The 7 Best Normandy Tours From Paris [2024 Reviews]

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

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

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

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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 2024

  • 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

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

Mont Saint-Michel makes for one of the best Normandy tours from Paris

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

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

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

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

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

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

Happy Travels!

Best Normandy Tours from Paris

On any Normandy tour from Paris, be sure to take some time to visit Omaha Beach

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

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

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

tour to normandy from paris

What’s Included? ⤵️

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

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

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

tour to normandy from paris

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

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

3. Mont Saint-Michel Guided Day Trip from Paris

Mont St Michel is a beautiful spot to ensure is included any one of these Normandy tours from Paris

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

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

Normandy Tours from Paris by Train

If you want to take one of the offered Normandy tours from Paris, consider taking the train to Bayeux first

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

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

Utah Beach is a popular stop on most Normandy tours from Paris

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

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

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

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

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

Private Normandy Tours from Paris

tour to normandy from paris

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

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

tour to normandy from paris

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

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

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

tour to normandy from paris

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

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

2-Day Normandy Tours from Paris

tour to normandy from paris

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

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

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

tour to normandy from paris

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

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

3-Day Normandy Tours from Paris

tour to normandy from paris

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

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

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

tour to normandy from paris

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

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

Small Group Tours Normandy France

tour to normandy from paris

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

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

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

tour to normandy from paris

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

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

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

tour to normandy from paris

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

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

FAQ: Normandy Tours from Paris

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

What is the Best Way to Tour Normandy France?

tour to normandy from paris

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

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

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

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

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

Is there a Tour from Paris to Normandy?

There are only a select few Normandy tours from Paris that we would recommend

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

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

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

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

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

Can Normandy be a Day Trip from Paris?

While it is possible to take one of these Normandy tours from Paris in a day, we recommend spending 2-3 days in Normandy altogether

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

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

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

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

Is Normandy a Good Day Trip from Paris?

tour to normandy from paris

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

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

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

What is the Best Way to Visit Normandy from Paris?

tour to normandy from paris

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

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

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

Is there a Paris to Normandy Train?

Most of these Normandy tours from Paris will provide private transportation, although there is a train if you would prefer to take a local tour

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

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

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

How Long is the Train Ride from Paris to Normandy?

For those looking to save some money on one of these Normandy tours, they can take the train from Paris and choose a local tour in Normandy

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other Helpful France Resources

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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A World War II Travel Blog

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

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

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

tour to normandy from paris

Table of Contents

Why take Normandy tours from Paris?

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

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

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

tour to normandy from paris

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.

tour to normandy from paris

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.

tour to normandy from paris

My favorite tour companies for day trips

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

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

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

tour to normandy from paris

Best Normandy tours from Paris: at a glance

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

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

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

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

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

tour to normandy from paris

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.

tour to normandy from paris

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

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

What this tour includes

This 13-hour full-day trip includes:

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

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

How much this tour costs

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

Honorable mention

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

tour to normandy from paris

2. Most popular Normandy day trip from Paris

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

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

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

What you’ll see on this tour

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

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

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

tour to normandy from paris

This most popular tour includes:

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

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

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

tour to normandy from paris

What to know about this tour

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

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

tour to normandy from paris

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!

tour to normandy from paris

This awesome private D-Day invasion tour includes:

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

It does not include the cost of lunch or gratuities.  

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

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

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

tour to normandy from paris

4. Best private Normandy tour from Paris on a budget

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

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

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

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

tour to normandy from paris

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.

tour to normandy from paris

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

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

tour to normandy from paris

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!)

tour to normandy from paris

This private luxury Normandy tour from Paris includes:

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

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

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

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

tour to normandy from paris

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.

tour to normandy from paris

This best deal of a tour includes the following:

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

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

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

Gray Line tours

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

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

tour to normandy from paris

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

tour to normandy from paris

On the second day you’ll visit:

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

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

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

tour to normandy from paris

This 2-day tour of Normandy from Paris includes:

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

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

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

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

tour to normandy from paris

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

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

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

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

The runners up

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

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

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

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

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

tour to normandy from paris

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.

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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.

tour to normandy from paris

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.

tour to normandy from paris

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.

tour to normandy from 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 .

tour to normandy from paris

What to pack for your Paris to Normandy day tour

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

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

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

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

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

tour to normandy from paris

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

tour to normandy from paris

Other Normandy tours from Paris

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

More info for your Normandy D-Day trip

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

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

tour to normandy from paris

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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.

14 Must-Visit Normandy Museums for WWII Enthusiasts | D-Day Museums in Normandy, the best World War II museums in normandy for history buffs

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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.

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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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November 22, 2023 at 12:48 pm

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

Thank you – Tammy

November 29, 2023 at 10:38 am

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

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January 15, 2024 at 12:20 pm

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

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

January 17, 2024 at 10:08 am

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Normandy Tours from Paris

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

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

Mont Saint Michel Day Trip 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

  • Check offers

18. British Landing Beaches & Caen Discovery from Paris

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

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

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.

  • Compare tours

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

D-Day Tour Caen Memorial, Normandy Landing Beaches, St Laurent Cemetery, Arromanches – Hotel pick-updrop-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

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

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.

  • Compare Tours

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

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.

  • Giverny Tours from Paris

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

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 .

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

Paris to Normandy

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.

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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!

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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.

tour to normandy from paris

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

tour to normandy from paris

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..

tour to normandy from paris

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

tour to normandy from paris

PROS : 

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

tour to normandy from paris

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 .

tour to normandy from paris

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

tour to normandy from paris

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. 

tour to normandy from paris

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.

tour to normandy from paris

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. 

tour to normandy from paris

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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THE 10 BEST Normandy Tours & Excursions

Normandy tours.

