily fortified, with gun emplacements, observation towers, and underground tunnels dug into the coastline. Today, many of these structures remain remarkably intact, offering an eerie and fascinating glimpse into life under occupation.
Visiting these bunkers is like stepping into a time capsule. Some have been restored and turned into museums, such as the German Underground Hospital and the Batterie Mirus, while others are left as they were—silent, weathered by sea winds, and partially reclaimed by nature. They’re scattered all over the island, especially along the cliffs and beaches, so you’ll likely stumble across a few just by exploring. Whether you’re into military history or just curious about Guernsey’s wartime experience, these concrete relics are powerful, sobering reminders of how even this peaceful island wasn’t untouched by global conflict. Definitely worth a look while you’re there.
But before visiting the island, you need to know a few things…
Table of Contents
What do I need to know before visiting Guernsey?
Geography and Biodiversity
Guernsey is a paradise for nature lovers. With its beaches, cliffs, green trails and flower fields, the island is full of natural landscapes. And the best thing is that, due to the small size of the island, you can do a lot in just a few days!
Currency and Money
The official currency is the Guernsey Pound (GGP), but British Pounds (GBP) are also widely accepted. I personally recommend taking British Pounds and a credit card, but be aware that ATMs are not common outside the capital, St. Peter Port, so always have some cash.
Language
English is the official language of Guernsey, but French and Guernsey are also commonly heard. Learning a few words of Guernsey can be a fun experience and the locals will certainly appreciate it!
Climate and Best Time to Visit
Guernsey has a temperate climate, with pleasant summers and mild winters. The best time to visit is during the spring and summer, from April to September, when the weather is warmer and the attractions are in full swing. However, autumn and winter are also a good option if you prefer to visit with fewer tourists. The scenery is equally beautiful.
Transportation
To get around Guernsey, you can rent a car, use the bus system or even cycle around the island. The main roads are in good condition and there are many trails with beautiful views for cyclists. If you prefer buses, they are efficient and cover the island well!
Culture and Traditions
Guernsey is a unique blend of British and French influences. Local festivals, such as Liberation Day and Tennerfest, are celebrations full of color and tradition. The local cuisine is exceptional, with dishes ranging from fresh seafood to artisanal cheeses.
With that said… let’s get to the itineraries!
How to Make the Most of 5, 7 or 10 Days in Guernsey?
5 Day Guernsey Itinerary
Oh, you can see the detailed itinerary after the itineraries!
Day 1: Arrival at St. Peter Port
Morning
When you arrive in St. Peter Port, take the opportunity to have a coffee in the central square and start to get your first impressions of the city center. An excellent option is The Pavilion café, where you can enjoy a full breakfast while enjoying the view of the harbor. Stroll through the charming cobblestone streets and be sure to visit the central market, where fresh produce and local crafts are sold.
Afternoon
Visit Castle Cornet, a historic fortress that teaches you a lot about the island’s military history. Be sure to watch the midday cannon firing ceremony, which is quite a spectacle! Afterwards, explore the Guernsey Museum & Art Gallery in Candie Gardens, which has a diverse collection of art and historical artifacts.
Night
Dine at the Octopus Restaurant, known for its fresh seafood and panoramic ocean views! For a fun nightlife experience, check out local pubs like The Thomas de la Rue, which offers a great selection of beers and live music.
Day 2: Castles and Beaches
Morning
Start your day at Fort Grey in Rocquaine Bay, a naval fortification that is home to the Shipwreck Museum. Here you have a beautiful view of the sea and can see exhibits about historical shipwrecks!
Afternoon
Relax on Vazon Bay Beach, one of the largest on the island. Rent a sun lounger and soak up the sun or try water sports like surfing and kitesurfing. There are local surf schools offering lessons for beginners.
Night
Dine at L’Ancresse Bay Restaurant, which offers delicious dishes with ocean views. After dinner, take an evening stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the tranquility of the island at night.
Day 3: Adventure and Nature
Morning
Take a stroll through Saumarez Park, one of the largest parks on the island, which offers manicured gardens, picnic areas and the Folk & Costume Museum, where you can learn about rural life in Guernsey.
Afternoon
Visit the Guernsey War Tunnels, an underground complex that is now a museum dedicated to the German occupation during World War II. The exhibits are interactive and offer a detailed insight into life on the island during the war!
Night
Dine at The Auberge, a restaurant that combines local and international cuisine with lovely views of the bay.
Day 4: Trails and Gardens
Morning
Hike the trails of Moulin Huet Bay, immortalized in Renoir’s paintings. The coastal trail offers spectacular views of the sea and the rocky landscape!
Afternoon
Visit Candie Gardens, a botanical garden with exotic plants and panoramic views of the city and harbor. It’s a great spot for a picnic or a relaxing afternoon.
