The 7 Best Normandy Tours From Paris [2024 Reviews]

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

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

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

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

Best tours of normandy from paris.

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

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

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

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

Normandy Tour Reviews

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More Information & Tour Booking

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other Paris Experiences You May Enjoy:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Planning Guide For Your Normandy D-Day Beach Tour

Why you should visit the normandy d-day beaches.

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

Can You Visit Normandy as a Day Trip from Paris?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How Long is the Train Ride from Paris to Normandy?

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

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

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

Tour Guides

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

Krysha Thayer

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

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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.

day tours from paris to normandy

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.

day tours from paris to normandy

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.

day tours from paris to normandy

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.

day tours from paris to normandy

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 .

day tours from paris to normandy

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 .

day tours from paris to normandy

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.

day tours from paris to normandy

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 .

day tours from paris to normandy

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.

day tours from paris to normandy

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 .

day tours from paris to normandy

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.

day tours from paris to normandy

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!

day tours from paris to normandy

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.)

day tours from paris to normandy

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.

day tours from paris to normandy

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.

day tours from paris to normandy

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.

day tours from paris to normandy

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!)

day tours from paris to normandy

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.

day tours from paris to normandy

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.

day tours from paris to normandy

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.

day tours from paris to normandy

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

day tours from paris to normandy

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.

day tours from paris to normandy

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.  

day tours from paris to normandy

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.

day tours from paris to normandy

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.

day tours from paris to normandy

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.

day tours from paris to normandy

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.

day tours from paris to normandy

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 .

day tours from paris to normandy

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.

day tours from paris to normandy

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

day tours from paris to normandy

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.

day tours from paris to normandy

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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

Reader Interactions

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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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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

day tours from paris to normandy

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

day tours from paris to normandy

  • 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

day tours from paris to normandy

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

day tours from paris to normandy

  • 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

day tours from paris to normandy

  • 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

day tours from paris to normandy

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

day tours from paris to normandy

  • 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

day tours from paris to normandy

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

day tours from paris to normandy

  • 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

day tours from paris to normandy

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

day tours from paris to normandy

  • 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

day tours from paris to normandy

  • 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?

day tours from paris to normandy

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?

day tours from paris to normandy

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?

day tours from paris to normandy

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.

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

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

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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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)

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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)

day tours from paris to normandy

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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Choose your tour

About the D-day Tour

A full day trip from Paris to Normandy and back.

The tour to the Normandy landings beaches are all year round, except for the Christmas holidays and New years eve.

I live in Normandy for more then 20 years now, and every day, no matter sun or rain, I love what I do and I do it with passion

The tours are english spoken. I'm fluent in French, German and Dutch as well. My car is 4x4 so we can access the beaches.

I pick you up and drop you off at your hotel or apartment in Paris. Umbrella's are available for the rainy days.

Our stops on the D-Day Normandy Landing Beaches:

Tour of Gold Beach and Mulberry B Tour of Longue sur Mer and WN 48 Tour of Pointe du Hoc Visit of Omaha Beach and WN 62 Tour of the American cemetery and the visitors centre in Colleville sur Mer

  View other tours

Normandy Landings Beaches

My name is Hermanus Pieter. I was born in Holland, earned a degree in hospitality in Switzerland, and worked as a park Ranger in South Africa before settling in Normandy 25 years ago. I have been guiding tours to the Normandy beaches for a long time and I'm fluent in 4 languages. I love to share the profound history of the Normandy region to my clients. When I'm not touring I love to play Country and Folk music on my guitar or piano with my friends. Sometimes we perform on small festivals or play in clubs in Normandy.

Loir Castle's

at Chenonceau, Loire Valley

Our guide, HP, could not have been better. He was not only very knowledgeable, but delivered that knowledge with passion, making it more meaningful. He was attentive to each group member and went out of his way to accommodate a person who struggled with walking some distances. I would highly recommend this tour!

Tour gardens of Monet

at Claude Monet's garden

"HP was a terrific host and an excellent tour guide. He provided more background and detailed information than we knew had existed. This was a fabulous trip. Perfect to experience the Normandy beach landings in one day. Our guide HP deserves an A+. I’ve been on a lot of guided tours over the years and he was absolutely one of the best ever. I highly, highly recommend this tour. "

Longest day tour

at Longueville WN 48

"This was our favorite tour of a week filled with tours! HP, our guide, was knowledgeable, engaging, and kept the entire tour running smoothly. You can tell that he loves what he does. He scheduled a break on the 3 hour ride to and from the sites which was much appreciated."