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tour to normandy from paris

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

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

tour to normandy from paris

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

tour to normandy from paris

4. Utah & Omaha Beaches D-Day Group Tour from Bayeux

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5. Mont Saint Michel Day Trip from Paris with English Speaking Guide

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6. D-Day Landing Beaches Shore Excursion from Le Havre

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7. Giverny Half-Day Trip small group from Paris with Monet’s Gardens & Gravesite

tour to normandy from paris

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

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9. A Full-Day Paris Tour from Le Havre for Cruise Passengers

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10. Giverny Monet’s House and Gardens Half Day Tour from Paris

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11. Omaha and Utah beaches

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

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13. Private Guided Tour in WW2 Jeep of the Landing Beaches

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14. Giverny Monet s House&Gardens Small Group tour with hotel pick-up

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15. American D-Day Beaches Private Tour Full Day Tour from Bayeux

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16. Self Guided Audio Tour around Mont Saint-Michele island

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17. Versailles Timed Entrance Ticket and Giverny Small Group Day Trip from Paris

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18. D-Day Omaha Beach Morning or Afternoon Group Tour from Bayeux

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19. Giverny Half-day Small-group 2 - 7 people by Mercedes from Paris

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20. Giverny's Monet House & Versailles Palace Day Trip from Paris

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21. Versailles Palace and Giverny Monet House Guided Visit with Lunch from Paris

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22. Omaha and Band Of Brothers Full Day Tour

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23. Giverny Monet House and Gardens Skip the line Walking tour

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24. Mont Saint-Michel Day Trip from Bayeux (Shared tour)

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25. Mont Saint-Michel Guided Day Trip from Paris

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26. DDay beaches private tour in Normandy from your hotel in Paris

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27. Normandy Battlefields Tour - American Sites (A3)

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28. Mont Saint-Michel Small-Group Day Trip from Paris with Abbey & Cider Tasting

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29. Giverny Monet's Garden & Auvers-sur-Oise with Van Gogh House Full Day From Paris

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30. Normandy U.S. D-Day Sites Half Day Tour From Bayeux

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  • Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches Day Trip with Cider Tasting & Lunch from Paris
  • Mont Saint Michel Day Trip from Paris with English Speaking Guide
  • Normandy American D-Day Beaches Full Day Tour from Bayeux
  • Normandy D-Day Small-Group Day Trip with Omaha Beach, Cemetery & Cider Tasting
  • Giverny Half-Day Trip small group from Paris with Monet’s Gardens & Gravesite
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Travelling Thirties

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

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

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

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

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

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

Get ready for the best day trip from Paris.

Table of Contents

My Top 3 Best Normandy from Paris Tours

Normandy from Paris tour

Normandy D-Day Small-Group Day Trip

✔ No more than 8 people

✔ Unique experience

Normandy from Paris tour

Normandy Battlefields D-Day Private Trip

✔ Customizeable

✔ VIP Services

Normandy from Paris tour

Normandy Small-Group Day Trip D-Day

✔ Great for solo travelers

✔ Informative

13 Best Normandy from Paris Tours

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

Here are the best Normandy tours from Paris:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

🏚 Click to check rates and availability

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

tour to normandy from paris

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Normandy from Paris tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Mont Saint-Michel Guided Day Trip from Paris

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Normandy from Paris tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Normandy from Paris tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Normandy from Paris tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Normandy from Paris tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Image Credit: Victoria, Guide Your Travel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Normandy from Paris tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Normandy from Paris tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FAQs: Normandy Beach Tours from Paris

Can you do normandy as a day trip from paris.

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

Is there tour from Paris to Normandy?

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

What is the best way to visit Normandy from Paris?

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

Is a day trip to Normandy worth it?

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

How many days do you need to see Normandy?

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

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

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

How far are D-Day beaches from Paris?

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

Wrap Up: Normandy Day Tours from Paris

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tour Description

What's included.

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

Sites Visited

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

Normandy's Historical Significance

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

Journey to Normandy

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

Utah Beach Landing Museum

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

Sample the Local Culture

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

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

Normandy American Cemetery & Memorial

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

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

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Important Notes

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

Cancelation Policy

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

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

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

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

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

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The Treasures of France including Normandy

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Treasures Of France Including Normandy Guided Tour

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

8 days, 1 country and 13 cities

Accommodation

7 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 4 Dinners

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

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

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About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

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

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

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

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

Travel highlights

Specific transfer information can be found here:

Airport Transfers

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

All porterage and restaurant gratuities

All hotel tips, charges and local taxes

Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

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

Optional Experiences and free time

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

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

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

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

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

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Normandy D-Day Tour from Paris

with Omaha Beach, American Cemetery & Cider Tasting

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  • Description •
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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.

Omaha Beach in June 1944

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.

Peer over the cliffs of the Pointe du Hoc

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.

Visit the American Cemetery in Normandy

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

tour to normandy from paris

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 to normandy from paris

Tour Highlights

tour to normandy from paris

American Cemetery

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

tour to normandy from paris

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!

tour to normandy from paris

Omaha Beach

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

tour to normandy from paris

Operation Overlord Museum

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

tour to normandy from paris

German Bunkers

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

tour to normandy from paris

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

tour to normandy from paris

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.

tour to normandy from paris

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.

tour to normandy from paris

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.

tour to normandy from paris

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.

tour to normandy from paris

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.

tour to normandy from paris

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.

tour to normandy from paris

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.

tour to normandy from paris

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.

tour to normandy from paris

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.

Book More - Save More

We appreciate and reward fidelity!

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

Free Cancellation

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

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

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

I - Cancellation Policy

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

II - Satisfaction Guarantee Policy

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

III - Payment Policy

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

IV - Privacy Policy

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

V - Child Policy

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

VI- Child Bike Policy

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

VII - Damages to Blue Fox Travel Property

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

VIII - Miscellaneous

PlanetWare.com

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

American Cemetery at Omaha Beach, Colleville-sur-Mer

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

American tank on Utah Beach, Normandy

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

Pegasus Bridge

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

View over Arromanches

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.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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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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2-Day Normandy Tour from Paris

Tour details.

  • Duration: Over 48 hours
  • Rating: 4.3

Tour Description

Embark on a captivating 2-day journey from Paris to the historical heartland of Normandy. This enriching expedition takes you through the stunning coastlines, poignant World War II sites, and the majestic Mont Saint-Michel. The journey begins with a scenic drive from Paris, making its way to the quaint seaside town of Arromanches, known for its instrumental role in World War II.

The tour then takes you to one of the most iconic sites in the region – the Mont Saint-Michel. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers stunning landscapes and an opportunity to delve into history and architecture. A visit to the Normandy American Cemetery is also part of this tour, offering a sobering reminder of the sacrifices made during the war.

Day one of the tour immerses you in the significance of the D-Day beaches, with visits to Omaha Beach, Pointe du Hoc, and Arromanches. The second day begins with exploring the medieval city of Saint-Malo, followed by a guided tour of Mont Saint-Michel.

This journey isn’t just about visiting places – it’s about experiencing Normandy’s rich history, culture, and cuisine. From walking through hallowed war grounds to marveling at architectural wonders, every moment spent here promises unforgettable. The tour is designed to provide a perfect blend of exploration, education, and introspection, leaving you with lasting impressions and cherished memories.

Top-Rated Tours in Paris

For those seeking an unforgettable and enlightening travel experience, a 2-day Normandy tour from Paris is an expedition worth considering. This adventure offers an opportunity to discover the rich history and the picturesque landscapes of this alluring French region.