Night
Dine at The Rockmount, a popular beachfront restaurant, and end the day with a stroll along the beach at sunset.
Day 5: Culture and Departure
Morning
Visit the Little Chapel, one of the smallest chapels in the world, decorated with pieces of porcelain and seashells. It is a very charming and unique place!
Afternoon
Explore downtown St. Peter Port for souvenir shopping and lunch at one of the charming cafes, such as Café Emelia, which serves light and delicious dishes.
Night
Get ready to leave, enjoy a last stroll along the shore and enjoy the tranquility of the island.
If you want to stay a little longer…
7-Day Guernsey Itinerary
Days 1-3: Follow the 5-day itinerary to explore St. Peter Port, castles, beaches and nature.
Day 4: Cultural Exploration
Morning
Visit the Folk & Costume Museum at Saumarez Park, where you can learn about rural Guernsey life and see traditional costumes.
Afternoon
Discover the Guernsey Aquarium, located in the old fortification of La Vallette, which showcases local marine life with a variety of fish and crustacean species.
Night
Dine at Le Nautique, an elegant restaurant with an excellent wine list and seafood dishes, overlooking the harbor!
Day 5: Adventure and Relaxation
Morning
Explore Rocquaine Bay by bike, enjoying coastal trails that offer stunning views and stopping at small cafes along the way.
Afternoon
Take a moment to relax at Pembroke Bay, a secluded beach known for its calm waters and white sand. It’s a great spot for a picnic or a quiet afternoon.
Night
Dine at Fermain Valley Hotel, offering a fine dining experience with local and international dishes!
Day 6: Nature and Botanical Garden
Morning
Visit the Orchid Fields, where you can see a variety of exotic orchids in a natural setting!
Afternoon
Visit the Guernsey Flower Market, where you can buy fresh flowers and local produce. It’s a great place to stroll around and enjoy local life.
Night
Dine at The Old Quarter Restaurant, which has a cozy atmosphere and delicious dishes prepared with local ingredients!
Day 7: Ending in Style
Morning
Spend the morning at Petit Bot Bay beach, a small bay surrounded by cliffs, perfect for swimming and relaxing.
Afternoon
Take a tour of the Hautes Cotes de Barbonne, where you can sample local wines and artisanal chocolates. It’s the perfect way to end your visit with a taste of Guernsey’s unique flavors!
Night
Enjoy a final dinner in a cozy restaurant, saying goodbye to the unforgettable moments of your trip!
But, if you want to do the full itinerary…
10 Day Guernsey Itinerary
Days 1-7: Follow the 7-day itinerary to explore St. Peter Port, castles, beaches, nature and culture.
Day 8: Sark Island
Morning
Take a ferry to the Isle of Sark, a true car-free paradise! The ferry ride takes about 50 minutes and offers beautiful sea views.
Afternoon
Explore Sark’s gardens and trails. Rent a bike or horse-drawn carriage to explore the island in a different way! Visit La Seigneurie Gardens, one of Sark’s most beautiful gardens.
Night
Return to Guernsey and dine at a cozy restaurant like Pier 17, which serves fresh seafood dishes overlooking the harbor.
Day 9: Herm Island
Morning
Take a ferry to Herm Island, a small island perfect for relaxing walks and secluded beaches! The ferry ride takes about 20 minutes.
Afternoon
Explore Herm and have a picnic at Shell Beach, a beach famous for its colorful shells and crystal-clear waters. Walk the Coastal Path for panoramic sea views!
Night
Return to Guernsey and dine at The Pavilion, a restaurant offering a fine dining experience with dishes prepared using locally sourced ingredients.
Day 10: Relaxation and Departure
Morning
Relax in St. Peter Port, enjoying your last moments on the island. Visit the Victor Hugo House, where the famous French writer lived and wrote some of his works.
Afternoon
Afterwards, enjoy some free time for a last stroll through the city center, shopping for souvenirs and enjoying a cup of tea in one of the charming local cafes.
Night
Get ready to leave, but take with you unforgettable memories of the island!
See the detailed map for Guernsey here!
What Typical Foods to Try in Guernsey?
When it comes to food, Guernsey doesn’t disappoint! Not only does the island offer delicious cuisine, influenced by both British traditions and its proximity to France, but the combination of fresh ingredients and local cooking techniques results in dishes that are true culinary gems.
So I’ve put together a complete guide to the traditional foods you need to try during your visit to Guernsey!
Guernsey Gâche
Guernsey gâche is an iconic sweet bread from the island, filled with dried fruits and spices. This bread is ideal for breakfast or an afternoon snack, especially when served toasted with a generous spread of local butter. Gâche is particularly tasty, thanks to the exceptional quality of Guernsey milk.
