normandy small group tours

Normandy Small Group Tours

Uncover new and exciting adventures in Normandy by taking part in our small group tours. Go sightseeing at your own pace surrounded by travellers like you. Provided by top tour operators & travel companies, our small group tours in Normandy will offer you the perfect balance between spending time on your own and group activities. View all small group tours .

7 Normandy small group tours with 2 reviews

Journey: Paris & Normandy Highlights National Geographic Journeys

We loved the itinerary and the extra sites we visited. Alexiane took care to provide for the needs of individuals on our tour.

• Hiking & Trekking

Normandy Walk from Deauville to Bayeux

• Coastal Walks
• Sightseeing

Normandy Coastal Walk

• Self-Guided Cycling

WWII Normandy Tour

Brittany to Normandy

• Intl. Flights Included

Normandy Culture & Relaxation

• Flights included

Normandy Walking Tour

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NORMANDY BATTLEFIELDS – SMALL GROUP TOURS

Take a fascinating and informative battle-site tour, led by Michael Grams, noted military historian and author of the Stand Where They Fought trilogy. Carlton will be your guide and host as you experience the culture of the area and appreciate the epic events of the summer of 1944, including meeting participants. The human perspective of the 30 – 40 sites visited will be an everlasting memory. Tours include bus transportation, lodging, dinners, breakfasts and admission to all museums.

2023 Battlefield Tours

Non scheduled 5-7 day tours.

• The Battle of the Bulge – From Metz to Bastogne by way of Luxembourg
• World War One Front
• Verdun-St.Mihiel-the Meuse-Argonne. Click here for more information
• On the Rudder of the Red Baron-From Amiens to Soissons. Retracing by air and land the last flight of Baron Manfred von Richthoffen

People choose Normandy Battlefield Tours because:

• Our groups are twenty-five or less, meaning more participation and congeniality. Better meals and reduced long waiting lines.
• We do not rush from site to site. We move along only after all questions have been answered, the battlefield walked and the remaining battle relics examined.
• Encyclopedic Tour, designed by retired lecturer Carlton Joyce, takes you beyond the headline locations and battles.
• The tour leader is a military historian.
• The buses, meals and accommodations are upscale to meet our clienteles level of lifestyle.
• By not including the air fare travelers can use their air miles or discounted prices competitively available.

Normandy Battlefield Tours

[email protected]

Phone: 847.445.3584

A guide to travelers planning a Normandy trip and a stimulus to those who have not planned to visit our heritage.

Hosting and Development

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NormandyBattlefields.com

• February 2019
• February 2016
• December 2015
• November 2015
• October 2015

Experience Normandy Breathtaking, Magical, Authentic

Normandy is a land rich with history, culture, and scenery. Since the times of the Viking invasions, Normandy has been at the center of many major historical events in France. It was the home of powerful figures such as Rollo, Richard Lionheart, and William the Conqueror. It is also known for famous painters such as Claude Monet and Eugene Boudin. And no one can forget that it is here where the Allied forces landed on D-Day in WW2.

On our 7 day tour (2025), you will stay in the wonderful historic town of Bayeux and have the perfect amount of time to experience the highlights of Normandy. You will gaze in awe at the Mont St Michel. Learn intricate details of WW2 at the sites where the battles took place. Explore the market at the historic port in Honfleur. Enjoy a tasting of Calvados, the famous drink of the region. Walk in the streets of Rouen where Rollo the Viking, who was the first Duke of Normandy, ruled. See the famous Japanese footbridge and walk through Monet's private home and gardens. 

Come with us to discover this beautiful region and fill your vacation with these unforgettable experiences and more!

5/5 TripAdvisor

17 Travelers Max

When is the best time to travel to Normandy?

Summer! It is not hot or crowded. Normandy is generally a cold and rainy region but during the summer it is much nicer. June to August are the optimal months with the least rain and the most favorable temperatures, but May, September, and October are also great for visiting!

Summer is not hot in Normandy. The average high in July and August is 73 degrees Farenheit! The temperatures are mostly comfortable during the day and cool at night. As for crowds, there are almost none. The WW2 sites are very large and spacious and the cities and towns are not densely populated or overrun with tourists. The only place that is uncomfortably crowded (year round almost) is the Mont St Michel. However, we go there early in the morning to avoid the crowds. 

Normandy 6 day Tour 2024 Calendar

Normandy 7 day Tour 2025 Calendar

What's On The Tour? Not only the most famous sites but also many hidden gems that others are missing out on!

» Read More

by closely escaping destruction as the Allied bombing of the city was called off at the last minute and became the first liberated city of France during the D-Day invasions.

Mont St Michel

16th centuries. Mont St Michel is in a shallow bay, making it the ideal location for monks who were seeking solitude, and today has a monastic community. Visitors to the island are rewarded with panoramic views of the abbey and bay by climbing to the ramparts. The view from the ramparts is spectacular and the architecture dating back to the 11th-century and Gothic buildings make Mont St Michel one of Normandy's most beautiful attractions.  

American Cemetery & Omaha Beach

The American Cemetery is dedicated to the thousands of American troops who lost their lives on that fateful day, one of the most moving experiences.  

outdoor terraces; perfect for people watching. For decades artists such as Monet, Courbet, Cals, Boudin, Bazille, Sisley and Jongkind have flocked to the region, which is evident in the many galleries of Honfleur. 

The Bayeux Tapestry

King Edward the Confessor sending Harold to Normandy and culminating in Duke William’s invasion of England and the Battle of Hastings. The tapestry is encased in a long glass case in the museum and you can walk the length of it.  

oldest clocks in Europe and the Rouen Cathedral, famously painted by Monet. This Cathedral is also the resting place of many famous figures including Richard the Lionheart and Rollo. The center of the old market square holds a cross which marks the location where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake after her imprisonment and trial in the city. 

an overall understanding of Operation Overlord that occured on D-Day.

Pointe du Hoc

The Pointe du Hoc is now a monument and one of very few places in Normandy where the craters left by bombing can still be seen. 

Longues-Sur-Mer

Mulberry Harbor at Arromanches

Here you will learn about the major project of constructing this artifical port, known as a "Mulberry Harbor" and its significance to the Allied operation to liberate France and defeat the Nazis. 

Monet's House in Giverny

The painter lived here in the city of Giverny, from 1883 until 1926, which was the inspiration for his water and flower garden paintings and his use of soft pastels. Monet's studio where he worked until 1899 is on the ground floor along with the charming, blue sitting room. Get a glimpse into the artist's life in his private apartments. The dining room and kitchen have been restored to look as they did when Monet was alive, and the crockery that he ordered for special occasions still sits in the glass cabinets. An extensive collection of Japanese prints is also on display in his home.  

Normandy Airborne Museum

The interactive nature of the museum along with the information and stories presented with authentic artifacts such as planes, equipment and weapons, helps to live the experience of the soldiers and makes it a must see site in Normandy.

Sainte Mere Eglise

You will learn about the battle that took place here, why it was a key objective for the Allied forces, and more. 

Rouen Cathedral

It was also famously painted by Monet in a series. It stands out with its 3 distinctly constructed towers all in a different style, and for being the tallest cathedral in France.

Calvados Distillery

The liquid is distilled in oaken casks to give it the distinctive flavor and deep, rich color as it ages. You'll visit the cellars and stills and enjoy a tasting session. Now you are a true Normand!  

French Market

Visit the local market to see the offerings of the farmers and artisans of the region and have the chance to find a souvenir or two and meet and talk with the locals. This is a great way to make a connection with French culture and support local small business, if you wish!

Fabulous Restaurants!

In a country so well known for its food, any trip to France should also include a culinary tour for your tastebuds! This is why we handpick restaurants that feature a variety of our favorite French dishes and make sure you have an excellent experience.

Local Guides!

You will have a main local expert guide, and meet others at specific sites that can tell you intricate details of each location's history. Personal attention is paid to all of our guests and our years of experience and living in France means you get to see best France has to offer. We can't wait to welcome you to France and share our cultural knowledge!

What's Included? Almost everything is included, that's easy!

Sub-domains

What's included

Local tour guide with you throughout the tour

 7 Hotel Nights

7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 3 Dinners

One Drink of Your Choice (wine, beer, or soft) With Each Meal Included on The Itinerary

 Transportation to All Sites / Activities    

Daily Water

All Entry Fees

All Guided Tours or Audio Guides

1 Calvados Tasting

Personal Help To Book Your Flight & Plan Your Trip

What's not included

Airfare to/from France

Extra Food/Drinks Not Included In Our Selected Menus

4 Dinners (restaurant recommendations provided)

Travelers Insurance (you will receive a quote 24 hours after booking)

Accommodations 1 night in Paris, 5 nights in Bayeux and 1 night near Charles de Gaulle Airport.

Hyatt Regency Paris Étoile (1 night), Hotel Domaine de Bayeux (5 Nights), Airport Hotel near CDG, Paris (1 Night)

Air-Conditioned Room

Private Bathroom

Minimum 194 sq ft (which is spacious for France!)

7 Day Normandy Tour Price No surprises, no hidden fees. Travel hassle-free!

PLAN - PRICE

Description

  SINGLE ROOM

USD $4,195 /PERSON 

BASED ON 1 PERSON PER ROOM

7 HOTEL NIGHTS INCLUDED

7 BREAKFASTS + 6 LUNCHES + 3 DINNERS

ALL VISIT FEES + TRANSPORTATION INCLUDED EXPERT LOCAL GUIDES

2 ADULTS ROOM

USD $3,695 / PERSON 

BASED ON 2 PERSONS PER ROOM

7 HOTEL NIG HTS INCLUDED

ALL VISIT FEES + TRANSPORTATION  INCLUDED

EXPERT LOCAL GUIDES

PRIVATE GROUP

Group Price

CUSTOMIZED TOUR

ALL VISIT FEES + TRANSPORTATION INCLUDED

Rated 5/5 Tour By Our Previous Travelers They have already done this tour. Read what they thought about it.

Brenda C.    Normandy Tour

Normandy, France has been on my husband's bucket list for years. We could not be more pleased. The itinerary from the time they pick you up at the Charles de Gaulle airport until the end of the tour is nothing short of perfection. It's all planned and your only responsibility is showing up in the hotel lobby at the designated time in the morning and then you're off on a full day's adventure. [...] The beaches of Normandy and the American cemetery was a real highlight of the trip. We visited chateaus, enjoyed a Calvados tour and tasting, loved our cheese factory tasting [...] I could write so much more. Julia and Stephane's tour is a real find. They advertise, "See France like a local" and it is exactly what we did!

Bill G.    Normandy Tour

If you really want to experience and enjoy Normandy, sign up for a tour with this outstanding family-operated company. Julia, her friend Peter, and her father Stephane will personally escort your small group to the major sites, e.g., the World War II beaches and Mont St. Michel, as well as many locations that you would be unlikely to discover on your own. Examples include lunch at a country farmhouse, a visit to a small farm which is the last to make authentic Camembert cheese, and a first-class dinner at a racetrack. Their attention to detail in choice of hotels, restaurants and knowledgeable tour guides was exceptional. [...] We could not recommend TripUSAFrance more highly.

Dorothy B.    Normandy Tour

My husband and I LOVED!! touring Normandy and surrounding places with Julia, her charming dad, Stefan, and friend Peter. They made us feel like we were part of their family. Each restaurant, hotel, tour guide ( they hire the best) was carefully selected and they went over and above our expectations to make it a wonderful experience for all. Each day was meticulously planned and we could have never seen and experienced all that was offered on this tour on our own. This was our first time touring with a group and I would recommend it highly!!

Discover Our Other Tours From Provence, to Dordogne and coming soon Greece!

Any Questions?

You can reach our office at 703-375-9548. We are based in the United States and we are open Mon-Sat, 9:00am - 6:00pm.

We would love to hear from you! Don't hesitate to message us with any questions that you may have.

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Normandy guided D-Day tours, visit the D-Day landing beaches with us!

Bayeux Sightseeing Tours: Normandy D-Day tours from Bayeux for the best D-Day experience.

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Get the real d-day experience: normandy landing beaches.  tours from bayeux..

Want to know exactly what happened on D-Day? Learn everything about D-Day by visiting the famous invasion beaches, historic sites and war monuments. Book your private Normandy tours from Bayeux  or join a shared small group tour and let our passionate licensed Normandy tour guides take you back in time, to June 6th, 1944. See where everything took place, learn the facts and details and hear amazing stories told by our English speaking Normandy tour guides. Get up close and personal and relive this revolutionary day in history. Bayeux Sightseeing Tours offers the best Normandy D-Day tours from Bayeux  in the region for a great price! Check our itinerary  page to find out which sites you will visit on your D-Day tour.

Start your Normandy tours from Paris, Sainte Mere Eglise, Bayeux or other locations. We offer: half day, one-day and two-day Normandy invasion beaches tours.

Are you visiting from Paris , by cruise ship or are you traveling by car or train? At Bayeux Sightseeing Tours, we offer a variety of possible locations from where you can start your tours to normandy. Visit our information page if you want to know our pick-up locations or if you need advice on where to park or which hotel to book if you book tours to normandy from paris or elsewhere. Have you missed your train and will you be delayed? No need to worry, just call us and we will arrange a taxi or simply postpone your pick-up time. We will do whatever we can to make sure you enjoy your D-Day tour. Our   Normandy day tour from Paris or elsewhere can also be a half day or two day tour, depending on your needs and wishes. Our Normandy tours are available in January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December. We also offer private Normandy tours / excursions during the holidays. Normandy tour packages including accommodation can be arranged as well. With our Normandy guided tours you will visit the D-Day landing beaches ( Omaha beach , Utah beach , Gold beach ) and the Normandy D-Day drop zones in our comfortable 9- seater minivan / minibus. We have conducted Normandy tours from Bayeux , Paris and  Sainte Mere Eglise for every one: American, Canadian, British, Australian and all other enthusiasts.

Only the best is good enough for your Normandy landing beaches and D-Day experience.