The tour typically involves exploring the stunning coastlines, historic wartime sites, and the renowned Mont St. Michel Abbey. It gets one acquainted with the heartwarming and enticing Norman culture and cuisine.

Overview of the 2-day tour to Normandy from Paris

The journey commences from the city of love, Paris, to the northern region of Normandy. The recommended travel mode is via comfortable, air-conditioned coaches for maximized relaxation. One of the common stopovers during the trip is the small seaside town of Arromanches. Best known for its instrumental role in World War II, the town is an essential part of the D-Day landing beaches .

A mandatory visit on the trip is the emblematic and majestic Mont Saint-Michel . The UNESCO World Heritage site, with a stunning magical aura, is a visual feast for lovers of history, architecture, and breathtaking landscapes. Its dramatic tides and the gravity of its history create a spectacular show of time and nature.

Importance of visiting the historic sites in Normandy

The trip to Normandy isn’t considered complete without visiting the historic D-Day sites. A walk through the hallowed grounds of Normandy American Cemetery provides a poignant encounter with history.

This wartime graveyard is the final resting place of 9,388 American soldiers who laid their lives during World War II. It is a grim but necessary reminder of the human cost of war and the sacrifices made to promote peace.

The tour is also usually embellished with visits to emblematic museums like the Caen Memorial and the Airborne Museum to understand the cataclysmic events that unfurled in the region during the war.

The two-day Normandy tour from Paris perfectly blends exploration, education, and introspection. Intertwined with its heavy history, the place’s serene beauty results in a thought-provoking yet alluring expedition. It is no less than a time capsule, bringing the chapters of history to life right before one’s eyes!

Day 1: Exploring the D-Day Beaches

A 2-day Normandy tour from Paris , home to some of the world’s most iconic sites, comes with a fair share of expectations. Day one of the tour is an immersion into the significance of the D-Day beaches and an exploration of key sites of the Allied landings.

Visit to the key sites of the Allied landings in Normandy

As one disembarks from the early morning train from Paris, they are greeted by the breeze of the North Atlantic and the pressing sense of history. The journey starts at Omaha Beach, where American troops landed, fighting against the rugged terrain and focused on German gunfire. A guided tour through the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial provides further insight into the heroic deeds and sacrifice of the troops. The graveyard’s symmetry of white crosses is a stark reminder of the cost of liberation.

A short drive away lies Pointe du Hoc, a daunting cliff taken by U.S. Rangers in a daring assault. Here, one can still see the pocked landscape caused by bombings. This historical tour wouldn’t be complete without visiting Arromanches, the site of unique artificial harbors built to facilitate the supply of Allied troops.

Immersion in history and understanding the significance of the beaches

A trip to the D-Day beaches is an exploration of sites and a dive deep into the intertwined web of history, courage, and sacrifice. As a walk around Juno Beach unfolds, the rich history behind each structure, bunker, and monument becomes apparent. The Juno Beach Centre takes you through the war events from a Canadian perspective, highlighting its significant role.

A visit to the remnants of Mulberry Harbor in Arromanches puts into perspective the ingenuity and struggle involved in ensuring support for the invading troops.

A final stop at the Pegasus Bridge gives closure to an emotional day, leaving the visitor with an overwhelming sense of appreciation for the magnitude of Operation Overlord. Whispers of shared war stories and laughter over delectable Normandy cuisine end the day on a mellow note.

The D-Day landing beaches leave an indelible mark for those interested in history. They are reminders of great bravery, lives lost, and the sharp price of freedom.

Day 1: Discovering Saint-Malo

Beginning their journey from Paris, they found themselves venturing towards the enchanting coastline of Normandy. Their first destination on the thrilling two-day tour was the medieval city of Saint-Malo .

Historically a prominent and strong fortress city, Saint-Malo is known for its classic yet picturesque scenery. Its cobbled streets, dramatically high walls, and abundance of cafes and shops give it a unique charm immersed in a sea of history certain to captivate any visitor.

Exploration of the medieval city of Saint-Malo

At the heart of the town, they discovered the Intra-Muros, the walled city that makes Saint-Malo quite unmatched. Strolling through the ramparts, they soaked in panoramic views of the emerald coast and the nearby islands.

The fortress city is filled with hidden treasures that are intriguing as much as they are enchanting. The Flamboyant Gothic-style Saint Vincent Cathedral, the historic Privateer’s House, and the Great Gate are just some highlights one cannot afford to miss during this exploration.

Highlights of the charming town and its rich history

No visit to Saint-Malo is complete without learning about its rich maritime history. The National Fort, the standout 18th-century structure, offered them deeper insights into Saint-Malo’s significance in French history.

The charm of Saint-Malo lies not just within the city walls but extends into the immaculate sandy beaches, particularly the popular Plage de l’Eventail and Plage du Sillon. They endured valuable, quiet, peaceful moments while admiring the mesmerizing sunsets.

Such is the allure of this city that they couldn’t help but feel satisfied with their decision to embark on this two-day Normandy tour. The captivating town of Saint-Malo, with its beautiful mystery and rich history, certainly left a noteworthy impression on the first day of discovery. It’s an experience that is bound to stay in their delightful memories for many years to come.

Day 2: Marveling at Mont Saint-Michel

Refuel on a hearty breakfast because day two of the tour from Paris to Normandy promises a full day filled with breathtaking views, historical exploration, and a unique travel experience. The destination is none other than the captivating spectacle of Mont Saint-Michel .

Experience the beauty and uniqueness of Mont Saint-Michel

Few places can match the enchantment of Mont Saint-Michel. The island commune, located approximately one kilometer off the northwestern coast of France, offers a surreal sight: a castle-like structure perched upon a large granite rock, surrounded by the ever-changing tides of the Atlantic Ocean.

As you approach Mont Saint-Michel, this ethereal place will leave you amazed. As a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979, it boasts a rich history and heritage. Walking through the winding cobblestone streets lined with charming shops and houses is an experience, providing a glimpse into the past.

Guided tour of the breathtaking abbey and surrounding area

Upon arrival at Mont St. Miceh, a guided tour around the spectacular medieval Abbey awaits. The visit typically begins by exploring the quaint village before heading towards the Abbey. It is a private tour that starts from the famous Mont St. Michel ramparts and continues through the monks’ living quarters, the magnificent cloister, the refectory, and the awe-inspiring abbey church.

The tour guide’s detailed narration brings to life the rich history of the Abbey, revealing it as a marvel of medieval architecture with its towering spires, stout defensive walls, and delicate flying buttresses. The breathtaking views of the surrounding bay from the Abbey’s highest points will be forever etched in the memory of the visitors.

