tour to normandy from paris

The 7 Best Normandy Tours From Paris [2023 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.

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Best tours of normandy from paris.

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Quick Answer: The 7 Best Normandy D-Day Beach Tours From Paris For 2023

• Best Private Tour: Private Day Tour to D-Day Beaches from Paris
• Best Small Group Tour: Normandy D-Day Small-Group Day Trip w/ Omaha Beach, Cemetery & Cider Tasting
• 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 private tour: private day tour to d-day beaches from paris.

• Departure Point : Hotel Pickup
• Departure Time : 7:00 AM
• 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.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other paris experiences you may enjoy:, 2. best value tour: normandy d-day small-group day trip with omaha beach, cemetery & cider tasting.

• Departure Point : 6 Av. de Wagram, 75008 Paris
• 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.

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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

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25 Best Normandy Tours from Paris – D-Day Beaches, Mont Saint Michel …

Wondering what are the best Normandy tours from Paris ?

Just a few hours’ transfer can whisk you from the shadow of the Eiffel Tower to amazing Normandy sights. And what sights they are! Think golden beaches steeped in dark 20th-century military history. Get ready for proud monuments to WWII heroes. Prepare for cobbled old towns peppered with half-timbered bistros and crowned by glorious Gothic spires.

Start planning for days of cliff walking, cider tasting, and visions of Monet, van Gogh, and the Bayeux Tapestry. All that and more is on offer from this medley of awesome Normandy tours.

1. Normandy D-Day Beaches Day Trip with American Cemetery and Lunch

Focus your adventure to Normandy on the dark and tumultuous history of WWII with this guided tour of the region’s infamous battlefields. The main pitstop will be the wide, wind-blasted sands of Omaha Beach. That was one of the main invasion points in the great D-Day landings of 1944, and today visitors can still see the remnants of hardy German bunkers cast in concrete on the headlands.

After that, you can wonder at the ingenious harbor constructed by Allied forces on the bay of Arromanches, and pay your respects at the moving Canadian Memorial of Juno Beach.

• D-Day Beaches Tours from Paris

2. Mont Saint Michel Day Tour from Paris

Prepare to be stunned the moment you first set eyes on Mont Saint Michel. One of the great treasures of Normandy – nay, all of France! – it crowns a tidal island in the English Channel like a grand, Gothic limpet. Once the home of a wandering Irish hermit, the spot later became a Breton bastion against Viking raiders, eventually growing into a sprawling monastic community and castle complex by the Hundred Years’ War. These days, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which you’ll tour with an in-the-know history guide.

Afterwards, you’ll have time to wonder at the stunning Norman coast, as visions of water-dappled bays and estuaries extend away to the horizon.

• Mont Saint Michel Tours from Paris

3. 2-Day Normandy, Saint Malo and Mont St Michel Tour from Paris

One moment you’ll be lost between the cobblestone alleys and half-timbered taverns of medieval Rouen. The next, you’re wandering the boat-bobbing quays of romantic Honfleur as the evening haze glows yellow across the honey-tinted townhouses there. Then, you’ll gasp as the mighty turrets of Mont Saint Michel come into view on the English Channel. And you’ll be enthralled by heroic tales of D-Day invaders on the beaches of Normandy.

All that and more fits into this two-day adventure through northern France. Accommodation is in the immersive fortress town of Caen and all meals are included.

• Compare all Tours

4. Normandy D-Day Beaches: Day Trip from Paris

It might only last a day, but this whirlwind tour of Normandy’s most profound war sites and battlefields leaves plenty of time for reflection. It starts with a stop at the Caen Memorial Museum, where you’ll unravel the tumultuous tale of WWII and the heroic invasion of the beaches by the Allies.

After that, you move deeper into the region to stand at the infamous Pointe du Hoc, where Nazi bunkers once kept watch over the key D-Day landing spots of Omaha and Utah alike. From there, it’s straight to the sprawling American Cemetery at Saint Laurent. That’s got nearly 10,000 white headstones that stand as testimony to the sacrifices that were made by so many on the fateful days of June 1944.

• D Day Battlefields Tours

5. Small-group WWI Somme Battlefields Day Trip from Paris with John Monash Centre

The focus switches from the landing sites of WWII to the bloodied battlefields of the Great War on this 11-hour excursion out of Paris. Instead of heading to the salt-washed coast, you head to the poppy-strewn meadows of the Somme, which means trading Normandy for the rural depths of the Hauts-de-France region. Once there, you’ll get moments of meditation in the vast Delville Wood cemetery (home to more than 5,500 fallen soldiers).

You’ll experience trench life in preserved dugouts at Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial. And you’ll get to explore the vast military history collections of the acclaimed Historial in Perrone.

• WWI Battlefields Tours

6. Giverny & Monet’s Garden by Train

There’s no more romantic a way to hit the old home and workshop of France’s master lily painter than by train. Bag this package and you’ll be sent pre-paid rail tickets that’ll whisk you out of Paris and through the rolling farm fields of Normandy, where stone-faced longhouses pepper the cow meadows.

The locomotive drops you near the cute village of Giverny, ushering in an afternoon of plaintive wanderings in the Maison et Jardins de Claude Monet – the onetime stomping ground of the iconic Impressionist.

• Compare Giverny & Monet’s House Tours

7. 3-Days Normandy, St Malo, Mont Saint Michel & Loire Castles with Wine Tasting

There’s a real French odyssey on offer here. From the grand chateaux of the Loire Valley to the wave-bashed sands of Normandy’s beaches, it’s a trip that takes in some of the most iconic aspects of the Parisian hinterland. To kick things off, Rouen offers its crooked, half-timbered architecture and literary heritage.

Then heartstring-tugging Honfleur makes and appearance – it’s where Boudin and Monet alike came for inspiration. From there, it’s over to the amazing D-Day landing sites for glimpses of bunkers and cemeteries.

And then it’s back south to castles close to Paris, and hard-earned tasting sessions in award-winning wineries.

• Check Normandy Tours

8. Normandy and Brittany 2-Day Tour from Paris

Check off two of northern France’s most chart-topping regions in a single trip with this fly-in jaunt through both Normandy and Brittany. You’ll leave Paris in its urban haze and feel the salt spray of the wild coast.

