normandy beach tour from paris

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.

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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].

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The 8 Best Normandy Tours from Paris in 2024: D-Day in a Day

Last Updated: January 29, 2024 //  by  Ashley Smith 8 Comments

There’s so much WWII history to see in Normandy, but when you’re short on time these Normandy tours from Paris can help you make the most of your visit to Normandy’s D-Day sites.

Table of Contents

Why take Normandy tours from Paris?

While it would be great if we could all spend weeks in Normandy exploring the fascinating museums and historic landing beaches , that’s mostly just a dream. Instead, these tours are great options for when you really want to visit Normandy’s D-Day sites but don’t have a lot of time, money, or know-how.  

With these tours, you can still visit some of the top D-Day sites , get expert commentary on the D-Day invasion and other events that took place there, and have someone else take care of all the logistics and planning for you. You won’t have to book a hotel, rent a car, worry about schedules, or keep wondering what the heck it is you’re looking at.  

This post is only for Normandy tours originating from Paris that have you arriving back in Paris at the end. If you’ll already be in Normandy and thus looking for tours that start in Bayeux, Caen, or Le Havre, check out my post on the best local Normandy D-Day tours here.

Choosing the best Normandy tours from Paris

But which tours are the best? Which ones go to the right places and cover the most ground? Luckily, you have a World War II and travel expert at your disposal (hey there!) who’s also quite adept at traveling on a time budget. Let’s just say, day trips are my bread and butter. (I’m also a professional tour guide btw!)

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 D-Day day tour. To create this list, I’ve compared all the available tours (there are a lot) against my stringent set of criteria. I’ve taken into account things like:

• Customer rating and popularity
• Length of tour and start/end times
• Overall benefit
• Topic/focus of the tour
• Ease of logistics

…and more. All so you can be sure which of the Normandy tours from Paris is the most worth your time and money. I’ve only chosen English-language tours and all prices in this post are in U.S. dollars.

So how do I choose the best D-Day tours in Normandy? Well, I’m very particular when it comes to booking travel—be it hotel rooms , flights, or guided tours. I’ll never recommend anything that’s rated lower than 4 out of 5 stars, anything with no reviews, or run by a company that doesn’t even look reputable. As always, I only recommend the things I would personally book for myself.

And for your time in Paris, don’t miss all the fascinating WWII sites in Paris ; there are many museums, memorials, and more to check out here.

My favorite tour companies for day trips

My go-to tour companies are Viator and Get Your Guide . I’ve booked many tours through these companies and have always been satisfied. They’re both well-known in the travel community (Viator is owned by TripAdvisor actually); booking through them is quick and easy; most tours offer free cancelation and/or “reserve now, pay later;” and their rates are more than reasonable. A day trip to Normandy from Paris the no-nonsense way, basically.

I’ve also taken into account the more boutique tour offerings from top-rated independent and local tour operators. My highly critical requirements still apply here. So, let’s get to it! All things considered, these are the best Normandy tours from Paris in 2024 to learn about the events of 1944.

If you want to know more about each of the sites and museums in this post, check out my articles on what to see at each of the five Allied landing beaches: Utah Beach , Omaha Beach , Gold Beach , Juno Beach , Sword Beach .

Best Normandy tours from Paris: at a glance

In this post I’ll dig into all the best Normandy tours from Paris. I’ll tell you why I picked them, what makes them one of the ‘best,’ what they include (and what they don’t), and more. But first, here’s a brief look at the top D-Day tours in Normandy:

• Best overall : Normandy D-Day Small-Group Day Trip from Paris w/ Cider Tasting
• Most popular : Normandy D-Day Beaches and American Cemetery Day Trip from Paris
• Best private tour : Normandy D-Day Full-Day Tour w/ Tours by Locals

Best private tour on a budget : D-Day Beaches Private Tour from Paris w/ Igor Rosen

• Best luxury tour : Normandy Battlefields D-Day Private Trip with VIP Services
• Best value tour : Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches Tour by Gray Line
• Best overnight tour : Normandy 2-Day Discovery Trip from Paris
• NEW! Most popular among my readers: Normandy D-Day Small-Group Day Trip w/ Cider Tasting

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

1. Best overall Normandy Day Tour from Paris

My pick for best overall : Normandy D-Day Small-Group Day Trip from Paris (w/ Cider Tasting)

Okay, while it may seem weird that my top pick includes a cider tasting of all things, here me out. I picked this one as the best overall Normandy tour from Paris because it has the 3 things I look for most in tours: small group tour (maximum 8 people), a 5-star rating and tons of reviews, and the best combination of stops out of all the tour options.

What you’ll see on this tour

This tour includes stops at:

• Omaha Beach
• The Overlord Museum
• The German battery at Longues-sur-Mer
• The cliffs and German bunkers at Pointe du Hoc
• The Normandy American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer

Of all the Normandy tours from Paris, this one includes 3 stops I feel everyone visiting Normandy for the first time must visit . (Please visit the American Cemetery, walk in the sands of Omaha Beach, and see the cliffs at Pointe du Hoc if you can.) Sadly, not all tours cover these sites.

This tour and these stops are perfect for first-time visitors who want to get a sampling of the best sites related to Operation Overlord and an overall impression of what the Normandy region is like today. This tour is great for those visitors who want to visit historic Normandy but don’t need a week-long battlefield engagement to get the picture.

To get more information on these and other sites you can visit on these tours, check out my post on the best D-Day sites .

I love small-group tours because of the individual attention each visitor receives and it’s just a more enjoyable experience for everyone. This tour also has a 5-star rating after almost 1,700+ reviews which says a lot! Reviewers’ favorite aspects of the tour are the excellent tour guides and the stress-free-ness of the whole experience. (How travel should be!)

What this tour includes

This 13-hour full-day trip includes:

• Roundtrip transportation from Paris
• An expert guide and driver
• Entrance fees to the Overlord Museum and skip-the-line guarantee
• The option to reserve now and pay later
• Free cancelation up to 24 hours before the tour
• And yes, a cider tasting at a local orchard for what it’s worth!

It  does not include  gratuities for the guide and driver, lunch (there will be a stop for lunch but your meal is at your own cost), or hotel pick-up and drop-off. Instead, you’ll meet the guide at a meeting point in central Paris, as is common with these kinds of group tours. (In this case, it’s near the Arc de Triomphe.)

How much this tour costs

As of January 2024, this tour is offered 7 days a week and costs $275.60 per person . All things considered, I feel this is a great value for everything this tour includes, especially based on all the positive reviews. I would absolutely book this tour for myself.

Honorable mention

There is a similar tour to the one above that also includes a cider and calvados tasting + a 2-course lunch. However, I felt the one I chose above stops at better sites. If you’d like to compare the two yourself or are particularly interested in trying Normandy’s famous apple brandy, check out this tour .

2. Most popular Normandy day trip from Paris

The most popular D-Day tour from Paris : Normandy D-Day Beaches and American Cemetery Day Trip from Paris

I have to admit I almost chose this one as best overall, but it was missing something I felt was super important: a stop at Pointe du Hoc. Otherwise, this is an excellent tour I would readily book for myself.

This tour has a 4.5-star rating and over 2,300 reviews ! It’s the most popular of all the Normandy tours from Paris by a long shot. Most of the reviews praise the tour’s knowledgeable and enthusiastic tour guide as well as the great driver.  

What you’ll see on this tour

This  full-day trip from Paris  stops at many of the key points in Normandy including:

• The Normandy American Cemetery
• Arromanches les Bains
• The Arromanches 360° Museum

A stop at Arromanches les Bains to see the remains of the Mulberry Harbors is the one thing that’s missing from the No. 1 tour on this list. Arromanches is a worthwhile and unforgettable location I highly recommend you check out.

This most popular tour includes:

• A professional driver and licensed guide/expert on the events of June 6, 1944
• Admission to the Arromanches 360° museum
• And free cancelation up to 24 hours before the tour

It does not include gratuities, lunch (though you will have free time in Arromanches to get lunch on your own), or hotel pick-up and drop-off. (This tour’s meeting spot is near the Eiffel Tower.)

As of January 2024, this tour costs between $179.78 and  $212 per person (depending on your chosen date). That means this Paris tour to Normandy is one of the most budget-friendly options as well. (It’s not  super  cheap of course, but it definitely costs less than most other tours and still hits many of the must-see locations.) All-in-all,  a great value in my opinion .

What to know about this tour

There is one thing you should know about this tour before you book it. This isn’t necessarily a deal breaker, but there’s a reason this tour is cheaper than the others and why I didn’t pick it as Best Overall.

This is not a small-group tour. They will take a maximum of 45 people on this tour. Again, this isn’t a deal breaker, but it just means you’ll likely receive less individualized attention and have to walk through these locations as a herd. Not ideal, but not bad for the price either.

3. Best private Normandy tour from Paris

My pick for best private tour : Normandy D-Day Full-Day Tour w/ Tours by Locals

If you’d prefer a private tour over spending your Normandy tours from Paris with a busload of people, there are options for that too! And the best one I found is this one with Steeve from Tours by Locals.

This tour has nothing but rave 5-star reviews and accommodates a maximum of 7 people . It lasts the standard 12 hours and can even be customized to your preferences . Want to trade in one of the locations for somewhere else? No problem. Because this tour is all your own, you have a lot more options.

This full-day tour visits many of the best D-Day sites in Normandy as-is, but remember you can customize it too. Out of the box, this tour stops at :

• Pointe du Hoc
• Normandy American Cemetery

These stops are actually all on my shortlist of must-see D-Day sites in Normandy, so that’s a huge plus. You’ll definitely leave this tour feeling like you saw everything you came to see!

This awesome private D-Day invasion tour includes:

• Roundtrip transportation from Paris in your own deluxe private vehicle with pickup and dropoff at your hotel or other location of your choosing
• A lunch stop at what sounds like a fantastic restaurant specializing in Norman cuisine
• An expert, local, independent guide
• Documents, photos, and maps to help you understand the destination’s history
• Photo stops at your request
• A full refund if you cancel 15 days or more before your tour.

It does not include the cost of lunch or gratuities.  

As of January 2024, this tour costs $2,061 for a group of up to 7 people . (So, for 7 people that would be $294 pp; for 6 people $343 pp; for 5 people $412 pp; for 4 people $515 pp; for 3 people $687 pp; for 2 people $1030 pp; and if you’re coming by yourself, I think you can do the math there.)

While this is considerably more than the first two Normandy tours from Paris, it’s important to remember this tour is 100% private and customizable . Your small group has its own car and expert guide; you’ll be able to get so much more out of each destination by being able to ask questions, going where you want, and not having to wait for the entire group to gather; and you can even customize it to your own preferences.

People are always asking me for the best private and customizable Normandy tours and I’m totally going to recommend this one from now on. (This tour is offered every day of the week.)

4. Best private Normandy tour from Paris on a budget

UPDATE : In 2023, this tour was a fantastic budget private tour option. But for 2024 he has nearly tripled the price of this tour so I’m no longer recommending it as a budget option, obviously.

That being said, he has changed the tour a little bit to add stops at Omaha Beach and (maybe) the battery at Longues-sur-Mer. So, I’m going to leave it here as an option for you to check out, and I’ll continue to monitor it to see if the price goes back down to a more reasonable number (because WOW).

• The Pegasus Bridge
• and possibly the German battery at Longues-sur-Mer (It’s listed in the summary but not in the more detailed description.)

A stop at the Pegasus Bridge is new on this list and I appreciate that this tour deviates from the norm while still hitting some must-see spots. This would also be a great tour option for Canadian visitors.

This full-day Normandy tour from Paris includes:

• Roundtrip transportation from Paris in your own private vehicle
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off
• Digital resources to use during the trip
• All entrance fees (even though everything on this list is free, but I guess in case anything pops up)
• Water and snacks during your drive to the coast of Normandy
• An English audio guide as well

Like the rest, this tour does not include lunch, though a lunch stop will be made.

As of January 2024, this tour costs $2,433.57 for a group of up to 6 people . And because this tour is offered through Get Your Guide, it also includes the option to reserve now and pay later, as well as free cancelation up to 24 hours before the tour.

Important note : This tour has limited availability and books up fast . Last year many of the dates were already limited by April.

5. Best luxury tour to Normandy from Paris

My pick for best luxury tour : Normandy Battlefields D-Day Private Trip with VIP Services

If too much travel has got you down, why not indulge a little with this private luxury tour of the Normandy D-Day sites from Paris? Another tour with a 5-star rating , reviewers can’t stop raving about the passionate and knowledgeable guides and all the little ways they went above and beyond.

This tour is offered every day of the week and has a maximum of 8 people. The transportation is even wheelchair accessible. (A rarity among Normandy tours from Paris!)

With a focus on American troops , you’ll visit four of the most unforgettable D-Day sites:

This is the standard itinerary for this 13-hour tour but because this is a private tour it can be customized as you wish. (Maybe ask if you can swing by the German battery at Longues-sur-Mer while you’re in the area!)

This private luxury Normandy tour from Paris includes:

• Private transportation for your group
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Paris
• All fees and taxes
• Wi-Fi for the drive to Normandy and back
• Expert guide

Like the others, it does not include the cost of lunch or any gratuities.

As of January 2024, this tour costs between $1687 and $1890 per group, depending on the size of your group . If you go it alone, you’ll pay the full $1687. For 2 people, you’ll pay $843 each. Three people will pay $572 each; etc. (Adjust the number of people in the availability box to see the price change.)

Because this is a Viator tour, you have the option to reserve now and pay later, as well as the benefit of free cancelation up to 24 hours before the tour.

6. Best value tour of Normandy from Paris

My pick for best value tour : Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches Tour by Gray Line

If you want to get the most for your money on a Normandy tour from Paris, check out this option from Gray Line. It has excellent reviews —the guides and drivers receive the highest marks—and stops at only the most famous Normandy spots . It also includes things none of the other tours do!

On your Gray Line Normandy tour from Paris you’ll stop at the following places :

• Caen Memorial Museum

One thing I want to point out is the fact that this is the only tour I’ve found that visits the Caen Memorial Museum . The Caen Memorial is said to be one of the best World War II museums in Europe and I don’t disagree. Visiting this museum was a huge highlight of my own time in Normandy so I’m glad to see at least one tour stop here.

This best deal of a tour includes the following:

• Roundtrip transportation from Paris on a comfortable and air-conditioned bus
• Entrance tickets to the Caen Memorial
• And a 3-course lunch with drinks

It includes lunch! This is a first as far as Normandy day tours from Paris go. It does not include gratuities or hotel pick-up and drop-off though.

As of January 2024, this tour costs $205 per person (that’s actually less than last year!) and includes free cancelation up to 24 hours before the tour.

Gray Line tours

I’ve taken a number of Gray Line tours (mostly in Iceland ) and have found them all perfectly enjoyable. Basic, but always worthwhile.

This tour does not clarify how many people will be on the tour, but Gray Line tours typically serve large groups on large coaches, so it’s not exactly intimate. But for the deal you’re getting here, it’s all about compromise.

7. Best overnight Normandy tour from Paris

My pick for best overnight tour : Normandy 2-Day Discovery Trip from Paris

If you do have the time to spare and want to get a little more out of your Normandy tour from Paris, check out this option which includes a visit to everyone’s favorite Normandy and Brittany attractions. It has all 4 and 5-star reviews and is a pretty good deal for two days’ worth of touring.

On the first day of this 2-day tour of Normandy you’ll visit:

• The towns of Rouen and Honfleur and their most notable spots
• The newly renovated Musée du Debarquement in Arromanches

On the second day you’ll visit:

• The beautiful town of Saint-Malo
• And you’ll spend most of your 2nd day exploring the iconic village and historic abbey of Mont Saint-Michel.

You’ll love Saint-Malo if you’re a fan of the Pulitzer Prize winning novel All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doer. (And/or the new Netflix series based on the book .) This is one of my favorite books of all time and this beautiful World War II novel is set right here in Saint Malo. Visiting Saint Malo was a huge treat for me! Plus, it’s a very cool historic town regardless.

Likewise, so is Mont Saint-Michel, one of the most famous and iconic “attractions” in all of France . Visiting this place was unforgettable and I know it will be for you too.

This 2-day tour of Normandy from Paris includes:

• Professional guide and driver
• Entrance tickets to the attractions visited
• An overnight stay in a 4-star hotel in Caen
• Dinner the first night and breakfast the next morning

It does not include lunch on either day, hotel pick-up and drop-off, or gratuities.

As of January 2024, this 2-day tour of Normandy from Paris costs $638 per person which, considering everything you get on this tour, is probably the best deal out there.

Because of the nature of this tour (needing to reserve hotel rooms and whatnot), it includes free cancelation only up to 7 days before the tour. This tour is also offered in Spanish and only available for booking on Thursdays and Saturdays.  

8. Most popular among my readers (New category!)

My readers’ pick for best Normandy tour from Paris: Normandy D-Day Small-Group Day Trip w/ Cider Tasting

This is a new category I’ve added for 2024. Since this post is about a year old, I’ve had the pleasure of learning about which of the many Normandy tours from Paris my readers have booked and enjoyed the most. This is the one that was most-booked by Destination: WWII readers in 2023.

The same tour that I recommend as the Best Overall is also the one that my readers loved the most. (By a mile actually!) So head back up to #1 on this list for the full tour description or just book it now: Normandy D-Day Small-Group Day Trip w/ Cider Tasting .

The runners up

If you’re curious, there are two other Normandy tours from Paris that stand out among the rest as favorites of my readers. The two others that people booked the most last year are:

2 nd Place: Normandy D-Day Beaches and American Cemetery Day Trip from Paris

As one of the most budget-friendly Normandy tours from Paris, I’m not at all surprised that this one is also quite popular. (In fact, it’s also #2 on this list for ‘most popular.’)

3 rd Place: Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches Day Trip with Cider Tasting & Lunch from Paris

This is the one I listed as an ‘Honorable Mention’ under #1 on this list—it’s definitely a great alternative to the one I dubbed Best Overall.

6 things to remember when looking at Normandy tours from Paris

When shopping around for Normandy tours from Paris, here are a few key things you’ll want to keep in mind.

1. Tour accessibility

Keep in mind that not all transportation offered is going to accessible for persons with disabilities. Some are; most aren’t. If it doesn’t say so in the listing though, reach out to them for more information. They may be able to accommodate you after all or at least give you more of an idea of what to expect so you can decide if the tour is right for you.