Of course, a trip to Mont St.-Michel wouldn’t be complete without tasting the famous local dish – the Mont Saint-Michel omelet at “La Mère Poulard” restaurant. It is advised to stroll along the ramparts, explore the celebrated basilica, and engulf oneself in the location’s beauty and majesty before returning to Paris.

So, after an unforgettable tour that expertly combines history, architecture, nature, and culture, the final coach ride back to Paris gives the perfect time to reflect and reminisce about the exciting two-day journey through Normandy. It is highly recommended for history buffs, architecture fans, and every keen traveler. This tour promises an adventure that leaves you with lasting impressions and cherished memories.

Customization Options

When planning a trip to Normandy from Paris, a two-day tour offers the perfect opportunity to explore this historic region. With customizable private tours, you can incorporate other sites of interest into the day trips into your itinerary, ensuring a personalized and memorable experience.

Possibility to incorporate other sites of interest into the tour

One of the main advantages of a personalized two-day tour is the ability to incorporate other sites of interest into your itinerary. While the main focus of the day trip from Paris might be on visiting the iconic D-Day landing beaches, you can also explore other noteworthy attractions such as:

  • Mont Saint-Michel : A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stunning abbey sits atop a rocky island and must-see for its breathtaking scenery and rich history.
  • Bayeux Tapestry : Discover the captivating story of the Norman Conquest through this remarkable embroidered artwork.
  • Honfleur : Known for its picturesque harbor and charming narrow streets, Honfleur offers a wonderful taste of coastal Normandy.
  • Caen : Visit the Memorial Museum, dedicated to the history of World War II and the Battle of Normandy.

With the flexibility to choose additional sites, you can tailor the tour to suit your interests and preferences.

Benefits of a personalized two-day tour of Normandy

Opting for a personalized two-day tour of Normandy provides several benefits, including:

  • Expert Guides: Professional guides who are knowledgeable about the region’s history and can provide insights and context to enhance your experience.
  • Comfort and Convenience: Traveling in a comfortable vehicle ensures a stress-free journey, allowing you to enjoy the sights and landmarks fully.
  • Time Efficiency: A well-planned itinerary ensures you can make the most of your time, visiting multiple key sites within a limited duration.
  • Local Perspectives: Engaging with local guides and experiencing the region firsthand allows for a deeper understanding of Normandy’s culture, traditions, and historical significance.

Transportation and Pick-Up

Convenient transport to and from paris via air-conditioned coach.

Are you planning a memorable trip to Normandy from Paris? Look no further, as excellent transportation options are available to ensure a smooth journey. One of the most convenient ways to travel is by an air-conditioned coach. This mode of transport offers comfort and allows you to relax while enjoying the scenic landscapes along the way.

You can sit back, unwind, and take in the beautiful French countryside as you make your way to Normandy. The coaches are spacious, well-maintained, and equipped with modern amenities to make your journey enjoyable and hassle-free.

Pick-up options from the place of residence

To make your trip even more convenient, many tour operators offer pick-up options from your place of residence in Paris. This means you don’t have to worry about finding your way to a meeting point early in the morning. Instead, a comfortable minibus or coach will pick you up directly from your hotel or designated address. This ensures a stress-free start to your tour and allows you to relax when you leave your accommodation.

Having a pick-up service provides a seamless travel experience for visitors to Normandy. It eliminates the need to navigate public and private transportation or find parking, giving you more time to enjoy the sights and attractions of this historic region. Additionally, the tour guides accompanying you are knowledgeable and ensure you have all the information you need about the itinerary and the destinations you will be visiting.

Whether you travel by air-conditioned coach or take advantage of the pick-up service, you can rest assured that your transportation needs will be handled during your two-day Normandy tour from Paris . Sit back, relax, and get ready to immerse yourself in the fascinating history and natural beauty of this captivating region.

Free Cancellation Policy

Details of the free cancellation policy up to 6 calendar days before departure.

When planning a trip, it is always important to consider the cancellation policy, especially if unforeseen circumstances arise. This is why it is essential to understand the free cancellation policy for a 2-day Normandy tour from Paris.

The free cancellation policy allows travelers to cancel their tour up to 6 calendar days before the scheduled departure date with no penalty or additional charges. This provides peace of mind and flexibility for those who may need to change their plans or have a last-minute change in circumstances.

To cancel the tour within the stipulated timeframe, travelers can contact the tour operator directly and provide them with the necessary details. Upon cancellation, any payments made for the tour will be fully refunded, ensuring that travelers are not financially burdened by their decision to cancel.

It is important to note that the free cancellation policy only applies if the cancellation is made more than six calendar days before the tour departure. If a cancellation is made within six calendar days of departure, the normal cancellation policy will apply, and fees may be incurred.

Travelers should also know that certain conditions may apply to the cancellation policy, such as specific terms for small group tour bookings or customized tours. It is advisable to review the tour operator’s terms and conditions to understand any additional conditions that may apply fully.

The free cancellation policy for a 2-day Normandy tour from Paris allows travelers to change their plans without penalty up to 6 calendar days before the departure date. This provides peace of mind and ensures that travelers can make the most of their trip by having the option to cancel if needed.

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

Views of Mont Saint Michel

Guided tour

Visit Honfleur

499,00 € / pers.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Please note :

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

Let's go

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1. Define your needs

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2. Select your tour

1 adult x 499,00 €

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

1 adult x 539,00 €

Cancellation fees : Go to general terms and conditions of sale

Views of the Mont Saint-Michel

Preparation of the tour

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

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

Bir Hakeim , Champ de Mars Tour Eiffel

Address : Hotel Pullman Tour Eiffel

Organized by PARISCityVISION

Tour Code: PM2

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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

bunker pointe du hoc omaha Beach normandy day trip from Paris

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

omaha beach les braves

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

tour to normandy from paris

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

american cemetery Normandy Day Trip from Paris

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 .

is a tour of normandy d-day beaches worth it guide at omaha beach

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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From Paris to Normandy: A Guide to the Ideal Road Trip Around Normandy

  • By Philip Ruskin
  • November 14, 2023

A row of beach chairs and an umbrella

Normandy in Northwestern France is a region overflowing with culture and history. It’s home to the D-Day landing beaches, as well as of William the Conqueror, the ruler of Normandy who became King of England in 1066 after winning the battle of Hastings. Normandy is also known and loved by the French for its abundance of charming French villages, half-timbered architecture, horse farms, cathedrals, castles, gardens, bike trails, outdoor activities, sandy beaches, and of course exquisite local food and drink.

Two years ago, my cousin Sarah (who has the best advice on just about everything) introduced us to the wonders of Northern France when she invited us to visit her and her companion Maurice on a day trip from Paris to the beach town of Cabourg (made famous as the model for the fictional town of Balbec in Proust ‘s Remembrance of Things Past ). Ever since that day, Normandy has been our top go-to getaway region.