There are moments to get lost between the grey bulwarks of Saint-Malo, where pirates once glugged rum in the taverns. And you get to see the UNESCO site at Mont Saint-Michel to boot. Punctuating that are stops at historic beaches and wind-lashed cliff lookouts, not to mention accommodation in four-star hotels the whole way!

• Compare Normandy Tours from Paris

9. Private Day Tour to Normandy D-day beaches from Paris

If you’re heading Normandy way to really get a feel for the layer upon layer of military history that exists in the region, there’s surely no substitute for having your own private guide. They can curate trips just like this one, which take you to well-known WWII memorials like the American Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer, but also out to more off-the-beaten-track places like the flashpoint crossing of Pegasus Bridge and the aging Nazi gun batteries at Longues-Sure-Mer.

Moreover, you’ll get to ask any question you like, whenever you like. And the trip has direct pick up and drop off anywhere in the capital!

• Private D Day Battlefields Tours

10. Auvers-sur-Oise & Giverny Small-Group Day Trip with Lunch from Paris

This small-group tour from Paris is all about chasing the brush strokes of two of Europe’s greatest artists. First up is Claude Monet. His home awaits between the blooming flowerbeds, irises, and willow trees of handsome Giverny. You can tour that to learn all about what inspired him and the Impressionist movement as a whole.

Then comes Vincent van Gogh. His tumultuous life ended on the outskirts of Paris in Auvers-sur-Oise in 1890. The room where he passed in the Auberge Ravoux is still preserved to see.

• Auvers-sur-Oise & Giverny Tours

11. Small-Group Mont Saint-Michel Day Trip with Abbey Entrance and Cider Tasting

The mysteries and histories of the great Mont Saint Michel are the focus of this full-day outing from the French capital. As you drive north-west to the shores of Normandy where the UNESCO site awaits, its past will be narrated by a qualified guide.

You’ll learn about how it went from a humble Irish hermitage to a powerful military outpost in just a matter of centuries. After arriving, you’ll gain sought-after access to the main abbey, where you’ll wander soaring Gothic interiors, shadowy cloisters, art-filled chapels, and more.

• Compare Tours from Paris

12. Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches Tour including Cider Tasting and Lunch

There are two distinct halves to this 14-hour run-around of Normandy. Come morning, you’ll cruise north-west from the Eiffel Tower and straight to the coast of the English Channel. That’s where you delve into WWII history. It’s a jaunt that includes stops at the haunting remnants of German bunkers above Utah Beach – one of the D-Day landing grounds.

The afternoon is taken with visits to a vast military cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer. Breaking the day up is a return to bucolic French backcountry. There, you’ll taste Norman calvados brandies and glug cloudy ciders to get a feel for the rich culinary heritage of the region to boot.

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

Honfleur is a town that rarely fails to beguile and enchant. Once the muse of Impressionist painters, it comes with a reflective ancient harbor – the Vieux Bassin – where higgledy-piggledy houses tower with their slate-clad façades above one another. Beyond that are boulevards laden with calvados cellars and cobbled alleys scented with the aromas of grilling fish. It really is pure Normandy.

You’ll get to explore all that to your heart’s content, and with a dedicated guide in tow, on this small-group tour of the so-called Côte Fleurie. And there are two more gorgeous seaside towns – Trouville and Deauville – thrown in for good measure.

• Compare Honfleur Tours from Paris

14. Giverny and Monet’s Garden Bike Tour

Leave behind the traffic-clogged lanes of the French capital for a taste of classic Norman countryside by trading air-conditioned minibuses for a vintage bike. You’ll hop on your wheels in the town of Vernon. There’s a short break to load the basket with pungent camembert cheeses and crispy baguettes for lunch later on. And then it’s straight out to the banks of the snaking Seine River and their rolling cow fields and maize meadows.

You’ll reach Giverny after only three miles on the tracks. It’s the epicenter of all things Monet, with visions of the church where he’s buried, the house where he lived, and the Hotel Baudy – a place where artists like Renior once came to tea.

• Monet’s House Tours from Paris

15. 2- Days Mont Saint Michel, Loire Castles & Wine Tasting Tour from Paris

If you think you call pull yourself away from Montmartre and the Louvre for two full days, this expedition to the regions on the peripheries of Paris is one you certainly won’t forget. It takes in a duo of France’s most striking cultural wonders. Up north, in Normandy, the stage is set for the glorious spires and buttresses of UNESCO-tagged Mont Saint Michel, an ancient monastic castle that juts high above the English Channel.

Then it’s onto another world heritage site: The Loire Valley. Romance flows as easily as the winding Loire River there. The hills are topped with medieval castles; the landscapes are speckled with proud chateaux. You’ll taste wine and get to picnic in the country before returning to the big city.

• Normandy Tours from Paris

16. Small-Group Normandy D-Day Beaches Day Trip with Omaha Beach, American Cemetery and Cider Tasting

A small-group tour of the Normandy Beaches is a great way to trace the footsteps of D-Day heroes. With just eight people maximum in each group, there’s plenty of time to ask questions and reflect on the poignant locations you’ll encounter along the way. Stops include the Pointe du Hoc, where muscular concrete bunkers still keep watch over the 100-foot cliffs that were scaled by American rangers back in 1944.

You’ll also get to pay your respects at the American Cemetery, and learn all about the landings in the informative Operation Overlord Museum.

17. Étretat and Le Havre Day Tour from Paris with Gourmet Lunch

This day-long tour is your ticket to the wave-smashed white cliffs of Étretat. Considered one of the most dramatic sections of French coastline, these runs of shore are home to the carved Porte d’Aval stone bridge and soaring hoodoos that spike straight out of the English Channel.

But the amazements don’t end there. Late morning jaunts through Étretat’s own market mean chances to shop for calvados and cider and cheese. Then comes Le Havre, one of Normandy’s most striking towns, where post-war modernism unfolds in countless concrete blocks and wide boulevards.

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18. British Landing Beaches & Caen Discovery from Paris

Calling all aficionados of British military history – this guided tour focuses on the D-Day beaches of Gold and Sword. They were the landing points assigned to the Royal Navy and UK forces in 1944. Exploring them today makes it possible to see the hulking gun batteries at Longues-sur-Mer and the remains of the Mulberry harbor that was constructed by the allies in Arromanches.

Walking tours of the city of Caen – liberated by the British shortly after the landings – and the flashpoint crossing at Pegasus Bridge are also included before the return to Paris.