Mont Saint Michel

at Mont Saint Michel

"HP was an excellent guide. He shared so much history, answered all of our questions, and was very knowledgeable. He was interested in what we wanted to know and was both pleasant and humorous.We had two tour group members from Canada, and he made sure to help them find the graves of their countrymen in the cemetery. Lunch was at a local place with a varied menu. 10 out of 10!! "

THE LANDINGS BEACHES TOUR IN NORMANDY

The sites we visit

WN 48 Longueville

More about HP, the guide from Normandy

The tour was fantastic. Our Guide, HP, was extremely thorough, knowledgeable and professional. It is obvious he is passionate about job, creating memories for guests and having fun doing so.

I would highly recommend HP on any tour. Very likable person. I would do the same tour again. Regards, Tony Guerrero

Wheelchair accessible sites

Happy clients

Experienced english speaking guide

The private guided tours are starting from 250 Euros per person(4 persons minimum).

  • Private D-Day tour "Normandy"
  • Omaha Beach and Gold Beach
  • Longues-sur-Mer battery
  • American Cemetery
  • Point du Hoc
  • Pick up and drop-off in Paris

Prices on request

  • Private tour "Versailles"
  • Entrance to the Palais
  • Tour of the King's apartment
  • Tour of the gardens
  • Tour of Marie Antoinette's Petit Trianon
  • Tour the Queen's Hamlet
  • Tour of Grand Trianon
  • Private tours "On request"
  • Champagne Tours
  • The Loire Castles
  • Mont Saint Michel
  • Bourgogne wine tour
  • Claude Monet's garden
  • Private car services

You can call or mail me for additional information, customized tours or reservations:

Normandy, France

Phone: +33 6 21 999 701

Email: [email protected]

day tours from paris to normandy

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.

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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.

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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.

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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 .

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Normandy From Paris Tours

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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.

day tours from paris to normandy

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!

day tours from paris to normandy

How Far is Normandy from Paris

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

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

Visiting Normandy for D Day

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

day tours from paris to normandy

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

day tours from paris to normandy

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..

day tours from paris to normandy

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

day tours from paris to normandy

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

day tours from paris to normandy

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 .

day tours from paris to normandy

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

day tours from paris to normandy

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. 

day tours from paris to normandy

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.

day tours from paris to normandy

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. 

day tours from paris to normandy

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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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

day tours from paris to normandy

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

Beautiful beach of Omaha in Normandy

275,00 € / pers.

  • Visit Omaha Beach and Juno Beach, where the Allies landed
  • Small groups of up to 15 people
  • Transport from Paris in an air-conditioned vehicle
  • Live a moving experience as you visit the American Cemetery
  • Enjoy lunch in a charming and friendly setting
  • Stroll through the captivating town of Arromanches to admire panoramic sea views, visit Norman boutiques and experience a unique moment in a place that combines the heritage of war with the beauty of the Normandy coast
  • Discover the historic heritage of D-Day in Normandy
  • Explore the history-filled landscapes of Pointe du Hoc
  • Service of our Normandy D-Day expert licensed guide

Join us on a small group excursion (maximum 15 participants) from Paris to the emblematic sites of the Normandy landing, accompanied by a guide-interpreter. On June 6, 1944, called "D Day", the Allies opened a new front in Europe against the troops of the Third Reich during the Second World War. It was the largest military operation in history and marked the beginning of the Battle of Normandy that would lead to the end of World War II. More than 150,000 American, British and Canadian soldiers and many other nationalities landed by sea and air on different beaches of Normandy (Utah Beach, Omaha Beach...), as well as at Pointe du Hoc. Departure at 7:00 am from the Pullman Hotel in Paris for a 3-hour trip to the landing beaches.

Begin your day at the heroic Pointe du Hoc, where the bravery of American soldiers during the D-Day landings comes to life. The majestic cliffs offer panoramic views of the English Channel, providing a profound understanding of the strategic significance of this location during the pivotal battle.

Next, venture to the legendary Omaha Beach, one of the historic D-Day landing sites. Walk along the sands where history was made, feel the emotion that still resonates in these hallowed grounds, and gain insight into the sacrifices made for freedom.

The American Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer stands as a poignant tribute to the fallen heroes. Experience the solemn tranquility amidst the meticulously aligned graves, a moving testament to human courage and sacrifice.

Following this intense exploration, indulge in a moment of relaxation in the restaurant, where you can savor the delights of Normandy's cuisine while sharing reflections with fellow participants.