2. Drive time

Know that the trip between Paris and the D-Day sites in Normandy is going to be around 3-4 hours each way through the French countryside. This is a long time to be en route, so prepare for it.

Most tours will provide commentary on the sights you’re going to see, the area’s history, etc. Some may even play movies if they have the ability to do so. Regardless, plan to bring a book to read or download some movies ahead of time.

3. Where to buy souvenirs

Almost all museums in the Normandy area have at least small gift shops. Some, like the Caen Memorial, have massive ones. Otherwise, the town center in Arromanches les Bains has lots of gift shops where you can buy souvenirs.

4. Always arrive early

Unless you’re taking one of the private tours, always be sure to arrive to the meeting point at least 15 minutes early. And even allow extra time for getting there since the meeting points in Paris city center tend to be near popular monuments. Don’t underestimate how long it takes just to get across town.

5. Make sure it leaves from Paris

If you seek out other Normandy tours from Paris that aren’t mentioned here, be careful to note if it does in fact leave from Paris .

Many Normandy tours say “from Paris” in the description, but aren’t actually Paris tours at all. For instance, many of the tours that originate in Bayeux (which is already in Normandy) will say “from Paris” because they expect you to take the train from Paris to Bayeux where you’ll start your tour at 8:00am. Then after your tour in the late afternoon you’ll have to get yourself back to Paris.

I find this entirely manipulative and I can’t stand it, but I digress. Before you book a tour, be 100% sure it includes roundtrip transportation from and back to Paris.

6. Take lots of photos but…

As always, you can (and should) take lots of photos on your trip from Paris to Normandy. However, please refrain from selfies or inappropriate pictures at Normandy’s D-Day sites.

Yes, I’ve seen a father and son take ridiculous jumping photos at Normandy American Cemetery. (They also played a game of tag while running in and out of the headstones.) Yes, I’ve also seen women posing for sexy photos at war memorials. Get. A. Clue. Pay your respects, above all else.

Maybe now would be a good time to tell you to read this post on visiting WWII sites with kids .

What to pack for your Paris to Normandy day tour

When packing for your trip to France, be sure to keep these items in your travel checklist:

Comfortable shoes – There’s going to be a lot of walking on your Normandy tour; be sure to pack some comfortable walking shoes.

Unique WWII travel gear from the DWWII shop – There are lots of great D-Day items in the shop like t-shirts ( this is the best-seller! ), passport wallets, and more. (I donate a portion of all sales to a designated WWII charity each year.)

Refillable water bottle – It’s also going to be a very long day so make sure you stay hydrated.

European plug adapter – Whether or not you’ll be staying overnight, there’s a good chance you’ll need to charge your phone at some point. And you won’t be able to do it without a plug adapter.

Sunglasses and sunscreen – Especially if your tour from Paris to Normandy will be during the summer.

Anti-theft purse – Petty theft is common in Europe and especially in Paris. Keep yourself and your valuables safe with an anti-theft purse. These are the only kinds of purses I use when I travel. I have bags from both Travelon and PacSafe .

France customs and culture guide – I get one of these pocket-sized Culture Smart books for every new country I visit.

Movies and/or books for the road – Might I suggest:

• Saving Private Ryan
• The Longest Day
• Band of Brothers

Or these books:

• All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
• Band of Brothers by Stephen Ambrose
• Six Armies in Normandy by John Keegan

Other Normandy tours from Paris

If you have questions about other Normandy tours from Paris that I didn’t cover in this post, let me know! I’ve examined 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 deals in Paris here.
• For more tours in Paris,  check out the great options from  Viator  and  Get Your Guide .
• Don’t forget a   Paris 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 it a little easier for you.

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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

June 5, 2023 at 1:35 pm

A friend had suggested we visit Normandy during our European vacation. We moved our days around to have 2 nights in Paris so we could do an all day tour of Normandy. I enjoyed your blog and found it very helpful. However, I wanted to provide you information on one of the tours because it was not as they advertised – the Gray Line. And I know you said you had not been on the tour so I wanted to tell you from experience and so you can update your information.

The items and details of the Gray Line that were advertised were not correct and false advertising. We did not visit the memorial of Caen, nor did we stop at Point du Hoc, lunch was not included, and we did not visit Juno Beach.

I was surprised to find out upon arrival, this was not a Gray Line tour but was the same tour sold on the various travel websites at a price less than my paid price and with the others providing a correct description of the tour. I was misled with the highlights and itinerary that Gray Line post on their booking website. The tour guide was in a uncomfortable situation when he realized that I was sold items that were not planned for this tour and I was question him. The tour that GrayLine is selling is the same one listed cheaper as on Viator and Get Your Guide. The tour guide said those are the best place to book because their description is up to date. The tour Gray Line is selling is no longer offered but they keep selling it and then sending the customers on the other tours. People on the bus with me had booked on Viator and Getyourguide at a cheaper rate and with correct expectations.

June 5, 2023 at 3:30 pm

Hi Amy! Thank you so, so much for your feedback! I will definitely look into that and make the necessary changes in this post. Can I ask… where did you go then, if not those sites? I hope you were able to at least get some enjoyment out of the experience.

June 5, 2023 at 4:17 pm

We had 15 minutes at Ohama, 40 minutes at the American cementary, 1 hour and 15 minutes to eat lunch at Gold Beach and look around, 40 minutes at Arromanches les Bain where they had us watch a 20 minute movie (recommend skipping it to walk around – other documentaries provide much more insight) and then our tour guide added on Longues sur Mer for 15 minutes. Several of us had shown him what we were sold (others bought from different company with lots of stops listed that were not going to be visited as well). It was nice to quickly see some places but now we feel as though we need to come back to really experience it and stay for several days.

June 6, 2023 at 8:14 am

That’s unfortunate you missed Caen and Pointe du Hoc but at least you got to go to some of the best sites! But yes – that was definitely just a sample and now you know Normandy may be worth more of your time someday!

November 22, 2023 at 12:48 pm

Ashley, We are looking at the private trip from Paris to Normandy. It is thru Tripadvisor. the name of the trip is NormandyD-Day Private tour with Omah Beach from Paris. the cost of the trip is $1127.75 per person. It sounds like a good trip shows all the stops and how long you are there.

Thank you – Tammy

November 29, 2023 at 10:38 am

Hi Tammy, thanks for letting me know! I’ll give that one a look. 🙂

January 15, 2024 at 12:20 pm

Thanks so much for all of this information, it is so helpful. We are planning a trip in April and I’m deciding between one of your top two and the one linked below. It picks up and drops off at the train station in Bayeaux. It looks like it hits a lot of different spots and would love your thoughts before booking.

https://www.overlordtour.com/product/tour-2fs-omaha-utah-full-day-tour-week-days-only/

January 17, 2024 at 10:08 am

Hi Michael! About the Overlord tour: Before I’ve even read the details I’m already turned off. They call it a “full day round trip from Paris” tour which we both know it is not, and as a consumer I really don’t appreciate the manipulative description.

Then, they use the first couple paragraphs to only vaguely tell you how to get there, and to absolve themselves of any snafus. (When a tour description starts with the company absolving themselves of any responsibility instead of actually describing the tour, my alarm bells go off!) And it seems like there’s a high chance of snafus as well. You only have one train option—the earliest train—and there’s a quick train change in Caen. If you’ve traveled a lot by train in Europe, you may be totally comfortable doing this. But still, if there’s any sort of delay and you miss either the first train or the connection, you’re out of a tour and out your money. It just seems like there’s too much room for error here. This is why, for those looking to take a tour from Paris and back, I prefer the tours that take you to Normandy all the way from Paris on their own transportation. This eliminates (almost) all undue stress and the possibility of missing the tour but still having to pay for it. BUT… if the benefit of what the tour offers greatly outweighs the stress of getting yourself there from Paris, it may be worth the extra trouble. So let’s see…

It does visit some of the major spots like Omaha and Utah Beaches, the American cemetery, Pointe du Hoc, and Saint-Mère-Église, so that’s good. The rest of the tour visits a lot of more obscure sites and sites where there really isn’t much to “see.” Whether or not these will be of interest to you will have a lot to do with how interested you are in the topics and how good of a listener you are. 🙂 I imagine at these spots, it’ll be a lot of story-telling and having to use your imagination. Something else worth noting is that some of them (like the La Colombière Hospital and General Taylor’s Headquarters in Hiesville) are privately owned and therefore you’ll likely only pass by them to view from the road. (Which is probably how they manage to squeeze in so many sights into just one day.)

If you want to visit some of the more obscure battle sites and hear these particular stories, and you’re well-versed at train travel in Europe, then this would probably be an enjoyable tour for you! If you don’t feel super comfortable using the train system, have doubts about actually being able to make it there on time, or would rather see some of the more well-known and recognizable historical sites, you’d probably be happier with one of the other two that you were looking at.

For me personally, I would pass on the Overlord Tour, but this is just what I would personally do. I’m extremely experienced in European train travel and feel totally comfortable doing this, but if I’m going to pay for a round-trip tour from Paris, I want to be taken there from Paris and not have to deal with the stress of train travel. Eliminating the stress and unpredictability of transportation is a large part of the reason I, and most other people, opt for joining a tour in the first place. If this company has the means to drive your group all around Normandy to these different locations, they also then have the means to pick you up in Paris, they just choose not to (but charge you the same amount).

However, that being said, this company is well-known and has loads of rave reviews, so it appears they have (almost) nothing but satisfied customers. (Don’t forget to read the negative reviews too to see what particular issues they had problems with.) Another thing they have going for them over the other tours is that they probably have better/more knowledgeable tour guides that specialize in WWII topics. Some of the other tour companies are just “tour companies” who hire guides. This company is specifically centered around World War II and D-Day tours and (I hope) hires guides especially proficient in these topics.

So again, it really depends on how in depth of a D-Day tour you want. Do you want all the detailed historical information? (And are you already well-versed on the events?) Or do you simply want an overview of the events and to visit some of the locations you’ve heard about your whole life? Also note that the Overlord tour only takes place during the week, so if you’re planning to visit on a weekend, your choice may have just been made for you. 🙂

I hope that helps! Whichever tour you choose, I hope you have an incredible time in Normandy, Michael! And thank you for the kind words, it means a lot to me!

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Paris WWII Sites Map

11 Top-Rated Normandy Tours from Paris for 2024: D-Day Beaches & Mont Saint-Michel

If you’re considering a day trip to France’s western coast, it would be a missed opportunity not to include one of the many available Normandy tours from Paris !

Whether you’re traveling in a group, as a family, with your partner, or solo, these tours are easy to add to any long layover in Paris or multi-day vacation in France.

For travelers already in the Normandy region, we also have supplied several tours that depart directly from Bayeux!

Whether you have 5 hours or 3 days for your travels around this popular historic region, these tours have been designed to be informational, exciting, and offer unique experiences for every type of traveler.

Ranging in pricing from budget to luxury, these are some of the top-rated tours to Normandy for travelers of every age and style.

Happy Travels!

Best Normandy Tours from Paris

Below are some of the top-rated full day Normandy tours from Paris. Most of them have received the Badge of Excellence Award from Viator and all consistently receive 5-star reviews from people all over the world.

If you’re looking for private tours or extended 2-3 day tours from Paris, jump to the next sections!

1. Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches Day Trip with Cider Tasting & Lunch from Paris

What’s Included? ⤵️

• Private Roundtrip Transportation in an Air-Conditioned Coach with a Professional Guide
• Full-day tour to Normandy including a visit to the less popular Utah Beach, a D-Day museum housed in a former German Bunker, a shelter for soldiers, Pointe du Hoc, the American Cemetery, and Omaha Beach
• Departure Time: 7:00am
• Total Travel Time: ~ 14 hours
• Included: Lunch, Cider & Calvados Tastings
• Not Included: Gratuity & Not Wheelchair Accessible

✔️ If you’re looking for an all-inclusive day trip to Normandy from Paris, this is the tour to take ! You’ll have a professional guide filling you in on every detail of the D-Day events, showing you secret bunkers, and allowing you free time to explore the beaches, museums, and cemeteries. You will also enjoy a private lunch accompanied by cider and calvados tastings (brandy) before being whisked away to the Pointe du Hoc which isn’t often included in most of these Normandy tours from Paris!

2. Normandy D-Day Beaches & American Cemetery Trip from Paris

• Private Transportation in an Air-Conditioned Coach with a Licensed Expert of the D-Day Event
• Full-day tour to Normandy including a visit to the 360 Museum in Arromanches, the American Cemetary, and Omaha Beach. Time for lunch in Arromanches
• Total Travel Time: ~ 13 hours
• Included: Museum Entrance Fee
• Not Included: Gratuity & Not Wheelchair Accessible, Lunch

✔️ This full-day trip to Normandy from Paris is the only one on this list where the tour includes a licensed guide and expert on Normandy’s D-Day event ! If you’re a true history buff looking to get all of your burning questions answered about WWII and the events surrounding the related events in history, then this tour is certainly for you. Between the luxury coach and the expert guide, this is easily one of the best tours you can take to Normandy from France’s capital.

3. Mont Saint-Michel Guided Day Trip from Paris

• Private Transportation with a Professional Guide
• Full-day tour to Normandy’s spectacular Mont Saint-Michel with a local history expert
• Departure Time: 7:15am
• Included: Entrance Fee for the Abbey

✔️ Tourists seeking a way of getting to the renowned Mont Saint-Michel without the hassle of planning each and every detail of their day need to book this tour ! Not only do you get more than 3+ hours at the fortifications of the island monument, but also plenty of time for exploring the famous Abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel where you can shop to your heart’s content. Plus, the guided section of your tour will be led by an expert on Mont Saint-Michel and its history. Travelers who are captivated by French history or those seeking the ultimate Instagram picture should surely consider this tour on their next visit to Paris!

Normandy Tours from Paris by Train

If you want to save a little bit of money on the roundtrip transportation from Paris, or you happen to be in Normandy anyway, here are some great tours to consider!

4. Normandy American D-Day Beaches Full Day Tour from Bayeux

• Private Transportation in an Air-Conditioned Coach with a Professional Guide
• Small-group tour (maximum of 8 people) that brings you to the American Cemetery, the town of Sainte Mere Eglise, Utah Beach and Omaha Beach, the Pointe du Hoc, and the Utah Beach Landing Museum
• Departure Time: 8:30am
• Total Travel Time: ~ 9 hours
• Included: Pickup and drop-off in Bayeux

✔️ Departing directly from the center of Bayeux, France, visitors can take a direct train from Paris to Bayeux before joining this small-group tour ! Easy to navigate, you’ll get to see many of the iconic Normandy landmarks plus get to stop into the best U.S. beach museum in the area: the Utah Beach Landing Museum! No other tour on this list includes a stop here, so if you are really interested in the history of WWII and don’t mind getting yourself from Paris to Bayeux, then this tour is for you.

5. Mont St Michel Full Day Tour with a National Guide from Bayeux

• Private Transportation in an Air-Conditioned Vehicle with a Professional Guide
• This small-group tour (maximum of 8 people) is the perfect half-day getaway to Mont Saint-Michel!
• Total Travel Time: ~ 7-8 hours
• Included: Pickup and drop-off in Bayeux, Entry to Mont Saint-Michel

✔️ When it comes to tours from Paris to Normandy and Mont St Michel, this highly-rated tour should be on your list ! Regardless if you’re traveling with kids, your loved one, or on your own, this is a wonderful, affordable, and stress-free way of visiting the Mont Saint-Michel for those who are short on time. Remove the worry of planning how to get to Mont Saint-Michel after you get off the train in Bayeux. This small-group tour gives you 4 full hours to explore the fortifications and the Abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel for an unforgettable, and unrushed experience! Easily one of the best Normandy tours from Bayeux, it’s no surprise this local tour books up fast!

Private Normandy Tours from Paris

Have a large group that you want to be accompanied for a full-day tour through Normandy? We’ve got you covered! Check out the amazing private Normandy tours from Paris below.

6. Private Day Tour including Normandy Landing Beaches & Battlefields from Bayeux

• Private Transportation in an Air-Conditioned Vehicle with a Professional Guide and Private Driver
• Get private insight from an expert guide on 3 different D Day landing beaches including Omaha, Sword, and Utah
• Explore the Hillman Bunker Complex and the Merville Battery Museum, as well as a few other museums
• Departure Time: 9:00am
• Total Travel Time: ~ 8 hours
• Included: Hotel Pickup and drop-off in Bayeux

✔️ If you don’t mind taking the train from Paris to Bayeux (about a 2.5-hour ride), then this is a great budget tour for any group looking to traverse across Normandy! You and your private guide will explore numerous museums including the Airborne Museum, and get the chance to see not 2, but 3, D-Day beaches! You’ll also get to walk around the popular cemeteries, and include any personal stops that you want (approval needed).

7. D-Day Private Normandy Battlefields Day Trip From Paris with VIP Services

• Private Transportation in an Air-Conditioned Vehicle with a Professional Guide and On-board WiFi
• This fully private tour is customizable to your liking! Choose which bunkers, museums, D Day beaches, and battlefields you want to see during your full-day trip
• Included: Hotel Pickup and drop-off in Paris

✔️ If you aren’t too sure what you want to see in Normandy or your group has a lot of different interests and ideas, consider booking this special private tour ! You’ll all get picked up directly from your hotel or residences in Paris before starting your fully customizable itinerary. The guide will create a basic itinerary and provide good recommendations, but you can decide to spend more or less time in each place before returning to Paris. The free WiFi onboard allows you to share your amazing pictures with friends and family while on the return trip to Paris!

2-Day Normandy Tours from Paris

If you can swing spending at least 2 days in Normandy, don’t hesitate! Many of the previously listed tours are great if you’re short on time, but we promise, you’re going to be tired after.

No one enjoys feeling rushed or wishing like they had more time, so do yourself a favor and set aside at least 2 days for traveling around Normandy!

8. Normandy 2-Days Discovery Trip with D-Day Beaches & Mont St Michel from Paris

• 2 day guided tour to Rouen, Honfleur, Arromanches, Caen, Omaha Beach, and the American Cemetary among many other beautiful stops
• Total Travel Time: ~ 2 days
• Included: 1 night of Accommodation in a 4-star hotel, Roundtrip Transportation from Paris, Most Meals

✔️ Take a couple of days to explore Normandy’s iconic Mont Saint-Michel, D-Day Landing Beaches, and popular coastal towns. Over this 2-day period, you’ll be rewarded with elegant accommodation, local cuisine, and a full-time professional guide to help answer all of your questions regarding the history of France and Normandy’s special landmarks. You can take some time to pay your respects to the fallen soldiers at the various cemeteries, including the American Cemetery, and have endless opportunities to capture some amazing photos! This is easily one of the best private Normandy tours from Paris , so don’t wait to book as the spots fill up fast!