19. From Paris: Full-Day Small Group Trip To Rouen

Straddling a bend on the Seine some 80 miles north-west of Paris, romantic Rouen is one of Normandy’s great jewels. It’s steeped in layers of culture and history. Look one way and you’ll spy the filigreed spires of its grand Gothic cathedral. Look another and there are cozy calvados taverns mingling with Norman bistros in narrow alleys.

This tour opens up the region’s capital and all its secrets. You’ll have a dedicated guide the whole way, ready to spin tales of Monet, Victor Hugo, and Joan of Arc alike.

• Rouen day trips

20. 4-Day Normandy, Saint-Malo, Mont Saint-Michel and Chateaux Country Tour

A real escape to the French country is offered by this four-day jaunt through the rural north. Covering three separate regions and countless towns, it’s packed with enjoyments. Normandy gets things rolling. First up: The sobering monuments that stand above Omaha Beach, and glimpses of gorgeous Rouen.

The second day takes you over the bulwarks of the old corsair town of Saint-Malo, and then to the jaw-dropping island of Mont Saint Michel. From there, it’s south, to the Loire Valley and the UNESCO-tagged castle-chateaux that offer wine and farm-to-table foods on the cusp of Paris.

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21. D-Day Tour: Caen Memorial, Normandy Landing Beaches, St Laurent Cemetery, Arromanches – Hotel pick-up/drop-off

You’ll be whisked straight from your hotel lobby in Paris to the beaches of Normandy on this return tour of the famous landing sites. The trip encompasses some of the most notable flashpoints in the invasions of Operation Overlord that helped to turn the tide of the war against the Nazis in 1944.

Gun batteries at Pointe du Hoc mingle with sobering visits to vast military graveyards. You’ll see Juno Beach that was taken by Canadian forces, and Omaha Beach, where Allied casualties hit their highest number. In all, the tour lasts 15.5 hours. Pick up is at 6.30am.

• Compare Normandy Tours

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

Looking for romance and culture rolled into one? This intimate small-group jaunt through the heart of Normandy could be just what you’re searching for. It starts with explorations of gorgeous Rouen. An ancient town of stony lanes and half-timbered cottages, it’s where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake way back in 1431.

From there, it’s straight across to Giverny. That’s the revered home of one Claude Monet. Visitors still get to see the quaint country church where he rests, along with the flower-strewn gardens that inspired many of his greatest paintings.

• See Giverny Tours

23. Honfleur, Deauville, and Trouville Day Tour in Côte Fleurie from Paris

Welcome to the Côte Fleurie – the Flowery Coast. Named for the blooming beds of roses, irises, rhododendron, and tulips that sway in the grand gardens of the area’s Belle Époque villas, the region is also famed as the artistic incubator of the Impressionist movement.

As you travel from uber-romantic Honfleur to the quaint fishing town of Trouville, you’ll be able to unravel stories about figures like Claude Monet and Boudin. There’s also a pitstop in Deauville, to see how the 1% live in their grand spa hotels on the English Channel.

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24. Skip the Line: Giverny and Monet House Half-Day Trip from Paris

Lose yourself between the flower blooms, lily pads, and drooping willow boughs of gorgeous Giverny on this odyssey of art and culture. It’s all about uncovering the life and works of Claude Monet, perhaps France’s most acclaimed Impressionist painter.

You’ll see the house where he lived and the oriental gardens that inspired some of his most moving and emotive canvasses. What’s more, the ticket includes a queue jump, so you won’t waste a minute in between.

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25. Monet’s Giverny & Versailles Palace Full-Day Trip from Paris

Fusing the dream-like artworks of Monet with the flamboyant palatial complexes of Versailles, this full-day tour takes in some of the undisputed highlights of the regions around the French capital. In all, the trip takes a whopping 10 hours. But that’s certain to whiz by as you venture through rural Normandy to the flower-strewn village grounds of Giverny to trace the history of Impressionism.

Then, it’s back south for a queue-jump ticket at Versailles, to finish the outing with visions of gold-plated court rooms and manicured royal gardens.

• Giverny & Versailles Palace Tours

Didn’t find the Normandy tour you were looking for? Check here our full list of Normandy tours from Paris .

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

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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.

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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

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From Paris to Normandy: 4 Best Ways to Get There

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Jul 13, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Normandy in northern France played a pivotal role during the Second World War. During the Battle of Normandy, the Allied invasion that occurred on June 6th, 1944 (known as D-Day) changed the course of the war. Today Normandy's D-Day landing beaches are some of France's most-visited destinations because of their historical significance.

The D-Day landing beaches are found along a 100-kilometer coastal stretch, from Ouistreham (Sword Beach) to Sainte-Marie-du-Mont (Utah Beach). WWII memorials and museums, including the Mémorial de Caen museum and the Pegasus Memorial in Ranville, pay tribute to the Allied forces and honor their heroic efforts.

There are several considerations to keep in mind when deciding how to get to Normandy's WWII sites: First, there is a lot of ground to cover. Second, visiting the D-Day landing beaches requires a driving itinerary.

Tourists can either rent a car and visit the sights independently or take a guided tour. For the most rewarding experience, an organized tour is recommended. Knowledgable guides share interesting information that helps visitors understand the D-Day landing sites; their commentary also provides context during visits to museums and military memorials.

On This Page:

• From Paris to Normandy by Guided Tour
• From Paris to Normandy by Train
• From Paris to Normandy by Bus
• From Paris to Normandy by Car

1. From Paris to Normandy by Guided Tour

Many tourists prefer to take a guided tour of the D-Day sites for a few reasons. It is much easier to leave the driving up to someone else, and guided tours allow for efficient sightseeing, so you can see more places in one day. But the main advantage of taking a guided tour is the in-depth commentary that brings the history to life.

For a truly educational visit to Normandy's WWII sites, take the Normandy D-Day Beaches Tour . This full-day (13-hour) guided tour covers the key places that tell the story of the Allied invasion. The tour also includes a visit to the American Cemetery at Omaha Beach.

A knowledgable guide will take you to the area's most important locations, including the Mulberry Harbor and the Musée du Débarquement (D-Day Museum) at Arromanches; Omaha Beach, where scenes of Saving Private Ryan were filmed; and the American Cemetery (172 acres of verdant space above Omaha Beach) in Colleville-sur-Mer, where heavy American casualties occurred. Along the way, your guide will share historical commentary to provide a sense of context.