All our D-Day Normandy tours have English speaking Normandy tour guides who are licensed, experienced and very passionate about WWII. Their interest in war history and their passion for D-Day, make our tours so interesting and enjoyable. Our 9- seater vans are comfortable and all have excellent audio systems, making sure that all commentary by our guides can be heard clearly by everyone. We will answer all your questions and tell you about this beatiful region of Normandy while traveling from one site to the other. For those who need to stay connected, our vehicles even include free onboard Wi-Fi! Bayeux Sightseeing Tours are 5-star rated by Tripadvisor and offer the best Normandy D-Day tours in the area. We offer a wide variety of Normandy D-Day tours , so you can always get the D-Day experience you want. Book your Normandy landing beaches tour with us to be shure to get the most out of your visit!

Our Normandy D-Day tours

Special winter offer - private tour 495 euro, private d-day tour from bayeux, paris or sainte mère église, shared group d-day tour from bayeux, paris or sainte mère église, two - day guided private d-day tour, three - day normandy landing beaches tour. us, british and canadian sector, june 6th 2024 exclusive normandy d-day tour: 80th d-day anniversary., half day private d-day tour, famous movie sites normandy d-day tour: the longest day, saving private ryan & band of brothers., private d-day tour starting from your cruise ship terminal.

Come join us for the most complete guided tour of the D-Day area!

• Reserve your spot

KEEPING HISTORY ALIVE!

Small group Adventures featuring the most complete tour of the D-Day area.

Overlord Adventures PRESENTS:

"Re-Visiting the D-Day Beaches" Adventure Dates

Join us in 2025!

These dates will sell out rapidly:

June 15 - 21, 2025  - 4 rooms left

          June 22 - 28,  2025

September 14 - 20, 2025 - 5  rooms left

     September 21 - 27, 2025

Join Us for the Most Complete Tour You Will Ever Experience

• Expert battlefield Historians and Guides
• Tour folder containing itinerary, frequently asked questions, maps, language tips
• One of the most comprehensive, all inclusive, customized itineraries - maximizing the number of historic sites we are able to visit each day
• Historic, centrally located 4-Star accommodations in Bayeux, France
• Six full breakfasts and six multi-course dinners prepared at our Hotel.  Lunches are Dutch treat while we are out visiting the D-Day area.
• Normandy ground transportation provided in a private 16-passenger Mercedes motor coach
• Entrance fees to all sites, museums, and historic attractions on itinerary. Access to sites not usually offered or visited on the larger big bus tours
• Personal listening devices while touring the D-Day area
• When you book your spot on this Adventure, you are automatically enrolled in the Overlord Adventures Academy which will help you prepare for this bucket list epic trip.
• Check out our FAQ page! Click here.

Some of the Sites You Will See and Experience on this Adventure

• All 5 Invasion Beaches
• Arromanches 360° Cinema
• D-Day Landing Museum
• Longues sur Mer Gun Battery
• Crisbecq Battery, Marmion Farm
• Utah Beach Landing Museum
• Dick Winters Leadership Memorial
• 101st Airborne Memorial
• Angoville au Plain Chapel
• Sainte mere Eglise and Airborne Museum
• General Collins Museum
• La Fiere Bridge - WN-60 Strongpoint
• Maisy Gun Battery and Pointe du Hoc
• D-Day Omaha Museum
• Overlord Museum
• Normandy American Cemetery
• Bayeux, Ouistreham, and other towns
• Juno Beach Center
• Merville Gun Battery, Pegasus Bridge
• Plus several other sites

We provide small group Adventures for a 

more personalized and enjoyable experience.

 We limit each Adventure to 12 people .

• Pricing starts at $4,000 per person                         (single or Double).
• A $750 deposit is required to reserve each spot.
• Please note: Airfare and travel insurance is not included in our Adventures.
• Discounts are available to Active Military and Veterans as well as private groups of 10 - 12.

To reserve your spot on one of our "Re-Visiting the D-Day Beaches" Adventures, send an email to:

[email protected]

We will get back to you with a Reservation form.

Our Mission

At Overlord Adventures , our mission is to provide our Adventurers with the best travel experience possible. We strive to make every adventure unforgettable by offering exceptional service and personalized recommendations.

We conduct all-inclusive, small group, week-long immersions into the study of and exploration of the largest military amphibious invasion in the history of mankind.

Our History

Overlord Adventures began in 2016 by Dwayne Lee who had a passion for World War II history - specifically D-Day - and a strong desire to share this piece of history with others.

Dwayne's Dad was a C-47 Pilot during World War II and helped train many of the Glider Pilots who subsequently landed in Normandy during the D-Day invasion during June of 1944.

Dwayne has hosted 15 small groups on Adventures in Normandy since 2018. He has also presented well over 275 programs on D-Day to civic, school, women's, veterans, and non-profit groups over the past seven years.

Group Presentations are available

If you have a group who would like Dwayne to present one of his four informational and inspiring D-Day programs to, just send us a note using the contact form below. 

Our Desire to Never Forget

Most Americans these days know little about World War II and the millions of young soldiers who put their lives on the line.

A survey recently revealed:

• only 70% knew that D-Day occurred during World War II,
• only 54% knew Gen. Dwight Eisenhower’s leadership role, and
• 15% thought D-Day happened at Pearl Harbor!

These are the very reasons Overlord Adventures was created to help educate people of all ages about the selfless, patriotic, and courageous heroes in WWII. 

Our expert team of Historians at Overlord Adventures is made up of experienced professionals who are dedicated to helping our guests create unforgettable memories. 

The Overlord Adventures staff members are all advanced students of  World War II, with a primary focus on D-Day. 

We are  here to answer your questions 

and offer personalized recommendations.

Yet Another great review!

 "If you’ve ever wanted to take a Normandy D-Day tour, this is the group for you.  Some tours only take you to 2-3 of the beaches but this one takes you to all 5 as well as other historic sites.  Fred and I were blessed to go two years ago and were both humbled and inspired.  I would go again in a heartbeat and wish we could take all our children and grandchildren.  We can’t let the memory of those brave soldiers fade away.  They are a big reason why we enjoy the freedom we have today."

Pam and Fred Powers

Keeping History Alive!

 "I am so glad to hear that you are carrying on the torch for 

D-Day and Normandy. This is especially critical in these strategically dangerous times, especially in Ukraine and Israel. I know you’ll insure that continuing generations know that price Americans have already paid for the free world in which we live. Let that not be squandered by fools."

James Campbell Quick

 Colonel, United States Air Force (Ret.), LOM

President, Arlington Veterans Park Foundation

D-Day should always be remembered as

  "the beginning of the end".  

It was truly a marvelous achievement which was brought about by the brave endeavors of all of the Allied troops.

Overlord Adventures: keeping history alive!

Contact us today, get in touch.

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Start up a Conversation

We love to hear from fellow D-Day history enthusiasts! Have a question about some of our recent trips? Want to reserve a spot on one of our upcoming Adventures, or have a question? Drop us a line!

Overlord Adventures

2550 Legacy Point Drive, Arlington, Texas 76006, United States

817-277-0477 (office) 817-300-4477 (cell) [email protected] (email)

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THE 10 BEST Normandy Multi-Day Tours

Multi-day tours in normandy.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Walking Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Normandy Loire Valley 3-Days Trip with Mont Saint Michel and Castles from Paris

2. Normandy 2Days Trip, D-Day Beaches & Mont Saint Michel from Paris

3. 2 Days Mont Saint Michel, Loire Castles Guided Tour

4. 2-day Mont Saint-Michel, Full D-Day, Normandy Private from Paris

5. 2-day Mont Saint-Michel Normandy Brittany Private Trip from Paris

6. 3-day Private Omaha Utah Full D-Day Mont Saint-Michel by Mercedes

7. Two Days Private Tour to Normandy from Paris

8. Learn French naturally with our Normandy & Paris Impressionist tour for adults.

9. 2-Days Private Guided Tour in Normandy: D-day, MSM, Rouen etc

10. 2-day Mont Saint-Michel, D-Day Express, 3 Loire Castles Private

11. 3-Day Private Normandy — Brittany — 3 Loire Castles, Oysters & Calvados tasting

12. Private Mont-Saint-Michel And D-Day Beaches Tour from Paris

13. D-Day & Mont St Michel 2 Days Tour

14. Mont Saint Michel, Saint Malo & Cancale 3 Days Tour from Paris

15. 4-Day Private Tour Normandy - Mont Saint Michel, WW2 beaches...

16. 2Days Trip D-Day Beaches, Saint Malo & Mont Saint Michel(Pick Up)

17. 7-day Small Group ALL Normandy D-Day Castles & Burgundy Wine Trip

18. 7-day Private ALL Normandy D-Day Castles Burgundy wine trip

19. 8-day Paris — Normandy — Brittany Small-group Sightseeing Tour by Minivan

20. 3-day Private Normandy, D-Day, Mont Saint-Michel, 3 Loire Castles

21. 5-day Private Loire Castles, Mont Saint-Michel, D-Day from Paris

22. Private tour Mont St Michel and Normandy 2 days departure from Paris

23. 2-Day Private Normandy Tour of The Five Landing Beaches

24. 7-day Guided Tour Paris — D-Day — Loire Castles — M.St-Michel —Louvre—Versailles

25. Private Tour 3 Days WWII Dunkirk 1940 and Dieppe 1942 From Paris

26. 2-day M.St-Michel, D-Day, 3 Loire Castles Small-group from Paris

27. 8-day Small group Guided Tour Paris — M.St.Michel —8 Attractions

28. 2-day Private Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy Express 3 Loire Castles

29. 2-day Private D Day Omaha Utah Beaches Live Guided from Paris

30. 12 Day Guided Tour to France

What travelers are saying.

Normandy and Brittany escorted history tours for small mature grups

This small group tour for couples and solo travellers is centred on the North West corner of France: Normandy , where the peaceful landscape belies a turbulent past ; Brittany , where a strongly separate Celtic culture is still evident; Poitou, famous for its rich farmlands and historic ports; and the Loire Valley , replete with royal châteaux.

From $10,505 USD

Departing Aug, May, Apr, Sep

• 1. Visit Poitou, famous for its rich farmlands and historic ports.
• 2. Stand on the revered Normandy beaches where the Allied Forces bravely landed on D Day in 1944.
• 3. Trace the rich history of France through the opulent chateaux of the Loire.
• 4. Explore Normandy, where the peaceful verdant landscape belies a turbulent past.

• Departure Dates

Normandy and Brittany escorted history tour.

Odyssey offers easy, convenient, and relaxed escorted small group tours across Western Europe and beyond. We explore France’s fairy-tale natural beauty, its ancient Roman, and Imperial heritage, its World Heritage Sites, and world famous cities, all with some truly spectacular scenery along the way. This and more is all waiting to be explored on one of Odyssey’s small group tours of France, designed for the senior traveller, and led by experienced, and enthusiastic like minded people.

Our Normandy and Brittany escorted history tours for small mature groups are a 22-day journey through Northern France. It will appeal to the active senior looking to get beyond the usual 'big cities' destinations and enjoy unique experiences. The Normandy and Brittany Small Group Tour is suitable for both solo travellers and couples. This is a region linked by history, a dramatic coastline and some of France’s great gastronomic experiences.

Our tour travels into the historic regions of Normandy, where the peaceful verdant landscape belies a turbulent past. After 10 nights in Normandy, we travel on to visit Brittany, where a strongly separate Celtic culture is still evident in this long-time independent Duchy. Here, we experience Poitou, famous for its rich farmlands and historic ports. We also visit the Loire Valley, replete with royal chateaux. The program starts and concludes in Paris .

After a night in Paris, our guided small group tour begins with a visit to Rouen, the capital of Normandy. While here, we visit the " Monet Cathedral ," the subject of many of his paintings. At each location we visit, a local tour guide will join us to share their deep knowledge. While in Rouen, we also see the strikingly modern Joan of Arc Church in the old market square.

Normandy is regarded as a typically French region of apple orchards, contented cows, cider, and pungent cheeses. Its peaceful pastoral landscape belies its historic conquests and devastating experiences during World War II. While in Normandy, we also explore the adjacent regions of Picardy and the World War I sites of the Valley of the Somme.

Afterwards, the Normandy and Brittany small group tour heads west, before turning south we spend 4 nights in Bayeux . From here, we explore the regional hub of Caen , including learning about the city's medieval past. In Bayeux, our guides provide an understanding of this regional town and of course the famous Bayeux Tapestry. This unique work, which is actually embroidery rather than tapestry, tells the story of the Conquest of England by William the Conqueror from the Norman point of view. It also gives a fascinating insight into life in Norman France during the 11th century.

The Normandy and Brittany small group tour also visits the Normandy beaches . While here, we make time to see any memorials that members of the group may wish to visit.

In the second part of the Normandy and Brittany small group tour, we head south. Continuing to explore the coast, we visit Mont St Michel , basing ourselves in the small seaside hamlet of Tregastel. In Brittany, we learn from its guides about the Celtic influence on this region of France. Afterwards, we visit Carnac. The standing stone monument consists of more than 3,000 granite menhirs , arranged in rows between 3300 BC and 1500 BC. Each stone block weighs a minimum of three tonnes was carved and transported for miles.

The Normandy and Brittany small group tour then moves inland into the Loire valley , viewing castles (chateaux) whilst spending 4 nights in Tours. The city's long history includes Gallic-Roman settlements and a role as the 15th-century French capital and seat of kings. It was heavily bombed in World War II, and its atmospheric centre is now surrounded with modern towers.

Our journeys from Tours includes time in Amboise a town in central France’s Loire Valley. Amboise is famous for the Château d'Amboise, a grand 15th-century residence for King Charles VIII. The château includes the tomb of Leonardo da Vinci. We also visit Château du Clos Lucé, Leonardo's former home, where he lived until his death in 1519.

Normandy and Brittany escorted history tours for small mature groups is a 22-day tour of Northwest France. The culture and history of this part of France is very rich. The tour is designed for the mature couple or solo traveller this escorted tour is the best for those seeking an in depth tour of this fascinating region. This program is just one of some 20 escorted tours Odyssey offers in France each year.

Head over to our blog for travel tips and a guide to touring France!

(This tour Normandy and Brittany escorted history tour for small mature groups was previously known as "French Tapestry.") For more details, click the ‘Top 5’ or ‘Itinerary’ buttons above! If you’re keen to experience this tour, please call or send an email. Or, to book, simply fill in the form on the right hand side of this page.

Day 1: Paris

Accommodation: 1 night at Le Magellan Hotel or similar.