3-Day Normandy Tours from Paris

There is only one 3-day Normandy tour from Paris that we would recommend, but there may be more if you do some research on tours leaving from Bayeux or Caen.

There are limited companies that will devote such long periods of time to their tours, so consider taking the train from Paris to Caen or Bayeux before beginning your multi-day tour.

9. 3-Days Guided Normandy, St Malo, Mont Saint Michel & Loire Valley Chateaux from Paris

• 3-day tour to the coast of Normandy with visits to the towns of Rouen, Honfleur, and St. Malo
• Visits to the Loire Valley castles of Langeais, Chambord, and Chenonceau
• Total Travel Time: ~ 3 days
• Included: 2 nights of Accommodation in a 4-star hotel, Roundtrip Transportation from Paris, Most Meals

✔️ When we talk about visiting Normandy, we usually say 3 days is the minimum we would recommend. Since you have the opportunity to be whisked away to the French countryside with little to no planning on your part, this is the ultimate Normandy tour to take! If you have the time to spare (and the budget for this fully-guided getaway), then we highly suggest taking advantage of this special tour ! It includes everything mentioned in the previously listed tours, plus more! 4-star accommodations, local cuisine, and a full-time guide that will answer all of your questions at each landmark you visit.

Small Group Tours Normandy France

If you’re looking for tours with under 10 people, check out the ones I have listed below!

They have received the Badge of Excellence by Viator and are very highly recommended by travelers from around the globe.

10. Normandy American & British D-Day Beaches Half Day Tour from Bayeux

• Small-Group Tour (8 people max) Transportation in an Air-Conditioned Vehicle, and Expert Guide
• Half-day tour to Normandy with visits to Omaha Beach, Pointe du Hoc, the American Cemetery, the Longues-sur-Mer battery, and the Remains Mulberry Harbour
• Departure Time: 1:00pm
• Total Travel Time: ~ 5 hours
• Included: All Tastings, Museum Entrance Fee

✔️ if you’re looking for the best half day Normandy tours from Bayeux , then this trip is perfect for travelers who are short on time, but want to pack a lot of history and information into their quick visit to Normandy! It’s also one of the most affordable options for travelers looking to stay on a budget or for those who are bringing along kids and want to keep costs on the lower end. Whether you’re short on time or are traveling with kids or other adults who may not enjoy long tours, this 5-hour tour is the perfect balance between exciting, informational, and to the point.

11. Normandy D-Day Small-Group Day Trip with Omaha Beach, Cemetery & Cider Tasting

• Small-Group Tour (8 people max) Transportation in an Air-Conditioned Vehicle, Live Commentary, and Expert Guide
• Full-day tour to Normandy including visits to the D-Day Beaches, German Bunkers, and the Operation Overlord Museum
• Visits to the Pointe du Hoc and the American Cemetery and a Cidery for soft and hard-cider tastings
• Total Travel Time: ~ 12-13 hours

✔️ If you’re looking for the ultimate day trip inclusive of a history guide, a museum visit, walks along the famous Omaha Beach, and even a trip to some German Bunkers dating back to WWII, this is the ultimate tour from Paris to Normandy. Start your day bright and early at 7:00am and jump in your private vehicle to head from Paris straight to Omaha Beach . From there, spend a full day exploring the French coastline before making your way inland to a special cidery where you’ll have the chance to sample local apple juice and hard ciders!

FAQ: Normandy Tours from Paris

In this next section, I’m going to be answering some important questions for your trip to Normandy so you have everything you need before jumping on your tour!

What is the Best Way to Tour Normandy France?

The best way to tour Normandy, France is with an expert, local guide. By booking one of the tours mentioned in the list above, your group will automatically be assigned someone with substantial knowledge of the history of WWII, the landings of D-Day, and so on.

In our opinion, there’s really not much of a point to visiting all of the historic sites in Normandy without a guide, since you’ll be spending a lot of your time reading plaques and information boards trying to piece together what actually happened.

Do yourself a favor and budget for hiring an expert local guide to take you to the best sites in Normandy. It not only removes all of the logistical efforts of getting around, etc., but also provides you with some of the most interesting and insightful information you won’t get elsewhere.

From walking the beaches of Omaha and Utah to visiting the quaint towns of Bayeux and Honfleur, a knowledgeable guide will make sure your trip is memorable.

Pro Tip : before booking your tour, read about the Best Time to Visit Normandy: The Complete 2024 Guide !

Is there a Tour from Paris to Normandy?

Yes, but they are limited. Unlike tours from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher or tours from Paris to the Loire Valley which both offer hundreds of different options, tours going to Normandy from Paris are far more limited.

The ones that are offered are wonderful, however, which is why we’ve sifted through the best of the best to help you find a great option for you!

But, if you’re looking for a wider range of options, consider researching tours that leave directly from Caen or Bayeux.

I have listed a few of them in the sections below and they often make for more affordable and shorter options than if you are coming all the way from Paris.

If you don’t mind taking the train on your own from Paris to Normandy, then your tour options will significantly increase!

Can Normandy be a Day Trip from Paris?

While Normandy can technically be a day trip from Paris, we don’t recommend it. It’s about a 3-hour drive or a 2-hour train ride each way, so that would make for a very long day of traveling.

Especially since many of the tours we mention below that come from Paris depart around 7:00am and arrive back in Paris around 9:00pm, you won’t have much time for anything before or after the tour.

The single-day tours that we mentioned below are primarily for travelers looking to make use of a long layover or a quick stop in if they don’t have time to stay longer.

Normandy is an incredible region with numerous historic beaches from the D-Day Invasion, Mont Saint-Michel, and the charming towns of Le Havre, Honfleur, and Étretat (among others), so it’s highly recommended to spend a minimum of 2, but preferably 3, days in Normandy, France.

Is Normandy a Good Day Trip from Paris?

Absolutely! Normandy makes for a fantastic day trip from Paris if you don’t mind the running around that comes with it. A scenic train ride whisks you away from the hustle and bustle of the city to the serene countryside of France.

The region is rich in history, from the iconic D-Day landing beaches and the stunning Mont Saint-Michel Abbey to delicious culinary experiences like local apple cider and Camembert cheese.

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply love breathtaking landscapes, Normandy offers something for everyone. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera to capture the unforgettable scenery!

What is the Best Way to Visit Normandy from Paris?

The best way to visit Normandy from Paris is via a guided tour. The train situation can be a bit confusing for newbies, especially since you’ll need to find a local bus or taxi when you arrive in Caen or Bayeux to reach your hotel.

Plus, you’ll likely need a rental car to get between all of the beaches, American cemetery, and Mont Saint-Michel so you can efficiently get between sights (in terms of both time and cost).

Luckily, a guided tour takes care of all these details for you and more, ensuring that you don’t miss a thing. Plus, a knowledgeable guide can provide in-depth information about the history and culture of Normandy as you explore the region’s best hidden gems.

Is there a Paris to Normandy Train?

There is no direct train from the city of Paris to the town of Normandy, but there are direct trains that run from Paris to Caen and Paris to Bayeux, which both lie in the heart of Normandy .

However, since many of the most popular tourist attractions (i.e. the D-Day Beaches, Mont Saint-Michel, Étretat, etc.) are spanned across 150 miles (240 kilometers) on the western coast of France, we recommended either booking a full day guided tour that includes private transportation like the ones below, or renting your own car.

Buses and trams are convenient in the area, however, if you want to be on your own schedule, then a car rental is best .

How Long is the Train Ride from Paris to Normandy?

The train rides from Paris to Normandy take between 2-3 hours each way and are quite comfortable . If you’re wondering “ how to get to Normandy from Paris”, the train is by far the best way if you decide to visit on your own without a guide.

The 2-hour train is a direct route from Paris Saint-Lazare to Gare de Caen. We recommend this train since it removes the need to change lines and will get you to your destination faster.

It is typically more expensive, however, but do your best to compare prices before booking.

The 3-hour train ride also departs from Paris Saint-Lazare, but it stops at the Gare de Rouen before making its way to Gare de Caen.

If you are visiting Normandy for at least a few days and don’t mind the extra stop and are looking to save some money, this is a perfect option!

If you do decide to book one of the local tours from Bayeux, be sure to book a train to Bayeux and not Caen if that is where you plan on spending your time before the tour.

Other Helpful France Resources

Is Paris Safe? A Full Guide on Safety in Paris Why Visit Paris? 25 Reasons to Visit Paris, France The Best Time to Visit Paris for an Incredible Experience 27+ Magical Things To Do in Paris at Night Souvenirs from France: 45 Unique French Souvenirs 23 Best Things To Do in Chamonix, France: Summer & Winter Where to Stay in Chamonix in December 2024 Lake Annecy, France: The Best Activities, Accommodations, and Travel Tips Is France a Continent? The Facts for 2024 Does France Celebrate Halloween? La Toussaint Explained Paris Postal Code & Paris Zip Code 2024 (& Diagram!)

If you want to learn some basic French language skills before arriving in France, check out these other helpful articles!

1-10 in French: Learn to Count from 1-10+ in French (with Pronunciations) 33+ Ways to Say Thank You in French (with Audio) How to Say Nice to Meet You in French 15+ Ways What Time Is It in French 11+ Ways: How to Ask and Tell Time in French Saying No in French 31+ Ways (& Audio Pronunciation) Good Morning in French: 17 Helpful French Greetings Goodnight in French 17+ Ways (& Audio Pronunciation) Merry Christmas in French 17+ Ways 13 BEST Bordeaux Wine Tours in 2024 Paris River Cruise: 10+ Top Rated Tours in 2024

Whether you’re traveling with your family, a group of friends, a loved one, or all on your own, visiting Normandy is a very special part of going to France. Sure, Paris is home to the gorgeous Eiffel Tower, but it’s also perfect for day trips to this historic region.

Between the Mont Saint-Michel, the American Cemetery, and the D-Day Landing Beaches, there are days worth of iconic landmarks to explore.

Even if you only have half a day, we highly recommend taking the time to learn about the WWII events that occurred in the region and taking some more time to wander the beautiful streets of all of the coastal towns nearby.

Any one of these Normandy tours from Paris is sure to impress, so we hope you were able to find one that suits your budget and travel preferences!

Hey there! I'm Emily Concannon, a seasoned globetrotter who has backpacked her way across over a dozen European countries, immersing myself in the diverse cultures, languages, and cuisines of the region.

My passion for travel transcends personal experiences; I've spent years learning how to transform my globetrotting knowledge into personalized itineraries for fellow travelers worldwide.

With a tally of 26 countries (and counting!) under my belt, my day job involves extensive research on different countries which often leads me to booking a new adventure every chance I get!

Best Normandy Tours from Paris including D-Day Beaches

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While the region of Normandy is filled with historic attractions and appealing towns, most people associate it with the historic D-Day Beaches.

In this article, I’ll break down the best Normandy tours from Paris , focusing on the top day tours and multi-day tours that visit the D-Day Beaches . I also choose my top tour picks for Mont Saint-Michel and Giverny, two other popular attractions in Normandy.

What are the main destinations for Normandy Tours from Paris?

While Normandy spans over 30,000 square kilometers, these are the 3 most popular destinations for Normandy tours from Paris:

D-Day Beaches

The D-Day Beaches, spread across five beaches, were the site of the Normandy landings in WWII, which led to the liberation of France and the end of the war.

Mont Saint-Michel

Famed for its towering abbey, Mont Saint-Michel is a small island off the coast of Normandy and arguably one of the most beautiful destinations in France.

Known as the home and inspiration for artist Claude Monet, Giverny is a popular day trip from Paris for its cultural insights.

It’s possible to combine destinations on a multi-day tour , especially Mont Saint-Michel and the D-Day Beaches given their closer proximity to each other.

Where do D-Day Beaches tours go?

Your D-Day Beaches tours will typically visit the following highlights:

• Omaha Beach:  Omaha was one of five landing beaches in Normandy, and today you can see German bunkers and the commemorative Les Braves sculpture.
• Overlord Museum: Near Omaha Beach, the Overlord Museum offers a thorough exhibition on the Normandy landings and Operation Overlord.
• Pointe du Hoc: A dramatic promontory, American soldiers scaled these cliffs to take over a German battery located at the summit, one of the most daring D-Day events.
• Cimetiere Americain de Colleville-sur-Mer:  The Normandy American Cemetery, or Cimetiere Americain de Colleville-sur-Mer, contains the graves of nearly 10,000 American soldiers, and a memorial honoring their lives.

Top 3 D-Day Beaches Day Tours from Paris

Normandy landing beaches day trip with cider tasting.

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 2303 reviews )

This comprehensive Normandy tour from Paris stands out due to the fact that it visits two D-Day Beaches, Omaha Beach and Utah Beach , and includes a cider tasting.

Why I recommend this tour: Best value for money

Tour operator: City Wonders Highlights: D-Day Beaches Tour type: Large group, max 50 Price: From $188 in the peak season, from $173 in the off season Duration: 14 hours

• book this tour

Normandy D-Day Beaches Small-Group Day Trip

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 1797 reviews )

On this 5-star tour, you’ll experience the intimacy of a smaller group as you visit D-Day Beaches and major sights such as the Longues-sur-Mer battery with German bunkers.

Why I recommend this tour: Highest rated by travelers

Tour operator: Blue Fox Travel Highlights: Cider tasting Tour type: Small group, max 8 Price: $265 Duration: 12-13 hours

Normandy Battlefields Private Trip with VIP Services

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 129 reviews )

With this private tour, you’ll have the ability to customize the trip according to your interests, while visiting major attractions such as Omaha Beach.

Why I recommend this tour: Private experience

Compare Other D-Day Beaches Day Tours

TourScanner Tip! Prices can change by the month, the week or even the day . We do our best to keep these prices up-to-date. Try our free comparison tool to see exact price and availability based on your date.

Top 3 D-Day Beaches Multi-Day Tours from Paris

2-day d-day beaches & mont saint-michel tours from paris.

Rating: ⭐️ 4/5 ( 182 reviews )

Explore the beauty and history of Normandy on this whirlwind 2-day tour as you visit Rouen, Honfleur, Omaha Beach and Caen on day 1. On the next day, you’ll tour Saint Malo and Mont Saint-Michel .

Why I recommend this tour: Historic insights

Tour operator: Paris City Vision Highlights: Hotel pickup, dinner and accommodation included Tour type:  Large group tour, max 40 Price:  $615 Duration: 2 days

Private 2-Day Mont Saint-Michel, D-Day Beaches, Loire Castles Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 4 reviews )

Enjoy the intimacy of this private 2-day tour, visiting three of the Loire Valley castles on the first day. Spend the night in Mont Saint-Michel and tour its Abbey the next day, before visiting Omaha Beach, the American Cemetery and Overlord Museum.

Why I recommend this tour: Informative and personal experience

3-Day Trip with Mont Saint-Michel, Loire Castles and D-Day Beaches

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 55 reviews )

Make the most of your time in Normandy with this 3-day tour . Start off with visiting Honfleur, Rouen and D-Day attractions such as Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery. The next day, you’ll tour Saint Malo and Mont Saint-Michel . Spend your last day touring the castles of the Loire Valley before returning to Paris.

Why I recommend this tour: Comprehensive tour of Normandy 

Tour operator: Paris City Vision Highlights: Hotel pickup, breakfast and accommodation included Tour type: Large group, max 50 Price: $889 Duration:  3 days

Compare Other D-Day Beaches Multi-day Tours

Top tourscanner pick : day trip to mont saint-michel from paris.

Rating: ⭐️ 4.4/5 ( 1934 reviews )

Travel via airconditioned bus from Paris to Mont Saint-Michel, where you can explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site and its famous abbey.

Why I recommend this tour: Choose to go at your own pace or with a guide

Tour operator: Paris City Vision Highlights: Choose between entry ticket, audioguide or live tour guide (all including transport) Tour type: Large group Price: $139 for entry ticket, $155 for audioguide, $175 for live guide Duration: 14 hours

To learn more about visiting Mont Saint-Michel, check out our blog on Mont Saint Michel Day Trips from Paris .

Top TourScanner Pick : Half-Day Guided Tour of Monet’s Gardens from Paris

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 2000 reviews )

Why I recommend this tour: Quick but comprehensive 

Tour operator: Paris City Vision Highlights: Upgrade to lunch and oil painting experience Tour type:  Large group Price: $95 Add-ons: Lunch and oil painting experience (+$280) Duration: 5 hours

Want to find out more about visiting Giverny? Check out our blog on Giverny Day Trips from Paris .

Tips for Normandy Tours from Paris

• The drive from Paris to the Normandy D-Day attractions is approximately 3 hours one way . Dress comfortably and bring drinks and snacks for the journey.
• Most tours include the entrance fees to places such as the Overlord Museum, but it’s a good idea to bring cash for any food, drinks or souvenirs you buy during the trip.
• Locations such as Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery are important historical sites that need to be treated respectfully . Be sensitive when touring the grounds and taking photos.
• You’ll do a lot of walking during D-Day Beaches tours, so make sure to wear comfortable footwear . It’s also important to note that many of these tours are not wheelchair accessible.

Happy travels!

Normandy Day Trip from Paris with D-Day Beaches, Cider Tasting & Traditional Lunch

• Travel from Paris in a comfortable air-conditioned coach to the beautiful beaches of Normandy in order to honor the sacrifices made there on June 6th, 1944. The Utah Beach Museum , housed in an original German bunker , will be your first stop.
• Next, lightening the day, we discover the local culture that the Allied troops were trying to preserve when we visit an orchard and a 17 th century barn. After a tasting of the local cider our next stop is an authentic Norman-style lunch in a charming waterside restaurant overlooking Grandcamp Maisy .
• Our knowledgeable English-speaking guide will then take you to the Pointe Du Hoc before our emotional final stop at the American Military cemetery, at Colleville-sur-Mer . Here you will have time on your own to appreciate the sacrifice of war while you look down on Omaha Beach , still visibly scarred by the events of D-Day.

Tour Description

What's included.