Because there is so much to see, the tour departs early (at 7am). The tour includes round-trip transportation by luxury coach (with air-conditioning) and free time for lunch or refreshments on your own at Arromanches. The town of Arromanches-les-Bains has many casual dining options within walking distance of the Musée du Débarquement, including a few seafood restaurants, a crêperie, an ice-cream shop, and a boulangerie-pâtisserie that sells delicious pastries.

2. From Paris to Normandy by Train

You can take the train from Paris to Bayeaux , one of the top places to visit in Normandy . A direct train from the Gare Saint-Lazare station takes two hours and 20 minutes to arrive in Bayeaux. There are also excellent tours of the D-Day landing beaches that depart from Bayeaux.

It is definitely worth spending time in Bayeaux to discover its quaint old town and to see the UNESCO-listed Bayeux Tapestry at the Bayeux Museum. If you spend the morning exploring Bayeaux, then it makes sense to take a half-day guided tour of the D-Day sites.

The Normandy Beaches Half-Day Trip begins with a pickup at the Bayeaux train station at 1pm, and the tour lasts about five hours. A knowledgable guide takes you to the Pointe du Hoc, Omaha Beach, and the American Cemetery, while sharing insightful commentary about the war and fascinating historical details.

If you are taking the train from Paris to Bayeaux and have more time, then it is best to go on a full-day guided tour of the D-Day sites. A longer tour allows you to get a better sense of the D-Day sites and gain more insight into the monumental impact of the Second World War.

The American D-Day Landing Beaches Tour begins at the Place de Québec in Bayeaux at 8:45am and includes round-trip transportation, as well as an all-day guided tour. A professional tour guide will take you to Utah Beach, the Pointe du Hoc, and Omaha Beach, along the way explaining the historical details of D-Day. The tour includes a stop in the village of Sainte-Mère-Eglise for lunch or to visit the Airborne Museum.

The Normandy American D-Day Beaches Tour is another full-day tour that departs from the Place de Québec in Bayeaux. This nine-hour tour begins at 8:30am. The tour covers Omaha Beach; Pointe du Hoc; the American Cemetery; the Musée du Débarquement; and the village of Sainte-Mère-Église, which was the first town to be liberated in Normandy.

Alternatively, you can take the train from Paris directly to Caen. The train departs in Paris from the Gare Saint-Lazare station (in the direction of Cherbourg) and takes two hours to reach Caen. The main attraction in Caen is the Mémorial de Caen (Caen Memorial Center), which presents an overview of the Battle of Normandy.

3. From Paris to Normandy by Bus

The FlixBus company runs several direct bus routes from Paris to Caen . You can choose the departure station in Paris. For most tourists, the Bercy Seine station in the 12th arrondissement is the most convenient. The route from Paris Bercy Seine station to Caen takes three hours and 30 minutes .

If you are staying outside the center of Paris, then you might consider departing from another station. There are routes from Paris La Défense in Puteaux (the business district of Paris) and Pont de Levallois station in Courbevoie (eight kilometers from Paris). Both of these routes to Caen take two hours and 40 minutes.

Caen is a good starting point for exploring the D-Day landing sites, because several guided tours depart here. Also, the Mémorial de Caen museum in Caen makes this city a worthwhile destination in itself.

4. From Paris to Normandy by Car

If you feel comfortable driving in France and would like to spend a few days in Normandy, renting a car makes sense. This option allows you to customize your own itinerary of the D-Day sites and visit at your own pace.

Driving is also practical if you are planning visits to some of the nearby attractions in Normandy, such as the beach resort of Deauville or the charming seaside town of Honfleur .

The drive from Paris to Caen takes about 2.5 hours . Not to be missed in Caen is the Mémorial de Caen, a museum dedicated to WWII history. Visitors may opt to join a guided tour of the D-Day sites (Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer, Arromanches, and the Pointe du Hoc) organized by the Mémorial de Caen. The tour guides have trained with historians from the museum.

From Paris, it's a one-hour drive to Arromanches , where the Musée du Débarquement is located overlooking the remnants of an artificial harbor built for the Allied invasion. The Musée du Débarquement in Arromanches offers guided tours of its exhibits.

Rental cars are available at Charles de Gaulle Airport and at various car rental agencies in Paris. There are many car rental places at the Gare Saint-Lazare and the Gare Montparnasse in Paris.

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Other Attractions in Normandy : About a two-hour drive from Caen is the UNESCO-listed Mont Saint-Michel , an exquisite ancient monastery perched on an island just off the coastline. The quaint medieval town of Rouen , renowned for its glorious Gothic cathedral and picturesque half-timbered houses, is less than a two-hour train ride or 90-minute drive from Caen.

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3 Day Guided Trip to Normandy, Mont Saint-Michel, Loire Valley Chateaux from Paris, with transport

Enjoy a three-day guided French tour of discovery. Visit the legendary Mont-Saint-Michel, the landing beaches of Normandy, and the typically local towns of Rouen, Honfleur and Saint Malo. Immerse yourself in royal history with a visit to the Loire Castles of Langeais, Chambord and Chenonceau. 

Guided Tour of Normandy D-Day Beaches Day Trip from Paris with transport

Enjoy a guided tour of the D-Day landing beaches in Normandy to immerse yourself in the history of World War II.  Lunch at leisure in Arromanches. Visit the American cemetery of Colleville-sur-Mer, the Cinema 360 Museum of Arromanches and the beaches of Omaha and Juno.

All day guided tour of the D-Day landing beaches in Normandy in a small group (1-15) Day Trip, with transport from Paris

Live a unique experience through the Normandy landing beaches. An experienced guide will show you the main sites where the Allies landed during World War II : the American cemetery, Omaha and Juno beach. Free lunch and visit of the 360 museum in Arromanches. Guided tour in French, Portuguese and Spanish on private tour only.

Normandy day trip, what to visit?

Are you planning to go on holiday for a few days while taking part in a city tour? Many tourist treasures are waiting for you: if you fell in love with the Normandy countryside view, you will also love to explore the villages, museums, and places of memory of the region.