Upon arrival in Paris, we will come individually to the hotel. There will be time to relax and freshen up before our welcome meeting and dinner, with a chance to meet each other.

Day 2: Paris - Giverny - Rouen - Bayeux

Accommodation: 4 nights at Churchill Hotel or similar.

We will stop at Giverny as well as Rouen, which is the capital of Normandy. There we can visit the “Monet Cathedral,” the subject of many of his paintings. We can also see the modern, striking Joan of Arc Church in the old market square. It has been said of Rouen that the city has enough venerable buildings of all descriptions to quench even the greatest historical thirst. We pause here for a brief time to explore. Our arrival in Bayeux will be in the late afternoon.

Normandy is regarded as a typically French region of apple orchards, contented cows, cider, and pungent cheeses. Normandy’s peaceful pastoral landscape belies its historic conquests and devastating experiences during World War II. From Normandy we also explore the adjacent regions of Picardy and the World War I sites of the Valley of the Somme.

Day 3: Bayeux - Caen - Bayeux

Accommodation: Churchill Hotel or similar.

This morning we will have a sightseeing tour of Bayeux which, needless to say, includes the Bayeux Tapestry. This unique work, which is actually embroidery rather than tapestry, tells the story of the Conquest of England by William the Conqueror from the Norman point of view, and gives an amazing insight into life in Norman France during the 11th century.

On our field trip to Caen we will visit the impressive Memorial Museum. We will also have the chance to explore some other historic sites in Caen, more linked to the city’s medieval past.

Day 4: Bayeux - Camembert - Honfleur - Bayeux

This morning we sample some of the local regional produce with a tasting of Camembert cheese. We will also visit the typically picturesque Norman fishing port of Honfleur.

Day 5: Bayeux - Courseulles-Sur-Mer - Arromanches - Pointe du hoc - Sainte-Mere-Eglise - Bayeux

Today we will tour the Landing Beaches of D Day , the Pegasus Bridge, Juno Beach Centre, and Musee du Debarqueement. We will view the Mulbery Harbour, visit the American Cemetery and Memorial, and Sainte-Mere-Eglise, the milestone zero in front of the town hall (symbol and starting point of liberty). Dinner tonight will again be at a local restaurant with more local dishes.

Day 6: Bayeux - Mont Saint-Michel - Tregastel

Accommodation: 2 nights at Park Hotel Bellevue Hotel or similar.

Today we will have an early start as we head west towards Brittany. We will explore the island of Mont-St-Michel , crossing by the causeway which links it to the mainland, and briefly visit the fortified port of St. Malo before arriving at our hotel at Tregastel.

With rugged shores washed by the Atlantic, Brittany has a strong Celtic heritage. It is a wild seafaring peninsula dotted with mysterious standing stones, dolmens, and cromlechs. Bretons have their own language and cuisine; the kingdom of Brittany did not become part of France until the 15th century. The gentle scenery of the southern Breton coastline contrasts with the rugged grandeur of the north and in order for us to experience both aspects, we stay at Tregastel in the north and Lorient in the south.

Day 7: Tregastel

Accommodation: Park Hotel Bellevue Hotel or similar.

We have a full day field trip that explores the village of Tregastel, with its ancient church and “pink granite” aquarium as well as the dramatic Pink Granite coastline with its typical Breton fishing villages and quintessential Breton architecture.

Day 8: Tregastel - Quimper - Lorient

Accommodation: 4 nights at Mercure Lorient Centre or similar.

Today we leave the North Breton coast as we travel through some of the towns and villages of the region’s interior en route to the southern city ot Lorient. We will seek out an example of a typical Breton Parish Close with an elaborate crucifixion scene and visit the ancient cathedral city of Quimper . We arrive in time for dinner.

Day 9: Lorient - Concarneau - Port Aven - Lorient

Accommodation: Mercure Lorient Centre or similar.

Today’s field trip will take us to the fortified city of Concarneau and the artists village of Pont Aven. We will have a wine tasting experience and sample some of the region’s typical local produce such as succulent oysters, buttery cakes, and fermented apple cider!

Day 10: Lorient - Rennes - Lorient

A full day field trip takes us to the Breton capital, Rennes, where we will visit the parliament building, the Parc du Thabor. There will be time to explore the city individually.

Day 11: Lorient - Quibern - Carnac - Lorient

We will explore the dramatic coastal scenery of the Quiberon Peninsula. Later on we explore the more mysterious Neolithic age, as evidenced by the world famous standing stones of Carnac.

Day 12: Lorient - Josellin - Vannes - Noirmoutier

Accommodation: 4 nights at Hotel Fleur de Sel or similar.

Before leaving Brittany, we explore the impressive and historic Chateau of Josselin as well as the city of Vannes, Breton capital since Roman times which still boasts impressive walls and city gates. We then continue our journey south into Poitou-Charentes and the island of Noirmoutier.

The Poitou region is renowned for its fiercely independent nature. Richelieu took La Rochelle by siege in 1628 during the Religious Wars and La Vendee rebelled against Paris during the Revolution. We stay close to the mouth of the Loire, on the island of Noirmoutier as our base to explore this green and historic region. We use this base to explore the countryside and historic cities of Poitou, La Vendee, and the Lower Loire Valley. We will experience the verdant canals of Venise Verte (Green Venice), historic Nantes, and the Island of Noirmoutier with its tiny capital and market.

Day 13: Noirmoutier - Nantes - Noirmoutier

Accommodation: Hotel Fleur de Sel or similar.

We will pause in Nantes, the former seat of the Dukes of Brittany. We will see the main sights, the cathedral, and Les Machines de I’lle de Nantes.

Day 14: Noirmoutier

Today we will explore the island of Noirmoutier and see its saltpans, submersible causeway, and tiny historic capital.

Day 15: Noirmoutier

The Marais Poitevin (Poitou Marshlands) are the destination for today’s full day field trip as we take a canal ride through the canals of the Venise Verte and visit the ruined Benedictine abbey of Maillezais.

Day 16: Noirmoutier - Angers - Saumur - Tours

Accommodation: 4 nights at Best Western L’Artiste or similar.

Our journey to Tours takes us along the Western stretches of the Loire Valley. The Loire Valley has long been the hunting region and playground of the French aristocracy with many fine castles along the River Loire and its tributaries. We will travel through historic Angers and medieval Saumur before arriving in Tours.

From here we learn about the golden age of the Loire Valley as we experience some of the magnificent towns, royal residences, and chateaux which make this one of France’s most visited regions. We also sample some of the local produce of this wine region.

Day 17: Tours - Amboise - Tours

Accommodation: Best Western L’Artiste or similar.

We start our exploration of Tours and its main sights today. First we will visit Amboise Royal Chateau. This emblematic monument and its landscaped gardens offer one of the most remarkable panoramas of the Loire Valley, and are registered as a World Heritage Site by Unesco. The site carries political and artistic importance within Europe in the Renaissance.

We also visit Chateau de Clos Luce. The spirit of Leonardo da Vinci remains in the Château du Clos Lucé, mingling with the memory of all the famous guests who contributed to the richest times enjoyed by the building.

Day 18: Tours - Blois - Valencay - Tours

We start our day with a visit to the Chateu de Blois. The Royal Chateau offers a true panoramic survey of art and history of the chateaux of the Loire Valley. The residence of 7 kings and 10 queens of France, the Royal Chateau of Blois is a site reminiscent of the power and daily life at court in the Renaissance, as are the royal apartments, furnished and embellished with magnificent polychromatic decors. This afternoon we discover the classical Renaissance Chateau of Valencay as well.

Day 19: Tours - Chambord - Chenonceau - Tours

We start our exploration of Chateau de Chambord and the petite French Renaissance style Chenonceau spanning the River Cher.

Day 20: Tours - Chartres - Paris

Accommodation: 2 nights at Le Magellan Hotel or similar.

This morning we pause in the cathedral city of Chartres before arriving in Paris. Entrance to the Louvre included today.

Day 21: Paris

Accommodation: Le Magellan Hotel or similar.

We will have a full day city tour, including a visit to the Notre Dame Cathedral, entrance to Sainte Chapelle, and Les Invalides, Napoleon’s tomb. Tonight we enjoy our farewell dinner.

Day 22: Paris

Our tour concludes in Paris.

Paris Extensions For those staying on in Paris, there is plenty of time to enjoy the city’s many great historical sights, museums and galleries.

• Please note that, although contents will not vary, the order of days may be changed if local conditions demand.

Includes / Excludes

What’s included in our Tour

• 21 nights of accommodation.
• 21 local-style breakfasts and 12 dinners.
• Transport, lectures, and field trips as indicated.
• Applicable entry fees and services of local guides.
• Services of a Tour Leader.
• Service charges and gratuities.
• Detailed tour information booklet.

What’s not included in our Tour

• International and domestic airfares.
• Comprehensive International Travel Insurance.
• Items of a personal nature such as telephone calls and laundry.

Participants must be able to carry their own luggage, climb and descend stairs, be in good health, mobile and able to participate in 3-5 hours of physical activity per day, the equivalent of walking / hiking up to 8 kilometers per day on uneven ground.

26 August 2024

Ends 16 September 2024 • 22 days

Change departure date

By booking two travellers sharing a room you save $3190 per person.

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You can reserve your spot by paying a $1,000 pp deposit, for full details please see our Terms & Conditions .

Prices are per person and valid until 30th December 2024.

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Easing your journey.

Crossing international borders with restrictions

The list of requirements to travel internationally has changed and will continue to change for several years. Odyssey is here to assist you in managing your way through these requirements:

For more information see our Crossing international borders with restrictions page.

Book With Confidence

If less than 30 days before your tour starts you are unable to travel as a result of Government travel restrictions, Odyssey Traveller will assist you with a date change, provide you with a credit or process a refund for your booking less any non-recoverable costs.

See Terms and conditions for details.

Peace of Mind Travel

The safety of our travellers, tour leader, local guide and support staff has always been our top priority and with the new guidelines for public health and safety for keeping safe for destinations around the world, we’ve developed our plan to give you peace of mind when travelling with us.

See Peace of Mind Travel for details.

Reading List Download PDF

The sea kingdoms: the history of celtic britain and ireland.

Alistair Moffat

The most powerful representation yet of the race which has repeatedly changed history as we know it' - The Scotsman 'Brimming with interesting facts ... instructive and wide-ranging' - Cal McCrystal, Independent on Sunday 'The best picture of the Celtic race yet written' - South Wales Echo 'Lovingly traces the remnants of a once-powerful people through language, ancient place names, farms, fortresses, harbours and, most of all, through their connection to the sea' - Irish Times Alistair Moffat's journey, from the Scottish islands and Scotland, to the English coast, Wales, Cornwall and Ireland, ignores national boundaries to reveal the rich fabric of culture and history of Celtic Britain which still survives today. This is a vividly told, dramatic and enlightening account of the oral history, legends and battles of a people whose past stretches back many hundred of years. The Sea Kingdoms is a story of great tragedies, ancient myths and spectacular beauty.

The History of Modern France: From the Revolution to the War on Terror

Jonathan Fenby

With the defeat of Napoleon Bonaparte at the Battle of Waterloo in June 1815, the next two centuries for France would be tumultuous. Bestselling historian and political commentator Jonathan Fenby provides an expert and riveting journey through this period as he recounts and analyses the extraordinary sequence of events of this period from the end of the First Revolution through two others, a return of Empire, three catastrophic wars with Germany, periods of stability and hope interspersed with years of uncertainty and high tensions. As her cross-Channel neighbour Great Britain would equally suffer, France was to undergo the wrenching loss of colonies in the post-Second World War as the new modern world we know today took shape. Her attempts to become the leader of the European union is a constant struggle, as was her lack of support for America in the two Gulf Wars of the past twenty years. Alongside this came huge social changes and cultural landmarks but also fundamental questioning of what this nation, which considers itself exceptional, really stood - and stands - for. That saga and those questions permeate the France of today, now with an implacable enemy to face in the form of Islamic extremism which so bloodily announced itself this year in Paris. Fenby will detail every event, every struggle and every outcome across this expanse of 200 years. It will prove to be the definitive guide to understanding France.

How the French Think: An Affectionate Portrait of an Intellectual People

Sudhir Hazareesingh

Sudhir Hazareesingh's How the French Think is a warm yet incisive exploration of the French intellectual tradition, and its exceptional place in a nation's identity and lifestyle

Why are the French an exceptional nation? Why do they think they are so exceptional? An important reason is that in France intellectual activity is regarded not just as the preserve of the thinking elite but for almost everyone. French thought can sometimes be austere and often opaque, yet it is undeniably bold and innovative, and driven by a relentless quest for the regeneration of humanity. Sudhir Hazareesingh traces its tumultuous history in an enormously enjoyable and highly original manner, showing how the French ways of thought and life connect. This will be one of the most revealing books written about them - or any other European country - for years.

Sudhir Hazareesingh was born in Mauritius. He is a Fellow of the British Academy and has been a Fellow and Tutor in Politics at Balliol College, Oxford, since 1990. Among his books are The Legend of Napoleon (Granta, 2004) and Le MytheGaullien (Gallimard, 2010). He won the Prix du Memorial d'Ajaccio and the Prix de la Fondation Napoleon for the first of these, and a Prix d'Histoire du Senat for the second.

The Ancient Paths: Discovering the Lost Map of Celtic Europe

Graham Robb

Graham Robb's new book will change the way you see European civilization.

Inspired by a chance discovery, Robb became fascinated with the world of the Celts: their gods, their art, and, most of all, their sophisticated knowledge of science. His investigations gradually revealed something extaordinary: a lost map, of an empire constructed with precision and beauty across vast tracts of Europe. The map had been forgotten for almost two millennia and its implications were astonishing.

Minutely researched and rich in revelations, The Ancient Paths brings to life centuries of our distant history and reinterprets pre-Roman Europe. Told with all of Robb's grace and verve, it is a dazzling, unforgettable book.

The Discovery of France

Ten years ago, I began to explore the country on which I was supposed to be an authority . . .

France is a country famous for its intellectuals, its philosophers and writers, its fashion, food and wine. And yet the notion of 'the French' as one nation is relatively recent and - historically speaking - quite misleading. In order to discover the 'real' past of France, Graham Robb realised it was not only necessary to go back in time, but also to go at a slower pace than modern life generally allows. The Discovery of France, illuminating, engrossing and full of surprises, is the result of Robb's 14,000 mile journey across France on a bicycle.