Starting at just over two hours by train or car from Paris, the region is a perfect choice for a short getaway or extended road trip (or two). Here are a few of our favorite places in Normandy to escape to.

Table of contents:

Where is normandy, getting to normandy from paris by train.

  • Tips for Traveling From Paris to Normandy

Paris to Normandy by Car: the Best Road Trip Route

Getting to caen by train, and around normandy by car.

  • The Best Places to Visit in Normandy

The Cheese route

  • Frequently Asked Questions

The Normandy region is located in Northwestern France, and is known for sites crucial to French history, like Mont-Saint Michel , various WWII memorials, and sites related to the Norman conquest. Its distance from Paris means that it makes sense to stay overnight, but you’ll be rewarded with fewer tourists than in major French cities, adorable towns where everything is within walking distance, and the opportunity to speak French over a hearty lunch of galettes and cider.

tour to normandy from paris

The national train company, the SNCF, has a train line dedicated to the Normandy region called the Nomad, with almost all departures from Gare Saint Lazare in Paris, an easily accessible train station in the 8eme arrondissement. This is the easiest way to get from Paris to Normandy without a car. It has a terrific shopping arcade with a number of great places to eat, and terrific takeaway for a picnic on your train trip. Notable train station food spots include: Ladurée (famous macarons), Brasserie Lazare (from Michelin starred chef Eric Frechon), Dalloyau (amazing pastries), and Paul (reliable baked goods).

The city of Caen is two hours and twenty minutes direct from Paris, making it an ideal launch point for a getaway from Paris to Normandy.  (The Caen train station is also the terminal for Normandy’s reliable Nomad bus system which services a good number of cities, villages and beach towns.) Train ticket prices vary widely based on season and time of day, averaging approximately €18-50 round-trip. (To visit the D-day landing beaches you’d probably want to take the train to Cherbourg, Normandy, but we’ll cover that in a separate piece, along with suggestions for day tours of WWII memorials, the Normandy American cemetery, Juno Beach, and the Pointe du Hoc.) Rouen is another big city in Normandy that is a direct train ride from Paris, but I’ve kept to places I’ve been and vetted for my recommendations here.

Tips for traveling from Paris to Normandy

The SNCF Connect app is very user-friendly, and I find it easier to use than their website.

If you modify your selection, or begin a new search, there’s a good chance your old choice is still in your check-out basket (it’s not that clear), so be sure to review at check out and manually delete your first selection or you’ll be charged twice! (It’s happened to the best of us.)

I strongly recommend spending the extra four or five Euros for a “flexible” ticket from Paris to Normandy, which you can easily exchange or cancel up until your departure.

It’s quite challenging to find customer service phone numbers in France where you can speak to real people, but I’ve found two invaluable ones to share: for SNCF in English, 01 84 94 36 35, and to deal with issues such as refunds, cancellations and changes, 01 84 91 91 91. (From the U.S. dial 001 + 33 + the number, omitting the 0. So it would look like 001 33 01 84 91 91 91.)

tour to normandy from paris

If you love driving and aren’t concerned with the sticker shock of renting a car in France, gas, and toll prices (it cost us over €50 for gas and tolls to Caen), renting a car can offer you the opportunity to get off the beaten path and not be tied to train and bus schedules. Paris to Caen is about two hours forty minutes on the A13 highway. I find that Avis is reliable and flexible for car rentals in Paris (though you can check out our full guide to renting a car in France here ). Since they’re closed on Sundays, they always let us return the car on Monday morning at no extra charge.

If you want to avoid the possible traffic and daunting web of roads leaving Paris, you could take the train to Normandy and rent a car in Caen to continue your sojourn by car from there. You could  also save about €45 (with Avis) thanks to often favorable prices outside Paris.

tour to normandy from paris

The best places to visit in Normandy

During World War II, the bombing campaign by the Allied troops to dislodge the entrenched German army resulted in the destruction of much of the city, as well as two thousand civilian casualties. Luckily, a good deal of this Medieval city’s key historical sites survived. You might begin your visit with the very helpful folks at the tourist office . We spent the lion’s share of our time in the sizable old-quarter of the city, called le Quartier Vaugueux (‘ voh-guh’), a maze of narrow flagstone streets and stone and half-timbered houses, charming bistros and contemporary boutiques.

What to do and see in Caen

William the Conqueror, the most important historical figure associated with the city, is buried at the stunning Abbaye aux Hommes (Men’s Abbey), considered a forerunner of Gothic style cathedrals, with an impressive nine towers and spires. William commissioned the abbey, as well as the nearby Abbaye aux dames (Women’s Abbey) where his wife, Matilda, is buried. (Admission is free, guided tours are five Euros.) For a trifecta of terrific historical sites, check out the Château de Caen , also built by William, and one of the largest fortress castles in western Europe, which houses the Musée des Beaux-Arts. (Admission is free.) Caen is also home to a very important stop for history buffs, a museum dedicated to World War II and the landing on the D-Day beaches of the Allied Forces, the Caen Memorial Museum , which you can spend a whole day or two visiting.

tour to normandy from paris

Where to eat, drink, and shop in Caen

La Casinière is a charming little bistro in the heart of the old quarter that offers delicious local French cuisine at unbeatable prices – a three-course menu at €32.  I had the slow-cooked lamb shoulder and local French cheese assortment, and finished with a sublime house-made Valrhona chocolate cake with salted caramel and roasted peanuts.

Caen is the capital of the Calvados department of Normandy, making it a good gateway to the region famous for its cider and Calvados, a distilled cider also known as apple brandy. La Cidrologue, with floor to ceiling shelves of apple-based beverages, is a great place for an introduction to the regional specialty of French cider.

Where to stay in Caen

Les Chambres de l’Abbaye is a Chambre d’Hôtes (between a boutique hotel and a B&B), situated in an 18 th century mansion, with rooms starting from €62. Parts of the charming Clos Saint-Martin boutique hotel date back to the 16 th century, others to the 18 th century, with rooms starting at €110.

Getting around in Caen

From the train/bus station it’s about a thirty-minute walk to the old quarter, or you can take a tram or taxi. If you stick to the old quarter and key sites listed above, it’s very walkable, or you can rent a Vélolib (city bike) at one of the town’s eleven bike stations.

tour to normandy from paris

About two years ago, my cousin Sarah and her companion Maurice invited us to visit them in the Belle Époque beach town of Cabourg for a day trip from Paris. With its sizable beach, two and a half mile long beach-front promenade, Norman-style brick and half-timbered mansions, not to mention its old-fashioned main street and numerous restaurants, we experienced a coup de foudre (love at first sight). It’s been one of our top go-to getaways ever since. The spirit of Marcel Proust is everywhere in Cabourg, where he spent summers at the Grand Hôtel, and met many of the people who would find their way into his epic novel.