• Expert, English-speaking tour guide
• Entrance ticket and reservation fee for all sites visited
• All transfers in an air-conditioned coach
• Lunch, including one glass of cider

Sites Visited

• Utah Beach Museum
• Cider farm (not on Sundays)
• Pointe du Hoc battlefield
• US Military cemetery

Normandy's Historical Significance

During heavy air and naval bombing, Allied boats arrived at Normandy on June 6, 1944. In the early light of dawn, the soldiers struggled to reach the beaches. On Utah Beach, they quickly defeated the German forces and joined up with their air support once inland. But, on Omaha Beach, they faced heavy enemy fire in terrain that left them vulnerable; vertical cliffs were another obstacle that led to the loss of life. Despite this, the Allies had control of Omaha Beach, and within a week of D-Day, more soldiers were able to land on Normandy’s beaches and ensure victory.

Journey to Normandy

Your tour begins in central Paris, where you’ll board an air-conditioned bus with your expert guide. As you travel to Normandy, your guide will teach you about the region, pointing out sights along the way. They will share stories about World War II, describing the meticulous planning that led up to D-Day and the largest amphibious attack in history. They will also explain how and why some of these carefully crafted plans came undone. Whether you’re a history buff or not, you're bound to have questions and curiosities, which your guide will happily answer.

Utah Beach Landing Museum

Your first stop is Utah Beach with its extraordinary museum, housed in an old German bunker directly on the landing beach. There are other D-Day museums, but this one has the best exhibition on Operation Overlord, including personal stories, as well as an original B-26 airplane, one of only six in the world and the only one in France. You’ll see actual soldiers’ letters and personal artifacts that reveal the human side of war. The natural beauty of the beach you stand on is a sharp contrast to the events that occurred there.

Sample the Local Culture

You’ll then take some time out to relax and experience the culture and traditions of Normandy. You’ll tour a 17th-century barn and sample regional apple cider and Calvados, a type of apple brandy. Allied soldiers found shelter in farms much like this one. Then, we’ll go to a quiet port for a two-course lunch in a local restaurant.

Ponte du Hoc offers incredible views over the English Channel. At the same time, you’ll still see trace bomb craters as well as seemingly insurmountable cliffs, which will give you a new understanding of the many obstacles that the soldiers of D-Day had to overcome.

Normandy American Cemetery & Memorial

One of our most emotional stops, if not the most emotional, is the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer. With 10,000 white crosses throughout, the name of a fallen soldier is engraved on each. This huge cemetery will make you aware of the colossal death count of D-Day. You'll have time to look around the cemetery, visit the wall of the missing and awe-inspiring memorial, and look down on Omaha, the beach where the allies faced the stiffest resistance and suffered the most casualties.

Our D-Day Normandy tours from Paris will re-create memories of tremendous courage and sacrifice. At the end of the day, you will have a new appreciation of the history and beauty of Normandy – and memories that you won’t forget.

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Important Notes

• Please note that Paris will host the 2024 Olympics from July 26th to August 11th, followed by the Paralympics from August 28th to September 8th. This may have an impact on our travel plans. While we are committed to minimizing any sort of inconvenience, please be aware that unforeseen issues may arise. We will make every effort to navigate challenges and ensure a smooth experience for you.
• On Sundays the visit to the Cider Farm doesn't take place, but this will not affect the duration of the tour.
• We strongly recommend all clients who are traveling with infants to bring their own infant or child seat. It is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to ensure the safety of their child.

Cancelation Policy

This tour is subject to a 24-hour cancelation policy. If you wish to cancel or amend your booking, you can do so without charge by contacting us up to 24 hours in advance of your expected departure time.

This tour includes round trip transport from and back to Paris, as it is designed for visitors staying in the city, therefore it is not possible to meet up directly in Normandy.

Yes. This tour includes a two-course meal at a beautiful local restaurant overlooking the port of Grand camp Maisy.

Yes, we can provide a vegetarian/vegan options. If you have a special requirement regarding food, please inform us upon reservation or email us at your earliest convenience.

• Book with Confidence: Free cancellations up to 24 hours before the experience begins (local time).
• Multilingual Customer Service: Talk to us, we are here to help.
• No Hidden Costs: All taxes and fees included.

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Day Trip from Paris to Normandy Beaches and WWII Memorials

Sean Finelli Last Updated: March 23, 2023

Looking for a structured way to experience Normandy and the WWII memorials of Omaha Beach? If you are in Paris it is definitely doable on a day trip and we’ve got a highly reviewed option with a great price. Here is how it works.

Pro Tip:  Planning what to do on your trip to Paris? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you’re in the city. Check out our  guide to Paris  for more planning resources, our  top Normandy tours  for a memorable trip, and if a Normandy tour is worth it .

A Guided Day Trip to Normandy from Paris

Traveling to Normandy to see the most important sites around the D-Day invasion of WWII is a must for history buffs. But you might not know what to see or how to get there. That’s why you’ll appreciate our day trip tour from Paris that helps you see it all without worrying about transportation.

This full-day trip from Paris to Normandy will capture the beauty of this French beach town and offer detailed descriptions of the region’s historical significance. Visit Omaha Beach, the American Cemetery and even a cider house for a quick taste of local delicacies.

This day trip includes:

• A professional English-speaking guide
• Round-trip transportation from Paris to Normandy
• Cider tasting and tour
• Visits to Point du Hoc and Omaha Beach
• Break for lunch on your own

What is D-Day ? On this tour, you’ll learn the many details of the day that became a turning point in WWII. D-Day took place on June 6, 1944, when Allied troops stormed the beaches of Normandy. D-Day began what we now know as the Battle of Normandy, which lasted for three months.

Now, we look back at D-Day and consider it the beginning of the end of World War II. This tour will provide the full scoop on the historical significance of Normandy, and even take you to a local cider house where you will be able to try some specialty drinks. 

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a tour of Normandy’s D-Day beaches are worth it .

Pointe du Hoc

Your adventure begins in Paris where you will board a luxury coach and head North from Paris to Normandy The first stop your will be Pointe du Hoc, which is a scenic area with beautiful cliffs. Though the Germans took control of this area during WWII, the Allied forces made it their mission to seize control of these cliffs and take over the coastline.

As you stand atop the Pointe du Hoc cliffs overlooking the gorgeous beaches of Normandy, learn about the heroic acts that took place in the same spot. See true artifacts left behind from the war, including bomb craters and bunkers while your guide elaborates on the gritty details surrounding the Battle of Normandy.

Omaha Beach

On D-Day, the allied troops stormed five different beaches. Out of these, Omaha Beach was the largest. Now a gorgeous seascape that’s difficult to think ever involved militant activity, this beach serves as a reminder of the Allied troops’ turning point in WWII.

Whenever you watch a film these days on WWII and the ” storming of the beaches”, this is where it actually took place. Thinking of of the film, Saving Private Ryan? The opening scene of that film took place here. Your guide will go over with you how the boats embarked and how that epic battle changed the western world into basically what it is today.

Cider Tasting and Tour

After a relaxing lunch break, you’ll visit a local cider house for a tour and tasting of the local nectars. Normandy is renowned for its many varieties of  French cider . This is due to the abundance of orchards in the region. There’s no better way to experience Normandy than to drink the nectar of its signature apples.

With varieties of French cider including calvados and  pommeau , there’s no better way to experience Normandy’s intoxicating lush green scenery than to partake in the gem of its thriving apple-growing industry.

Learn about the liqueur of the land and get a taste of some French delicacies. Specifically, you’ll taste an apple brandy known as Calvados and another apple mixture called pommeau. Maybe even pick out a bottle to bring home with you to remember your fabulous Normandy day trip.

American Cemetery

Your next and last stop will be the American Cemetery, one of the most recognizable cemeteries in Europe. The American Cemetery serves as the final resting place for many American soldiers who lost their lives in combat.

Covering over 170 acres of land, this burial site honors more than 9,000 American soldiers. Your expert guide will explain some of the heroic scenes that unfolded and where many American soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice. After visiting the cemetery, you will board your luxury coach again and head back to Paris, concluding a long and fulfilling day.

Not ready to book a tour? Find out how to visit the Normandy D-Day sites .

About Sean Finelli

Sean is a co-founder and owner of The Tour Guy and its subsidiary The Roman Guy. He studied finance and statistics, but that is his "Dr. Jekyll" side! His "Mr. Hyde" is in love with travel, art, history, and culture. Sean has read libraries of historical text and believes that all internet content should come from books. A practice he follows!

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13 Best Normandy from Paris Tours (+ Mont Saint-Michel) 2024

Travelling Thirties contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See my Disclosure Policy for more information.

Normandy is one of the most popular day trips from Paris, and for many people visiting the D-Day Beaches is a bucket list item. 

Just a couple of hours away by train or car, it’s a world apart, steeped in history and natural beauty. 

I’ve visited Normandy from Paris, and let me tell you, the D-Day beaches and the stunning Mont Saint-Michel are as epic as they come. 

While there are various ways to delve into Normandy’s rich past and scenic landscapes, taking a guided tour from Paris lets you soak it all in without the hassle of planning.

I’ve researched all the best Normandy from Paris tours using my perspective as a Paris expert, and come up with this list of the best options so that you can decide which day (or multi day) trip to Normandy from Paris is perfect for you.

Get ready for the best day trip from Paris.

Table of Contents

My Top 3 Best Normandy from Paris Tours

Normandy D-Day Small-Group Day Trip

✔ No more than 8 people

✔ Unique experience

Normandy Battlefields D-Day Private Trip

✔ Customizeable

✔ VIP Services

Normandy Small-Group Day Trip D-Day

✔ Great for solo travelers

✔ Informative

13 Best Normandy from Paris Tours

You can take many different types of Normandy from Paris tours, from small group tours to private tours and everything in between.

Here are the best Normandy tours from Paris:

1. Normandy D-Day Small-Group Day Trip with Omaha Beach, Cemetery & Cider Tasting

⭐ RATING: 5 OUT OF 5 | ⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 12 – 13 HOURS | ✔ Book it!

If you are looking for the best Normandy from Paris tour then this is it.

The tour starts from La Flamme when you and your small group (no more than 8 people) are picked up in a minivan and taken to Normandy. 

You will visit several locations including Omaha Beach, the Operation Overlord Museum, German bunkers, Pointe du Hoc and the American Cemetery where you will see the 10,000 crosses and listen to inspiring stories about the 6th of June, 1944 .

If that isn’t enough, you will be treated to a stop at Ferme de la Sapiniere. There are dozens of different varieties of apples in Normandy and the cidery turns these beautiful apples into apple juices, ciders and a strong liquor known as Calvados. 

Some may feel that this tour is a little pricey but it is worth the extra money for the small group tour and the complimentary cider tasting where you will get to see a unique area of the Normandy countryside. 

The other thing I like about this tour are the wee anecdotes provided by the guide at each stop, this really adds to the tour.

This was the highlight of my husband’s trip to France and it did not disappoint. Our guide was so nice and always made sure we were comfortable and had time at each location to ask questions and check out things at a nice pace. He was so much fun to spend the day with. – Colleen (Read more reviews)

🏚 Click to check rates and availability

2. Normandy Battlefields D-Day Private Trip with VIP Services from Paris

If you like to take tours but you don’t like the crowds then this is the tour for you . You will still get to visit the most significant sites from World War II. 

Visiting Omaha Beach and standing in the gun emplacements and pill boxes is a very impactful experience, the American Cemetery is beautiful and meaningful and Arromanches. 

However, this tour is very flexible and can be customized to your interests and needs. If you are limited physically or there are places that are high on your bucket list your guide will ensure you get to visit them. 

Unsure where to go? Your guide will be more than happy to recommend places to visit and the best order to go to make sure you have an unforgettable day.

No matter how knowledgeable you are on World War II, it is hard to comprehend the scale of Operation Overlord until you are standing on the cliffs overlooking the beaches. Hearing the stories of bravery, loyalty and commitment demonstrated by the soldiers of WWII are humbling and inspiring.

This private tour to Normandy from Paris is not to be missed.

Excellent private guide and transportation. He was very knowledgeable and made this a memorable tour. So glad we chose a private tour for the experience and flexibility. Very local experience. – Collins (Read more reviews)

3. Normandy Small-Group Day Trip D-Day Battlefields & Landing Beaches from Paris

⭐ RATING: 5 OUT OF 5 | ⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 12 HOURS | ✔ Book it!

Looking for intimacy without the price tag? This small group tour is for you.

Small group tours allow the personalized service from your tour guide while also having the chance to meet other travelers – this is especially great for solo travelers . 

This Normandy Small-Group Day Trip D-Day Battlefields & Landing Beaches from Paris is one of the most informative and in depth tours you will ever go on.

Touring Normandy is an emotional tour that is not to be missed. The cemetery is a beautiful and solemn place which is enhanced by the real life stories of those who gave their lives for their countries. 

From walking into the water and turning back to look at the magnificent cliffs to your knowledge and caring guide everything on this tour has been thought of.

Despite the three-hour journey each way, you will be transported in a comfortable air-conditioned mini bus with the chance for a rest stop to and from Normandy.

Fascinating and humbling experience. You can feel history come alive. A great learning experience for all. – Jeffrey (Read more reviews)

4. Normandy D-Day Beaches and American Cemetery Day Trip from Paris

⭐ RATING: 4.5 OUT OF 5 | ⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 13 HOURS | ✔ Book it!

If the thought of crowded buses and generic guides has kept you from making this essential trip then this tour is perfect for you.

This Normandy beach tour from Paris is like a time machine set to June 6, 1944. 

The tour is designed for those who crave an emotionally enriching experience, not just a checkbox on a tourist itinerary. 

With convenient round-trip transportation by a luxury air-conditioned coach and a licensed D-Day expert guide, all the planning stress is taken off your shoulders. 

You’ll walk along Omaha Beach , feeling the weight of history beneath your feet. Then you’ll pay your respects at the American Cemetery, a touching tribute to the heroes who gave everything. 

What makes this tour unique is the stop at Arromanches with free time for lunch, plus admission to the 360 Museum.

This Normandy experience will live in your soul long after you’ve returned to Paris.

Full day but definitely worth it. Amazing seeing 3 of the 5 beaches in one day as well as the cemetery. – Richard (Read more reviews)

5.  From Paris: D-Day – Trip to Normandy with Hotel Pick Up

⭐ RATING: 5 OUT OF 5 | ⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 10 HOURS | ✔ Book it!

This tour goes above and beyond by offering hotel pick-up, ensuring a seamless transition from your Parisian accommodations to the sites where history was made.

With an expert guide to bring vivid context to each landmark, this tour is more than just a checklist of locations. 

You’ll delve into the intricate military strategies at Omaha Beach, learn about the artificial harbor at Arromanches, and pause for reflection at the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer. 

The tour also includes free time for lunch at Arromanches, offering a perfect blend of guided learning and personal exploration. 

A distinct feature of this package is a visit to Juno Beach , a site crucial to Canadian forces on D-Day. 

Book this journey to enrich your understanding of World War II’s impact, making it an essential addition to any list of day trips from Paris to Normandy.

Amazing, tour guide was very knowledgeable and helpful. I highly recommend.  – Marnie (Read more reviews)

6. Mont Saint-Michel Guided Day Trip from Paris

⭐ RATING: 4 OUT OF 5 | ⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 14 HOURS | ✔ Book it!

For those looking to experience an otherworldly fusion of history, architecture, and natural beauty, this day trip from Paris to Mont St Michel is your golden ticket. 

This isn’t just a tour ; it’s a journey back in time led by a professional guide who’ll make the abbey’s legends come alive. 

And yes, the trip does require a long bus ride, but think of it as quality time to soak up scenic views of the Normandy coast. 

As for mobility concerns, the paths may be narrow and the climb a bit demanding, but many find the challenge adds to the rewarding feeling when they finally gaze out over the Atlantic. 

The ticket to the Abbey is included, removing any hassle of waiting in line. 

So, if you’re short on time but high on curiosity, this guided tour is a mesmerizing, all-inclusive experience you simply shouldn’t pass up.

It was great to do Mont St-Michel with a tour guide to provide some context for this enormous structure. It definitely helped us appreciate the structure, town and history. – Julie (Read more reviews)

7. Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches Day Trip with Cider Tasting & Lunch from Paris

⭐ RATING: 4.5 OUT OF 5 | ⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 14 HOURS | ✔ Book it!

Dive into heart-wrenching history and a slice of French culture on this tour that takes you to the soul-stirring D-Day beaches, led by a knowledgeable guide. 

Listen to the gripping tales of heroism and sacrifice, and you’ll feel as if you’re stepping back into 1944. 

You’ll visit key sites like Utah Beach Museum and the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer. 

And don’t forget about the cider tasting and a delicious 2-course lunch—a perfect respite to digest the morning’s emotional journey.

While the travel time may be long, use it to soak up your guide’s enriching tales, turning “idle time” into an educational experience. The trek from the parking lot to the cemetery is not for the faint-hearted but consider it a small pilgrimage to pay tribute to heroes.

Daniel our driver and Madeleine our guide made this trip special and treated us so well. A great experience to be able to pay tribute to those who gave so much for us. I would likely take this trip again. – Adger (Read more reviews)

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

⭐ RATING: 4.7 OUT OF 5 | ⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 12 HOURS | ✔ Book it!

Craving an intimate, deeply emotional journey through history? Opt for this Normandy D-Day beaches day trip from Paris.  

Unlike other options, this tour offers a luxurious minibus experience that feels more like a private outing. 

You’re not just visiting places; you’re immersing yourself in the world-changing events of WWII. 

Picture standing at Pointe du Hoc, where U.S. Army Rangers scaled cliffs under fire, or feeling the hallowed silence of the American Cemetery overlooking Omaha Beach.

While it’s a long day and there’s a fair bit of walking, consider it a journey for your soul as well as your soles. It’s a pilgrimage of remembrance, and the steps are more than worth the emotional depth you’ll gain. 

Plus, a smaller group size means more personal interaction with your expert guide, turning an already incredible experience into an unforgettable one.

Pascale, our tour guide was very knowledgeable, was over 20 yrs experience and speaks four languages. Awesome experience and great job managing the time to see all we wanted to see and bring us safely to every destination. – (Read more reviews)

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

⭐ RATING: 4.9 OUT OF 5 | ⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 12 HOURS | ✔ Book it!

Looking for a comprehensive, emotionally charged Normandy from Paris tour ?

This option takes you on a minibus to iconic sites like Omaha Beach, Pointe du Hoc, and the poignant American Cemetery. 