Landing beaches, museums, places of memory

Upon arrival, a guide-interpreter will take you around to discover the landing beaches , the Caen Memorial, and the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer to learn more about this unprecedented historical event. Pockets of free time will give you the chance to take some photos, walk around on Omaha Beach and at Pointe du Hoc. The all-inclusive, full-day package, which can be tailored to and made private for small groups, comprises eating a traditional French meal at a restaurant in Caen and discovering Arromanches and the Canadian Memorial at Juno Beach.

Normandy beach tours will allow you to discover places full of memory. They are very visited by American, English, Canadian or Australian tourists: it happens that some of them have a family member who was involved in the fighting in Normandy and was able to give oral testimony. By discovering the landing beaches and the sites where the battlefields took place, such as Sainte-Mère-l'Eglise or Pegasus Bridge, they can honor his memory.

Discover Normandy outside the ports

Picturesque fishing ports run along the coast. You will be able to succumb to the beauty of Deauville, a charming seaside resort famous for its film festival. Historical monuments have also escaped destruction or have been restored to be discovered nowadays with great pleasure. Bayeux is also a beautiful city to visit and famous for its "Bayeux Tapestry" of 68 meters long. Moreover, Honfleur, so appreciated by Impressionist painters, is a magnificent place at the mouth of the Seine. The historic center of Rouen, with its cathedral, also has many tourist attractions.

What to visit in Normandy by day or over several days?

Paris City Vision sightseeing tours that take place over several days are also available and will provide you with the opportunity to discover even more of France before heading to the Normandy region, like Saint-Malo and the Mont Saint Michel (a 2-day trip with an overnight stay in a 3-star hotel) or a guided visit of the famous Loire Valley castles (a 3-4 day trip that includes touring Normandy).

Going on a guided tour of Normandy beaches with ParisCityVision allows visitors to retrace the steps of the 150,000 brave American, British and Canadian soldiers who disembarked on June 6, 1944, to liberate France from German occupation. It also means reliving D-Day and remembering those who fought and who gave their lives in the name of liberty. It’s also the chance to thank them by gathering before the Mémorial de la Paix de Caen (the Caen Peace Memorial) and to stand before the graves of those buried at the Saint-Laurent American Cemetery.

The Discover Normandy Sightseeing Tour also allows tourists to visit a beautiful region highly appreciated by those in search of fresh air and stunning nature. Enjoy the best of French gastronomy, visit small, charming fishing ports, admire homes flower-covered, tour beaches and quaint villages. This visit is simply another way to pay tribute to France and its “art de Vivre”.

For a few hours or for several days, we certainly offer the excursion or the circuit adapted to your expectations to visit Normandy!

If you are looking for tours from Paris and around the Ile de France region, with a professional guide or on your own, Paris City Vision provides you with top-of-the-range tours including transportation and visits to discover the best places of France. Check all of our offers on our website and make the most out of your stay with us.

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How to Plan the Perfect Paris to Normandy Trip (+ Itinerary)

Paris to Normandy

With the 75th anniversary of D Day approaching, it’s a momentous time to visit the World War II memorial sites in Normandy .

Here’s a practical guide about how to get from Paris to Normandy!

Quickly jump to:

Where is Normandy

• Normandy’s Best D-Day Sights
• Visiting as a Day Trip from Paris 
• Visiting via Guided Tour  (recommended)
• Staying in Bayeux vs Caen

How to Get from Paris to Normandy

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Normandy is one of the 18 regions of France and located in the north.

Its beautiful coastline is most famous for the church of Mont Saint Michel, a medieval monastery perched on an island off the shore, and the World War II beachheads where the Allies launched their offensive attack on five beaches for D Day.

There is lots of significant history in Normandy, due to its close proximity to England.

A Brief History of Normandy

Norman lords led by William, the Duke of Normandy, and later named William the Conqueror, crossed the English Channel to successfully capture the throne of England.

A few centuries later, Normandy wavered back and forth between English and French control during the Hundred Years War. Plantagenet King of England and Crusader Richard the Lionheart is buried in Rouen, the regional capital of modern-day Normandy. 

Whether you like history, small towns or great cuisine, there is so much to explore in Normandy!

How Far is Normandy from Paris

Normandy lies roughly 200 km (approx 125 miles) west of Paris.

Some quaint towns, like Giverny , can be easily explored on a leisurely day trip from Paris. Others, like Mont Saint Michel and the World War II memorials along the far northwest coast, are better explored by staying overnight.

Visiting Normandy for D Day

Since most Americans head to Normandy to see the D Day beaches , I’ll go into depth about how best to visit them below.

Day Trip from Paris to D Day Beaches

It’s possible to see the d-day landing beaches in a day trip from Paris, but fair warning – it will be a brutally long day. 

For context, the Normandy beaches are spread out across 50 miles, from east to west, in an area far from Paris with lots to see. You’ll likely have just enough time to see a couple of the main sites briefly. 

With that being said, if all you have is a day, one day is better than nothing!

How to Day Trip from Paris to Normandy

1. First take the train from Paris into Bayeux or Caen.

These are the two historic cities nearest to the Normandy beaches. Both are easily accessible by train from Paris but the one way train ride takes roughly 2.5 hours.

I cover how to take the train in more depth, below.

2. Next, I would definitely hire a local guide or pre-book a D Day tour

By booking ahead, the guide will meet you at the train station in Normandy and care of all the logistics to getting around Normandy. Normandy is the countryside, so it’s pretty difficult to get around without a car.

Local guides are really fantastic – as they are typically always led by locals who can provide a full historical context of the memorials, ensuring that you can see and do as much as possible. 

Most group tours start early in the morning and end around 6pm, so then you can take the evening train back to Paris and arrive in time for a late dinner, around 9pm.

But, honestly, this will be a rushed day.

It’s even better if you have the time to stay overnight in Bayeux or Caen for a night or two, as there is much more to Normandy than just the 5 landing beaches.

Tips for Visiting the Normandy Beaches

Most guided tours to the D Day sights will start early in the morning, around 9 – 9:30am, so you will need an early train from Paris to Bayeux, or better, arrive in Bayeux the night before. 

If you want the freedom to explore on your own, there is a Hertz car rental in Bayeux, at the Total gas station outside the city. In Caen, there are a ton of rental car offices to choose from.

Browse car rental rates for your dates here .

Normandy D Day Tours

For the D Day sights in particular, I don’t recommend trying to use public transportation  as it will waste a lot of time trying to get around.