How to get to Cabourg

If you take the train from Paris to Caen, as we often do, the Nomad bus (line 111) takes you on a scenic 35-minute drive through villages and country roads to Cabourg (Hôtel de Ville is the closest stop to the center of town). From May through August there’s a train from Paris Gare Saint Lazare to Deauville, where a connecting 20-minute train ride takes you to Dives-sur-Mer (the station Proust arrived at), a neighboring village just fifteen-minute walk from Cabourg.

tour to normandy from paris

What to do and see in Cabourg

The Villa du Temps Retrouvé (“Villa of a past regained”) is a late-19th century mansion that has been transformed into a fun and informative museum/cultural center that evokes the period of Proust with installations, period memorabilia, art, film, furniture and events. There are also talks and arts-and-crafts activities for kids. The Villa has permanent installations, as well as a rotating annual theme, which is currently on the French silent movie star, Max Linder.

If you’re a movie buff, and love romance, you may want to take note that every year in mid-June Cabourg hosts the Festival du Film Romantique (the Romantic Film Festival), where actors and filmmakers from France and around the world present their movies and vie for the coveted Swann D’Or award. There are musical events throughout the season, such as Cabourg Mon Amour , a pop music festival on the beach in July.

With Normandy being horse country, a morning or evening horse ride on the beach (at €31 for an hour) is an obvious way to see the countryside. For the more adventurous, there are water and beach activities such as parasailing and sand yachting (basically dirt biking with a sailboat on wheels).

The beachfront miniature golf course with its whimsical diminutive world landmarks (Eiffel Tower, Big Ben, Pyramid of Giza, Statue of Liberty, etc.) also harks back to simpler pre-digital times of good family fun. The tourism office is a reliable source for culture and activities throughout the year.

tour to normandy from paris

Getting around in Cabourg (and environs)

We usually get to Cabourg by train and bus and get around exclusively on bike.  There are two lovely neighboring villages that are well worth a visit.  A twelve-minute bike ride just across the Dives river will get you to the village of Dives-Sur-Mer , where William set sail from in 1066 to conquer England. In Dives you’ll find his namesake Village d’Art Guillaume le Conquérant , a very photogenic and well-preserved Medieval village square-turned-shopping arcade.  Down the street is the majestic 11th century Église Notre Dame de Dives-sur-Mer, where William and his commanders took Mass and were blessed before departing on their historic mission. If you’re lucky enough to be here on a Saturday, it’s worth checking out the market, held in an awesome 15th century wood and thatched roof halles (market place). You can rent bikes or ebikes off Cabourg’s main street, Avenue de la Mer, at WillBee . If you came to the region by car, I recommend renting at Dives Evasion . (Christof is extremely accommodating and personable.)

The village just three miles up the coast from Cabourg is Houlgate , a cozy Norman beach town with an impressive collection of brick and half-timbered Normandy style mansions.  The vibe here is a bit more Hamptons French-style. It’s hillier than Cobourg, so an ebike might be best suited.

If you’ve come to Cabourg from Paris by train, or from Caen by bus, you may want to consider renting a car to explore some of the spots that are more challenging to reach by train or bus. There are two fairytale French village s within a half hour from Cabourg (an hour from Caen) worth visiting by car: Beuvron-en-Auge (whose charm enticed artist David Hockney to move here), and the multi-colored Beaumont-en-Auge. Vloc Liberte in Dives-Sur-Mer is a friendly family-owned agency where a car for the week is around €250 – the price of a two-day rental in Paris!

Our friends Michel and Francine, both Norman natives, took us on a glorious Normandy day trip from Cabourg (from Caen add a half hour) to discover some of the magical châteaux, cathedrals, and sites of the Calvados region of Normandy. The itinerary included: Manoir de Coupesarte, an original 15th-century wood framed Château on a moat; the stone and glazed brick castle of Satin-Germain de Livet ; and the medieval Château de Crevecoeur (which has lots of activities and historical re-enactments for kids).

tour to normandy from paris

Where to eat, drink, and shop in Cabourg

Cabourg has some of the most spectacular French sunsets in the Normandy region, so seaside dining is highly recommended. To that end, on the Promenade Marcel Proust try Le Beau Site to watch the sunset as you eat, and Café de la Digue to enjoy local specialties like Moules-frites or Galettes (savory crepes) with a glass of local cider. A 14-minute bike ride from the center of town, you’ll find some of the most amazing, and most reasonably priced, innovative local ingredient-based French cuisine at Jeff Cuisine Sincère. For families with children, there’s an adorable and well stocked play area in the corner within sight where your kids can play while you enjoy your meal. After lunch, continue down the country road called Le Débarquement, which leads to a bike/foot path winding across fields, farms, and wooded trails. For shopping, À la Recherche du Temps Perdu offers a wide selection of Marini èr es – the traditionally blue and white striped sailor shirts that are a staple fashion accessory of the coast of France.

tour to normandy from paris

Where to stay in Cabourg

In town, and just two blocks from the bus stop Les Mots Passants , is a cozy no-frills hotel where double rooms range from about €76-110 per night. Rather than take the breakfast option, you may want to start your day at Dupont avec un Thé – the best bakery in town. You can get fresh-squeezed orange juice, coffee or tea, and a basket brimming with baked goods (including their famous Proust Madeleines) for €18.50.  If you’re looking to splurge, then visit the Grand Hôtel of course, where rates can start from €260 to just over €400, depending on the season. (Hint: you can even ask for the Marcel Proust room, which has been kept in the style of his time.)

tour to normandy from paris

The 17th-century waterfront houses reflected along with the bobbing boats in the harbor are among the sites that make Honfleur such a popular destination in Normandy. Honfleur maintains its historic integrity in large part due to the fact that it was totally spared from bombings during the Allied landings.

Honfleur has a long connection to North America. Sixteenth century fishing boats frequently sailed to the New World to bring back salted cod, and in 1603 Samuel Champlain set off from here and founded Quebec. (There’s a commemorative statue and plaque on the harbor.)

How to get to Honfleur

You can take the A13 from Paris and get here in 2 hours and 20 minutes, or take the train from Gare Saint Lazare to Deauville, followed by a bus to Honfleur. If you begin your Normandy trip in Caen, you can take bus number 122  to Honfleur in an hour. Coming from Cabourg, as we did, the Nomad bus 111 gets you there in an hour and 15 minutes.

tour to normandy from paris

What to do and see in Honfleur

My sister-in-law Claudine (a part-time resident of Honfleur) took us on a wonderful tour to discover this enchanting 16th-century port town, with its multi-colored half-timbered houses, winding cobblestone streets, and hidden back alleys.