Here’s the kicker: it’s not just about the places. You get an English-speaking guide who brings history to life with stories and battle plans. 

What sets this tour apart is its thorough itinerary, including an unexpected wine tasting to lighten the mood.

Yes, it’s a long day, clocking in at around 13 hours, not the advertised 12. But those extra hours? Think of them as extra moments to soak in a place that changed the course of history. 

Be aware, it’s not suitable for children under 7, making it an ideal experience for adults seeking a deeper connection with history.

Julian was a great guide. It was a full day and we came to appreciate history so much more, reliving the stories and experiences of D day and the war. I am grateful we can relearn and remember the sacrifices given for freedoms and a better life. Highly recommend! – Tracy (Read more reviews)

10. From Paris: Normandy D-Day Beaches Day Trip

⭐ RATING: 4.7 OUT OF 5 | ⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 14 HOURS | ✔ Book it!

Time-crunched but eager to dive into history? This Normandy from Paris tour is a seamless blend of poignant memories and incredible landscapes. 

Starting from the plush Hotel Pullman in Paris, your air-conditioned ride offers comfort that extends into the deep French countryside . 

With stops at iconic landmarks like the American Cemetery in St Laurent and Omaha Beach, you’ll feel the weight of history beneath your feet.

Concerned about the 3-hour drive? Don’t be. Not only does it offer time to prepare mentally for the day, but it’s also a chance to soak in the beauty of rural France . 

Your guide keeps the journey engaging, so every minute is well-spent. And when it comes to food, the stop at Arromanches provides plenty of delicious options—just ask past visitors who’ve savored the best oysters of their lives. 

If your time is precious but your thirst for historical insight is vast, this tour packs it all in.

While it is a long day, Normandy has been a bucket list item for me for years. The tour is a brief exposure to the WWII history of the area. It has convinced me to come back another time and spend several days in the area.  – Kathy (Read more reviews)

11. Normandy 2-Days Discovery Trip with D-Day Beaches & Mont Saint Michel from Paris

⭐ RATING: 4 OUT OF 5 | ⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 2 DAYS | ✔ Book it!

Dive deep into history and culture with this Normandy from Paris tour , a 2-day excursion that takes the logistical hassle out of seeing some of France’s most revered sites. 

Perfect for those who crave an enriching travel experience but are strapped for planning time. 

A luxury coach whisks you away from Paris to the charming streets of Rouen and Honfleur, and onward to the emotionally charged D-Day beaches.  

Let an expert guide weave together the threads of history for you—no need to skim through Wikipedia on your way there.

Now, the many steps at Mont St Michel may sound like a chore, but think of it as a mini-adventure, an opportunity to really “step into” history!

Views from the top are an Instagrammer’s dream come true . The one downside? Time can feel short at these iconic stops, making you wish you had more. 

But that’s exactly the point— this tour leaves you thrilled yet hungry for another journey.

Highly recommend to make the most out of a quick trip to the area! – (Read more reviews)

12. From Paris: 2-Day Normandy & Brittany Tour

⭐ RATING: 4.5 OUT OF 5 | ⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 2 DAYS | ✔ Book it!

This 2-day Normandy from Paris tour is an emotional and historical journey that you won’t want to miss. 

You’ll witness significant World War II sites, the iconic Mont Saint-Michel, and the rich cultural tapestry of Rouen and Saint-Malo. 

This tour is perfect for anyone who craves a bite-sized, yet deeply enriching experience.

Imagine standing on Omaha Beach, where the tides of war and freedom met; you’ll likely feel chills.

The guide is not just knowledgeable but also incredibly engaging, bringing every landmark to life in a way that’s both relatable and gripping.

There is a small hiccup: the bilingual bus announcements. However, consider this a mini language lesson, where you get the historical background in not just one, but two languages.

As for accommodations, you can expect pure comfort, complete with perks like a swimming pool. 

The flexibility of the tour is also commendable. Date changes aren’t just allowed; they’re warmly accommodated.

For an unforgettable, fact-filled, and cozy journey, this Normandy from Paris tour ticks every box.

Great small group of people. we had a fantastic time. Our guide was lovely. – Antonella (Read more reviews)

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

⭐ RATING: 4.5 OUT OF 5 | ⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 3 DAYS | ✔ Book it!

If you’re pressed for time but still want a rich, multi-faceted experience, t his Normandy from Paris tour is your ticket to an incredible journey through history and splendor. 

In just three days, you’ll travel from the emotionally charged beaches of Normandy to the fairy-tale-like castles of the Loire Valley, with the awe-inspiring Mont Saint Michel in between. 

The tour offers guided visits at each stop, letting you soak in the significance without the overwhelm of planning.

Here’s a minor hiccup turned positive: the accommodations are basic, but what they may lack in luxury, they make up for in comfort and cleanliness. 

Also, one dinner is included, which leaves room for you to explore local gastronomy. Professional guides keep you on schedule without feeling rushed, balancing the trip’s pace perfectly. 

Book this trip if you’re after an efficient, yet deeply enriching experience.

Leila our tour guide was very knowledgeable and attentive. Our bus driver Brian was awesome. Great team!  – Kristinia (Read more reviews)

FAQs: Normandy Beach Tours from Paris

Can you do normandy as a day trip from paris.

Yes, you can absolutely do Normandy as a day trip from Paris. The most efficient way to cover key highlights like Omaha Beach and Rouen is by joining an organized tour. These tours usually include transportation and a guide, streamlining your experience and maximizing your time.

Is there tour from Paris to Normandy?

Yes, there are several tours from Paris to Normandy. The most recommended option is the Normandy D-Day Small-Group Day Trip , which includes stops at Omaha Beach, a visit to a cemetery, and even a cider tasting. This tour provides a comprehensive yet intimate experience.

What is the best way to visit Normandy from Paris?

The best way to visit Normandy from Paris is through an organized tour. The Normandy D-Day Small-Group Day Trip is highly recommended, as it covers Omaha Beach, cemeteries, and includes a cider tasting, offering a balanced mix of history and local culture.

Is a day trip to Normandy worth it?

Absolutely, a day trip to Normandy is well worth it, especially if you’re short on time but want to experience its rich history and culture. Opt for an organized tour to make the most of your visit, covering key historical sites like Omaha Beach and adding local flavors with activities like cider tasting.

How many days do you need to see Normandy?

Ideally, you’d want at least 3-4 days to fully explore Normandy’s historic sites, charming towns, and scenic beaches. However, if you’re pressed for time, a well-organized day trip from Paris can offer a condensed but enriching experience.

Is there a high-speed train from Paris to Normandy?

Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Paris to Normandy. The TGV and Intercités trains connect Paris to key cities like Rouen, Caen, and Le Havre, typically in under two hours. It’s a convenient and fast option for those looking to make a day trip.

How far are D-Day beaches from Paris?

The D-Day beaches in Normandy are about a 3-hour drive from Paris, covering a distance of approximately 200 miles (320 km). If you’re short on time, consider taking an organized day trip to make the most of your visit.

Wrap Up: Normandy Day Tours from Paris

Normandy isn’t just a day trip; it’s an experience that will leave you both humbled and enriched. 

With history around every corner, beautiful landscapes, and cuisine to die for, Normandy packs a punch that’s hard to forget. 

If you’re a bit swamped with planning or short on time, no worries. 

The Normandy D-Day Small-Group Day Trip with Omaha Beach, Cemetery & Cider Tasting has got you covered! 

It’s the best Normandy tour from Paris , no contest. From Omaha Beach to cider tastings, you’re getting the full Normandy experience in a single, well-organized day.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity for a day packed with emotions, flavors, and unforgettable sights. 

Click here to book your Normandy D-Day Small-Group Day Trip now. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

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I'm Fiona, the Australian blogger behind Travelling Thirties. Travel has always been my passion since 2007. I created this site to help inspire you to travel the world. In 2010 I moved from Australia to Scotland with $500 and a one way ticket, no one thought I'd last 5 minutes but I lasted 5 years. I share everything from one day itineraries to travel tips and tricks from Australia to Europe that will inspire you to get out and travel. Some of my favourite countries I have been to are France, Finland, Denmark, and England.

Travel Expertise: Europe Travel, France Travel, Christmas Markets, travel planning, itineraries and travel tips

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• Tours 8-day 80th ANNIVERSARY BULGE TOUR 9-day BAND OF BROTHERS TOUR 11-day BAND OF BROTHERS TOUR 12-day D-DAY ANNIVERSARY TOUR 12-day D-DAY LUXURY TOUR 6-day BEACHES OF NORMANDY TOUR 6-day AMERICAN NORMANDY TOUR 11-day WAR IN POLAND TOUR 11-day THIRD REICH TOUR 10-day BRITAIN AT WAR TOUR 11-day ITALIAN CAMPAIGN TOUR 12-day WORLD WAR I TOUR

6-day BEACHES OF NORMANDY TOUR

• Average 3-4 miles walk a day
• Mostly even terrain with a few challenging sites
• Short to medium travel times
• Relaxed pace
• All five beaches of Normandy

Normandy American Cemetery

Pointe du hoc.

• Utah Beach Museum

Pegasus Bridge Memorial

Longues-sur-mer, mont-saint-michel.

Our signature Beaches of Normandy Tour is an unmissable 6-day journey giving you an opportunity to explore the shores and the sites of Normandy connected to the D-Day landings. We will dive into all five landing beaches of Normandy , with a special focus on the American landing sectors with our journey ending at the stunning medieval monastery on the tidal island of Mont-Saint-Michel. This tour is designed for people who want to combine culture and military history on their vacation in Normandy. See the highlights of the Allied war efforts, as well as the stunning cultural backdrop against which these events played out.

Detailed Highlights and Itinerary

Passengers are greeted at Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris and transferred by coach to Normandy. After an orientation dinner to get to know your fellow travelers, we spend the next few days exploring the iconic shores of the Normandy Landings. We will focus on the American landing beaches Utah and Omaha, as well as several profound sites where we pay our respects to the heroes who changed history. We also visit the British and Canadian landing beaches, where our fellow Commonwealth troops fought to secure a foothold in Europe. We will explore the vast logistical Allied efforts represented by the remnants of the artificial Mulberry harbors.

Les Braves Omaha Beach Memorial

The Signal Monument on Omaha Beach

Sainte-Mère-Église

Gold Beach, Mulberry Harbor

Juno Beach Centre

Sword Beach

In the final segment of the tour, we will follow the breakout of General Patton’s Third Army from Normandy to Brittany via driving through the city of Avranches and crossing the famous Pontaubault bridge that was left intact despite the numerous attacks by the retreating German forces. The tour culminates in a visit to the world-famous island abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel. We conclude our tour with a farewell dinner. The next day, our Passengers are brought to Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris for their return flights.

American vehicles at Mont-Saint-Michel

Cloister Garden in the abbey

Souvenir shops at Mont-Saint-Michel

View from Mont-Saint-Michel

View from the abbey

General Patton Memorial

Pontaubault Bridge

Dates and prices, 80th anniversary bulge tour.

• Day 8: Departure

80th ANNIVERSARY OVERLORD TOUR

• Day 11: Departure

BAND OF BROTHERS TOUR

• Day 9: Departure

D-DAY ANNIVERSARY TOUR

• Day 12: Departure

D-DAY LUXURY TOUR

Beaches of normandy tour.

• Day 6: Departure

AMERICAN NORMANDY TOUR

War in poland tour, third reich tour, britain at war tour.

• Day 10: Departure

ITALIAN CAMPAIGN TOUR

World war i tour, 80th anniversary d-day tour, 80th anniversary gold tour, 80th anniversary silver tour, hotels, motorcoach, guides and other services.

Relax after a long flight and ease your mind knowing that your tour director will meet you at the airport on the first day of the tour, avoiding extra navigating and expensive taxi fares. With our all-inclusive tour package, we handle all the details of your tour, so you can focus on experiencing this trip of a lifetime. Sit back and let us wine and dine you as you explore history with our carefully planned itinerary, with all breakfasts, dinners and entrance fees included. You will sleep soundly each night at our 4-star, first class accommodations. Breakfasts are delicious and authentic, while the two-three course dinners are mix of buffet and limited menu dining options which offer a chance to taste some of the local wines or beers as well. This tour includes a 24/7 tour director and several local guides. Our dynamic, knowledgeable tour directors are with you from your arrival at the airport to departure on the final day. They proactively smooth the way for your entire tour experience. Our handpicked, trusted local guides are fluent in English and expert historians, who deliver their impressive wealth of knowledge, anecdotes, and local insights with skill that shows their years of research and experience.

Hotel Room in France

Breakfast room at the hotel

Omaha Beach Hotel

Motorcoach 2

Motorcoach 3

Local guide in Normandy

Dinner in France

French apple tart

Dinner in Normandy

They always address topics onsite so that you get to experience history where it happened as they guide both popular destinations and obscure locations only the locals would know. Do not worry about availability, wait times, or ticket costs as all museum and site admissions are pre-arranged and included in the cost of our all-inclusive tours. On this tour you ride in style in our motorcoaches complete with climate control, video entertainment and extra leg room. Our skilled, professional drivers maximize your tour time by navigating the busiest highways and tightest country lanes, giving you more time at sites and less time subjected to the inflexible scheduling, delays and crowded areas that accompany public transport. For those who want to stay connected, Wi-fi is available at all our hotels and on all of our buses.

Beaches of Normandy Tours Band of Brothers Tours 48 Rue de Thouays, 50480 Sainte-Marie-du-Mont, Normandy, France

Phone: +1 855-473-1999 Monday - Friday, 10am - 6pm ET e-mail: [email protected]

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The Treasures of France including Normandy

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8 Day France Tour of D-Day Beaches, Mont-Saint-Michel and the Loire Valley

8 days, 1 country and 13 cities

Accommodation

7 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 4 Dinners

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Travel from Paris to the D-Day Landing Beaches of Normandy and on to the beautiful Loire Valley on this in-depth France and Normandy tour. Imagine life as a French noble as you are welcomed to a 17th century château and learn about the battles that were fought here through the ages.

Looking to book in a group of 9 or more?

Deals, savings and exclusive private touring options available plus if you need a different date or itinerary change we can create a custom trip. Contact us for more details

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8 days itinerary trip from Paris to Paris visiting 1 country and 13 cities

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About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Explore Mont-Saint-Michel and Châteaux of the Loire Valley with a Local Specialist and Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches

Discover Paris, Rouen, Honfleur, Bayeux and the Loire Valley

Visit the Bayeux Tapestry, the Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches, the monastery of Mont-Saint-Michel, the Châteaux of Amboise and Chenonceau and Chartres cathedral

View the Champs-Élysées, the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe in Paris

Travel highlights

Specific transfer information can be found here:

Airport Transfers

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

All porterage and restaurant gratuities

All hotel tips, charges and local taxes

Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

Optional Experiences and free time

On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences

Every one of our tours includes at least one conscious travel experience that supports one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Look out for yours within the day-by-day trip itinerary.

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Net-zero by 2050

Travel knowing our 4-point climate action plan will ensure net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Support Local

Your tour directly supports local communities by visiting family-run businesses, UNESCO sites and places of cultural significance.

Sustainable Practices

Every part of our business, from trip design to how we run our offices, aligns to our 5-year sustainability strategy which ensures a positive impact on people, the planet and wildlife.

Philanthropic Efforts

Our not-for-profit, the TreadRight Foundation, invests in nature-based solutions to address climate change.

You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour

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2 Day Guided Tour to Normandy D-Day Beaches, Saint Malo & Mont Saint-Michel from Paris, with transport

Guided tour

499,00 € / pers.

• Guided tour of Mont Saint-Michel and its abbey
• Services of a licensed guide
• Enjoy two days of discovery of one of the most beautiful regions of France with our guide
• Accomodation in a 4-star hotel with breakfast included
• Visit of the WW2 Normandy Landing Beaches
• Transportation from Paris by air-conditioned vehicle
• Visit of Rouen, Honfleur and Saint-Malo

Take advantage of a two-day tour to visit the highlights of Normandy in France, with an official guide-interpreter from our team. Your first day will be dedicated to the Normandy with the cities of Rouen, Honfleur and the Landing Beaches. The second day will be devoted to Saint-Malo city and the Mont Saint Michel

DAY 1: Guided Tour to Rouen, Honfleur and the Landing Beaches of Normandy

You will leave our meeting point located in the center of Paris at 7:15 am. Climb on-board our air-conditioned coach and cross through the neighborhoods of western Paris until you reach the Normandy motorway. During the trip, your guide will explain the details of the tour and provide you with some initial commentary about the region. After around two hours, you will arrive in Rouen, the first stop of your excursion. Your guide will walk you through the historic center to discover, among other things, the impressive Rouen Cathedral. The city of Rouen is particularly charming thanks to its medieval alleyways, its lively pedestrian streets, its half-timbered houses and its famous Gros Horloge, an astronomical clock that is one of the city's treasures. Many Impressionist painters were inspired by the beauty of the city, including Claude Monet, who painted various views of the cathedral.

Then head to Honfleur, approximately 90 km (56 miles) west of Rouen. During the ride, admire the view of the Pont de Normandie, a cable-stayed bridge that spans the Seine estuary. When you get to Honfleur, enjoy some free time to discover this port city with its picturesque streets and colorful houses which have preserved a rich historic and artistic heritage. Eat lunch on your own in one of Honfleur's restaurants, in a typical atmosphere.

After lunch, the coach will take you to the Beaches of Normandy, which are must-see World War II sites, symbolic of the Allied landings in 1944. First discover the American military cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer, which is impressive with its 70 ha surface area and length of one kilometer. After listening to commentary from the guide, take advantage of this visit to discover this site, symbolic of the Normandy Invasion, inland from Omaha Beach. 

If the weather permits, the coach may take you to Arromanches, around 25 minutes away. Immerse yourself in history as you visit this Normandy beach, where the remains of the pontoons of the 1944 landing have remained visible in spite of strong tides.

The day will end in Caen where you will stay at Novotel Caen (or similar) and dine with the group at the hotel.

Menu (example of) Apple and Camembert quiche  // Chicken fillet with cider sauce Gratin dauphinois  // Tarte Tatin Vegetarian menu (on demand)

DAY 2: Guided Tour to Saint-Malo and the Mont Saint Michel 

After breakfast, take a seat on the coach, which will head to Saint-Malo (approximately 170 kilometers from Caen). Take advantage of a guided tour to discover this town in Brittany which boasts a rich historical heritage and several classified monuments: the city walls, the castle, Saint-Malo Cathedral, and Fort National. 