The day concludes on a high note, with a choice between Juno Beach, a site where Canadian troops played a pivotal role in Normandy's liberation, or the historic port of Arromanches, home to remnants of the ingenious artificial harbor used during the battle.

This unparalleled guided tour seamlessly blends poignant history with the natural splendor of Normandy, creating an unforgettable experience. Join us for a deep dive into the past and feel the emotional resonance of these historic sites that shaped our modern world. Secure your spot now and be prepared for a day of exceptional exploration in Normandy.

Please note :

  • The itinerary and times listed may be subject to change depending on traffic conditions or changes in site schedules
  • Visit in small group up to 15 people
  • Visit of the St Lawrence American cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer
  • Visit freely the port of Arromanches
  • Transport to and from Paris in an air-conditioned coach
  • Lunch in a traditional norman restaurant
  • Guided tours of Omaha and Juno beach
  • Guided tour of la Pointe du Hoc

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Normandy Landing Beaches guided tour

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: NPM

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How to Plan a Paris to Normandy Day Trip

Home » See & Do » How to Plan a Paris to Normandy Day Trip

While there are hundreds of attractions and landmarks in Paris to keep you in the city for months on end, a full-day tour makes it easy to go from Paris to Normandy.

In Normandy, you can experience the rural lifestyle and picturesque coastline only 124 miles northwest of the capital city. 

This section of France has so much to offer, in the form of the splendid scenery of towering cliffs overlooking the English Channel, charming cobblestoned villages with quaint restaurants serving unique cuisines, medieval forts, and numerous iconic landmarks, such as the Mont Saint Michel. 

But Normandy is also synonymous with one of the world’s most historic and significant events – The D-Day landings!

Don’t miss out! Click here to book a day tour from Paris

Why You Should Go on a Day Trip From Paris to Normandy

On June 6, 1944, the Allied forces landed over 156,000 troops on a 50 miles section of Normandy to begin the liberation of Europe after five years of German occupation. 

Another 24,000 paratroopers parachuted behind enemy lines during the night before. The landing beaches were code-named Sword, Juno, Gold, Omaha, and Utah. 

Of course, they knew the following 24 hours were to save the world, but there had to be a human cost. 

An estimated 10,000 men were to perish on that day alone. Ten thousand airplanes and 5,000 ships participated in the invasion, making it the most significant military operation in history.

Today, hundreds of monuments, museums, cemeteries, and numerous features are scattered across this coastline, honoring the heroes of D-Day, and drawing thousands of visitors each year.

US rangers memorial plaque at Pointe du Hoc, Normandy

How to Visit Normandy from Paris

Multiple tour companies offer guided Normandy day trips from Paris to the various significant battle sites. The day can be long, but it will be a day you will never forget.

In this Normandy tour from Paris, the tour company will pick you up and drop you off near the Eiffel Tower, so right in the heart of Paris! Then, they will drive you in a mini-bus to Normandy. 

It’s a full-day tour packed with lots of information where your guide brings history to life. The knowledgeable and attentive guides will take you to many highlights in the area, such as Caen Memorial, Pointe du Hoc, Normandy American Cemetery, Omaha Beach, Juno Beach, and more.

Alternatively, you could rent a car and drive to Normandy yourself, join the tour at Caen, or go from Paris to Normandy by train + car, from the Gare du Nord station in Paris and have the tour guide pick you up at the Caen train station.

Unfortunately, there is no direct train to Normandy, but you can go to Bayeux and hop on a tour from there.

It is absolutely worth spending time in Bayeux to stroll around its quaint old town and see the UNESCO-listed Bayeux Tapestry at the Bayeux Museum and the Cathedral of Bayeux.

However, we personally prefer taking the tour from Paris instead of using public transportation because the tour takes all the hassle of planning and getting around out of the equation, AND you don’t lose precious time.

Word of warning, though, these Paris to Normandy tours are all-weather tours, so if possible, try to pick a day with favorable weather to make your tour a pleasant one. There will be some walking involved, so comfortable shoes will certainly help. 

Before your day tour , we advise you to read up on this historical event to truly understand the significance of these places and appreciate the remarkable achievements and human sacrifices made by so many young brave souls that fought and perished for our freedom.

Places to Visit in Normandy

Below we list some of the most important D-Day sites you should not miss on your one-day Paris to Normandy tour.       

Caen Memorial Museum

Diary at Caen Museum, Normandy

If you had to choose only one museum to visit in Normandy, this would be it! 