Built in the 15th century by shipbuilders, it’s no wonder the roof of Église Sainte Catherine – the largest wooden church in France – looks like the upside-down hull of a ship. What is a true wonder is that the timber structure has survived over six centuries.  There are two museums in town worth visiting that feature local talents. Maison Satie is a museum offering interactive exhibits and memorabilia honoring native son Erik Satie, the monumentally influential early-20th century musician who collaborated with the likes of Picasso and Jean Cocteau. Musée de Honfleur showcases artists Eugéne Boudin, as well as his artist friends like Monet, Corot, and Courbet, among others.

Getting around Honfleur

The old city of Honfleur is totally doable by foot, but if you want to explore the environs a bit, Velhonfleur offers bike and ebike rentals, as well as guided tours.

Where to eat, drink, and shop in Honfleur

We took a break from our lovely stroll through Honfleur for superb cow-to-cone French ice cream at La Ferme Dubois Louvet , a scoop shop that’s owned by a local dairy farm. For the best local French restaurants, Claudine recommends L’Homme de Bois . With its open fireplace, brick walls, zinc bar, and candy-striped banquettes, this warm woody eatery serves up homestyle seafood dishes including lobster, fish soup, and oysters, and offers great value €29 and €39 prix fixe menus. She also pointed out to us the Bistro des Artistes , where Emmanuel and Brigitte Macron eat whenever in Honfleur.

Where to stay in Honfleur

L’Invitation au Voyage (invitation to travel) is an elegant 19-room boutique hotel near the harbor, with rooms ranging from €180-260 per night, depending on the day and season. Hôtel la Diligence is a lovely period stone-and-wood hotel in a quiet courtyard with rooms for €104 per night.

tour to normandy from paris

If its delightful medieval town and towering Norman gothic cathedrals weren’t enough, Bayeux is well worth a visit as the home of the magnificent Tapisserie de Bayeux (Bayeux Tapestry), the 230-foot-long elaborately embroidered tapestry that illustrates in 58 scenes the battles and rise to the throne of England in 1066 of William the Conqueror. The tapestry – which some call the very first French bande dessin ée (graphic novel) – is housed in its own museum, which offers an audio guide in multiple languages.

Cheese is often called the last dish, so French cheese lovers may want to finish a road trip through Normandy with a  cheese tour (worth a trip from Paris to Normandy in its own right) of the three Normandy towns that have famous cheeses named after them: Livarot, Pont-Leveque, and Camembert. Best to do if you’re renting a car, however the train from Paris to Caen stops in Livarot and Pont-Leveque. Check out Auberge de la Touques for a memorable meal in Pont-Leveque.

tour to normandy from paris

Frequently Asked Questions – Paris to Normandy

How long is the train ride from paris to normandy.

The Normandy train from Paris takes about two hours.

Is there a high speed train from Paris to Normandy?

The main Normandy train line is called the Nomad, and runs through the SNCF, not the high speed train network known as the TGV.

Can you visit Normandy as a day trip from Paris?

Day trips from Paris to Normandy are common thanks to the region’s historical significance, but it will be a full day thanks to the added transportation time.

How far are the D-Day Normandy beaches from Paris?

The D-Day beaches in Normandy are about a 3-hour drive from Paris.

Philip Ruskin is an External Lecturer (ESSEC Bus. School), Consultant (food & travel marketing), writer, drummer and regular contributor to Frenchly. He loves to bike around his adopted hometown of Paris. Find him here,  on Instagram.  All photos by the author.

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How to Get from Paris to Normandy

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I  almost always advise people to take the train when choosing a transportation option in France. While renting a car in France can allow you some added convenience and independence for touring the smaller villages and towns not connected by rail, taking the train in France will almost always save you time. France has such a well connected TGV high-speed train system, so you can be whisked to your destination at more than 200 mph (a whole lost faster than if you were Driving in France , trust me). All major towns and cities in Normandy are well connected by rail, though keep in mind that buses between smaller towns and villages are infrequent and can be difficult to use. That being said, while exploring Normandy’s rural areas is probably best done by car, it may be a good idea to first take a train from Paris to one of the towns or cities in Normandy and then pick up your wheels from there. TGV trains leave from Paris’ Gare Saint Lazare several times a day to many towns and cities in Normandy. The French rail network SNCF provides daily and regular links from Paris:

  • Paris-Evreux: 1 hour
  • Paris-Rouen: 1hour 30
  • Paris-Caen: 1 hour 45
  • Paris-Le Havre: 2hours
  • Paris-Alençon:2 hours 30

Getting to Normandy from Charles de Gaulle Airport For those heading directly to Normandy from the airport, you can be in Normandy within 3 hours of stepping out of CDG. From the airport, take RER Line B for a 30-minute ride to Paris Nord train station. From there, switch to a Line E train for a 5-minute hop to Gare Saint Lazare where you can board one of the many trains headed to Normandy. >>Read more about Train Travel in France

Because Normandy is located so close to Paris, it is definitely not worth flying from Paris to this region of France. For those coming to Normandy from an international destination, it is probably best to fly into Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris and then hop on the train to Normandy from there. Paris’ Beauvais airport is also less than an hour’s drive from Normandy and has flights from Dublin, Shannon and Glasgow; note that Beauvais is NOT close to Paris, so if you want to go directly look into renting a car and bypassing Paris altogether. There are a few smaller airports in Normandy if you are determined to fly directly into the region. Ryanair offers some low-cost daily flights to the region from the UK and Ireland.

From Paris take the A13, which passes near Evreux, Rouen and Caen through Normandy. The drive from Paris takes about 2 hours, depending on where in Normandy you decide to head. >>Read more about renting a car in France , and driving in France . photo credit: solea20 on flickr

IMAGES

  1. From Paris to Normandy: 4 Best Ways to Get There

    tour to normandy from paris

  2. 25 Best Normandy Tours from Paris

    tour to normandy from paris

  3. 25 Best Normandy Tours from Paris

    tour to normandy from paris

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

    tour to normandy from paris

  5. Day Trips from Paris: Things to Do in Normandy

    tour to normandy from paris

  6. 25 Best Normandy Tours from Paris

    tour to normandy from paris

COMMENTS

  1. The 7 Best Normandy Tours From Paris [2024 Reviews]

    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.