Enjoy some free time to eat lunch in the center of this historic city.

The tour will continue with a visit to Mont Saint-Michel which marks the border between Normandy and Brittany. Discover this "Wonder of the West" perched on a rocky islet dating back to the Middle Ages, surrounded by a splendid bay. At the entrance, after going through the King's Gate, with its drawbridge, you will find the Grande Rue, or main street, where the main museums, shops, and medieval houses are located.  Follow the guide to climb the Grand Degré staircase. When you get to the top, visit the fascinating 8th-century Benedictine abbey. Admire its Gothic architecture and discover the cloister, dining hall, and garden overlooking the sea. After the guided tour of the abbey, be amazed by the panoramic view before you as you walk along the town walls. Also, take advantage of this free time to enjoy a delicious crepe or buy some souvenirs.

Departure time is around 4:30 pm from Mont Saint-Michel, for an expected return time in Paris of around 9:15 pm.

Please note :

• Please note that if you choose to be picked up at your place of residence, this will be in central Paris (zip code 75)
• The meeting with our PARIScityVISION representative takes place outside the hotel
• Persons with walking difficulties might not be able to reach the Abbey (many steps)
• Comfortable clothing and good shoes recommended
• In the case of a booking requiring a single room, a supplement of 36€ will have to be paid. For example: - For a booking of 1 person: you will be automatically assigned a single room, so you will have to pay 36€ extra - For a booking of 2 people: you will be in a double room without any extra charge. If you want to be in two separate rooms, you will need to book the tour separately and pay the single room extra for each person - For a booking of 3 people: you will be in a double room and a single room. In that case, you will have to pay the 36€ extra. Triple rooms are unavailable.
• Accommodation in 4-star hotel (double room accommodation with bathroom) 
• Pick up from your place of residence (according to the option chosen)
• Buffet breakfast and evening meal in the hotel
• Entrance tickets for the various monument and museum visits
• Services of a tour guide
• Transport to and from Paris by air-conditioned coach

Let's go

Book your tour

1. Define your needs

Special offer

2. Select your tour

1 adult x 499,00 €

2 Day Guided Tour to Normandy D-Day Beaches, Saint Malo & Mont Saint-Michel from Paris, with transport (Pick up hotel)

1 adult x 539,00 €

Cancellation fees : Go to general terms and conditions of sale

Preparation of the tour

Address : Hotel Pullman Tour Eiffel (meeting with our PARISCITYVISION representative outside the hotel)

18 Avenue De Suffren, Entrance at 22 Rue Jean Rey, 75015 Paris

Bir Hakeim , Champ de Mars Tour Eiffel

Address : Hotel Pullman Tour Eiffel

Organized by PARISCityVISION

Tour Code: PM2

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On D-Day, 19-year-old medic Charles Shay was ready to give his life, and save as many as he could

D-Day veteran Charles Shay is about to take part in next month’s ceremonies marking the 80th anniversary of the landings in Normandy that led to the liberation of France and Europe from Nazi Germany occupation. Then a 19-year-old army medic, the Native American was ready to give his life, but also sought to save as many as he could. Now 99, he’s spreading a message of peace.

FILE — WWII veteran Charles Shay, pays tribute to soldiers during a D-Day commemoration ceremony of the 78th anniversary for those who helped end World War II, in Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, Normandy, France, Monday, June 6, 2022. On D-Day, Charles Shay was a 19-year-old Native American army medic who was ready to give his life — and actually saved many. Now 99, he’s spreading a message of peace with tireless dedication as he’s about to take part in the 80th celebrations of the landings in Normandy that led to the liberation of France and Europe from Nazi Germany occupation. (AP Photo/ Jeremias Gonzalez, File)

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WWII veteran Charles Shay, is pictured at his home Sunday, March 24, 2024 in Bretteville-l’Orgueilleuse, Normandy. On D-Day, Charles Shay was a 19-year-old Native American army medic who was ready to give his life — and actually saved many. Now 99, he’s spreading a message of peace with tireless dedication as he’s about to take part in the 80th celebrations of the landings in Normandy that led to the liberation of France and Europe from Nazi Germany occupation. (AP Photo/Jeffrey Schaeffer)

FILE - WWII veteran Charles Shay, 97, right, and Gulf war veteran Julia Kelly pay tribute to soldiers during a D-Day commemoration ceremony of the 78th anniversary for those who helped end World War II, in Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, Normandy, France, Monday, June 6, 2022. On D-Day, Charles Shay was a 19-year-old Native American army medic who was ready to give his life — and actually saved many. Now 99, he’s spreading a message of peace with tireless dedication as he’s about to take part in the 80th celebrations of the landings in Normandy that led to the liberation of France and Europe from Nazi Germany occupation.(AP Photo/ Jeremias Gonzalez, File)

FILE - U.S. reinforcements wade through the surf from a landing craft in the days following D-Day and the Allied invasion of Nazi-occupied France at Normandy in June 1944 during World War II. On D-Day, Charles Shay was a 19-year-old Native American army medic who was ready to give his life — and actually saved many. Now 99, he’s spreading a message of peace with tireless dedication as he’s about to take part in the 80th celebrations of the landings in Normandy that led to the liberation of France and Europe from Nazi Germany occupation. (Bert Brandt/Pool via AP, File)

U.S. Army medical personnel administer a plasma transfusion to a wounded comrade, who survived when his landing craft went down off the coast of Normandy, France, in the early days of the Allied landing operations in June 1944. On D-Day, Charles Shay was a 19-year-old Native American army medic who was ready to give his life — and actually saved many. Now 99, he’s spreading a message of peace with tireless dedication as he’s about to take part in the 80th celebrations of the landings in Normandy that led to the liberation of France and Europe from Nazi Germany occupation. (AP Photo, File)

Men of the American assault troops of the 16th Infantry Regiment, injured while storming a coastal area code-named Omaha Beach during the Allied invasion of the Normandy, wait by the chalk cliffs at Collville-sur-Mer for evacuation to a field hospital for further treatment, June 6, 1944. On D-Day, Charles Shay was a 19-year-old Native American army medic who was ready to give his life — and actually saved many. Now 99, he’s spreading a message of peace with tireless dedication as he’s about to take part in the 80th celebrations of the landings in Normandy that led to the liberation of France and Europe from Nazi Germany occupation. (AP Photo, File)

People walk on Omaha beach at sunset, in Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, Normandy, Tuesday, April 9, 2024. On D-Day, Charles Shay was a 19-year-old Native American army medic who was ready to give his life — and actually saved many. Now 99, he’s spreading a message of peace with tireless dedication as he’s about to take part in the 80th celebrations of the landings in Normandy that led to the liberation of France and Europe from Nazi Germany occupation. (AP Photo/Thibault Camus)

A girl watches the monument called Signal, dedicated to the American soldiers who landed on Omaha Beach on D-Day, on Omaha Beach at sunset, in Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, Normandy, Tuesday, April 9, 2024. On D-Day, Charles Shay was a 19-year-old Native American army medic who was ready to give his life — and actually saved many. Now 99, he’s spreading a message of peace with tireless dedication as he’s about to take part in the 80th celebrations of the landings in Normandy that led to the liberation of France and Europe from Nazi Germany occupation. (AP Photo/Thibault Camus)

A man walks on Gold beach in Arromanches, Normandy, Wednesday, April 10, 2024. In the background are the remains of the artificial harbor of Arromanches. On D-Day, Charles Shay was a 19-year-old Native American army medic who was ready to give his life — and actually saved many. Now 99, he’s spreading a message of peace with tireless dedication as he’s about to take part in the 80th celebrations of the landings in Normandy that led to the liberation of France and Europe from Nazi Germany occupation. (AP Photo/Thibault Camus)

This photo taken on Wednesday April 10, 2024, shows crosses of the US cemetery of Colleville-sur-Mer, Normandy. On D-Day, Charles Shay was a 19-year-old Native American army medic who was ready to give his life — and actually saved many. Now 99, he’s spreading a message of peace with tireless dedication as he’s about to take part in the 80th celebrations of the landings in Normandy that led to the liberation of France and Europe from Nazi Germany occupation. (AP Photo/Thibault Camus)

The sun rises on Omaha Beach in Colleville-sur-Mer, Normandy, Wednesday, April 10, 2024. On D-Day, Charles Shay was a 19-year-old Native American army medic who was ready to give his life — and actually saved many. Now 99, he’s spreading a message of peace with tireless dedication as he’s about to take part in the 80th celebrations of the landings in Normandy that led to the liberation of France and Europe from Nazi Germany occupation. (AP Photo/Thibault Camus)

The sun rises on the US cemetery of Colleville-sur-Mer, Normandy, Wednesday, April 10, 2024. On D-Day, Charles Shay was a 19-year-old Native American army medic who was ready to give his life — and actually saved many. Now 99, he’s spreading a message of peace with tireless dedication as he’s about to take part in the 80th celebrations of the landings in Normandy that led to the liberation of France and Europe from Nazi Germany occupation. (AP Photo/Thibault Camus)

Students walk by a bunker in Longues-sur-Mer, Normandy, Thursday, April 11, 2024. On D-Day, Charles Shay was a 19-year-old Native American army medic who was ready to give his life — and actually saved many. Now 99, he’s spreading a message of peace with tireless dedication as he’s about to take part in the 80th celebrations of the landings in Normandy that led to the liberation of France and Europe from Nazi Germany occupation. (AP Photo/Thibault Camus)

The monument called Les Braves, dedicated to the American soldiers who landed on Omaha Beach on D-Day, is seen on Omaha Beach at sunset, in Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, Normandy, Thursday, April 11, 2024. On D-Day, Charles Shay was a 19-year-old Native American army medic who was ready to give his life — and actually saved many. Now 99, he’s spreading a message of peace with tireless dedication as he’s about to take part in the 80th celebrations of the landings in Normandy that led to the liberation of France and Europe from Nazi Germany occupation. (AP Photo/Thibault Camus)

People walk by a bunker in Longues-sur-Mer, Normandy, Thursday, April 11, 2024. On D-Day, Charles Shay was a 19-year-old Native American army medic who was ready to give his life — and actually saved many. Now 99, he’s spreading a message of peace with tireless dedication as he’s about to take part in the 80th celebrations of the landings in Normandy that led to the liberation of France and Europe from Nazi Germany occupation. (AP Photo/Thibault Camus)

BRETTEVILLE-L’ORGUEILLEUSE, France (AP) — On D-Day, Charles Shay was a 19-year-old U.S. Army medic who was ready to give his life — and save as many as he could.

Now 99, he’s spreading a message of peace with tireless dedication as he’s about to take part in the 80th anniversary commemorations of the landings in Normandy that led to the liberation of France and Europe from Nazi Germany occupation.

“I guess I was prepared to give my life if I had to. Fortunately, I did not have to,” Shay said in an interview with The Associated Press.

A Penobscot tribe citizen from Indian Island in the U.S. state of Maine, Shay has been living in France since 2018, not far from the shores of Normandy where many world leaders are expected to come next month. Solemn ceremonies will be honoring the nearly 160,000 troops from Britain, the U.S., Canada and other nations who landed on June 6, 1944.

AP AUDIO: On D-Day, 19-year-old medic Charles Shay was ready to give his life, and save as many as he could

AP correspondent Karen Chammas reports on a veteran’s memories of D-Day ahead of the 80th anniversary.

Nothing could have prepared Shay for what happened that morning on Omaha Beach: bleeding soldiers, body parts and corpses strewn around him, machine-gun fire and shells filling the air.

“I had been given a job, and the way I looked at it, it was up to me to complete my job,” he recalled. “I did not have time to worry about my situation of being there and perhaps losing my life. There was no time for this.”

Shay was awarded the Silver Star for repeatedly plunging into the sea and carrying critically wounded soldiers to relative safety, saving them from drowning. He also received France’s highest award, the Legion of Honor, in 2007.

Still, Shay could not save his good friend, Pvt. Edward Morozewicz. The sad memory remains vivid in his mind as he describes seeing his 22-year-old comrade lying on the beach with a serious stomach wound.

“He had a wound that I could not help him with because I did not have the proper instruments ... He was bleeding to death. And I knew that he was dying. I tried to comfort him. And I tried to do what I could for him, but there was no help,” he said. “And while I was treating him, he died in my arms.”

“I lost many close friends,” he added.

A total of 4,414 Allied troops were killed on D-Day itself, including 2,501 Americans. More than 5,000 were wounded.

Shay survived. At night, exhausted, he eventually fell asleep in a grove above the beach.

“When I woke up in the morning. It was like I was sleeping in a graveyard because there were dead Americans and Germans surrounding me,” he recalled. “I stayed there for not very long and I continued on my way.”

Shay then pursued his mission in Normandy for several weeks, rescuing those wounded, before heading with American troops to eastern France and Germany, where he was taken prisoner in March 1945 and liberated a few weeks later.

After World War II, Shay reenlisted in the military because the situation of Native Americans in his home state of Maine was too precarious due to poverty and discrimination.

“I tried to cope with the situation of not having enough work or not being able to help support my mother and father. Well, there was just no chance for young American Indian boys to gain proper labor and earn a good job,” he said.

Maine would not allow individuals living on Native American reservations to vote until 1954.

Shay continued to witness history — returning to combat as a medic during the Korean War, participating in U.S. nuclear testing in the Marshall Islands and later working at the International Atomic Energy Agency in Vienna, Austria.

For over 60 years, he did not talk about his WWII experience.

But he began attending D-Day commemorations in 2007 and in recent years, he has seized many occasions to give his powerful testimony. A book about his life, “Spirits are guiding” by author Marie-Pascale Legrand, is about to be released this month.

In 2018, he moved from Maine to Bretteville-l’Orgueilleuse, a French small town in the Normandy region to stay at a friend’s home.

During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020-21, coming from his nearby home, he was among the few veterans able to attend commemorations. He stood up for all others who could not make the trip amid restrictions.

Shay also used to lead a Native American ritual each year on D-Day, burning sage in homage to those who died. In 2022, he handed over the remembrance task to another Native American, Julia Kelly, a Gulf War veteran from the Crow tribe, who since has performed the ritual in his presence.

The Charles Shay Memorial on Omaha Beach pays tribute to the 175 Native Americans who landed there on D-Day.

Often, Shay expressed his sadness at seeing wars still waging in the world and what he considers the senseless loss of lives.

Shay said he had hoped D-Day would bring global peace. “But it has not, because you see that we go from one war to the next. There will always be wars. People and nations cannot get along with each other.”

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Normandy D-Day Tour from Paris

with Juno Beach & Canadian Cemetery

Small Group Tour

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• Description •
• Tour Highlights •

Discover Juno Beach in Normandy

Retrace the footsteps of the Canadian troops who fought for the liberation of France on this small group day trip to Juno Beach and the D-Day sites of Normandy. On this tour you’ll walk the sands of Juno Beach, explore inside German bunkers, visit the Juno Beach Center, and pay your respects to those who sacrificed everything at the Bény-Sur-Mer Canadian Cemetery.

On June 6th, 1944 the largest seaborne invasion ever attempted in history took place. The Allied troops waged an extremely difficult attack on the German forces who were entrenched in bunkers along the coast of Normandy. More than 14,000 Canadian soldiers landed or parachuted into France on that day. Though the soldiers knew that they were fighting against the odds they carried on with courage and helped to win the battle for Normandy.

Whether you’re a great admirer of military history or someone who is just curious about how the events really played out on D-Day, this tour will help you to better appreciate the remarkable acts of courage and bravery that took place on Juno Beach. For they are well worth learning about and being remembered by all free folk today.

Juno Beach & Juno Beach Center

Meet up in the morning with your guide close to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris and head off in a small group of 8 people to retrace the amazing events of D-Day and the Normandy Invasion. Juno Beach is only 2 hours away from Paris! You’ll enjoy the ride through the beautiful French countryside in our luxury van with leather seats and A/C.

Arriving in Normandy you’ll get right to the point by following your guide down onto the sands of Juno Beach. Using detailed maps and pictures your guide will explain how the landings unfolded. You’ll even see the famous “Canada House” said to be the first house liberated by the Allied Troops on D-Day.

Then you’ll visit the Juno Beach Center in Courseulles-sur-Mer. It is the most comprehensive museum detailing the Canadian operations in Normandy. After your visit of the Museum is over you’ll follow one of the official Juno Beach Center guides into two of the original German bunkers that had been part of the Atlantic Wall. These bunkers, normally closed off to the public, are a real treat to be able to explore!

Canadian Cemetery, Hell’s Corner and Ardenne Abbey

When you’re done exploring the German bunkers it will be lunch time. The guide will take you to a nearby restaurant that has many local specialties, all very reasonably priced. You’ll be able to choose whatever your taste and budget allows directly off of their menu. It has fresh seafood, salads, and meat dishes as well as savory and sweet crepes. You’ll have one hour to rest and enjoy your lunch.

You will then visit the Canadian Cemetery in Beny-sur-Mer and learn the personal stories of some of the more than 2000 Canadian men who are buried there. Afterwards your guide will take you to Hell’s Corner, the furthest point reached by Canadian troops on D-Day. Hell’s Corner is located only 5km from the city of Caen, which was the actual objective for the Canadian troops on D-Day.

Due to the ferocious defenses of the Germans it took the Allied troops another 30 days to reach Caen itself. During the battle for Normandy 156 Canadians were captured and then executed in cold blood by a group of fanatics trained as “Hitler Youth”. At the Ardenne Abbey you’ll pay your respects to some of these men who died unjustly during the Ardenne Abbey Masacre.

Atlantic Wall Museum

Afterwards you’ll have free time to explore inside of The Grand Bunker: Atlantic Wall Museum. This museum is inside of the 5 story tall former Shooting Command of the German forces and has an amazing panoramic view over the English Channel. It’s collection details the Atlantic Wall’s impressive defenses and also has individual soldiers gear, landing craft, and an M3A3 Stuart light tank!

The ride back to Paris will take a little over 2 hours long and will include a stop for you to use the restroom and stretch your legs. You’ll arrive back in Paris at about 8pm and say goodbye to your guide next to the Arc de Triomphe.

Good to Know:

• Our meeting point is right next to the Arc de Triomphe. The exact address will be in your booking confirmation email.
• Restrooms are available at most stops we make on the tour. Plus we always make a rest stop during the 2 hour drive to and from Normandy.
• Your lunch is not included in our tour price. We will stop for a 1 hour lunch break at a great local restaurant, but you can bring a cold lunch if you prefer.
• Gratuities aka "tips" are not included but welcomed by our guides.