Unlike other museums, which only cover the D-Day invasion, Caen Museum covers events from WW1 through to the Cold war, with much emphasis, of course, being on the Normandy D-Day beaches. 

Hundreds of WW2 exhibits, such as an Enigma Machine, weaponry, live archive videos, photographs, uniforms and artifacts from the Holocaust, and the dropping of the atomic bombs on Japan, will captivate young and old while constantly reminding you of the atrocities of war suffered both by soldiers and civilians.

A most informative film simultaneously showing the German and Allied perspectives on a giant screen is a must-see. It’s like watching two movies on one screen at the same time! A unique experience.

Pegasus Bridge

Pegasus Bridge, Normandy

Bridges are critical features in war. Seizing the two bridges over the Caen Canal and The Orne River from the Germans was crucial to the overall success of the entire operation.

In Allied hands, they would enable the landing forces on Sword Beach to breakout and prevent panzer tank units from reaching Normandy beaches and repelling the invasion.

The task of seizing the bridges was assigned to the Brits under the command of Major John Howard. 

The plan was to land six Horsa gliders carrying 182 men, as close to the bridges as possible, destroy the machinegun pillboxes, overpower the sentries before they could blow them up, and hold them until reinforcements arrive.

But landing a fully-laden plywood airplane with no engine, in darkness, and enemy territory, using a compass, stopwatch, altimeter, and speedometer for navigation, would be a hazardous task, even before engaging the enemy.

Landing too far from the target, or crashing onto one of the thousands of spikes planted by the Germans, would spell disaster for the men and the entire operation. It had been dubbed a suicide mission!

The gliders landed right on the button, with the nose of the first one buried in the barbed wire fence fifty yards from the canal bridge—British precision at its best.

The paratroopers immediately stormed the bridges capturing them within minutes. Running across the bridge firing from the hip, platoon leader, Lt. Den Brotheridge, was struck in the neck, becoming the first Allied soldier to be killed by enemy fire on D-Day.

The Orne River bridge was captured without firing a shot. Satisfied the bridges had been secured, Major John Howard sent the coded message Ham and Jam! The operation was a complete success.

The canal bridge, an important D-Day site, was renamed Pegasus Bridge to honor these heroic men, and it is the symbol of the British airborne forces, while the Orne River bridge is known today as the Horsa Bridge , one shudders to think of how different things might have been had they failed.

A most informative museum displaying artifacts on the taking of the bridges and a Memorial next to the original Pegasus Bridge, with its distinct water tower, tells the story of these brave soldiers, lest we forget.

A replica and original Horsa glider are also on display. Finish off with a snack or drink at the Gondrée Café at the foot of the bridge, the first house in Europe to be liberated in the first hour of D-Day.

Arromanches

Mulberry harbor at Arromanches, Normandy

For the invasion to succeed, the landing troops would need supplies, ammunition, and heavy equipment to be brought in on hundreds of big supply ships, which required a sheltered harbor to berth.

So the Allies brought their own artificial harbor! Towing giant hollow, floating, concrete caissons across the Channel, they sunk them in formation off Arromanches to form a harbor.

Miles of floating piers and platforms connected them to the Normandy beaches, from which thousands of tons of equipment and supplies could be offloaded. This ambitious and ingenious plan was the brainchild of Winston Churchill.

Although many breakwaters were destroyed by a violent storm two weeks later, Port Winston continued to serve its purpose, allowing four million tons of equipment, 400,000 soldiers, and half a million vehicles to disembark over the following months.

The remnants of these caissons (code-named Mulberries) scattered across the sea testify to the engineering skills and logistical challenges faced by the Allied forces. They make an impressive sight off the cliffs of Arromanches.

The D-Day Landings Museum at Arromanches gives an emotional audio-visual presentation and exhibition of the D-Day landing sites and the artificial harbors’ construction, transporting, and installation.

A few hundred yards away, an even more informative presentation is given at the Arromanches 360 Circular Cinema, where footage from the German and Allied archives is projected on nine screens. A theatrical presentation.

Longues-sur-Mer Batteries

Longues-sur-Mer Battery, Normandy

Above the cliffs, at Longues le Mer 3.1 miles west of Arromanches, is an observation post linked to four 155 mm gun fortifications, firing onto the Allied armada.

These fortifications were protected by yard-thick steel-reinforced concrete slabs, surviving almost unscathed from the aerial bombardment.

A French nine-year-old blind boy, whose father farmed on the land, sent out the coordinates of the gun sites to the allied ships using Morse code on his homemade wireless set.