Winner of both the Duff Cooper and the Royal Society of Literature Ondaatje prizes, The Discovery of France is a modern non-fiction classic, a literary exploration of a remarkable nation. From maps and migration to magic, language and landscape, it reveals a France few will recognize.

Lower Normandy: French Impressions

George East

The sixth in the popular French Impressions series, taking the form of a personal travel narrative exploring the three departéments of Lower Normandy. As well as reviewing more than a hundred towns and villages and tourist attractions, the book looks at the historical events and peoples which helped form the unique character of this part of France. The book also features the recipes and background to many traditional and unusual Norman dishes. In all, a complete celebration of one of Frances most beautiful and fascinating areas.

From the D-Day Beaches to the birthplace of William the Conqueror, George East’s unique style paints a gloriously coloured picture of some of the most visited and intriguing parts of Normandy. Learn about where your favourite cheeses come from, along with recipes for exciting and traditional dishes.

The French Revolution

Christopher Hibbert

Concise, convincing and exciting, this is Christopher Hibbert’s brilliant account of the events that shook eighteenth-century Europe to its foundation. With a mixture of lucid storytelling and fascinating detail, he charts the French Revolution from its beginnings at an impromptu meeting on an indoor tennis court at Versailles in 1789, right through to the ‘coup d’etat’ that brought Napoleon to power ten years later. In the process he explains the drama and complexities of this epoch-making era in the compelling and accessible manner he has made his trademark.

Writing in The Times, Richard Holmes described the book as ‘A spectacular replay of epic action …’ while The Good Book Guide called it, ‘Unquestionably the best popular history of the French Revolution’.

France: A History: from Gaul to de Gaulle

John Julius Norwich

I can still feel, as if it were yesterday, the excitement of my first Channel crossing (as a child of nearly 7) in September 1936; the regiment of porters, smelling asphyxiatingly of garlic in their blue-green blousons; the raucous sound all around me of spoken French; the immense fields of Normandy strangely devoid of hedges; then the Gare du Nord at twilight, the policemen with their képis and their little snow-white batons; and my first sight of the Eiffel Tower...This book is written in the belief that the average English-speaking man or woman has remarkably little knowledge of French history. We may know a bit about Napoleon or Joan of Arc or Louis XIV, but for most of us that's about it. In my own three schools we were taught only about the battles we won: Crécy and Poitiers, Agincourt and Waterloo. The rest was silence. So here is my attempt to fill in the blanks...

John Julius Norwich (at 88) has finally written the book he always wanted to write, the extremely colourful story of the country he loves best.

From frowning Roman generals and belligerent Gallic chieftains, to Charlemagne (hated by generations of French children taught that he invented schools) through Marie Antoinette and the storming of the Bastille to Vichy, the Resistance and beyond, FRANCE is packed with heroes and villains, adventures and battles, romance and revolution. Full of memorable stories and racy anecdotes, this is the perfect introduction to the country that has inspired the rest of the world to live, dress, eat -- and love better.

Becoming Bourgeois: Love, Kinship, and Power in Provincial France, 1670–1880

Christopher H Johnson

Becoming Bourgeois traces the fortunes of three French families in the municipality of Vannes, in Brittany—Galles, Jollivet, and Le Ridant—who rose to prominence in publishing, law, the military, public administration, and intellectual pursuits over the course of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Revisiting complex issues of bourgeois class formation from the perspective of the interior lives of families, Christopher H. Johnson argues that the most durable and socially advantageous links forging bourgeois ascent were those of kinship. Economic success, though certainly derived from the virtues of hard work and intelligent management, was always underpinned by marriage strategies and the diligent intervention of influential family members.

Johnson's examination of hundreds of personal letters opens up a whole world: the vicissitudes of courtship; the centrality of marriage; the depths of conjugal love; the routines of pregnancy and the drama of childbirth; the practices of child rearing and education; the powerful place of siblings; the role of kin in advancing the next generation; tragedy and deaths; the enormous contributions of women in all aspects of becoming bourgeois; and the pleasures of gathering together in intimate soirées, grand balls, country houses, and civic and political organizations. Family love bound it all together, and this is ultimately what this book is about, as four generations of rather ordinary provincial people capture our hearts.

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Articles about France

Quimper, France

Quimper, France The cultural heart of Brittany, the charming small city of Quimper is a gateway into France’s most distinct region. Believed to be inhabited since the neolithic, Brittany is home to some of the…

Questions About France for Senior travellers

Escorted small group tours for mature and senior travellers to France . Designed for couples and solo travellers who like to explore and enjoy learning as they travel to Paris , Provence, the South or the Loire Valley and beyond.

Atlantic Ocean and How it Shaped Ancient Communities In Europe

Article of interest for senior couples and mature solo travellers joining a small group European tour to Faroe Islands , Scottish Isles , Morocco or Portugal. Focus is on the early exploration of the Atlantic.

Bayeux, France

The quaint medieval city of Bayeux is home to one big ticket item – the fascinating Bayeux Tapestry, which depicts the Norman Conquest of England by William the Conqueror in 1066. Though the origins of the tapestry are debated by historians, it is of great artistic interest and is an important historical source.

Caen, France

The city of Caen, with a dramatic history spanning from the time of William the Conqueror to the D-Day Landing, is a highlight of any Normandy tour.

France Guide for Mature or Senior travellers

France Guide for Mature or Senior Travellers There are good reasons why France has been the world’s most popular tourist destination for over twenty years. This France guide should give you the start  of an…

Monet's Giverny Garden

Monet’s Giverny Garden Claude Monet French Impressionist Claude Monet (1840-1926) was a pioneer of a major art movement, but he created a thing of beauty that he believed eclipsed even his own celebrated works of art.…

Monet's Water Lillies: The Definitive Guide for Travellers

Claude Monet’s Water Lilies are among the most beloved and amazing artworks of the 20th century. Displayed in Paris’s Orangerie in a set of rooms devoted entirely to the paintings, they are Monet’s gift to…

Mont-St-Michel, France

In 966, a Benedictine abbey was built on the island and Mont St-Michel became a centre of religious learning, attracting the brightest minds and most talented artists from around Europe.

Normandy Beaches

The Normandy beaches in northwestern France were the location of D-Day during World War II, the historic simultaneous landings of Allied troops that liberated Western Europe and eventually put an end to the Nazi Reich.

Studying Gargoyles and Grotesques: The Definitive Guide for Travellers

Article to support world travellers since 1983 with small group educational tours for senior couples or mature solo travellers interested in British and European history.

Writers of Paris, France

Paris, attracts the artists and writers. From Monet to Picasso, or Hemingway to Dumas. Our escorted small group tours of Paris and France explore the literary past of this magnificent city.

Exploring France's Saint-Malo

Article about a personal view on St Malo for mature and senior couple and solo travellers exploring Mont st Michel France and Europe. Interest in history , landscapes and cities as well as places with great art such as Rodin and the impressionists such as Monet .

Historic Loire Valley

Historic Loire Valley The Loire Valley has been the site of both aristocratic grandeur and thousands of years of territorial conflict. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site with the 15th century Château de Chenonceau as…

Standing Stones of Britain and Europe

An article for senior couples and mature solo travellers curious to learn about Standing stones of Scotland , England , Wales, France and other parts of Europe. Support material for Odyssey's small group tours of pre-historic Britain , Scotland and the Anglo - France tour.

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DESTINATION: WWII

A World War II Travel Blog

The 10 Best Local D-Day Tours in Normandy for 2024: Beaches, Battlefields, & Beyond

Last Updated: January 29, 2024 //  by  Ashley Smith 4 Comments

While many travelers can only squeeze in a day trip to Normandy from Paris , just as many others dedicate a couple of days here to take advantage of the many available Normandy D-Day tours. Booking a local day tour of the many worthwhile D-Day sites is the best way to get the most out of your visit.

Table of Contents

Why book one of the Normandy D-Day tours?

Day tours in Normandy are great for many reasons, for instance:

• Transportation – There’s not a lot of reliable public transportation here, so booking a tour will ensure you can get to all the sites you want to see without having to rent a car.
• Expertise – The Normandy tour guides are experts in their field and can provide loads of historical background on the sites you’ll visit.
• Planning – Or really, the lack thereof. Book yourself on a tour and you won’t have to deal with any of the logistical planning.
• Like-minded travelers – On tours like these you get to meet like-minded travelers excited to discuss the topics at hand and share these experiences. This is especially great if you’re traveling solo.

This post only covers D-Day tours originating in Normandy . You have to already be here to join them, or be able to easily get here before the start time. With the exception of two, all the rest start and end in the town of Bayeux . If you’re looking for Normandy day tours starting and ending in Paris, check out my post on Normandy day tours from Paris .

Choosing the best Normandy D-Day tours

But which of the many available tours out there are the best ones? Which ones go to the best places and cover the most ground? Luckily, you have a World War II travel expert at your disposal to scrutinize them all and help you choose!

I haven’t taken all the tours on this list, but I do have a keen sense of what the average Normandy visitor wants from a tour of the D-Day sites . To create this list, I’ve compared the many available tours against my stringent set of criteria. I’ve taken into account things like:

• Customer rating and reviews
• Length of the tour and start/end times
• Overall benefit (Is it worth your valuable time?)
• Topic/focus of the tour
• Ease of logistics

…and much more. All so you can be sure which of these Normandy D-Day tours are the most deserving of your precious time and money. All the tours in this post are English-language tours and all prices are listed in U.S. dollars.

So how do I go about choosing which tours are the “best?” Well, I’m extremely particular when it comes to booking travel. I’ll never recommend anything that’s rated lower than 4 out of 5 stars, anything with no reviews, or anything that’s offered by a company that looks less than reputable. As always, I only recommend the things I would personally book for myself. (And I’m a hard sell.)

And if you do find yourself in Paris, be sure to check out the many interesting WWII sites in Paris . There are some great museums and memorials here not to miss.

My favorite day tour companies

The two companies I always go to for day tours (anywhere I go) are Viator and Get Your Guide . I’ve booked many tours through them and have always been satisfied. They’re both well-known in the travel industry; Viator is owned by TripAdvisor. They’re both super easy to book with; most tours offer free cancelation; and they always have competitive prices.

I also like Tours By Locals for great private options. You can find some amazing guides here who are fully licensed, with history degrees, years of experience, and unique local perspectives.

So, let’s get to it! All things considered, these are my choices for the best D-Day tours in Normandy for 2024.

For more information on each of the sites and museums mentioned in this post, check out my articles on what to see at each of the five Allied landing beach sectors: Utah , Omaha , Gold , Juno , & Sword Beaches.

Best D-Day tours in Normandy: at a glance

In this post, I’ll dig into what makes these the best D-Day tours to take in Normandy. I’ll tell you why I picked them, what makes them stand out among the others, what they include (and what they don’t), and more. But first, here’s the quick list of my picks for the 10 best Normandy D-Day tours:

• Best overall : Normandy American D-Day Beaches Full Day Tour from Bayeux
• Best half-day tour : American D-Day Sites in Normandy Half-Day Tour
• Best private tour : American D-Day Private Tour with a Licensed Guide
• Best shore excursion : D-Day Landing Beaches Shore Excursion from Le Havre
• Best Band of Brothers tour : Omaha and Band of Brothers Full Day Tour from Bayeux
• Best tour for Canadian visitors : Full-Day Canadian Battlefields and Sites of Normandy Tour
• Most unique Normandy D-Day tour : Half-Day Sidecar Excursion to the Landing Beaches
• Best tour from Caen : Guided D-Day Sites Tour & Caen Memorial Museum
• Best D-Day tour for British visitors : British D-Day World War II Normandy Private Tour
• Best bonus D-Day sites tou r: Utah & Omaha Beaches D-Day Group Tour from Bayeux

That’s the simple list; now let’s dig deeper into which of these Normandy D-Day tours is going to be the best for you .

Also check out: 10 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Normandy’s D-Day Sites

1. Best overall Normandy D-Day tour from Bayeux

My pick for best overall: Normandy American D-Day Beaches Full Day Tour from Bayeux

Without a doubt, my pick for the absolute best D-Day tour in Normandy is this one, for 3 main reasons: it’s a small group tour (maximum 8 people); it has a 5-star rating after almost 1,000 reviews; and it stops at all the right places.

What you’ll see on this tour

This tour includes stops at:

• Omaha Beach
• St-Mère-Église
• Pointe du Hoc
• Utah Beach and the Utah Beach Museum
• Normandy American Cemetery
• La Cambe German Cemetery*

*This stop isn’t listed in the tour description, but many recent reviews say they also stopped here. If you read my post on the best D-Day sites to visit , you’ll know why I recommend a stop at the German cemetery as well.

Why it’s the best

This tour includes all sites I absolutely recommend visiting and no unnecessary fluff. This tour is also ideal for American visitors since it focuses on the American landing zones of Utah and Omaha Beaches. If you have to choose just one day tour for Normandy, this is your best option!

I also love small-group tours because of the individual attention each visitor receives and it’s just a more enjoyable experience overall . (No being herded or not being able to ask questions, etc.) Plus, this tour has a 5-star rating and almost a thousand rave reviews ! Reviewers’ favorite aspects of this tour have been the knowledgeable tour guides and the choice of stops.

What to expect on this tour:

This is a full-day (9-hour) tour that starts and ends in Bayeux . It includes:

• Pick-up and drop-off in Bayeux
• Your own knowledgeable guide
• Air conditioned private transportation
• Free cancelation up to 24 hours before your tour’s start time

It does not include lunch, optional gratuities, or other personal expenses.

How much this tour costs

As of January 2024, this tour is offered 7 days a week and costs just $139 per person . All things considered, I feel this is a fantastic value for such a highly-rated tour that visits many of the best sites. I would absolutely book this tour myself.

A similar option

There’s another tour that’s similar to this one but that trades in the Utah Beach Museum and La Cambe Germany Cemetery for a visit to the small village of Angoville-au-Plain . If you’d like to visit a small local village where a lot of fighting took place (by the 101 st Airborne), check out: Utah & Omaha Beach D-Day Tour from Bayeux Station .