The most memorable part of our visit was the history, background and depth which our guide provided. 

Here are some popular D Day tours

Bayeux vs Caen

The two closest towns to the Normandy beaches are  Bayeux and  Caen .

The two cities are roughly 20 miles apart, or about 30 minutes driving distance. If you have a couple of days to spend in Normandy, definitely visit both!

They are each relatively central to the D Day sights – it simply depends on how you want to explore Normandy. Let me explain..

Bayeux is a charming French town, with a really quaint ‘small town’ feel. It has under 15,000 inhabitants and is small enough to walk around on foot. The riverfront area is very picturesque and the historic center is a very pretty area with cute shops and great restaurants. 

Medieval Bayeux is most famous for its cathedral (just as stunning as Paris’ Notre Dame) and the historic Bayeux Tapestry (showing the Norman conquest of England). Woven by the wife of William the Conqueror, the Bayeux Tapestry is one of the oldest in the world that remains intact and has its own dedicated museum.

During World War II, it was in Bayeux that Charles de Gaulle made his famous speech proclaiming France’s allegiance to the Allies. There is a Battle of Normandy WWII museum to visit and the German Gun Batteries at Longues sur Mer. Bayeux was virtually untouched during the Battle of Normandy.

But, Bayeux is a bit more touristy and expensive. The town quiets down early, around 5pm. Bayeux also has fewer direct trains from Paris so you will often have to change in Caen, and there is just 1 car rental agency in town, outside the train station. 

If you plan to pick up a rental car and drive around Normandy , I wouldn’t recommend taking the train from Paris to Bayeux. But, if you plan to take a guided D-Day tour, most tours will originate from Bayeux so riding the train here makes sense.

Best for: D Day Tours

Where to Stay in Bayeux: Hotel Lion D'Or

This historic inn is cozy, modern and perfect for those wanting to stay in quaint Bayeux to see the D Day beaches. It's within walking distance to tons of shops and restaurants and also very affordable.

Book rooms: Hotels.com , Booking.com

Check rates: TripAdvisor

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Caen feels quite vibrant and modern, with great options for dining, hotels and nightlife. It has lots of direct train connections to Paris and also lots of car rental options . This city is a great base for those wanting to road trip Normandy. 

Caen boasts one of the best World War II museums in France, the Caen Memorial Museum, which is just 15 minutes from the D Day beaches. Also worth exploring is the castle of William the Conqueror and medieval fortifications. 

Caen is a convenient base for exploring many of Normandy’s coastal towns like Dieppe, Honfleur, etc. The city is a central hub for both train and bus connections. 

Most people who visit think Caen is ‘ugly’ in comparison to Bayeux. But, there’s a lot of interesting background history here..

Caen played a key role in WWII during the Battle for Caen, a fierce fight which lasted for 2 months in the summer of 1944. Some consider the city to have been martyred during Operation Overlord, as the Allies were forced to bomb the city and countryside extensively. 

After the war, the city was slowly rebuilt in dreary concrete. Caen today is a large industrial city, with over 100,000 inhabitants. 

Best for: Visitors who plan to see more of Normandy

Where to Stay in Caen: Hotel Le Dauphin

Hotel Le Dauphin has a terrific location near the Chateau de Caen, in the historic city center. Beds are comfy, the on site restaurant is pretty good, and there's also tons of nearby restaurants and shops to explore.

Book rooms: Booking.com

How to Get to Normandy from Paris

From Paris, you have 3 main options:

• Cruise on the Seine River
• Take the Train

Seine River Cruise

I’ve been to Normandy many times, but most recently we opted to go via cruise. It was SO much more convenient to have all the transportation taken care of and the guides we had were excellent. You can read more about our Seine River cruise experience here .

Renting a Car

France’s A13 highway (the first motorway in the country) runs from Paris to Rouen . You can reach almost all of Normandy’s most famous places with the motorway.

Check car rental rates for your dates here .

Driving from Paris to Normandy by Car

Taking the Train from Paris to Normandy

It’s also very doable to take the train from Paris.

In France, the national rail system is called SNCF and trains will leave from either of two Paris stations: Gare Saint-Lazare and Gare Montparnasse / Vaugirard.

Normandy is a region, so you need to pick an arrival town for your train ticket. Here is a list of the train options for some of the most popular places in Normandy.

Paris to Normandy by Train

Note:  The times are just for reference. Actual duration will depend on the train you take, as there are often multiple options with both slow trains and faster direct trains.

For visiting the D Day sites, the closet train station is either Bayeux or Caen. For visiting Mont Saint Michel, the closest train station is in Rennes. 

Train Schedules

SNCF typically releases its train schedules 90 days prior to departure, at which point you can book your tickets.

For peak season (July to August), SNCF will sometimes open the train schedules earlier. If you are seeing that a route ‘doesn’t exist’, you’re likely just browsing too early.

Book as soon as you have settled on your dates – it can save you nearly half price as fares will rise with time. There are a couple different ticket options . The cheapest fare is non refundable. If you aren’t set on your dates or want some piece of mind, purchase the flexible tickets which can be exchanged or refunded. 

How to Buy French Train Tickets Online

Ah, French bureaucracy. 

The French railway website has different subsidiary websites for countries around the world. If you speak French, are using a computer located in France and have a French credit card, you can buy online directly very easily.

Here’s what to do if you’re located outside France.

Where to Buy French Train Tickets

Don’t buy from sncf.com if you are in the US, as the website will automatically re-direct you to a US subsidiary that is known to sell only higher priced fares for the US market, and does not allow you to choose your seat class. 

Instead, use Omio , which syncs up to SNCF’s ticket system and sells French train tickets for a much more wallet friendly price. 

Final Train Travel Tips

If you are printing your tickets in France at the train station, make sure to bring the credit card you used to purchase the tickets.

If your credit card has a chip, you can use the ticket machine. If it does not have a chip, you will need to go to the ticket window.

These printed tickets should be validated before boarding. Look for the yellow machines at the entrance to each platform that say ‘Compostez votre billet’. Failure to do so can result in a fine.

If your tickets are the print at home kind, don’t worry about validating them. It’s not needed. 

There are so many great reasons to visit Normandy. What’s your main reason?

Visiting Normandy – Travel Checklist

We took a red eye to Paris from JFK, then sailed on the Seine to Rouen on a river cruise . You can check for  flight deals here   and set an alert for your dates.