Either a stroke of luck or sheer accuracy resulted in a direct hit from HMS Ajax lying offshore, destroying one site and its ammunition magazine below.

The Germans immediately abandoned their positions.  The boy’s wireless set is on display at the Caen Museum.

Three fortifications and massive guns stand almost intact, with the barrel of the destroyed gun lying in pieces half-buried in the mud to this day as it did on that fateful day in 1944.

Omaha Beach

Omaha Beach, Normandy

Nobody can go from Paris to Normandy without setting foot on Omaha Beach. For anyone who has been in battle, this is sacred ground.

You cannot imagine what went on on this now picturesque beach on the morning of the 6 th of June 1944 without sending shivers down your spine. Visualize thousands of bodies strewn across the beach with the sea red with blood.

At the same time, bombs and bullets rain down upon the brave men racing desperately across the 437.5-yard beach, which was littered with landmines and other obstacles. 

About 2,500 soldiers, most barely in their 20s, were to perish that morning, many of whom before they even reached the sand.

You can stand along the low bank that shielded the survivors from the line of fire coming from machine guns on the hill and cliff above and “hear” the chilling call of Col.

George Taylor, to the men, “there are two types of people on this beach; the dead and those about to die! So let’s get the hell out of here!”

Not a place to take silly selfies, but to stand and reflect upon the fear and the courage of these young men who fought and died here so we could be free.

Above the beach, numerous monuments honor the various units that played their part in this bloody and decisive battle of WW2.

It comes as no surprise that all the one day Paris to Normandy tour companies take people to this historic place. After all, the Normandy D-Day beaches are must-visits!

American Cemetery Coleville

Coleville American Cemetery, Normandy

If you weren’t affected when standing on Omaha Beach, the American Cemetery at Coleville directly above Omaha, most certainly will.

White marble crosses laid out in perfect straight line formations on green manicured lawns mark the 10,000 soldiers who fell on D-Day, including Gen Theodore Roosevelt Jr. (The US President’s eldest son).

A circular wall in the Garden of the Missing bears the names of the 1557 soldiers, whose remains were never found.

The various memorials and statues among the exquisite gardens honoring the heroes that gave their lives for our freedom will humble you. In the middle of the military cemetery, there is a quaint chapel, in which you could whisper a prayer for the boys.

This is the cemetery that is featured in the last scenes of the Steven Spielberg movie Saving Private Ryan. If you don’t get a lump in your throat or shed a tear while walking among the crosses, seriously, you are not human.

Pointe du Hoc

Cliffs scaled by rangers at Pointe du Hoc, Normandy

Less than 4.4 miles west of Omaha is the high rocky outcrop of Pointe du Hoc upon which the Germans had placed a battery of six 155 mm guns, capable of firing on Omaha and Utah beaches as well as the Allied armada offshore.

The task of scaling these 100-foot cliffs and destroying the guns before they could be used was assigned to the elite US Rangers under the command of Col. James Rudder. A bold and daring mission!

Using ladders and grapnel hooks fired from the ground, the Rangers began to climb while under constant grenade and machinegun fire from the cratered cliff-top. When one Ranger fell, another took his place and pressed on.

Craters at Pointe du Hoc, Normandy

When they reached the top, they engaged in close combat, taking cover in the deep craters created by the aerial bombardment. To their surprise, they found no armament! They had been moved a few days earlier.

Setting off inland, fighting for every inch of ground, they eventually found the guns unmanned and ready to fire upon Utah Beach.

Using thermal grenades, they destroyed them, also blowing up the ammunition dump, resulting in Utah Beach having the least casualties of all the D-Day landing beaches.

The reinforcements did not arrive as promised, leaving the Rangers to spend the next two days crawling on their stomachs, fighting for their lives.

By then, out of the initial 225 that scaled the cliffs, only 90 were still able to fight. A few years later, one Ranger went back to “see what the place looked like standing up!”

Almost all the Paris to Normandy tour companies will take you to the cliff face the Rangers scaled and the German bunkers scattered among the massive bomb craters. It will leave you in awe.

A plaque bearing an emotional inscription by US President Raegan is testimony to the bravery and sacrifice made by these elite soldiers.  

Utah Beach Museum

Military truck at Utah Beach Museum, Normandy

Less than 8.7 miles from Pointe du Hoc is the westernmost landing site of Utah Beach and a small but fascinating museum with a rich collection of artifacts, including a Higgins landing craft and B26 Marauder Bomber.