Max. 8 pers. per tour

All day Back in Paris around 8PM

What's Included

• Transportation by luxury A/C minibus
• Knowledgeable & friendly guide
• All entrance tickets

All of our tours are commented in English

Dates & Times

All year round 7AM

Meeting point

12 Avenue des Ternes

Click here for picture Reservation required

For the D-Day Beaches of Normandy Day Trip from Paris you will meet with your driver-guide outside of 12 Avenue des Ternes in Paris.

Tour Highlights

Juno Beach Center

Visit the Juno Beach Center, the most comprehensive museum about the Canadian landings in Normandy.

Walk on the sands of Juno Beach in Normandy just like the Canadian troops did in June 1944.

Visit 2 bunkers on Juno Beach

Join an official Juno Beach Center guide and enter 2 (closed off to the public) German bunkers on Juno Beach.

Canada House

See the famous “Canada House” on Juno Beach, said to be the first house liberated in Normandy.

Canadian Cemetery in Beny-sur-Mer

Pay your respects to the fallen Canadian soldiers at the Canadian Cemetery.

Lunch in Courseulles-sur-Mer

Enjoy 1hr of free time in Courseulles-sur-Mer for lunch (lunch not included in tour price)

Hell’s Corner

The furthest advance inland taken by Canadian troops on D-Day, 5 miles from the city of Caen.

Abbey d’Ardenne

On June 1944, 20 Canadian soldiers were illegally executed at the abbey by members of the “Hitler Youth”.

Visit the command center for the German defenses and discover all kinds of objects/tanks/landing craft used during the Normandy Campaign.

Paris largest and most celebrated Church, built in a true Gothic fashion it has the most beautiful Rose windows and flying buttresses.

Once the Royal Palace, now the largest and most visited museum in the world. The Louvre is home to the mysterious Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and the famous glass Pyramid.

The Musée d’Orsay

Home to some of the most beautiful paintings in the world, the Musée d’Orsay has several works of Monet, Renoir and Van Gogh.

Rue Cler market

Parisians have been coming to rue Cler market street since 1826! Taste some of the best of Paris here when you stop for the 30 minute break.

Seine River banks

The banks of the Seine River, in Paris, are so enchanting that they have become a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You'll ride along them and behold the beauty of the river life.

Place de la Concorde

Place de la Concorde is the place where Marie-Antoinette lost her head! Today is has a 2,000 year old Egyptian Obelisk at its center.

The Grand Palais

Constructed for the 1900 World’s Fair, the Grand Palais is a magnificent architectural feat with its glass, iron and steel beautifully combined.

Champs-Elysées

Known to many as « The most beautiful avenue in the world » you'll have a wonderful view all the way up this avenue to the famous Arc de Triomphe.

Invalides (Napoleon’s Tomb)

Les Invalides was once a hospital for wounded soldiers, and is currently a military museum that is home to the tomb of Napoléon Bonaparte.

Frequently Asked Questions

We accept children that are at least 7 years old on this tour. While this tour’s content was not planned out with kids in mind we do allow children that are aged at least 7 years old to join it with one of their parents. Kids younger than 7 years cannot join this tour as we do NOT have the suitable baby/child seats for them to ride in that are required by European law.

There is no legal drinking age in France for minors who drink under the supervision of a parent. It is illegal to allow a minor to become inebriated (drunk). The legal age to buy alcohol is 18.

No, sorry we cannot do this on one of our public small group tours. The other tour participants are expecting us to keep our word and run the tour in the way it has been advertised on our website.

We can create a custom made tour just for you if you decide to book a private tour. If you are interested in taking a private tour to Normandy, with one of our guides then please send us an email with your travel dates and how many people are in your party. We’ll get back to you right away with our guides availability.

Love It Or Get Your Money Back

We are committed to giving you the best experience possible, in case the tour you took with us didn’t meet your expectation we are happy to give a full refund as long as you participated in the entire tour and tell your guide at the end of the tour.

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We appreciate and reward fidelity!

Planning on booking multiple tours with us? Contact us to receive a 10% discount . Discount only apply when booking 2, 3 or 4 tours on different dates.

Free Cancellation

We understand that unexpected events can change your travel plans; for this reason Blue Fox Travel offers a full refund, for any reason, if you cancel more than 24hrs before your reserved tour is scheduled to start.

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These are the Terms & Conditions that apply to any tour run by BLUE FOX TRAVEL in France under the brands BLUE BIKE TOURS or BLUE FOX TRAVEL. In this document, BLUE BIKE TOURS might be abbreviated as BBT and BLUE FOX TRAVEL as BFT.

BLUE FOX TRAVEL is a registered SARL (Société à Responsabilité Limitée - Limited Liability Company) at the Paris Chamber of Commerce under the number : 534 151 576 BLUE FOX TRAVEL is a registered French Travel Operator under the licence : IM075160040 BLUE FOX TRAVEL is a registered Public Service Vehicle Operator under the Licence : 2016/11/0007784 Because BLUE FOX TRAVEL is a registered French company, and all of our tours take place in France, only the French Law will apply in the case of any conflict. Last updated : January 2019. Valid until : the end of the world.

I - Cancellation Policy

BFT offers a 100% refund if a reservation is cancelled more than 24 hours before the scheduled start of the tour. The notification must be made by email. No refunds are given for ANY reason once within the 24 hrs prior to the scheduled tour. All of our tours run Rain or Shine. We do not issue refunds if you choose to skip your tour because the weather doesn’t suit you. You can always wait until the last minute to book your tour to ensure the weather suits you that day. BFT reserves the right to cancel any of its tours last minute in case of an Act of God or crazy act from a large group of people. Flooding, hail, dangerous weather conditions, riots, etc. In such instances full refunds will be given to anyone who had their tour cancelled.

II - Satisfaction Guarantee Policy

If the tour you took with us didn’t live up to what we promised you on our website and failed to meet your expectations, we will be heartbroken. We will also give you a 100% refund so long as you do all of these things: You remember that we we are in no way responsible for the weather and that our guides actually have to give 110% of themselves to you on days when the weather is not as nice in order to help you enjoy the tour. You participate in the entire tour from: being on time at the meeting point until the “goodbyes” at the very end of the tour. You can’t leave a tour half-way and ask for your money back. At the end of the tour you tell your guide, in person, that you were not satisfied with the tour you took. You provide your tour guide with the reasons you were not satisfied with the tour itself.

III - Payment Policy

A valid credit card is required to secure your booking. All reservations must be prepaid online prior to the tour. We accept Visa, Mastercard. None of your personal credit card or billing information is stored by BFT.

IV - Privacy Policy

We are committed to protecting your privacy. Your personal informations will never be disclosed to any third parties.

V - Child Policy

All reservations made for children under the age of 18 years old must be made by an adult and we must be informed at the time of booking exactly how many children are in your party and their ages. This is vital information as it allows our guide to prepare the proper child sized equipments for the bike tours and the booster seats for all day trips/excursions that use one of our vans. All reservations made for a minor under the age of 18 years old must also include the reservation for an adult who will be 100% solely responsible for the safety and well being of the child while on the tour. Every child, under the age of 12 years old, partaking in a bicycle tour will be required to wear a helmet and a reflective vest as per French Law. The adult who accompanies the child agrees to the responsibility of choosing a properly sized helmet, adjusting the helmet, and keeping the helmet on the head of the child during the whole tour. Blue Fox Travel has helmets in multiple sizes for you to choose from at no cost. Don't forget: Children who will be riding in a baby/child seat, on a tandem attachment bike, or in a booster seat in one of our vans absolutely MUST have their seat reserved beforehand. We NEED to know exactly what your child will need before they show up. Please make it clear in the “Special Requirements” section of our booking form.

VI- Child Bike Policy

Children who will be riding on their own may be subject to a very short test run before the tour starts in which they will be expected to demonstrate: that they are well suited for their bike’s size and settings, that they know how to brake properly and that they are, in general, good cyclists who can be trusted to follow their tour guide in a safe manner. We own 20” and 24” kids bikes (size of the wheel). Adult bikes are 26”. If the guide, or manager, finds that the child is not, for any reason, a good enough cyclist then the guide, or manager, has the right to refuse to let the child follow the tour on a personal bike. This means they will either be asked to ride on one of our ‘tandem attachments’ which is attached to the back of a parents bike OR asked to ride in a child seat attached to the back of a parents bike. If the child refuses the change, then the guide or manager has the right to cancel the reservation, and not allow you and your child on the bike tour. Refunds will not be issued if your reservation is cancelled because of your child not being able to cycle and their refusal to ride attached to you. Baby seats are for kids that are between the ages of 1 and 3 years old (max weight 22 kg (48 lbs)). We also have some cool Burley™ tandem attachment bikes that are suitable for little kids who are too big for the baby seat but too small to cycle on their own (max weight 38 kg (85 lbs) - max height 137 cm (4 ft 6 in)).

VII - Damages to Blue Fox Travel Property

If you or anyone in your party damages a vehicle, a Blue Bike™, a vehicle, a child's bike, a helmet, a baby/child seat, a tandem attachment bike, any bike attachments, or a booster seat in such a way that it becomes badly disfigured, broken, or unusable, then BFT reserves the right to claim a fee of up to the cost of repair of the damaged bike/vehicle or object.

VIII - Miscellaneous

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Discover Le Havre, Where Impressionism Was Born

The movement was named for a seascape Monet painted in this often-overlooked city, France’s largest seaport. But it has a museum full of Impressionist canvases, intriguing architecture and a new energy.

By Elaine Sciolino

As the fog of dawn lifted one morning in mid-November 1872, Claude Monet looked out the window of his hotel room in the French city of Le Havre and furiously painted his vision of its industrial harbor. He flung his brush with quick strokes and played with the water, stretching it with rays of color.

In one sitting, he created “Impression, Sunrise,” a painting of a vivid orange sun with its reflection shimmering in the sea.

In 1874, Monet, who grew up in Le Havre on the Normandy coast, included the painting in an exhibition of 30 artists’ work organized in response to the Paris Salon, an annual showcase of academic art. The critic Louis Leroy denounced “The Exhibition of the Impressionists” and mocked the title of Monet’s painting. “An impression, I’m sure,” he wrote. “I thought to myself, this has made an impression on me so there must be impressions somewhere in there.”

Impressionism was born.

This year, France is celebrating the 150th anniversary of the movement. In Paris, the Musée d’Orsay is exhibiting 130 works from and related to the 1874 exhibition and offering a one-hour immersive tour with virtual reality headsets. It is sending 178 other works to more than 30 museums throughout France.

The Musée Marmottan , which owns “Impression, Sunrise,” has agreed to lend it to the Orsay until July for its exhibition “Paris 1874: Inventing Impressionism” and to the National Gallery in Washington where the exhibition travels in September.

But to discover a fresh and unexpected view of Impressionism requires a visit to Le Havre, France’s most important seaport and its most underappreciated big city.

Snubbed by tourists

Once there was a direct New York-to-Le Havre route on the French Line, whose luxury cruise liners pampered rich Americans with fancy suites and fine French cuisine. Le Havre was their first point of entry into the Old World.

But in more recent times, cruises and tour operators preferred to take their passengers to the Normandy beaches and to charming, quaint Honfleur on the other side of the Seine estuary, rather than to gritty Le Havre. Even today, many Parisians have never visited.

“It used to be that people who came from Le Havre rarely admitted it,” said Édouard Philippe, the mayor of Le Havre and a former French prime minister, in an interview. “People made fun of them. A bit like how people from New Jersey got used to being made fun of because they lived on industrial land that was less beautiful than New York. That all changed. Le Havre is now in fashion.”

To prove his point, he picked up a coffee mug with an intersecting L and H — the new emblem of Le Havre that adorns products — like T-shirts and tote bags — sold throughout the city.

It’s worth a trip to Le Havre just to visit the Musée d’Art Moderne André Malraux , which opened in 1961.

With its white walls, steel frame and floor-to-ceiling glass facade that gives a view out to the sea, the museum allows visitors to revel in the light — luminous and somber — produced by the fickle weather of Normandy. A second-floor balcony that looks out over the museum’s outdoor esplanade and the sea adds to the feeling of openness.

“There was a desire from the beginning to make the museum open to the great spectacle of the changing elements outside,” said Géraldine Lefebvre, the museum’s director.

MuMa, as it is called, has arguably the most important collection of Impressionist paintings in France outside the Musée d’Orsay ( Rouen’s Musée des Beaux-Arts makes the same claim). MuMa’s collection is also home to some of the world’s most famous paintings from the Fauvist movement that followed. And unlike the gridlocked Orsay, MuMa is always gloriously undervisited.

“Go to the Orsay, and then come here,” said Ms. Lefebvre. “We battle a little with Rouen, but in terms of the numbers of works and their quality, we are No. 2.”

Ms. Lefebvre has studied and written about Monet’s “Impression, Sunrise.” She worked for a year with Donald Olson, a Texas State University astronomer and physics professor who used topographical, meteorological and astrological studies to calculate the precise date and time of its creation. According to Dr. Olson, she said, Monet painted it at 7:35 a.m. on Nov. 13, 1872.

The Hotel de l’Amirauté, where Monet stayed when he painted “Impression, Sunrise,” is long gone — replaced by a modern apartment building with a bar-bistro and a gift shop on the ground floor.

Ms. Lefebvre and I visited the site, and she captured the scene: “It was winter; the temperature was freezing. The wind was blowing from the west. The light was just coming up from the sea. The moment the sun came up, he worked in one great burst of energy.”

Rebuilt after World War II

Le Havre is not an ancient city like Paris. When the French king François I created the port of Le Havre in 1517, priority was to create “un havre” — a harbor — that would serve as both a military site to protect France from invaders and a commercial port to open Paris to the world. The city was an afterthought.

Trade exploded over time. Wealthy merchants built grand homes in the coastal town of Sainte-Adresse, northwest of Le Havre.

In August 1944, the British Air Force rained bombs on the city and its inhabitants; 2,000 civilians were killed, 80,000 were left homeless and more than 80 percent of the city was destroyed.

In the 1950s, the French architect Auguste Perret , working with a tight budget and on a deadline, oversaw Le Havre’s reconstruction. A master of precast concrete, he used the cheap, plentiful material to build 150 residential blocks with identical modular frames, a rectangular grid system of streets, and wide sidewalks and boulevards. All the apartments had central heat and modern appliances.

The buildings once were considered ugly. At first glance, they all look alike; then you discover that the concrete came in different shades — creamy beige, gray, taupe, khaki, terra-cotta, ocher — and that the geometric columns and beams were finished with varying patterns and textures (from mottled stone to a smooth velvety feel).

“My concrete is more beautiful than stone,” Perret said. “I work it, I chisel it.”

Perret’s geometric architecture has aged well, and midcentury design is now chic. In 2005, Le Havre was the first example of French Modern architecture to achieve UNESCO World Heritage classification , cited as a model of urban experimentation and reconstruction. (Visitors can take a guided tour of a model apartment in a Perret building .)

Perret’s St. Joseph’s Church , completed in 1957, three years after his death, soars to 350 feet and resembles a small-scale New York City skyscraper. Concrete columns rise to angled buttresses and an octagonal cupola. The steeple is lined with more than 12,000 panes of stained glass.

Inside the church, Philippe Mariette, a retired architect who knew Perret, told me to look up at the reflections from the colored panels that dance on the unadorned walls. “No matter how many times I lift my head, I am always astonished,” he said.

A transformed city center

Le Havre has undergone an architectural transformation in recent years. In the center of town is Le Volcan , a partly underground complex designed by the Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer. It consists of a volcano-shaped theater and a smaller crater converted into a library — with quirky seating pods that are great for kids. On the waterfront is Les Bains des Docks , a swimming complex and spa with pools, hammams, Jacuzzis and solariums designed by the French architect Jean Nouvel; inspired by ancient Roman baths, it is covered in 32 million tiny mosaic tiles. Nearby is the Docks Vauban , a mall with a cinema, restaurants and high-end boutiques.

There is one place in Le Havre that captures the city in time. The Maison de l’Armateur , the mansion of a family of shipowners-merchants and now a museum, is one of the city’s only surviving buildings from the 18th century, with a facade sculpted in Louis XVI style.

Wedged between tall buildings on the quay facing the port, where fishing boats and ferries are moored, it is designed like a tower around an octagonal light shaft and skylight, with rooms on five levels, including the ground floor, where a warehouse and stables were located. The house contains living quarters, a study, portraits, cabinets of curiosities, a library, a map room and a kitchen — all evoking the daily life of the bourgeoisie.

A garden where Monet painted

In the summer of 1867, while visiting his aunt in Sainte-Adresse, Monet painted “Garden at Sainte-Adresse,” which now hangs in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

“People know Sainte-Adresse because of the painting,” said François Rosset, a longtime resident who is president of its heritage association. “It’s a formidable vehicle for our town.”

Years ago, Sainte-Adresse refused to give up its independent status and become part of Le Havre. But a three-mile pedestrian and biking trail along the waterfront connects the town and the center of Le Havre. Part of the town was destroyed during the bombings, but many of the old estates on the outskirts were untouched.

Monet’s aunt’s house, which is privately owned, stays empty for much of the year. The main gate to the garden entrance was open on the day I visited. An employee on the grounds let me in for a peek at the site, with its red brick house with white shutters. .

Hubert Dejan de la Bâtie, the mayor of Sainte-Adresse, has dreams of buying and renovating the house and transforming the area into a tourist attraction.

“Maybe I can’t do as well as Giverny,” he said in an interview, referring to the house where Monet lived for 43 years. “But Monet spent his childhood in Le Havre, and maybe we can do a second center for Monet tourism here. We just have to make the project sexy.”

The train from Paris to Le Havre takes approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes. One-way tickets start from an average of €16 (or about $17) when booked in advance through SNCF Connect .

Hôtel Vent d’Ouest Le Havre is in the city center, across the street from St. Joseph Church, a four-minute walk from the harbor and a seven-minute walk from Le Volcan. Cozy and refined country-style décor. Rooms start at €117.

Hôtel Mercure Le Havre Centre Bassin du Commerce , an ultramodern hotel with décor inspired by the port’s containers, is centrally located only a 15-minute walk from the Maison de l’Armateur and MuMa, and a 10-minute walk from the railway station. Rooms start at €98.