It's also easy to take the train from Paris to cities throughout Normandy. Check my post here for more logistical information on taking the train in France and how not  to buy tickets.

In Normandy, there's so much to see over a large area that I'd recommend basing yourself in a city for a couple nights to take day trips, then moving to another city. For the D Day beaches, Bayeux and Caen are both popular bases. Check here for deals on Normandy hotels .

Lastly, be sure to visit Paris with  travel insurance . Whether you get injured and need to be hospitalized, your phone gets stolen, or a flight delay leaves you with nothing but the clothes on your back, travel insurance will help when you need it most.

During our recent trip, riots in Paris shut down the city center and forced a closure of all the main sights (the Louvre, Versailles, etc). Get a quote for your trip here .

  You Might Also Enjoy:  

Normandy Vacation Planning

Cruising on the Seine River from Paris to Rouen

The Most Beautiful Places in Normandy

21 of the Best Things to Do in Normandy

Normandy Towns

Quick Guide to Rouen , Normandy's Capital

Paris to Normandy Day Trips: Vernon & Auvers-sur-Oise

Visiting Giverny & Monet's House

Where to Stay in Giverny

WWII Memorials

How to See Normandy Beach & D-Day Sites

Visiting the Normandy Cemetery in Remembrance of D-Day

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Hello – your site is very informative. I have a question about the train from Paris to Bayeux — your site says that this train is about 2 hours, but when I check the SNCF website it shows 6 – 7 hours. We plan to visit in early June but I think train schedules are posted only 3 months ahead so I checked a Feb date. Will there be more/quicker trains in June ? Many thanks Liz

Hi Elizabeth, Yes there should be much more frequent, faster options in the summer.

Bonjour! Planning a trip the end of April. We are meeting a tour in London but we have 2 days ahead of the tour to visit Normandy. I would like to leave Bayeux and go to London without going back to Paris. How would you suggest we travel ?

Hi Sher: Thanks for your great travel tips. I will be visiting Normandy in October 2020 and cannot figure how to reach Bayeux by train from CDG airport on our day of arrival. Alternatively we may consider renting a car, biut prefer not to drive as first option. Thanks.Alma

Very Helpful information. well done.

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Normandy D-Day Tour from Paris

with Omaha Beach, American Cemetery & Cider Tasting

Small Group Tour

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• Tour Highlights •

Discover the beaches of Normandy!

Retrace the steps of the brave men who took part in the largest military operation in the history of the world on this unforgettable day trip from Paris. You’ll walk the sands of Omaha Beach, peer over the cliffs at the Pointe du Hoc, and go inside of old German bunkers with massive guns still pointing towards England.

You’ll learn the details of the attack plan when you explore the Operation Overlord Museum and have the chance to pay your respects to those who sacrificed everything when you visit the American Cemetery with its 10,000 white crosses standing in rows.

On June 6th, 1944 an unprecedented event took place on the Beaches of Normandy. It was a highly detailed and extremely difficult offensive attack on the Third Reich by more than 150,000 Allied troops arriving by sea and air. The epic battle waged on D-Day was crucial to the liberation of France, the outcome of WWII, and the future of the free world.

Whether you’re a military history buff or someone who is just curious about D-Day, our guide will share the day’s events so you can better appreciate the remarkable acts of bravery and selfless sacrifice which took place on the beaches of Normandy.

German Bunkers and Omaha Beach

Meet up in the morning with your guide close to the Arch 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. The Beaches of Normandy are only 2 hours away from Paris with lots of beautiful French countryside in between.

Arriving in Normandy you’ll explore part of the “Atlantic Wall” built by the Third Reich as you follow your guide into a battery of German bunkers. You’ll see and touch the huge guns that still point towards England and learn about the many extreme fortifications the Allied troops had to fight against when they landed on D-Day.

You’ll then drive to Omaha Beach where the most difficult and impressive attack happened. It’s called “Bloody Omaha” by WWII veterans because in a matter of hours almost 2,500 men lost their lives on this beach. Despite being pinned down by heavy artillery, the surviving soldiers fought with bravery and ingenuity to overcome the enemy.

Operation Overlord Museum and the Pointe du Hoc

Diving deeper into the details of the Invasion of Normandy you’ll visit the Overlord Museum and discover its unparalleled collection. You’ll have an hour of free time inside to see personal items from soldiers, heavy artillery, and other equipment that actually took part in the invasion.

After your visit to the museum it will be lunch time. The guide will take you to a nearby restaurant that has many local specialties such as French barbecued meats, different salads, as well as savory and sweet crepes. You’ll have one hour to rest and enjoy your lunch.

Then you’ll visit the Pointe du Hoc. Walking on the battle scarred earth where allied bombs exploded, you’ll make your way to the edge of the 100ft tall cliffs. Peering over the edge you’ll wonder how the Army Rangers accomplished the impossible task of scaling the cliffs under heavy enemy fire without any back up.

The American Cemetery

Leaving the Pointe du Hoc behind you’ll enjoy a short break at a family owned Cider House. There you’ll have free tastings of the famous Normandy hard cider and Calvados that were made locally. Anyone who prefers not to drink alcohol can enjoy an outstanding apple juice.

To finish your adventure on the coast of Normandy you will visit the American Cemetery. The guide will share many incredible acts of bravery and heroism that individual men performed and show you where these men rest today. You’ll be able to pay your respects to Medal of Honor heroes, Theodore Roosevelt Jr, and the Niland brothers who inspired the movie Saving Private Ryan.

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 at the Arch de Triomphe.

Good to Know:

• Our meeting point is easy to find and details will be in your booking confirmation email.
• Restrooms are available at every stop we make on the tour except for on Omaha Beach. We always make a rest stop during the drives to and from Paris.
• Lunch is not included in our tour price. We will stop for a 1 hour lunch break at a restaurant and you can choose from many local foods.
• Gratuities (aka “tips”) are never an obligation but they are happily accepted 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 Everyday at 7AM

Meeting point

6 Avenue de Wagram, Paris

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 6 Avenue de Wagram in Paris , it's located 300ft from the Arc de Triomphe.

Tour Highlights

American Cemetery

Visit the American Cemetery with your expert guide and hear the stories of the Heroes who fought on the D-Day Beaches.