It also screens the award-winning documentary “Victory in the Sand,” telling the full D-Day story.

This is the beach where the first soldiers landed on D-Day. Strong currents and wind took the landing craft away from its target, landing in the wrong place.

It turned out to be a blessing in disguise, as the spot they landed was weakly defended. Gen Teddy Roosevelt, the US President’s son, at 56 years of age, was the oldest soldier on D-Day and the first General to come ashore.

Realizing they were on the wrong beach, he was reported to have said, “we’ll start the war right here!” Wearing a cap and brandishing a walking stick and .45 strapped on his shoulder, he marshaled the troops with distinction throughout the entire operation. Sadly, he died of a heart attack three days later in his Jeep.

Many monuments, German bunkers, beach obstacles, and other historical objects are scattered around Utah Beach, including the 00 Monument. 

You can also find a monument every mile marking the soldiers’ route from Utah Beach to Bastogne in Belgium, where the critical Battle of the Bulge was fought.

In front of the 00 Monument is the Le Roosevelt Café, an institution all on its own. Dine on tables signed by Utah Beach veterans and be surrounded by D-Day artifacts and memorabilia—a stunning, stunning place to visit.

Final Thoughts on a Day Trip from Paris to Normandy

Normandy has so much to offer! It has not only beautiful scenery but also a rich history.

If you’re visiting France, we urge you to go on this day trip from Paris to Normandy, where you can learn and pay your respects to these brave men who fought for our freedom. The historical significance of this place should never be forgotten.

Besides, Normandy is one of the most critical places from WW2, if not the most. Whether you hop on a guided tour from Paris operated by Paris City Vision or rent a private vehicle , whatever you do, do not miss it. You won’t regret it.

Author and photographer: Johnny Vassilaros – We can’t thank you enough for writing such a thoughtful article! We enjoyed reading every word, and we hope other travelers will too.

Don’t Forget About Travel Insurance!

Before you leave for France, make sure you have a valid travel insurance policy because accidents happen on the road. We have been paying for Safety Wing travel insurance for a little over a year now, and we happily recommend them to our family and friends.

If you get sick, injured, or have your stuff stolen, you'll be happy to have the ability to pay for your medical bills or replace what was stolen.

Because, for just a couple of dollars a day (depending on how long your policy is for), you're going to get lots of things covered. Be smart and get travel insurance .

Monday 28th of March 2022

An excellent article. I've been to France, spent time in Paris, visited the WW1 battlefields and cemeteries in N France, St Malo, and now I'd love to visit Normandy.

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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

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

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

Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial

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

Normandy D-Day Tour Guided Small Group From Paris Review

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

Saint-Malo Walled City

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

The "Fort National" visible from Saint-Malo

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

Mont-Saint-Michel seen from the sky at sunrise.

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

Le Mont-Saint-Michel abbey.

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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day tours from paris to normandy

D-Day Tours from Paris to Normandy’s Iconic Sites in 2024!

d day tours from paris

Want to feel what it would be like to step back in time and witness the pivotal moments of World War II? D-Day tours from Paris offers a unique opportunity to do just that.

Well, picture yourself standing on the very beaches where Allied forces landed on June 6, 1944. As you consider the gravity of that day, make sure to think about the sacrifices made and the triumphs achieved. Well, you can only imagine the emotions that will sweep over you as you walk in the footsteps of heroes.

From Omaha Beach to the Normandy American Cemetery, every step is a powerful reminder of the bravery and resilience that defined that fateful day.

However, as you plan your trip, the variety of travel options may leave you wondering – how do you choose the perfect one?

We are here to simplify your decision-making process. Our expert guidelines are all about the factors that you must consider on your journey. e.g., from the top-rated tour companies to locations.

Without further ado, let’s get started:

Key Takeaways: Tour Highlights: D-Day sites are a great way to learn about World War II and the heroes who fought for European liberation. D-Day Tour Options: Conduct your day trips from Paris to Normandy beaches, American Cemetery, Mont Saint-Michel, and private battlefield tours. Advance Booking: Book your transportation and accommodation at least 3 months ago. Choose the off-season, like Spring (April to June) or Fall (September to October), for an enjoyable journey.

Selecting the Ideal D-Day Tour from Paris

When you are planning your visit to Paris, there are several must-see attractions at the historic D-Day sites. There are numerous places to visit in northern France near Calais . Now the question that can arise in your mind is with so many tour options, how do you choose the ideal one?