This tour also has a 5-star rating and tons of rave reviews and is also a small-group tour with a maximum of 8 people.

2. Best half-day Normandy D-Day tour

My pick for best half-day Normandy D-Day tour: American D-Day Sites in Normandy Half-Day Tour from Bayeux

If you find yourself on a time budget here in Normandy but still want to see some of the top D-Day sites, this is the tour for you. This 4-hour tour visits the key American locations, has a maximum of 8 passengers, and has a 5-star review rating.

This half-day Normandy tour includes stops at:

If you have limited time for a D-Day tour , these are three sites you shouldn’t miss . It caps the tour at 8 people for a more personalized experience, and it has a 5-star rating after hundreds of rave reviews . All the best reviews go to the tour guide Matt!

Another thing I love about this tour is that you can choose between morning or afternoon start times . Because it’s just a half-day tour, you can opt for either a 9:00 am start or a 2:00 pm start.

What to expect on this tour

This is a half-day tour (4 hours) that starts and ends in Bayeux . It includes:

• Pick-up and drop-off in Bayeux city center
• Private, air conditioned transportation
• Your own knowledgeable tour guide
• Free cancelation up to 24 hours before your tour

It does not include lunch, optional gratuities, or your own personal expenses.

As of January 2024, this tour is offered 7 days a week, two times per day, and costs $95 per person . For a small group tour that visits the three main American D-Day sites with a passionate and knowledgeable guide, this is a great deal.

3. Best private D-Day Normandy tour

My pick for best private D-Day tour in Normandy: American D-Day Private Tour with a Licensed Guide (Pierre)

There was some stiff competition here for best private tour, but ultimately I chose this one offered by Pierre, a local who lives in Bayeux.

The greatest thing about hiring a private tour guide for Normandy is you get to choose which sites you visit . Most guides have a list of sites they think are the best, but all are open to amending your tour to your preferences. For instance, for this tour, Pierre plans to take you to:

• Utah & Omaha Beach (the two American landing beaches)
• Pointe du Hoc (American battleground)
• Sainte-Mère-Église

But again, he’s happy to work with you to choose which sites to visit in order to create the D-Day tour you’ve always wanted.

I chose this particular tour for the best private option for a few reasons. First, the guide Pierre has been a licensed D-Day tour guide for over 8 years. Not only that, his background is in political science with a master’s degree in American history . And because he was born in France and lives in Bayeux, you’ll be able to get a unique perspective on D-Day. You can read his bio here .

Additionally, this tour is available for groups up to 7 people (whereas many of the others can only accommodate 4) and as such is a much better value than many others

This is a full-day (8.5-hour) private tour that starts and ends in Bayeux. It includes:

• Fully customizable itinerary of sites that you choose (or go with the pre-planned ones)
• Your own private expert local guide with political and historical background

It does not include lunch and other personal expenses, optional gratuities, or museum admission if you choose to visit an extra museum.

As of January 2024, this tour costs $1034 for a group up to 7 people , for everything mentioned above. This is a great option for larger groups or families, but just as awesome for couples looking for a personalized experience.

Honorable mentions

In case this one doesn’t work for you or Pierre isn’t available on your required date, the other private options I considered are:

• American D-Day Beaches Full Day Tour from Bayeux for up to 4 people, with Karine , licensed Normandy tour guide for over 30 years
• American D-Day Beaches Tour for 8-16 people with Sabrina , national tour guide and lecturer
• Landing Beaches, Normandy, D-Day Full Day Private tour from either Caen or Bayeux with Jonathan , licensed tour guide with a master’s degree in French history. This tour costs much less than the other ones, and the caveat is that you pick him up and visit these sites in your own car. You’re booking the guide only here, no driver.

4. Best shore excursion Normandy D-Day tour

My pick for best shore excursion to Normandy’s D-Day sites: D-Day Landing Beaches Shore Excursion from Le Havre

If you’re planning to arrive to the area via cruise ship and are looking to spend a day exploring Normandy’s historic sites, this is the best D-Day tour for you, tailor-made for cruise ship passengers.

This full-day Normandy D-Day tour includes visits to:

If you’re visiting Normandy via cruise ship, you’ll most likely dock at the port in Le Havre. But seeing as how most Normandy D-Day tours leave from Bayeux, your options are limited. This particular tour is tailor-made for cruise ship passengers like you.

You’ll get picked up and dropped off right there at the port near your ship by a guide who understands your particular needs as a cruise ship passenger on a shore excursion . The three sites it includes are my top 3 recommendations for anyone visiting Normandy for any amount of time. And most importantly, it has a 5-star rating and rave reviews .

This full-day (10-hour) shore excursion starts and ends at the cruise port in Le Havre. It includes:

• Expert guide to tell you all about the sites you’ll visit plus the relevant history of Le Havre as well
• Round trip transportation to and from your cruise port
• Free cancelation up to 24 hours before your scheduled tour

As of January 2024, this tour ranges in cost depending on which month of the year you book, but starting rates are $209 per person (in the summer). When rates are higher (like in the spring), the price goes down the more people you have in your group. Take a look at their availability calendar to see the different prices.

5. Best Band of Brothers tour

My pick for the best Band of Brothers -inspired tour: Omaha and Band of Brothers Full Day Tour from Bayeux

There’s a good chance that if you’re here looking at Normandy D-Day tours then you’ve either read the book by Stephen Ambrose or watched the Steven Spielberg/Tom Hanks miniseries Band of Brothers . (And if you haven’t, go do that… NOW.) If you’re as big a fan of the story as I am, you’ll love this tour.

This full-day tour of Normandy’s D-Day sites includes visits to:

• Airborne Museum
• Plane crash site at Beuzeville-au-Plain
• Marmion’s Farm
• Brecourt Manor
• Angoville-au-Plain
• Drop Zone D

This tour is specifically tailored to intrigue fans of the show Band of Brothers so you’ll visit many lesser-known sites and learn more about the history.

You can watch Band of Brothers here on Amazon and it’s also currently available on Netflix, Hulu, and HBO Max.

This tour is operated by Overlord Tour, a leading tour company in the area specifically dedicated to D-Day history. Its itinerary and guides have rave reviews and it’s a favorite among Band of Brothers fans and WWII buffs in general.

I like that it visits the top sites, but also many more obscure sites that the majority of visitors don’t get to see or learn about . You’re sure to make some good friends on this group tour. I also really like the price point—good value here for sure.

This full-day (9-hour) tour starts and ends in Bayeux. It includes:

• Round trip transportation
• Small-group limited to 16 people
• Free cancelation up to 24 hours before your start time

It does not include the cost of lunch, any optional gratuities, or other personal expenses.

As of January 2024, this tour is offered 7 days a week and costs $158 per person . Something I’d like to note about the cost: When you book this tour directly with Overlord Tours instead of through Viator, the cost is slightly lower (€130 which, as of Jan 2024, is about $141 US ).

While this may be tempting, consider this: when you book through Viator , you get the benefit of a full refund if you need to cancel anytime up to 24 hours before the start of your scheduled tour.

When you book directly with Overlord, if you should need to cancel or you simply change your mind, you’ll be subject to a 6% cancelation fee no matter what. If you need to cancel within 14 days of your tour, you now owe a 50% cancelation fee . And if you should want to cancel within a week of your tour, you lose 100% of your booking cost .

That’s just something to think about. Don’t always be so quick to choose the lowest price without digging a little deeper. (Personally, I’d be happy to pay the $17 more for the peace of mind because I know how unpredictable travel planning can be.) By booking with Viator, you still get the highly-rated Overlord tour, but you also get a little bit more freedom and forgiveness.

6. Best D-Day tour for Canadian visitors

My pick for the best D-Day tour for Canadian visitors: Full-Day Canadian Battlefields and Sites of Normandy Tour

You’ve probably noticed that most of these tours center around the American D-Day achievements, but Canada and Great Britain also participated in this monumental invasion. Canadian visitors, this tour focuses on the struggles and achievements of your fellow countrymen.

This full-day tour of Normandy D-Day sites includes stops at:

• Juno Beach and the Juno Beach Center
• Beny-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery
• The communes of Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer, Bernieres-sur-Mer, Authie, Abbey d’Ardenne, and Carpiquet to follow the Canadian advance

As far as Normandy D-Day tours go, there are very few that specifically focus on the battles and achievements of Canadian troops . This tour does not only that, but it also maxes out at 8 passengers , has a 5-star rating , and tons of rave reviews about the tour guides. Plus, the price tag makes this a fantastic value.

This full-day (8-hour) tour starts and ends in Bayeux. It includes:

• Your own expert tour guide
• Small-group tour of 8 passengers or less
• Pick-up and drop-off in Bayeux as well as transportation between the sites
• Juno Beach Center admission costs

It does not include lunch, gratuities, or other personal expenses. For a full refund, you must cancel within one week of your chosen tour’s start time.

As of January 2024, this tour is offered 7 days a week and costs $148 per person . This is a great deal, especially considering this is one of the only tours of its kind dedicated to Canadian-only D-Day sites.

7. Most unique Normandy D-Day tour

My pick for the most unique Normandy D-Day tour: Half-Day Sidecar Excursion to the Landing Beaches

For something quite different than all the other Normandy D-Day tours out there, check out this tour of the D-Day sites via fully restored vintage sidecars!

This half-day D-Day sites tour includes visits to:

• Arromanches-les-Bains (one of my favorite spots)
• Longues-sur-Mer
• The commune of Port-en-Bessin-Huppain

And all of your travel between the sites will take place aboard some awesome vintage sidecars. What a unique way to explore Normandy!

I love this tour because it’s something totally different from the rest. Rather than drive between the sites in a sedan or multi-passenger van (or worse, a giant tour bus), you get to see Normandy from a totally unique (and fun!) perspective .

Beyond that, this is one of the few Normandy day tours that visits Arromanches-les-Bains and the German battery at Longues-sur-Mer . The commune of Arromanches is located in the Gold Beach sector and is famous for being the location of the artificial harbors that helped the Allies win the war (which you can still see out in the ocean today).

The Longues-sur-Mer battery is another great site I recommend visiting. Here, you’ll find the most intact German battery that still exists and it really helps to put German defense of the “Atlantic Wall” into perspective.

This tour also has a 5-star rating and nothing but rave reviews . I also love how hard they work to make visiting these somber locations fun and interesting.

This half-day (4-hour) tour starts and ends in Bayeux. It includes:

• Private, round-trip transportation
• Use of vintage helmets, gloves, glasses, and jackets for some fun photo ops
• Fully licensed and insured professional tour guides
• Maximum of 8 people on this tour
• Full refund if canceled up to 24 hours before your tour’s starting time

It does not include the cost of lunch, gratuities, or other personal expenses.

As of January 2024, this tour is offered 7 days a week and costs $244 per person (through April) and then increases to $271 per person from May 1st onwards. For such a unique and fun tour, and one of your only chances to visit Arromanches and Longues-sur-Mer, this price point makes sense, even if it is just a half-day tour. This will definitely be an experience you’ll never forget.

8. Best Normandy D-Day tour from Caen

My pick for the best Normandy tour from Caen: Guided D-Day Sites Tour & Caen Memorial Museum

It’s true that most of the best Normandy D-Day tours start and end in Bayeux, but what if you’re staying in Caen? Rather than having to make your way to Bayeux to start your tour, check out this one that starts and ends in Caen.

This full-day tour includes visits to:

• Caen Memorial Museum

This is one of the only available Normandy D-Day tours that includes a self-guided visit to the Caen Memorial Museum, widely believed to be the best World War II museum in France . I personally consider this museum a must-visit, so I love that this tour includes it. I also like that the museum portion of the tour is self-guided since everyone visits museums in their own way.

This is another small-group tour (capped at 7 people) and it has tons of rave reviews, especially of the guides (5/5).

This full-day (7-hour) tour starts and ends in Caen. It includes:

• Admission to the Caen Memorial Museum
• Maximum of 7 people total
• Full refund if canceled within 2 days of your tour

As of January 2024, this tour is offered 7 days a week and costs $129 per person all year long. Since this includes museum admission (about $22 US), that makes this tour one great value to visit these top locations.

9. Best tour for British visitors

My pick for best D-Day tour for British visitors: British D-Day World War II Normandy Private Tour

Despite the fact that Great Britain was a massive participant in the D-Day landings, landing at two of the five beaches, there are shockingly few tours that focus on the British sectors. However, if you’re willing and able to opt for a private tour, this one is a great option.

• Pegasus Bridge and Memorial
• Main British airborne sites in Ranville
• Ranville War Cemetery
• Sword Beach landing sites and German headquarters
• Juno and Gold Beaches (pass by)

But since this is a private option, you have the ability to customize it to your preferences. Care to also visit Arromanches-les-Bains? Talk to your guide about it!

So few Normandy D-Day tours visit the British sectors and this one is great because you can customize it with the sites you most want to visit. You also have Eric as your guide, a fabulous Scottish tour guide who has lived and tour-guided in Normandy for the past 20 years.

Also, because you can fit up to 8 people on this tour, that makes this one of the best-priced private tours out there!

This full-day (8.5-hour) tour starts and ends in beautiful Bayeux. It includes:

• Pick-up, drop-off, and round-trip transportation between all sites
• Private transportation
• The ability to customize the tour the way you want

It does not include lunch or other personal expenses.

As of January 2024, this tour is offered 7 days a week and costs $899 per group up to 8 people . This is the best per-person rate of all the private Normandy tours I’ve seen.

10. Best bonus D-Day sites tour

My pick for best bonus D-Day sites tour: Utah & Omaha Beaches D-Day Group Tour from Bayeux

This tour visits many of the same sites as the others, but I’m calling this a “bonus” tour because it passes by a number of additional sites you might not otherwise see. Even though these are just “pass-by” stops, they still might interest you.

• Commune of Angoville-au-Plain, drop zone of the 101 st Airborne
• Site of the hedgerows battle (pass by)
• Major Richard Winters Memorial (pass by)
• Sainte-Marie-du-Mont (pass by)

On this tour, even in between stops you’ll get to see interesting things like the famous hedgerows (“bocage”) and the monument to Maj. Dick Winters whom you may know from Band of Brothers .