  2. 11 Top-Rated Normandy Tours from Paris for 2024: D-Day Beaches & Mont

    Normandy 2-Days Discovery Trip with D-Day Beaches & Mont St Michel from Paris. 3-Day Normandy Tours from Paris. 9. 3-Days Guided Normandy, St Malo, Mont Saint Michel & Loire Valley Chateaux from Paris. Small Group Tours Normandy France.

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

    Best private tour on a budget: D-Day Beaches Private Tour from Paris w/ Igor Rosen. Best luxury tour: Normandy Battlefields D-Day Private Trip with VIP Services. Best value tour: Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches Tour by Gray Line. Best overnight tour: Normandy 2-Day Discovery Trip from Paris. NEW!

  4. 25 Best Normandy Tours from Paris

    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.

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

    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.

  6. Paris to Normandy D-Day Battlefields and Beaches Day Trip 2024

    Paris, Île-de-France. Guided Private Tour of Normandy D-Day Beaches and Battlefields from Paris. 4. from $771.99. Likely to Sell Out. Paris, Île-de-France. Mont Saint Michel Day Trip from Paris with English Speaking Guide. 671. from $146.68.

  7. THE 10 BEST Normandy Tours & Excursions

    We took the train from Paris to Bayeux for a visit to Normandy. We booked our tour via Viator and were assigned to Bayeux Shuttle. This tour completely exceeded our expectations. The pickup spot was easy to find and started on time. Our guide, Rethro, made us feel at ease and welcomed right away.

  8. 13 Best Normandy from Paris Tours (+ Mont Saint-Michel) 2024

    Here are the best Normandy tours from Paris: 1. Normandy D-Day Small-Group Day Trip with Omaha Beach, Cemetery & Cider Tasting. Image Credit: Chris, Aroundtheworldwithme.com. ⭐ RATING: 5 OUT OF 5 | ⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 12 - 13 HOURS | Book it! If you are looking for the best Normandy from Paris tour then this is it.

  9. Normandy Day Trip from Paris with D-Day Beaches & Authentic Lunch

    Normandy Day Trip from Paris with D-Day Beaches, Cider Tasting & Traditional Lunch. 4.88. (424 Reviews) 14h. English. Everyday. 07:00. 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 ...

  10. The Treasures of France & Normandy Tour 2024

    Itinerary. View day-by-day trip itinerary. 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.

  11. Normandy D-Day Tours from Paris, France

    Book a day trip to Normandy from Paris to visit the D-Day landing beaches and the American cemetery. Or take a multi-day tour to visit Normandy most famous cities ... 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 ...

  12. Normandy 2-Day Tour, Paris: D-Day Beaches and Mont St.-Michel 2024

    Explore the landscapes of the Normandy and Brittany regions during a 2-day tour from Paris, including one night in Caen. Stroll the charming streets of Honfleur and Rouen. Pay your respects at WWII sites like the D-Day beaches of Normandy and the American Cemetery and Memorial. Walk through the historic walled city of Saint-Malo. Visit the surreal island of Mont-St-Michel, one of the country's ...

  13. 10 Best Normandy Tours & Trips from Paris

    Normandy Tours & Trips from Paris. An adventure starting in Paris is a great way to see Normandy. We have 45 tours that range from 5 days up to 12 days. The most popular time for tours from Paris is May, which has the most tour departures.

  14. The Normandy D-Day Tour from Paris

    Normandy D-Day Tour from Paris via Train Itinerary. This Paris to Normandy tour is our #1 bestseller for close to two decades. For good reason: It's the expert local guide. The comfortable train ride. It's the small group. More than anything, it's the uplifting story of June 6th, 1944 that helped free France and end World War II in Europe.

  15. Normandy D-Day Tours: Guided Tour & Sightseeings

    From €189. Likely to sell out. Eiffel Tower with Summit Access. Duration ± 1.5hrs. Group Size : 20. 246 reviews. From €69. Join a Normandy D-Day Tour with Blue Fox Travel, highly rated Paris Tours on TripAdvisor since 2012! 3000+ Reviews Small Groups Book now!

  16. 12 Normandy Tours From Paris ️ Top-Rated in 2024

    If you are in a hurry. 1. Take a Normandy D-Day Beaches day trip from Paris. 2. Explore Mont Saint-Michel. 3. Learn about D-Day landing beaches and go cider tasting. 4. Spend 2 days discovering Normandy's beaches.

  17. From Paris to Normandy: 4 Best Ways to Get There

    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.

  18. A Seine River Cruise

    9 days from $4,690. Cruise the River Seine between Paris and Normandy, following in the footsteps of Impressionists, kings, and the soldiers of D-Day as you explore historic sites and picturesque towns from Versailles to Honfleur. Request a Brochure. Make a Reservation.

  19. 2-Day Normandy Tour from Paris Reviews (March 2024)

    Day 1: Discovering Saint-Malo. Beginning their journey from Paris, they found themselves venturing towards the enchanting coastline of Normandy. Their first destination on the thrilling two-day tour was the medieval city of Saint-Malo. Historically a prominent and strong fortress city, Saint-Malo is known for its classic yet picturesque scenery.

  20. 2 day Tour to Normandy and Mont Saint Michel

    Date. Check availability. 2. Select your tour. 2 Day Guided Tour to Normandy D-Day Beaches, Saint Malo & Mont Saint-Michel from Paris, with transport. 1 adult x 499,00 €. 2 Day Guided Tour to Normandy D-Day Beaches, Saint Malo & Mont Saint-Michel from Paris, with transport (Pick up hotel) 1 adult x 539,00 €.

  21. The Best Way to Do a Day Trip from Paris to Normandy

    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 ...

  22. From Paris to Normandy: A Guide to the Ideal Road Trip Around Normandy

    Abbaye aux Homme, built by Wllm the Conqueror in Caen Getting To Normandy from Paris by Train. The national train company, the SNCF, has a train line dedicated to the Normandy region called the Nomad, with almost all departures from Gare Saint Lazare in Paris, an easily accessible train station in the 8eme arrondissement.

  23. Paris to Normandy

    TGV inOui operates a train from Paris Montparnasse 1 Et 2 to Morlaix every 4 hours. Tickets cost €85 - €150 and the journey takes 3h 16m. SNCF also services this route once daily. Alternatively, BlaBlaCar Bus operates a bus from Paris City Centre - Bercy Seine to Morlaix once daily. Tickets cost €35 - €55 and the journey takes 8h 25m.

  24. How to Get from Paris to Normandy

    Paris-Caen: 1 hour 45. Paris-Le Havre: 2hours. Paris-Alençon:2 hours 30. Getting to Normandy from Charles de Gaulle Airport. For those heading directly to Normandy from the airport, you can be in Normandy within 3 hours of stepping out of CDG. From the airport, take RER Line B for a 30-minute ride to Paris Nord train station.