Well, choosing the perfect D-Day tour from Paris is easy if you know the proper way to do it!

First, think about your interests. Decide first, are you a history enthusiast or a regular tourist who wants to experience unique memories? They are different things.

For instance, Paris, the city of lights, serves as an ideal starting point to look for the bitter and significant history of D-Day . So, check your tour duration as per your budget and book comfortable transportation for a pleasant journey.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Tour

Traveling is a treasure chest for an adventurous person. And when you plan to explore a place, it means the treasure must now be open in front of you. For example, if the place is in France, then the charm and beauty are sure to mesmerize a tourist.

However, after finalizing your tour, there are several factors that you must consider to ensure a good one. After all, every person has different preferences and expectations to begin with.

They are as follows:

  • Destination: Always try to discover the interest that you love the most. To be more precise, consider what type of experience you want – whether it’s exploring vibrant cities, the beauty of nature, or relaxing on the beach. Afterwards, fix the destinations.
  • Duration: Determine the time you can spend on your tour. Though you are spending time and money, get back the value by enjoying the places and activities.
  • Tour Company: Choose a reputable tour company with a proven track record. Check their reviews and recommendations for Paris day tours with hotel pick-up. After all, it is always seen that a renowned company can handle all logistical aspects, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey, which we all want at the end of the day!
  • Group Size: The size of the tour group can greatly impact your travel experience. A smaller group often allows for a more intimate and personalized experience. On the other hand, large groups provide affordable tours due to cost-sharing. Also, additional amenities like larger tour buses, extensive catering options, etc. are provided by them.

Pro Tips: If you want to make your trip more scenic and memorable, the best is to take the best small group day trips from Paris by car.

Top-Rated Tour Companies Offering D-Day Tours

D-Day which occurred on June 6, 1944, was the turning point of World War II as Allied troops made their way to Normandy. This location initiated the liberation of Western Europe from Nazi occupation.

Here are the 5 top-rated companies that are dedicated to offering D-Day tours in France with expert guides.

  • Overlord Tour: They offer various tour options, from full-day excursions to multi-day packages. And for the best part, they also offer you a personalized experience with small group tours to Normandy from Paris.
  • Bayeux Sightseeing Tours: This company is 5-star rated by Tripadvisor and offers day trips from Paris and Bayeux. This company is mostly known for its comfortable transportation and well-organized itineraries.
  • Stephen Ambrose Historical Tours : It is a USA-based tour guide company founded by renowned historian Stephen Ambrose. They share personal stories and insights from veterans/ military personnel.
  • Viator: Viator offers Paris day trips and is one of the companies that are offering the D-day tour in Normandy.

Top D-Day Tours from Paris

Top D-day tours from Paris” simply means the best day trips you can take from Paris to Normandy. These tours will focus on showing you the key places involved in the invasion. Such as the beaches where soldiers landed, memorials to those who fought, and museums that tell the day’s story.

You can start off the day at Omaha Beach, where heroes left a memorable mark, then explore the American Cemetery and other locations for the sacrifices made for freedom. Well, take a pause and make sure to join us for an unforgettable exploration of courage and bravery.

D-Day Landing Beaches Day Trip with Cider-Tasting and Lunch

The fascinating D-Day Landing Beaches Day trips to Normandy from Paris will allow you to explore the historic sites.

D-Day Landing Beaches Day Trip

The Normandy beach tours also offer a delightful cider-tasting and amazing lunch experience. This tour is designed to provide a well-rounded and enjoyable day, combining history, culture, and cuisine.

  • D-Day Beaches: Start your tours to Normandy’s D-Day beaches from Paris, where the heroes of World War II landed in 1944. Walk on the historic Omaha Beach or Utah Beach , guided by someone who knows all the stories.
  • Cider Tasting: After the beach adventure, it’s time for a treat. Normandy is renowned for its apple orchards and the production of high-quality cider. Try to taste different Cider and Calvados , which is an apple brandy that is made from fermented apple cider. This place is famous for making this yummy drink.
  • Lunch: Make sure to try local foods like creamy Camembert cheese or fresh seafood . It’s a great chance to enjoy the tastes of Normandy.

Extra Tip: You will get fascinating explanations from experienced guides.

American Cemetery Trip : A Glimpse of History

“American Cemetery”- this term explains to you the powerful image of a journey to a place where lives were lost and legacies honored.

day trip to normandy from paris

And as you walk through the rows of meticulously maintained graves, you will feel the deep respect for the martyr. Each headstone tells a life story, which is part of America’s history. These cemeteries honor heroes from big battles like Normandy, Gettysburg, and Arlington, making you feel grateful for their bravery.