This tour also has a 5-star rating and is one of the most popular Normandy D-Day tours on Viator (with over 1,100 rave reviews).

This full-day (8.5-hour) tour starts and ends in Bayeux. It includes:

• Admission to the Airborne Museum
• Round-trip transportation
• Air conditioned minivan
• Professional tour guide

This isn’t necessarily a small-group tour since it has a maximum of 20 passengers (if it fills up). It does not include lunch, gratuities, or other personal expenses.

As of January 2024, this tour is offered 7 days a week and costs $159 per person . This price point is par for the course and you get to see so much.

Other Normandy D-Day tours

If you have questions about other Normandy D-Day tours that I didn’t cover in this post, let me know! I’ve examined nearly all of them. So if you find one you’re curious about, leave a comment below and  I’ll tell you why it didn’t make the list .

More info for your Normandy D-Day trip

• Hotels:  Read reviews and find great places to stay  here on Booking.com  (my personal favorite).  Hotels.com  and  Expedia  usually have good deals too though.
• Save lots of money and time  by getting some  Paris GoCity passes .
• Rental cars:  Check out the  best local rental car deals here.
• For more Normandy D-Day tours,  check out all the options from  Viator  and  Get Your Guide .
• Don’t forget a   France guidebook  and this must-have  France customs and culture guide !

Have a great time on your tour of Normandy! I hope I’ve made planning your trip a little easier.

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About Ashley Smith

Ashley is a World War II historian and travel expert who has visited 33 countries. She specializes in quick trips throughout Europe and the Americas with a focus on World War II museums, memorials, battlefields, and other sites of interest. Originally from Memphis, TN, she currently lives in Boston with her husband and two feline commanders.

Reader Interactions

April 28, 2024 at 1:30 pm

what itinerary would you recommend if you have a day and half to visit the area. I’ll be staying in Bayeux.

April 29, 2024 at 4:55 am

Hi Ray! I would definitely check out the sites in this post , and then add in another museum or two according to your interests. Check out this post to see which area you might want to focus on.

April 29, 2024 at 12:48 pm

Thanks Ashley. Can you recommend a private tour for my second day?

April 30, 2024 at 2:33 am

Yes – take a look at the many options here on Tours By Locals . They always have great reviews and are usually customizable.

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From the City of Light to Infamous Cemeteries: See France on an 8-Day Guided Tour

Enjoy the sights and sounds of France during this 8-day guided tour. Travel to Normandy and stand on the 100-foot-tall Pointe du Hoc, overlooking the beaches where soldiers fought in World War II — and walk with a Local Expert through the American Military Cemetery of Saint-Laurent, near Omaha Beach, where Allied Forces landed on D-Day. Drive through the Loire Valley to the glorious fragrant gardens of Château de Villandry, stopping to smell the basil, rosemary and other herbs grown in its gardens. You’ll remember those scents at a celebration dinner featuring a farm-to-table feast and sparkling wine. See Paris’ top attractions, from the glistening pyramids of the Louvre to the gothic Notre Dame Cathedral.

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Normandy & Brittany, France

Normandy & Brittany Tour Snapshot

Prepare yourselves for a spectacular journey into France’s past, its gastronomic pleasures, and the charm of its villages and its people. Normandy combines a 360-mile dramatic coastline, including the landing beaches, farmlands, bustling market towns and historic landmarks such as the cities of Caen, Bayeux and Rouen. The king of all Normandy tours, enjoy a gourmet voyage through the fascinating history of this region, from William the Conqueror’s castles to Anne of Bretagne’s fortress to Joan of Arc’s last days in Rouen to the Allied invasion. Breton oysters and cider, Norman Calvados and Camembert.

• Airport transfers to and from Charles de Gaulle Airport, Paris*
• 12 nights in small, elegant accommodations of regional character
• 12 breakfasts, 8 dinners
• Full-time tour leader
• Transportation by comfortable mini-coach or minivan
• Highlights in Normandy: Rouen, Honfleur, Etretat, Bayeux, Caen, Omaha Beach, Mont Saint Michel, Giverny, Les Andelys
• Highlights in Brittany: Dinan, Saint Malo, Cancale
• Full day tour of the World War II Landing Beaches with a local expert guide
• Visit to a Calvados brandy distillery and a cheese farm
• All tour guides, museum/monument entrance fees, tips, and taxes

Optional Paris Add-on: Spend a night in Paris before your tour begins! Includes transfer from CDG Paris airport and a night in a Paris hotel

Normandy & Brittany, France Itinerary

Depart the US, flying overnight to Paris

DAY 1, ROUEN : The tour begins in the picturesque medieval town of Rouen, Normandy’s capital. See the magnificent cathedral Monet painted so many times, the place where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake, and the narrow streets lined with ancient, half-timbered houses. Your welcome dinner introduces you to Normandy’s haute cuisine.

DAYS 2-4, HONFLEUR : Spend three nights in a beautiful 18th century manor house in Honfleur, said to be the “prettiest village in Normandy.” Enjoy a gourmet dinner on the picturesque harbor. Take a spec­tacular cliff walk in Etretat on the Channel coast. Visit a cider distillery to taste Calvados brandy made the traditional way.

DAYS 5-7, BAYEUX : Enjoy three nights in a charming inn in the center of this unspoiled Norman town. See the 12th century Bayeux Tapestry and William the Conqueror’s castle in nearby Caen. Visit the Caen WWII Memorial Museum, Omaha Beach, the American Cemetery and Saint Mère Eglise with an expert World War II guide.

DAYS 8-10, SAINT-MALO : Travel to the Atlantic coast and take a guided tour of the spectac­ular 12th century abbey, Mont Saint Michel, France’s most visited treasure. Cross into Brittany, and arrive at the charming town of Saint-Malo, your home for the next three nights. Taste the famous oysters of Cancale and visit the picturesque medieval village of Dinan.

DAYS 11-12, CONNELLES : Stop in Camembert for a picnic with fresh bread and local cheese. Spend two nights in a beautiful manor house on the Seine River. Tour the Château Gaillard, built by Richard the Lionheart, in the hills of Les Andelys. Visit Monet’s famous gardens and his home in Giverny. Enjoy a farewell gourmet dinner in our hotel’s elegant dining room overlooking the river.

DAY 13: Depart for Paris Charles De Gaulle Airport for the flight home.

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Normandy & Brittany Cultural Walking Tour

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Come home from one of our tours of Normandy and Brittany and you’ll tell everyone you know about the day you walked to Mont-St.-Michel. The cathedral-capped island floats on water—at least until the epic tide recedes to reveal the sandy seabed. Then, as the faithful have done for centuries, we make the pilgrimage on foot to one of France’s most glorious landmarks. True, the provinces of Brittany and Normandy have their apple orchards and salt-meadow sheep flocks and picture-book villages deep in the woods. And we’ve planned beautiful walks among them. But like the people and history of this region, we always seem to come back to the sea. To explore coastlines that have seen invasions from Iron Age Celts to D-Day’s Allied Forces. To stroll in quaint ports that launched the Norman conquest of the British Isles. And to feast in restaurants where great platters of fresh oysters, lobsters and Coquilles St.-Jacques are standard fare. So much beauty, in the shadow of so much history, warmed by a lively hospitality makes this a truly unforgettable journey. 

• Explore the famed UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mont St. Michel, on an ‘only with Classic Journeys’ excursion across the low tides. Soak in this memorable experience, on foot at eye level, as you immerse yourself in this island's rich history.
• Savor the seafood along the panoramic coast of Cancale, stopping to visit an oyster farm.
• Enjoy an 'only with Classic Journeys' private cooking instruction, dining on your homemade crêpes and galettes for lunch.
• Take a specially curated walk along Omaha Beach, experiencing what it was like for allied soldiers to arrive at these cliffs and beaches.
• Stroll through the classic Norman countryside with its apple orchards, wooded valleys, dairy farms, and quaint villages.
• Visit a family-owned distillery to taste Calvados, sipping on the legendary apple brandy.
• Marvel at the legendary 230-foot Bayeux tapestry for an up-close look at 11th-century history.
• Explore Honfleur, the birthplace of Impressionism, with a lovely portside walk with magnificent views from the Cote de Grace chapel.

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Daily mileage options: 2-8 miles, route notes:, dates & prices.

The earlier you book, the more choice you’ll have and the lower your price. And you can always change your mind — you won’t be charged to transfer to a different trip before your final payment is due. Talk with one of our travel experts at 800-200-3887 .

Select our “Family Departure” to travel with other families.

Why Choose Classic Journeys

Travel + Leisure has awarded Classic Journeys the #1 World’s Best Tour Operator multiple times and says, "Classic Journeys provides unbeatable access to experiences around the globe." Here’s what that access means for you.

• Experience the world on foot and at eye level. Each day, join your guide on the most cinematic footpaths in the region.
• Exceptional full-time local guides who become your well-connected friend. Our amazing guides are with you throughout each day of the tour, share their lifelong connections as well as engaging anecdotes about the history and culture of the region.
• Small groups that provide you unrivaled access. An average of fewer than 10 guests per departure means we can offer you special access to sites like Stonehenge so you experience the stone circle when it’s closed to the general public, a guided visit to Zion Narrows that other companies cannot arrange because of larger group sizes, and vineyard walks with a count and countess in Tuscany.
• Award-winning hotels are waiting for you at the end of every day. Luxuriate in the finest and most distinctive accommodations in the region you’re exploring, including rainforest lodges, 16th century villas, and award-winning properties that show up on World’s Best and Gold lists.
• Eat like (and with) the locals. Food is a foolproof way into the hearts, homes and history of the places you visit with us. From gourmet picnics to coveted local restaurants, our meals offer you opportunities to explore native food traditions and fine dining.
• Handcrafted itineraries with all activities included. With our long-term friendships, we know our walking tour regions more personally than anyone else. So you get thoughtfully curated itineraries that combine explorations of the villages, organic farms, archeological sites and the people who know them best.
• Sustainable travel that supports the places you’re visiting. We put our local currency into the pockets of the people who live where we travel. It’s your guarantee that you’ll have authentic, up-close experiences on your trip. Best of all, our person-to-person approach helps sustain their ways of life.

Accommodations

We spend years cultivating personal relationships with our hoteliers to provide you thoughtfully selected accommodations that reveal the true character of the region. Here is a sampling of our favorite hotels on this tour. 

Le Nouveau Monde Hotel & Spa

Set near the ancient city walls in the heart of town, this property offers wonderful views of the tidal beaches and rooms decorated in soothing contemporary style. Facilities include a spa, a steam room and a jetted indoor pool.

Château la Chenevière

You live the gracious chateau life in this magnificent residence built in the 18th century. It sits in an impressive 30-acre park with rose gardens and a heated outdoor pool. The rooms blend classic charm and modern comfort.

Le Manoir des Impressionnistes

Le Manoir des Impressionnistes is a beautiful 5-star hotel situated by the sea in Honfleur. Built in the 18th century, this picturesque property features fine dining, a spa retreat, and manicured gardens.

Les Maisons de Léa

In the heart of historic Honfleur and less than a mile from the beach, this charming 4-star hotel comes to life from an old salt warehouse and three 16th century houses and features individually-appointed rooms, spa, and gourmet restaurant and bar.

What’s Included

• All breakfasts, 3 lunches and 3 dinners
• Full-time experienced guide(s) who are with you throughout the trip and handle behind-the-scenes logistics
• Admissions to tastings, historic sites and other scheduled events as noted in the detailed daily itinerary
• Gratuities for hotels, meals, and baggage
• All land transportation during the trip

Above & Beyond Benefits

Invisible check-in.

• When your group arrives, we whisk you and your bags to your room immediately. No waiting – no tipping.

Perfect Pairings Dinners

• A special dinner prepared by one of our favorite chefs with a procession of wines tailored to each course.
• In many regions, we uncork wonderful local wines at every dinner, compliments of Classic Journeys.

Privileged Access Events

• One-of-a-kind access to remarkable people, places and activities arranged just for you.

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Home » Travel Guides » France » 15 Best Normandy Tours

15 Best Normandy Tours

One of the gems of Northern France, Normandy is the perfect destination to get a slice of history, culture, and gastronomy that this region is most famous for. The coastline here is a poignant area, where you can get in touch with your inner historian and learn about the beaches where many battles were fought in World War 2.

There’s also Mont-Saint-Michel – one of the most famous monasteries in the world – located just off the coast on its own island.

UNESCO World Heritage sites are dotted throughout the region: in historical cities, ornate villages, and along the coastline, many of which inspired some of France’s most famous impressionist painters. Don’t miss discovering the secrets of the unbeatable gastronomy either.

Here are 15 of the best Normandy tours that we’ve carefully selected to help you get the best out of your trip.

1. Day Trip to Mont-Saint-Michel from Paris

One of Europe’s most recognizable pilgrimage sites, the abbey at Mont-Saint-Michel is a UNESCO World Heritage site which is near the top of most visitors’ itineraries during their visit to Normandy. This tour not only includes your entrance ticket to the fortified city but transportation in a luxury air-conditioned coach from the French capital – Paris.

You’ll have the opportunity to stop in a traditional Norman village, where you can stroll through the narrow, cobbled alleys, before heading to the mouth of the Couesnon river, to get your first view of Mont-Saint-Michel.

Once on the island, you’ll be able to climb the ramparts before heading to the abbey overlooking the rest of the town and the bay. When you’re tired out from all the climbing and descending, you’re comfortably whisked back to the Paris starting point on the same luxury coach that you arrived in.

2. Normandy D-Day Beaches: Day Trip from Paris with Lunch

This poignant and unforgettable day trip is a must for anyone with an interest in the Second World War. This 14-hour tour is an informative and sobering experience that teaches you about the D-Day landings and the advance of the allied forces in France.

It’s an early start; board the luxury air-conditioned coach in Paris and settle back for the journey to Caen, where your first stop is. The Caen memorial museum tells the story of the Battle of Normandy. After you’ve enjoyed the films and exhibits, you can stop here for a tasty lunch.

The next stop is Pointe-du-Hoc, located between Utah and Omaha beaches. This is close to the American cemetery, which you’ll also visit, before heading to Arromanches and Juno Beach. After such a packed day, you’re sure to be exhausted, so settle back into the coach before a 9 pm arrival in Paris.