Bean Jar
Bean Jar is a typical Guernsey dish, perfect for cold days. This stew is made with white beans, salted pork and sausage, all slowly cooked in a tasty broth until the beans are soft and the flavors blend wonderfully! This hearty dish is reminiscent of the island’s rural roots and is traditionally prepared in a clay pot.
Seafood
Guernsey is a seafood lover’s paradise, with access to a huge variety of fresh seafood:
- Guernsey crabs: Known for their succulent and flavoursome meat, crabs are often served in salads, sandwiches or as a main course.
- Herm oysters: Very fresh oysters, often served au naturel with a hint of lemon and pepper, offering an authentic and unforgettable culinary experience.
- Sark scallops: Sweet scallops, often prepared simply, sautéed in garlic butter to bring out their natural flavour.
Guernsey Dairy Products
Guernsey milk is world-famous for its exceptional quality, thanks to the Guernsey cows, a breed known for producing a creamy and tasty milk. This milk is the basis for several products:
- Cheese: Guernsey offers an impressive range of artisanal cheeses. Try Guernsey Tomme, a cheese with a complex flavour and creamy texture.
- Ice cream: Ice cream made with Guernsey milk is incredibly creamy and melts in your mouth!
Rocquette Cider
Cider production is a tradition in Guernsey, thanks to its large orchards. Rocquette Cider ranges from dry to sweet and is an excellent accompaniment to many local dishes. At some farms, you can take part in tastings and learn about the production process!
Baked Delights
- Gâche Mélée: A traditional apple cake, rich in flavour and perfect to enjoy with a cup of tea.
- Guernsey Biscuits: Traditional, slightly sweet biscuits, great as a snack with coffee or tea.
Lobster and Crab Sandwich
A favourite with locals and tourists alike, the lobster and crab sandwich is a fresh and tasty treat, often served with a dollop of mayonnaise and a crunchy green salad!
Brandy Butter
This condiment is a mixture of butter, sugar and brandy, and is traditionally served at Christmas. It is perfect with puddings, cakes or even a slice of fresh bread.
Guernsey Cheddar
Guernsey Cheddar is a cheese with a robust flavour and firm texture, perfect for enjoying with biscuits or using in local recipes.
Seafood Platter
Guernsey seafood dishes are very varied! A typical platter includes a selection of oysters, mussels, prawns, crab and lobster, all fresh and often served with crusty bread, butter and different sauces.
Last but most importantly…
What are the top 9 safety tips I need to follow in Guernsey?
To ensure that your trip to Guernsey is safe and smooth, please remember to follow these precautions:
- Be aware of sea conditions: Guernsey is surrounded by beautiful beaches, but the sea can be unpredictable. Check the weather and sea conditions before swimming or taking part in water sports. Follow the advice of lifeguards and never underestimate the strength of the tides!
- Beware of Cliff Paths: Guernsey’s cliff paths offer spectacular views, but can be treacherous. Wear appropriate walking shoes and be aware of the uneven terrain. Stay on the marked paths and avoid getting too close to the cliff edges.
- Road Safety: Traffic in Guernsey is left-hand traffic. If you are not used to driving on the left, be extra careful when entering and exiting roads and when making turns. Rent a small car to make navigating the island’s narrow roads easier!
- Sun Protection: Guernsey’s weather can be deceiving. Wear sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
- Beware of Wildlife: Guernsey is home to a variety of wildlife species. Keep a safe distance and do not feed wild animals. Respect local signs and guidelines.
- Food and Water Safety: The water quality in Guernsey is excellent. However, if you have a sensitive stomach, it is always a good idea to have a portable water filter or drink bottled water. Make sure that your food, especially seafood, is fresh.
- Know Your Emergency Contacts: Always have local emergency numbers handy. In Guernsey, the emergency number for police, fire and ambulance is 999!
- Travel Insurance: Taking out travel insurance for Guernsey is an essential precaution. Make sure your policy covers medical assistance, trip cancellation, lost luggage and other emergencies.
- Beware of Your Belongings: Although Guernsey is relatively safe, petty theft can happen. Keep your personal belongings safe and out of sight at all times. Use the hotel safes and avoid carrying too much cash.
With these tips, your Guernsey experience will not only be amazing, but also safe!
In conclusion…
Whether you’re looking for a quick getaway or a longer stay, Guernsey promises to be both an enriching experience and a lot of fun.
Enjoy the hospitality of the locals (who have incredible stories to tell!) and the stunning views that will make your Instagram account pop!
In Guernsey, every visit is a discovery waiting to happen, every moment a memory that will stay with you and give you great stories to tell when you return home.
Have an amazing trip! ✈️🌟 Enjoy every second in Guernsey and bring back many stories to tell! 🏖️📸