Pointe du Hoc

Walk among the bomb craters of Pointe du Hoc and see the famous cliff the U.S. Army Rangers had to scale!

Omaha Beach

Visit the landing site where thousands of U.S and British soldiers fought for the freedom of Europe.

Operation Overlord Museum

Explore an unequalled museum collection that retraces the planning and events which led to the D-Day landings.

German Bunkers

Explore one of the many Nazi German bunkers that the Allied troops had to overcome along the “Atlantic Wall“.

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

Lots of things can happen that make a person need to change their plans. So you’re welcome to cancel this tour up to 24 hours before it starts and we’ll give you a full refund.

If you plan out your travel time poorly, arrive late, and miss your tour we will feel sad that you missed your tour but we will not issue you a refund.

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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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.

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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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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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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

• 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 option. If you have a special requirement regarding food, please inform us upon reservation or email us at your earliest convenience.

• Instant Confirmation
• Mobile Voucher Accepted
• 24 Hour Cancellation Policy

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Day trips to Normandy from Paris

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Here you’ll find practical information for tourists staying in Paris who want to come for a day trip or longer to Normandy, which is easily accessible by train, car, campervan, coach or bus, taxi or even by bike.

SNCF trains leave from the two Parisian stations: Gare Saint-Lazare and Gare Montparnasse / Vaugirard several times a day to many cities and towns in Normandy.

Average journey times:

• Paris-Vernon for Giverny: 50 mins
• Paris-Rouen: 1 hour 15 mins
• Paris-Caen: 1 hour 55 mins
• Paris-Le Havre: 2 hours
• Paris-Dieppe : 2 hours
• Paris-Cherbourg: 3 hours
• Paris-Granville: 3 hours
• Paris-Mont-Saint-Michel: a 2 hour 50 min train journey to Villedieu-les-Poëles plus 45 min by coach to the Mount.

To reach Bayeux from Paris, there are two options:

• either take the train to Cherbourg with a scheduled stop at Bayeux: 2 hours 15 min
• or travel to Caen and change there for Bayeux (30 min ride)

The following coach companies operate services from Paris to Rouen, Caen, Le Havre, Deauville, Dieppe and several other towns and cities:

France’s very first motorway, the famous A13 , runs from Paris to Caen via Rouen. Thanks to the motorway, you can easily reach Giverny in just 55 minutes, Rouen in one hour and 30 min and Caen in just over two hours.

Deauville, Cabourg and Honfleur are also easily accessible via the A13.

The closest beaches to Paris are Dieppe and Deauville (two hours drive).

With an organised tour starting in Paris

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• Normandy Melody
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DESTINATION: WWII

A World War II Travel Blog

The 7 Best Normandy Tours from Paris in 2023: D-Day in a Day

Last Updated: October 27, 2023 //  by  Ashley Smith 4 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’re looking for tours that start in Normandy because you’ll already be there, look for tours that originate in Bayeux.

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 2023 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 10 D-Day tours in Normandy:

• Best overall : Normandy D-Day Small-Group Day Trip from Paris w/ Cider Tasting
• Most popular : Normandy D-Day Battlefields and Beaches 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

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 1,300 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 April 2023, this tour is offered 7 days a week and costs $275 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.

Note : There is a similar tour to this one that also includes a cider and calvados tasting + a 2-course lunch. However, I felt the one I chose 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 Battlefields and Beaches Day Trip

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 2,100 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 April 2023, this tour costs  $210 per person which 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 are a couple of things you should know about this tour before you book it. These aren’t necessarily deal breakers, but there’s a reason this tour is cheaper than the others and why I didn’t pick it as Best Overall.

1. The tour is not offered on Sundays or Wednesdays. If you have a flexible schedule, this won’t be a problem since it’s offered most days of the week. But sometimes you’re tied to a certain day/date so that could be an issue.

2. This is not a small-group tour. They will take a maximum of 40 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.

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 April 2023, this tour costs $1940 for a group of 4 or less . (Although, a missed opportunity for not just making it $1944 for the hell of it.) So, for 4 people it costs $485 per person; for 3 people it costs $646 pp; for 2 people it costs $970 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 . 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

I’m a big fan of private tours in that it feels like  such  a luxury. And this private tour actually makes it affordable for travelers on a budget.  And  it has a  5-star rating  from reviewers who  can’t stop raving about Igor as a tour host and private guide !

• The Pegasus Bridge

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 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 April 2023, this tour costs $959.50 for up to 6 people . That’s only $159 pp for a private tour if you have 6 people. This tour is a great option for a family or group of friends that’s traveling together. It costs less than the group tours!

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 is booking up fast . The dates are already limited, but maybe there’s an opening you can work with!

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 April 2023, this tour costs between $1680 and $1880 per group, depending on the size of your group . If you go it alone, you’ll pay the full $1680. For 2 people, you’ll pay $840 each. Three people will pay $570 each; etc.

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 April 2023, this tour costs $213 per person and includes free cancelation up to 24 hours before the tour. This tour is not offered on Sundays or Wednesdays.

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. 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 April 2023, this 2-day tour of Normandy from Paris costs $605 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.  

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 WWII charity.)

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 know why it didn’t make the list .

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

More info for your Normandy D-Day trip

• Heading to Paris?  Read reviews and  find great places to stay here.
• Save lots of money and time  by getting some  Paris Go City passes .
• Need a rental car?  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 !

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About Ashley Smith

Ashley is a World War II historian and travel expert who has visited 32 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!

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Tour de France 2025 to start in northern French city of Lille

Posted: 14 November 2023 | Last updated: 14 November 2023

The 2025 Tour de France will start in the northern city of Lille, the organisers of cycling’s most famous race announced on Tuesday.

The opening stage has been held in Lille , near the Belgian border, twice before in 1960 and 1994.

The past two editions of the Tour, which started in 1903, have taken place abroad, in Copenhagen and Bilbao.

Next year’s race will take off from Florence, Italy and for the first time it will end in Nice and not Paris , due to the Olympic Games taking place in the French capital.

Further details of the opening stage, or Grand Depart, as well the three following days of action based in the region will be released on November 30 by organisers, Amaury sport organisation.

Local newspaper, La Voix du Nord, reported the first stage will be a sprint with another day of the opening four to be based on northern France ’s famous cobbles.

It also claimed the route will follow the Normandy coastline and include time in Brittany.

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