View Prices & Reviews

3. From Paris: WWI Somme Battlefields Full-Day Tour

Not only was a large part of World War 2 fought on French soil, the 1st World War was too. Pay your respects to those who lost their lives in the 1st World War on this full-day trip to the Somme Battlefields.

Get picked up from your hotel by a knowledgeable and considerate guide, who will drive you from Paris by minivan and explain what’s coming up as you travel through the beautiful French countryside. You’ll learn about all the major memorials, cemeteries, and battles of the Somme on this trip while picking up many interesting facts about World War 1 at Péronne’s historical museum.

At the end of the day, your driver will take you back to your hotel in Paris.

4. From Paris: Small Group Day Trip to Rouen and Giverny

This day trip encompasses two of Normandy’s most charming and beautiful towns. On this tour, you’ll travel in comfort in an air-conditioned minivan, as your local guide regales you with tales and information about both historical towns.

You aren’t just left to fend for yourself in the cities; a guided walking tour of Rouen takes you to the Notre Dame Cathedral, while in Giverny, you’ll get tickets allowing you to skip the line and visit the home of the iconic painter, Claude Monet. Admire his water garden: the inspiration behind one of the most recognizable impressionist paintings – the famous Water Lilies.

After a relaxing yet full day, you’ll be dropped back on the doorstep of your accommodation in Paris.

5. Welcome to Rouen: Private Walking Tour with a Local

Here’s one for those who really want to get to know Rouen. This walking tour of the historical city is one with a difference. A local guide with a wealth of knowledge will pick you up from your accommodation and show you secrets from the city that you’d never be able to find on your own.

Experiencing the city through the eyes of a local means that you’ll be able to find the best markets to buy fresh produce or the best restaurants where they cook said produce if you’re too lazy to do it yourself. But the best thing? Because it’s just you and your guide, they’re able to tailor the tour to your interests. Don’t worry if English isn’t your first language, tours are also available in Spanish, French, German, and Russian.

6. Day Trip to Normandy: Sightseeing & Calvados Liquor Tasting

This fantastic day trip doesn’t just allow you to see the sights of Normandy, it will also see you spending time at the Christian Drouin factory, where you’ll try three types of the apple-based drinks Calvados and Cider.

The day starts with pick up from your hotel in Paris, before a two-and-a-half-hour journey through the rolling French countryside, where you’ll stop and taste the local beverages. Then, it’s on to the jaw-dropping fishing port of Honfleur, its harbor, and 18th-century townhouses which inspired many of the great French impressionists.

The port is also where you’ll enjoy some delicious French cuisine for lunch. After filling up, you’ll continue to the white cliffs and natural arches of Etretat, before ending the tour at the beautiful Fécamp Palace.

After a day which will be sure to have you going home tired but happy, you’ll be dropped off on your doorstep back in Paris.

7. Normandy and Brittany 2-Day Tour from Paris

The perfect tour for those who have a little more time on their trip, this overnight tour of Normandy and Brittany shows you the best that both regions have to offer. Day one will see you picked up at your hotel in Paris in a luxury air-conditioned coach to embark on a walking tour through the charming city of Rouen, before jumping back on the coach to travel to Honfleur for a delicious lunch.

After lunch, you’ll learn more about the region’s war history, stopping off at the D-Day landing beaches and the American cemetery. In the evening, you’ll be whisked to a luxury 3-star hotel in the town of Caen.

Day 2 starts with a buffet breakfast (stock up on croissants) before you head to the town of St. Malo for a tasty lunch, then a trip to the mesmerizing Mont-Saint-Michel. Here, you’ll have free time to explore the abbey before heading back to Paris.

The best part of this trip? Everything mentioned above is included in the price.

8. From Paris: Full-Day Gourmet Tour to Normandy

This incredible tour is a must for foodies. Not only will you visit a cheese factory and sample the delicious food that France is world-famous for, but you’ll also try calvados and cider from a local farm too.

To make sure you’re not just scoffing food but also learning something, there’ll be a wine and spirits expert on hand to tell you all about the alcohol you’re enjoying with your gourmet lunch at the farm.

Before heading back to Paris and being dropped at your hotel at the end of the day, there’s a chance to walk off all those calories in the village of Honfleur and the charming seafront of Deauville.

9. Normandy: Omaha Beach U.S. Cemetery Guided Walking Tour

This poignant one-and-a-half-hour tour will enable you to learn more about and see the final resting place of many American soldiers who sadly lost their lives in the D-Day battles on Normandy’s beaches. There are over 9,000 marble headstones, making it one of the largest cemeteries dedicated to allied soldiers in Normandy.

Your knowledgeable local guide will supply you with the information that you need to know about this huge site of remembrance and peace. This tour is especially recommended to those who are interested in war history.

10. From Paris: Full-Day Small Group Tour to Honfleur

Do you want to see the places that inspired the great French Impressionists? Of course you do. That’s why this private tour of Honfleur, Deauville, and Trouville will be right up your alley. You’ll be whisked in comfort from your accommodation in Paris to the beautiful Normandy coast. Start the day by exploring the cobbled streets of the quaint seaside town of Honfleur, regarded as one of the most picturesque towns in this area, where you’ll enjoy a guided visit of the harbor town.

Next, you’ll head to the Côte Fleurie (the flowery coast) and the fishing towns of Deaville and Trouville, were you’ll also get an informative and interesting guided tour. After a day taking in the sea views and sandy beaches, you’ll be driven back and dropped off on the doorstep of your accommodation in Paris.

11. Paris: Full-Day Étretat & Le Havre with Cooking Class

Head to Étretat in an air-conditioned minibus equipped with Wi-Fi and educational tablets to prepare you for your trip. The highlight of the day is undoubtedly the impressionist-inspired cooking class which takes place in a manor house. The chef in charge has carefully crafted a menu from Monet’s notebooks, which you’ll be able to create and sample; it’s certain to tantalize your taste buds.

After you’ve filled up on delicious food, you’ll head to Le Havre to get to know the UNESCO World Heritage port of the town. Round off your trip with a visit to the Museum of Modern Art before heading back to your hotel in Paris.

12. Normandy Tour of D-Day Landing Beaches & Museum Tickets

A must see for any war or history enthusiast, don’t miss your opportunity to see the famous beaches where the allied forces landed in World War 2. This five and a half tour will show you the key D-Day sites and tell you everything you need to know to understand the complexities of the war, and also to pay your respects to the thousands who lost their lives here.

You’ll be driven to the Mémorial de Caen, Arromanches, and the military cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer by air-conditioned minivan, meaning you’ll be able to reflect on your day in comfort.

13. Normandy D-Day All Day Tour by Minibus from Paris

If you’re a nature lover, you won’t want to miss this private guided tour showing the best that the beautiful Northern French coast has to offer, as well as the historic cities. Get picked up at your accommodation in Paris in a luxurious air-conditioned minivan before embarking on Normandy’s route.

14. Paris: Small Group Tour to Mont St-Michel & Honfleur

Not only does this trip take you to see Mont-Saint-Michael, where the Archangel Michael supposedly made an appearance in the 8th century, it also takes you to the lovely town of Honfleur, one of Normandy’s prettiest towns. This 13-hour tour will see you picked up at your hotel in Paris before a four-hour drive to the iconic monastery, where you’ll skip the line and be able to choose between an audio-guide or a human guide.

Although lunch isn’t included in the trip, you’ll stop off at a traditional French patisserie before shooting off to Honfleur. In this town, you’ll see what inspired the great impressionists and wander around the cobbled streets, before heading back to your hotel in Paris.

15. Private Mont Saint-Michel Family Walking Tour

Perfect if you’re traveling with children, this guided family walking tour will engage you and your kids in a way that really makes the town’s 1,300-year-old history come alive. Your guide will regale you with stories as you walk from the base of Mont-Saint-Michel up to the top of the 83-meter-tall rock, where you’ll be able to explore the monastery.

As well as your guide, your entrance ticket is included. You’ll also have a chance to descend into the dungeons. The kids will love it!

15 Best Normandy Tours:

• Day Trip to Mont-Saint-Michel from Paris
• Normandy D-Day Beaches: Day Trip from Paris with Lunch
• From Paris: WWI Somme Battlefields Full-Day Tour
• From Paris: Small Group Day Trip to Rouen and Giverny
• Welcome to Rouen: Private Walking Tour with a Local
• Day Trip to Normandy: Sightseeing & Calvados Liquor Tasting
• Normandy and Brittany 2-Day Tour from Paris
• From Paris: Full-Day Gourmet Tour to Normandy
• Normandy: Omaha Beach U.S. Cemetery Guided Walking Tour
• From Paris: Full-Day Small Group Tour to Honfleur
• Paris: Full-Day Étretat & Le Havre with Cooking Class
• Normandy Tour of D-Day Landing Beaches & Museum Tickets
• Normandy D-Day All Day Tour by Minibus from Paris
• Paris: Small Group Tour to Mont St-Michel & Honfleur
• Private Mont Saint-Michel Family Walking Tour

The 7 Best Normandy Tours From Paris [2024 Reviews]

D-Day was the culmination of operations by the Allied Forces to free Europe from the German invasion. To this day, the D-Day landings in Normandy are the largest amphibian operation in history.

Be a part of that history by viewing and visiting some of the most historically important sites while learning more of the stories and legends that make D-Day come alive even today.

Visiting Normandy, especially the American Cemetery and its Visitors Center, is often a pilgrimage for Americans who have ties to the military. We have the top Normandy tours from Paris, let’s take a look at them including a few private tours for those who want the more intimate experience.

Don’t leave Paris until you see all the things there are to do in this beautiful City!

Best tours of normandy from paris.

Plan the Ultimate Paris Vacation : See our 5 Day Itinerary of the Best Things to do in Paris!

Quick Answer: The 7 Best Normandy D-Day Beach Tours From Paris For 2024

• Best Small Group Tour: Normandy D-Day Small-Group Day Trip w/ Omaha Beach, Cemetery & Cider Tasting
• Best Private Tour: Private Day Tour to D-Day Beaches from Paris
• Best Full Day Tour: Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches Tour w/ Cider-Tasting & Lunch
• Best Tour w/ Lunch : Normandy D-Day Trip w/ American Cemetery and Lunch
• Best Value Tour: From Paris: Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches Full-Day Tour
• Best Early Bird Tour: Private Day Tour to Normandy D-Day Beaches from Paris
• Best Family Tour: Normandy Battlefields Tour – American Sites

We’ve chosen these top Normandy tours because they offer a wide range of experiences and will fit into everyone’s budget. Be sure to see all of our reviews of things to do in Paris .

Normandy Tour Reviews

1. best value tour: normandy d-day small-group day trip with omaha beach, cemetery & cider tasting.

• Departure Point : 6 Av. de Wagram, 75008 Paris
• Departure Time : 7:00 AM
• Duration : 12 to 13 hours
• Includes : Small Group Tour of 8 people max, transport by air-conditioned minivan, expert guide, cider tastings, skip-the-line at the Overlord Museum

If you would like to get a tour of Normandy in a more intimate setting of 8 people or less this is the perfect tour for you. You will start your journey a comfortable van for the roughly two and half hour drive.

Along the way you can admire the scenery of the French countryside and the small villages. Along the way be sure to ask any questions of your driver / guide. Your first destination is the Omaha Beach where over 2,400 young men lost their life.

You will learn about their acts of heroism that saved the landing from disaster! You will spend about 30 minutes here before going to Overlord Museum to learn about the enormous planning that went into the landings.

Here you will see dispalys of the equipment and machines that were used in the landings such as the Higgins bosts and Sherman tanks. You will have about an hour here at the museum. Then it’s off the Longues-sur-Mer battery where the German command was located along with its 150mm guns that were trained on the beaches.

Next up is local French restaurant for lunch where you can ponder what you have just seen and what the soldiers went through that day.

After lunch you will head to Pointe du Hoc where the Germans had enormous cannons trained on the beaches and learn how the Army Rangers climbed the cliffs to capture the position before they could be used.

Next is the most breathtaking part of the tour: the cemetary. Here there are almost 10,000 crosses and Stars of David that are perfectly maintained and lined up. Your guide will give you a tour and tell you about some of the Medal of Honor winners.

Lastly is a cider tasting at a local farm and head back to Paris after a full day of exploration of Normandy.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, search for other top rated paris experiences:, 2. best private tour: private day tour to d-day beaches from paris.

• Departure Point : Hotel Pickup
• Duration : 13 Hours (approx.)
• Includes : Comfortable van transportation, private guide

Make history a bit more interesting for the younger generation with this family-friendly private day trip to the D-Day beaches in Normandy.

Your private guide will drive you and a small group of guests to Omaha Beach, the American Cemetery, Pointe du Hoc lookout and the Visitor’s Center.

While all the beaches that became landing zones for Allied forces on D-Day are important, it seems Omaha Beach is the location of legends.

Your private guide will take you on a tour of the beach, telling you many of the harrowing tales of young men fighting for their country. The American Cemetery is the resting place of more than 10,000 Allied troops who lost the battle that day.

The pristine, manicured lawns are a tribute to those brave men. As a family-friendly day tour from Paris to Normandy, this is a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made.

A visitor’s center nearby is the perfect place to speak with center curators to learn more about D-Day as well as other events and locations in France that were important during WW2.

Two locations you will see first hand on this day tour are the German coastal battery as well as Pegasus Bridge.

This tour of the beaches of Normandy helps to bring families together to learn more about the sacrifices made on both sides of the beach, by Allied forces as well as German troops.

There’s nothing quite like seeing history up close and personal.

Other Paris Experiences You May Enjoy:

3. best combination tour: normandy d-day landing beaches tour w/ cider-tasting & lunch.

• Departure Point : Pl. du Trocadéro et du 11 Novembre
• Duration : 14 Hours (approx.)
• Includes : Expert and friendly guide, transportation by air-conditioned coach, all entry fees, cider tasting, lunch with a glass of cider, a small group of 25 guests or fewer

The Musee du Debarquement Utah Beach is located inside a German bunker on Utah Beach.

Look out over the beach and imagine what German troops must have been thinking as Allied forces rushed toward them. Also, imagine what those Allied troops were facing on that day.

On this day trip from Paris, you will also visit Pointe du Hoc. From this vantage point, you can see Utah Beach on one side and Omaha Beach on the other. This is a great way to get a sense of just how big of an Allied operation this really was.