Le Bistrot des Halles offers authentic French cuisine in a charming retro setting, with walls decorated with old metal advertising signs. A favorite of locals (about €20 per person for lunch).

Les Fauves , a cafe and restaurant at MuMa, serves versions of French classics and creative desserts in an upscale room with views of the water (about €20 to €30 per person for lunch).

Elaine Sciolino is a contributing writer and former Paris bureau chief for The New York Times, based in France since 2002. Her newest book, “Adventures in the Louvre: How to Fall in Love With the World’s Greatest Museum,” will be published in 2025. In 2010, she was decorated a chevalier of the Legion of Honor, the highest honor of the French state.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

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Traffic and tolls from CDG to Normandy? - Paris Forum

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Traffic and tolls from CDG to Normandy?

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We realize traffic can be awful particularly around Paris but I’d rather not put him thru a lot of walking and the places we’re staying offer free parking. Are car rental company autos equipped to process tolls here so we don’t have to pay with cash or is paying tolls with cash even an option these days? We drove in France and Europe a time or two years ago but I’m sure things have changed significantly.

10 replies to this topic

Just key in your starting point and destination and it will suggest routes for you. It also provides you with extra details re time, distance, tolls and fuel costs. Also, if you look at their tourism section it will show places of interest.

Re Traffic forecasts for driving:

The official traffic forecasts for 2024 have been posted here: https://www.bison-fute.gouv.fr/previsions,10741,langen.html

The National website is here: https://www.bison-fute.gouv.fr/previsions,10741.html

Many people just use their credit card, not cash, to pay tolls as they go along by just tapping their card/contactless payment.

Thank you all for the helpful replies and advice. It appears tolls would be ~28-30 euros if we take the shortest route and take <4 hours.

I should have been more clear that my father in law who we’re bringing is a retired veteran but did not serve in WWII. He’s not quite that old but not too far from that age. It’s long been one of his bucket list items to visit the D Day sights and we were fortunate to obtain passes to be at the official ceremony on June 6 for the 80th anniversary and will also take him to a few other events leading up to that.

To answer one question above we decided to visit Le Mont-Saint-Michael first since numerous events and areas closer to the D-Day beaches will be taken in over the next several days and keep our travel for those days to a minimum.

Another question we have is how congested to you expect traffic might be by around 0930-1000 hours when leaving CDG and heading East?

Thanks again for all the advice and helpful info

We recently drove from Versailles to Bayeux and then a bit around Normandy and the only place we saw consistent delays was around Caen.

We breezed through the tolls using a credit card in the tap-to-pay lanes; using cash would only slow you down.

Thanks for that info. It’s good to hear the CC tap and go system is there.

Many years ago when we drove a similar route we had to use cash but I knew those days were likely long gone. It was a real pain at the time.

If you leave CDG and head East you will be in Germany sooner than Normandy.

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Tours from Europe bases

Oodles of Polish pottery awaits shoppers as Kaiserslautern Outdoor Recreation offers a trip to Krakow, Auschwitz and Polish pottery shops June 13-17. (iStock)

Base tours offer an easy way to see Europe with other members of the military community. Here is a sampling of trips scheduled as of May 10, 2024. Please update this information and add tours by sending an email to Marcus Klöckner at [email protected].

SHAPE TRIPS AND TOURS: Call 06544-3884. Email [email protected] or visit www.shape2day.com.

ANSBACH OUTDOOR RECREATION: May 18, Neuschwanstein castle area, $579 adults, $139 children ages 3-11, $119 children ages 2 and under; May 23, Costa Brava (Spain), $449 adults, $399 children ages 3-11, $199 children ages 2 and under; June 5, sunset paddling with ODR, $25 adults, $5 children ages 12 and under; June 13-17, Paris, Normandy, $439 adults, $389 children ages 3-11, $149 children ages 2 and under. DSN 467-3225/CIV 09802-83-3225 or MWR Central DSN 467-1780 or CIV 09802-83-1780.

BAUMHOLDER OUTDOOR RECREATION: May 11, Keukenhof, tulip gardens, $129 adults, $119 children; May 11, Black Forest tour, $79 adults, $49 children; May 12, Baden-Baden, spa day, $75; May 19, Tongeren (Belgium), antique market, $79; June 1, Champagne tour Epernay (France), $149. DSN 485-7182 or CIV 06783-67182.

GRAFENWOEHR OUTDOOR RECREATION: May 11, Mother’s Day fishing event, $29 adults, $19 children; May 25, fishing season opener, $20-$25; June 7-9, fishing course, $65 adults, $40 children ages 10-18; June 15, Father’s Day fishing event, $20 adults, $10 children. DSN 314 475-8529 or CIV 09641-83-8529

KAISERSLAUTERN OUTDOOR RECREATION: May 23-27, Croatia, $1,329-$1,469, $269-$949 children; May 23-27, Memorial Day weekend in London, $1,049 adults (single room), $829 adults (double room); May 24, Normandy and Omaha Beach, $749 adults (single room), $599 adults; June 14-17, Prague weekend, $549 adults (single room), $49 adults (double room), $349 children ages 11 and under; June 13-17, Krakow, Auschwitz and Polish pottery, $799 adults (single room), $629 adults (double room), $479 children ages 11 and under, $229 children ages 2 and under. DSN 493-4117 or CIV 0631-34064117.

RTT TRAVEL RAMSTEIN: May 10-12 and June 5-7, Prague and Karlovy shopping, 459 euros adults (single room), 369 euros adults (double room), 299 children ages 3-11; May 11, June 8, July 27, Candy Coated Cologne, May 12, Mainau Island, 129 euros adults, 109 euros children ages 3-11, 99 euros children ages 2 and under. CIV 06371-463650 or see www.RTTtravel.com.

RTT FLIGHT TOURS/RAMSTEIN: Call 06371-463650 or see www.RTTtravel.com.

SPANGDAHLEM INFORMATION, TICKETS AND TRAVEL: DSN: 452-6567 or CIV 06565-61-6567.

STUTTGART OUTDOOR RECREATION: May 11, MWR adventure tour: Hirschgrund Zipline, $120 adults, $105 children ages 12-16; May 18, MWR adventure tour: white water rafting, $200 DSN 431-2774 or CIV 0703-2774.

WIESBADEN OUTDOOR RECREATION: June 14-17, Berchtesgaden, $459 adults, $399 for children ages 3-11, $299 children ages 2 and under; July 3-7, $799 adults, $739 for children ages 3-11, $599 for children ages 3 and under; July 16-Oct. 5, hunting course, $269. DSN 337-5760 or CIV 06117-055760; email usarmy.wiesbaden.imcom-eurospe.list.mwr-outdoor-recreation@mail.mil.

Netherlands

SCHINNEN: (+31) (0) 46-443-7561 or DSN 360-7561 or email [email protected].

ROTA OUTDOOR RECREATION: May 18, canyon descending; May 24, Almunecar, multi-adventure trip; June 1, Los Alcornocales, hiking Garganta del Capitin; June 8, canyon descending; June 15, Bay of Cadiz, sailing and windsurfing, $100; June 18, night kayak & Sancti Petri castle tour, $85; June 22, Los Corrales Beach, stand-up paddle board & kayak, $60 July 6, Tarifa, quad tour, $130; July 13, canyon descending, $85. Outdoor Recreation (ODR)DSN 727-3101 or CIV 095682-3101/3208.

ROTA ITT: May 11, Los Patios in Cordoba, $40; May 18, Sevilla historical tour, $70 adults, $55 children ages 2-14; May 25, Ronda, $35.Tickets and Travel; June 1, Torremolinos (Malaga), self-guided tour; June 1, Sanlucar Feria de Manzanilla, bullfight, June 8, Ubrique historical tour; June 22, Malaga, historical tour and Nerja Caves. DSN 727-3101/3208 or CIV 095682-3101/3208.

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7 events not to miss in France in 2024

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Cultural Heritage Sporting Activities Spiritual Tourism

Reading time: 0 min Published on 3 January 2024, updated on 9 May 2024

Culture, fashion, gastronomy, art of living: France is teeming with initiatives and exciting news in 2024. Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or a sports fan, everyone will find something to enjoy while visiting the hexagon. Put on your berets and mark your calendars!

#1 The Olympic Games

Among the events not to be missed in France in 2024, the City of Light welcomes the Olympic and Paralympic Games and athletes from around the world. The festivities kick off on the Seine on July 26th and come to a close on August 11th for the Olympics. Historic sites in Paris, such as the Stade de France and the Champ de Mars, will be the stage for spectacular sporting performances.

From Bordeaux to Saint-Étienne, passing through Lyon, Marseille, Nice, Nantes, Lille, and Châteauroux, not to mention French Polynesia and the legendary Teahupo'o wave for surfing, the entire France will be the scene of fiery competitions in the most iconic sports venues.

The Olympic sports calendar

#2 Cultural Olympiads

As with every edition of the Games, for over 100 years, the Cultural Olympiads will be held alongside the Olympics. We recommend the flagship project Archi-Folies 2024, which encourages students from national higher schools of architecture and landscape to design and create 20 temporary pavilions, each representing a sports federation, in Parc de la Villette in Paris.

#3 150 Years of Impresionism

In spring 2024, we will mark the 150th anniversary of the very first Impressionist exhibition, which was instrumental in founding the movement. To commemorate this key date, the Musée d'Orsay will lend artworks to around thirty museums across France. Discover the exhibition "Paris 1874" from March 26th to July 14th, 2024, and "Impressionism Across the Fields" from May 16th to 17th, 2024.

In Normandy, don't miss the Normandie Impressionniste 2024 festival , from March 22nd to September 22nd, 2024. On the agenda: exhibitions and events showcasing the harmonious coexistence of works of art.  Among the 150 events that are planned, James Abbott McNeil Whistler, Robert Wilson and David Hockney will be celebrated

Historical exhibitions

#4 Cité internationale de la langue française

Cité internationale de la langue française - Château de Villers-Cotterêts, Place Aristide Briand, Villers-Cotterêts, France

Opened in the fall of 2023,  Cité internationale de la langue française (the International City of the French Language, preserved and restored by the National Monuments Center, is nestled in the Château de Villers-Cotterêts, in the Hauts-de-France region. A delight for enthusiasts of the French language and those eager for Francophone culture. In 2024, you will have ample opportunity to discover this unique place and engage in its interactive journey through the French language, arranged in 15 rooms, a voyage into the heart of this rich and complex language.

You have the opportunity to visit the castle, its "King's staircase," and the Saint-Nicolas chapel, and enjoy a live performance under the grand glass roof!

#5 80th Anniversary of Normandy Landings

Normandy, France

2024 marks the 80th anniversary of the Normandy Landings and the Battle of Normandy. Between remembrance and celebrations, festivities will take place throughout the year with a packed program in Normandy, around June 6th. Admire fireworks displays at major landing sites, enjoy a giant picnic on Omaha Beach, dance at Liberation balls, and witness the international parachuting of several hundred soldiers above Sainte-Mère-Église. It's a time to honor the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought for freedom, while also celebrating peace and unity.

#6 Pays de Montbéliard Agglomération: French Capital of Culture 2024

Pays de Montbéliard Agglomération, Avenue des Alliés, Montbéliard, France

On January 13, 2023, the Ministry of Culture labeled Pays de Montbéliard Agglomération (PMA) as the French Capital of Culture 2024. The program includes the Temples itinerary, the Château des Ducs de Wurtemberg, and the Peugeot Adventure Museum.

#7 The #7 Reopening of Notre-Dame de Paris

Notre Dame, Paris, France

Since the fire on April 15, 2019, which completely destroyed the spire, the roofs of the nave and transept, as well as its framework, Notre-Dame de Paris has been closed to the public. The reopening of the cathedral is scheduled for December 8, 2024, and promises to be a very emotional moment for Parisians. Meanwhile, know that the label "Notre-Dame de Paris: Towards Reopening" gathers cultural events, exhibitions, conferences, and events dedicated to the cathedral throughout the year 2024.   Learn moe in Notre Dame's calendar of events.

Advice and Recommendations

Join the first eco-designed French running race for the planet Run for planet .   Run in Bordeaux on June 2nd, in Paris on June 9th, in Lyon on June 23rd, and in Nantes in September, and support associations such as the League for the Protection of Birds, Doctors of the World, L214 Ethique & Animaux, Sea Shepherd, and Planète Urgence.

By Marie Raymond

Marie is a tourism and culture journalist with a serious weakness - she can write just about anywhere, but definitely not in an office! She is inspired by the spirit of the times and the momentum of the moment.

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A Parisian Adventure: Planning the Perfect Day Trip From Paris

Craving a taste of French countryside, medieval history, or artistic inspiration? A day trip from Paris unlocks a world of possibilities

Camilla Amadi • Apr 29, 2024

Beyond the Eiffel Tower lies a treasure trove of destinations waiting to be discovered. Craving a taste of French countryside, medieval history or artistic inspiration? A day trip from Paris unlocks a world of possibilities and you can return to the City of Lights with renewed energy and unforgettable memories.

5 Day Trips From Paris

If you have some extra time, there are many charming towns and villages waiting to be explored. We’ve compiled five enticing escapes, all perfect for a single-day adventure from Paris. Here are a few of our favorites:

Home to the iconic Palace of Versailles, Versailles is a must-see for any history buff. The palace was the seat of French royal power for over a century, and its opulent gardens and staterooms are a testament to the grandeur of the French monarchy.

Things to do: Visit the Palace of Versailles, explore the Hall of Mirrors, stroll through the meticulously manicured gardens, rent a rowboat on the Grand Canal, visit the Marie-Antoinette’s Estate, and attend the famous Musical Fountain Shows (seasonal).

Best time to travel: The best time to visit Versailles is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) when the weather is mild, and the gardens are in full bloom, avoiding the peak summer crowds.

Where to stay : Experience luxury at its finest by staying at the Trianon Palace Versailles, a Waldorf Astoria Hotel, offering elegant rooms and impeccable service just steps away from the Palace of Versailles.

This small village in Normandy is best known as the home of Claude Monet, the founder of Impressionism. Monet’s home and gardens, which he immortalized in many of his paintings, are now a popular tourist destination.

Things to do: Explore Claude Monet’s House and Gardens, wander through the flower garden and water garden, visit the Museum of Impressionisms, and take a leisurely walk around the picturesque village.

Best time to travel: The best time to visit Giverny is from April to October, especially during late spring to early summer when the flowers are in full bloom, and the gardens are at their most colorful.

Where to stay : Enjoy a peaceful countryside retreat at the Le Jardin des Plumes , a charming boutique hotel located close to Monet’s gardens, featuring stylish rooms and a gourmet restaurant with garden views.

Mont Saint-Michel

Mont Saint-Michel is famous for its dramatic tidal variations, with the surrounding bay experiencing some of the highest tides in Europe. During high tide, the island is completely surrounded by water, creating a magical and isolated atmosphere.

Things to do: Explore the Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel, walk along the ramparts for panoramic views, visit the historic village, wander through narrow streets lined with shops and restaurants, and take a guided tour to learn about the island’s fascinating history.

Best time to travel: The best time to visit Mont Saint-Michel is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) to avoid the large crowds of summer while still enjoying pleasant weather.

Where to stay : Immerse yourself in the magic of Mont Saint-Michel by staying at the La Mère Poulard , an iconic hotel and restaurant within the medieval walls, offering cozy rooms and panoramic views of the bay.

The city of Chartres is famous for its magnificent cathedral, Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The cathedral is considered one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in France, and its stained glass windows are some of the most beautiful in the world.

Things To Do: Visit the Maison Picassiette, a unique mosaic-covered house created by local artist Raymond Isidore, using broken glass and pottery. You may also walk the labyrinth located inside Chartres Cathedral, a symbolic journey representing the spiritual pilgrimage to Jerusalem.

Best time to travel: The best time to visit Chartres is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) when the weather is mild, and the city is less crowded. 

Where to stay : Indulge in the historic ambiance of Chartres by booking a stay at the Best Western Plus Hotel Le Grand Monarque , ideally situated near the cathedral and featuring comfortable rooms and a traditional French brasserie.

This medieval town is located in Seine-et-Marne, about an hour east of Paris. Provins is known for its well-preserved city walls, its underground passages, and its annual Rose Festival, which takes place in September.

Things to do: Explore the medieval ramparts and gates, visit the Underground Galleries of Provins, attend a medieval festival or reenactment, explore the Grange aux Dîmes, and visit the Saint-Quiriace Collegiate Church.

Best time to travel : The best time to visit Provins is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is pleasant for exploring outdoor attractions and when various festivals and events take place, celebrating the town’s medieval heritage.

Where to stay : Step back in time at the Maison d’Hôtes Stella Cadente , a unique boutique hotel located within the medieval walls of Provins, offering themed rooms inspired by fairy tales and a whimsical atmosphere that transports guests to another era.

Plan Your Itinerary

Crafting a well-rounded itinerary ensures you make the most of your time away from Paris. Consider the following tips:

Early Start: Begin your day trip early to maximize exploration time and avoid crowds, especially at popular attractions like Versailles or Mont Saint-Michel.

Transportation : Research transportation options, whether by train, bus, or organized tours, and book tickets in advance for a seamless journey.

Highlight Attractions: Prioritize must-see attractions while allowing flexibility for unexpected discoveries and leisurely moments.

Local Cuisine: Sample regional delicacies at quaint cafes or charming bistros, savoring the flavors of each destination.

Pack Essentials: Prepare for a day of adventure by packing essentials tailored to your chosen destination.

Comfortable Attire : Dress appropriately for the weather and activities, whether exploring palace grounds, hiking nature trails, or wandering cobblestone streets.

Map and Guidebook : Arm yourself with maps and guidebooks to navigate unfamiliar terrain and gain insights into local history and culture.

Camera : Capture the beauty and memories of your day trip with a camera or smartphone to immortalize scenic vistas and cherished moments.

Snacks and Water: Stay energized and hydrated throughout the day with snacks and water, especially if venturing to remote areas.

Embrace the Experience

Venturing beyond Paris’s borders unveils a world of wonders waiting to be explored. Whether you seek history, art, nature, or gastronomy, a day trip from Paris promises an enriching experience. Whichever destination you choose, you’re sure to have a memorable day trip from Paris. As you embark on your day trip from Paris, embrace the sense of adventure, engage with the locals and soak in the sights and sounds that comes with exploration. Bon voyage!

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