Visit the Normandy American Cemetery & Memorial, where 10,000 American troops have been laid to rest after the “Normandy invasion.” Pristine lawns sit in stark contrast to the white marble headstones as a stark and solemn reminder of the cost of freedom during WW2.

Before heading back to Paris, you’ll stop by a cidery in the Calvados region. Here, you will taste several ciders and enjoy a full, refreshing glass with your provided two-course lunch.

Related: See the World Famous Louvre Museum – Skip the Lines – Find the Best Tour for Your Money With Our Reviews.

4. best budget tour: normandy d-day beaches day trip from paris.

• Departure Point : Frame Brasserie at Hotel Pullman
• Duration : 14 hours (approx.)
• Includes : Expert guide, transportation, all entry fees, lunch with drinks

After the 3-4 hour coach ride to Normandy from Paris, you’ll stop for lunch and drinks at a small, local eatery. On your way here, the views of the French countryside are perfect for photos while your expert guide gives you insight into how this region played a part in WW2.

A stop at the visitor’s center is not to be missed as both your guide and the curators at the center explain the Allied operations that took place on the beaches of Normandy.

Take some literature, take pictures, or even buy a souvenir or more in-depth reading material.

The first D-Day landing beach you see will be the most famous of them, Omaha Beach. You’ll also take Memorial Drive to see both Juno Beach and Gold Beach.

The Caen Memorial Museum has many exhibits showing just how treacherous the D-Day landings were. This is one of the best Normandy tours from Paris as you will also stop by the American Cemetery to pay respects to the many

Allied troops who lost their life here. You can also choose to take this tour as a large group or with a much smaller group with a maximum of 8 guests.

5. Best Full Day Tour: Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches Full-Day Tour From Paris

• Departure Point : Pyramides, Central Paris
• Departure Time : 6:30 AM
• Duration : 2 Days (approx.)
• Includes : Expert guide, luxury coach transportation, overnight stay at 4-star hotel, meals, a souvenir, and all entry fees

The ride to Normandy is about 2.5 hours but in the comfortable minivan the time will fly by as you enjoy the French countryside. Your driver/guide will tell you about the historical towns you go through on the way to Normandy.

Your first stop is Omaha Beach, where there were 2,400 casualties on D-Day making the most deadly of the landing zones. As you look over the beach you can just imagine the horror of that day. Only the bravery and courage of the soldiers allowed the landing to be a success.

Next stop is the Overlord Museum where you will learn about the invasion details and the elaborate planning that was necessary for this operation. Still the largest largest amphibious invasion in military history. Learn about the elaborate ruse the allies put on the fool the Germans into thinking the invasion would take place at Calis.

Take a lunch break and enjoy some of the food that France is famous for. Then head to Pointe du Hoc where you will gaze in astonishment at where the Army Rangers scaled the 100 foot cliff to take out the German artillery.

Lastly you will see the Normandy Cemetery and the 10,000 crosses that are perfectly aligned and meticulously maintained. Its a breathtaking sight to see. All the while your guide will be giving you the detail and history and answer any questions you may have.

Related: Don’t Miss the Eiffel Tower! – Skip the Lines – Find the Best Tour for Your Money With Our Reviews.

6. best small group tour: private day tour to normandy d-day beaches from paris.

• Duration : 13 hours (approx.)
• Includes : Private guide, private transportation, all entry fees

Are you, or a family member, now a part of any of the military divisions that fought so valiantly? Be sure to let the guide know when you book the tour and they will research extra information for you!

As if learning information that is specifically tailored to you and your family’s history wasn’t enough, you will also enjoy guided tours of some of the most famous D-Day landmarks. And you will do this with the members of your private group and no one else.

Stand in the drop zone of the 101st Airborne and visit the site of the most famous Allied Forces assault on Utah Beach. Walk through the church that was converted to a field hospital by two paratrooper medics, the Church of Angoville-Au-Plain.

In addition to those locations, typically not visited during Normandy tours from Paris, you’ll have access to the Musee du Debarquement Utah Beach and Point du Hoc.

When visiting Omaha Beach, stand in the section most recently famous for starring in the motion picture, Saving Private Ryan. End your tour of Normandy with a walk through the American Cemetery and a stop at the visitor’s center.

For those who Normandy is more than just a historical location, and something closer to home, visiting the American Cemetery is a pilgrimage.

Related: Skip the Lines and See the Catacombs – Find the Best Tour for Your Money With Our Reviews.

7. best family tour: normandy battle fields tour – american sites.

• Departure Point : Bayeux, Normandy
• Departure Time : Varies
• Duration : 9 hours (approx.)
• Includes : Professional guide, transportation to each site, small group tour of max 8 guests

Get up close and personal with the memorial cemeteries, museums and more. This tour departs from Bayeux, Normandy and not from Paris.

If you are staying in Paris, there are easy travel methods to get to Normandy for this tour. One of the best is probably the train as you enjoy the changing scenery of the French countryside.

With your small group of 8 people, at most, you’ll first head to Sainte-Mere Church, which played an important role in WW2, as well as the Airborne Museum.

Learn the dangers that the paratroopers faced when landing here and what their purpose was during the D-Days Allied Forces operations.

Visit Utah Beach, held by the 4th Infantry Division, and Omaha Beach, the largest landing zone for American troops. Walk through the headstones of the American cemetery where nearly 10,000 troops lay resting.

Walk through the German Memorial Cemetery where more than double that have been laid to rest in the largest cemetery in France dedicated to the German soldiers.

With so many historically significant locations to visit and many more stories and legends to learn about in the museums and visitors centers, it’s hard not to realize just how massive the D-Day operations were. In fact, D-Day is still the largest amphibian landing in history.

Planning Guide For Your Normandy D-Day Beach Tour

Why you should visit the normandy d-day beaches.

• Relive the history : Normandy D-Day beaches are where the largest seaborne invasion in history took place, marking a turning point in World War II. Walking on the same sands where thousands of soldiers landed, fought, and died is a humbling and surreal experience that allows you to relive history.
• Pay homage to the fallen : As you visit the various cemeteries and memorials that dot the Normandy coast is a reminder of the sacrifice the soldiers made who fought for our freedom. You can’t help but be moved by the memorials you will see.
• Explore the beaches : The beaches are worth the drive, there are miles of pristine sand beaches. Simply strolling along the beach is an amazing experience by itself.
• Discover the local culture : The Normandy region is known for its delicious cuisine, charming villages and rich history. While you are there, sample some of the local specialties like cider, cheese and seafood. If you area able, explore the quaint towns and villages in Normandy.
• Take in the beauty : With the rugged cliffs, rolling hills, and picturesque countryside, Normandy is one of the more beautiful areas of France.

Can You Visit Normandy as a Day Trip from Paris?

It is possible to visit Normandy as a day trip from Paris. It’s located about 150 miles northwest of Paris and there are quite a few tour operators that have day trips to the D-Day beaches and other nearby attractions.

You should take a few days to explore the Normandy area. There is so much to see and do from visiting the historic sites and museums to sampling the local cuisine.

One of the best parts of traveling is meeting the locals and taking the time to explore some off the beaten path places. While you can do a day trip and snap a few photos but you will miss out on what makes Normandy and amazing area.

That being said, if you’re truly limited on time and can only swing a day trip then go for it! Just be prepared for a long day of travel and a whirlwind tour of the highlights.

So while a day trip to Normandy from Paris can be done, I would recommend taking at least a few days to really experience everything the region has to offer. From the rich history and culture to the natural beauty and delicious cuisine, Normandy is a destination that’s worth taking the time to explore.

What Else is There in Normandy to See Other Than the D-Day Beaches?

Here are five places to check out besides the Normandy beach area:

• Mont Saint Michel : This stunning island monastery is one of the most iconic landmarks in France. Mont Saint Michele is and island just off the coast and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you are in the area you should definitely see it.
• Bayeux Tapestry : This work of art shows the events leading up to the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. It’s housed in the charming town of Bayeux which is worth a visit.
• Rouen Cathedral : This magnificent Gothic cathedral in the city of Rouen is a masterpiece of medieval architecture. It’s also where Joan of Arc was famously tried and condemned to death.
• Calvados Distilleries : Normandy is famous for its delicious apple brandy known as Calvados. There are several distilleries where you can sample the local specialties.
• Giverny : This charming village was the home of Impressionist painter Claude Monet, and his former house and gardens are open to the public.

How Long is the Train Ride from Paris to Normandy?

The train from Paris to Normandy takes about 1.5 to 3 hours. It just depends on the amount of stops. The main train stations in Normandy are Caen, Bayeux, and Cherbourg and each of these has a direct train connection from Paris.

The train is comfortable and with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi and food and drink service. The scenery along the way is simply stunning as you pass through the picturesque French countryside and charming villages.

The schedule for the high speed train varies depending on the time of year. You so you need to check the schedule before booking your tour.

Tour Guides

The Normandy D-Day Trip w/ American Cemetery tour is our Editor's Choice for the best Normandy tour with its combination of sites seen, tour guides and value.

Krysha Thayer

Related articles, the 5 best stonehenge tours from london [2024 reviews], the 5 best wine tours from florence [2024 reviews], the 7 best vatican tours ⛪ [2024 reviews], the 5 best seine river dinner cruises [2024 reviews].

• Most Popular!

GIVERNY & ROUEN DAY TRIP

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 9 hours (including transportation)
• Checkmark Group type: Private tour

Discover Giverny & Rouen on a Day Trip from Paris

On this day trip from Paris, discover two of the most colorful sites in Normandy. Your guide meets you at your hotel in Paris. Climb aboard a luxury vehicle for a one-hour ride to Giverny.

The House and Gardens of Claude Monet in Giverny Uncover the secrets of one of the pillars of Impressionism, Claude Monet. Leader of the pictorial movement of the 19th century, he brought a wind of change to academic representative art, introducing heightened perception, emotions and light. The painter devoted more than forty years of his life to one of his finest masterpieces: his garden in Giverny.

With skip-the-line access, the guide shares the calm and almost otherworldly beauty of Claude Monet’s Home and Gardens. Learn about the famous Impressionist and enjoy exploring inside his colorful home, stroll along the charming paths of his flower garden, and admire the water garden with the little green bridge and lake full of his famous water lilies.

The Clos Normand The artist and gardener sought to transform a simple orchard into a magnificent, colorful garden: Japanese cherry trees, flowerbeds of nasturtiums, tulips and roses, an explosion of colors for each season.

The Water Garden Wander through the romantic water garden, with its famous Japanese bridge, the wisterias, the water-lilies pond, the weeping willows and irises… Behold this living picture with its profusion of reflected light and colors.

The House Visit the master’s charming pink house where a family atmosphere reigned. Discover the painter’s everyday life surrounded by eight children: the drawing room, the pantry, the bedroom, the study, the dining room and the beautiful kitchen… Admire his collection of Japanese prints, another source of inspiration.

The Studio End your visit with the big studio where the famous water-lilies paintings saw the light of day. These paintings are exhibited at the Orangerie Museum in Paris. Enjoy the souvenir shop.

Take a midday break for lunch and continue on to Rouen.

Rouen Discover the authentic Norman city of Rouen. It is hard to resist the charm of this city: the old Rouen, the Courthouse, the Cathedral and Joan of Arc square. Your guide takes you through this captivating city to discover its multiple facets. A real museum city, Rouen enchants you with its beautiful half-timbered houses, cobbled streets and Gothic churches. Rouen is also nicknamed the “City of 100 steeples”.

The Cathedral & Antiquarian District The Notre-Dame cathedral is remarkable for the juxtaposition of all periods of the Gothic style, especially on its facade. Claude Monet captured this remarkable Gothic cathedral from an apartment facing it. He immortalized the compelling light reflected off this masterpiece in a series of 28 paintings.

Stroll through the antiquarian district among the stunning half-timbered houses. This atmosphere inspired Pissaro in his famous urban series. In this district, one of the most beautiful and oldest of Rouen, discover the Saint-Maclou Church, a gem of Flamboyant Gothic art and the Saint-Maclou Atrium, an old parish cemetery created during the Great Black Plague of 1348.

Continue your walk with the Saint-Ouen Abbey and the Courthouse, one of the beautiful achievements of the civil architecture of the late Middle Ages. Here is the oldest Jewish monument of France, the only example of medieval “Yeshiva” in the world.

The Great Clock and Belfry The yawning renaissance arcade of the Great Clock spans the cobbled street and houses one of the oldest clock mechanisms in Europe. Flanked by a belfry tower with the city’s bells, the Great Clock, Renaissance arcade spans the street and houses one of the oldest clock mechanisms in Europe. On each side, its single-needle dials are richly decorated. Walk down the famous rue du Gros Horloge with its unique Renaissance double-faced clock.

Joan of Arc Rouen was the scene of the martyrdom of Joan of Arc, condemned and burned in 1431. Find the exact place where she was burned, close to the Church of St. Joan of Arc whose stained glass windows are from the 16th century.

After the visit, transfer to Paris. Your guide drops you off at your accommodation in Paris.

• Chevron down Highlights
• Monet’s Home: Visit the painter’s house, the yellow dining room, his first workshop and the kitchen.
• ​The Flower Garden: Find the flower landscapes dear to the impressionist master.
• The Water Garden: Spend time there and observe the variations of light.
• The Japanese Bridge: See the famous little green bridge.
• Enjoy the fabulous city of Rouen, its cobbled streets, its half-timbered house, and its sumptuous cathedral.​
• Chevron down Inclusions
• Small-group guided half-day trip
• Exclusive services
• Licensed professional driver/guide
• Skip-the-line & priority admission tickets
• Private Tour: Pick up and drop off at the hotel
• Small Group: Meeting at Champs Elysées District 69 Avenue Marceau, 75116 PARIS
• Transport by luxury A/C minibus
• Chevron down Conditions
• Please bring a photo ID. Passengers of all ages are accepted in the tour, but at least one adult of age 18+ is required per reservation.
• During transportation, children below the age of 10 must be seated in a child chair by French law.

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• Hour Glass 5 hours

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On this exclusive half-day experience, discover one of the most beautiful villages in France, appreciated by the water lilies.

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Giverny & Versailles Day Tour

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