These cemeteries also highlight ordinary people’s lives, like politicians, artists, and pioneers. Hence, visiting this place isn’t just learning; it’s emotional.

Whether you love history or just appreciate stories, visiting is a must. You get to connect with the past, honor heroes, and feel inspired for the future.

Mont Saint-Michel Guided Day Trip : A Unique Experience

Mont Saint-Michel is a beautiful tidal island, and you will be amazed by its location. This is a fairytale-like island that is crowned by an abbey on the coast of France.

We expect that if you are looking for Mont Saint-Michel, it means you love to go back in time.

Mont Saint-Michel Guided Day Trip

The panoramic views of the vast Normandy coast will impress you, whereas the ancient city walls and medieval towns will impress you with their beauty. Whether it be the cobbled streets, rich history, or architectural marvels, this UNESCO World Heritage site is sure to charm you.

So, after your arrival and when you finish up with the tour, consider visiting artisan shops and savoring local delights. Most importantly, enjoy a crepe or seafood by the harbor. It’s something you cannot miss having!

Private Normandy Battlefields Day Trip

Are you a history enthusiast or simply curious about the events that shaped our world? This exclusive private Normandy D-Day battlefields and beaches day trip helps you experience the overall past in the most glorious way possible.

Why? Well, you’ll get the opportunity to explore the very locations where pivotal battles took place.

Private Normandy Battlefields Day Trip

The most important location is the dramatic cliffs of Pointe du Hoc, where American Rangers scaled the steep terrain to take out German coastal defenses.

Lastly, your tour will be guided by a knowledgeable guide who has vast knowledge about the place. So, you can rest assured!

Pro Tips: The best time to visit the Normandy Battlefields is spring to early fall (April to September) when the weather is mild and pleasant.

D-Day Tours from Paris by Train

You are going to central Paris and looking to explore the historic D-Day sites in Normandy. But are you also worried about the transportation?

Don’t worry; we are here with all your solutions. To begin with, your journey will be convenient with D-Day’s best Normandy tours from Paris by train.

The scenic train ride from Paris typically departs from Gare Saint-Lazare station, the third busiest station after Gare du Nord and Gare de Lyon.  

Tips to follow:  Try to avoid the D-day trips from Paris in winter, as the temperature during this phase ranges from 7°C to 13°C (45°F to 55°F), and sometimes it’s 0°C as well.

How to Reach Normandy from Paris by Train?

If you prefer a hassle-free and scenic D-Day trip to Normandy from Paris, traveling by train can be the perfect option for you. Besides, you can easily reach Normandy from the heart of Paris with the best train option.

  • Gare Saint-Lazare: This is the main station for trains to Normandy. It is located in the 8th arrondissement (subdivision of France) of Paris. The Metro lines 3, 12, 13, and 14 will take you to the station.
  • Destination: Normandy is a vast region, so depending on what you want to see or do, your destination will vary. The most popular destinations are Caen, Rouen, and Le Havre.

The French National Railway Company’s (SNCF) official website or mobile app is best for booking tickets. You can choose dates, times, and travel classes (TGV high-speed trains or slower TER regional trains).

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

Normandy American D-Day Beaches is mostly known for its heroic past.

It’s a special journey that takes you to Normandy Beach from Paris. To be more specific, this tour is like a time-travel adventure, allowing you to explore where important events took place during World War II.

Your day begins with tours from Paris to Normandy beaches in the charming town of Bayeux, which is known for its medieval architecture. After reaching the D-Day location, you will travel back to a pivotal day in 1944, when American troops landed to liberate Europe.

  • Omaha Beach is where the U.S. forces faced one of the toughest challenges during the battle. The challenges include strong German defenses, high cliffs, heavy artillery machine gun fire, etc.
  • Utah Beach is where American troops faced less resistance on D-Day and played a crucial role in securing Allied victory.
  • Pointe du Hoc and American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer are the other options for a D-Day beach tour from Paris.

The trip starts and ends in Bayeux, a charming town known for its medieval history, making it a perfect base for this unforgettable journey into the past. So, make sure to plan your itinerary as per your scheduled time.

Mont St Michel Full Day Tour : A Journey Worth Taking

Mont St. Michel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that rises beautifully from the horizon, and its medieval abbey sits on top of a rocky peak. So, make sure to climb up to the abbey’s terrace and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding bay.

This place gives visitors an amazing view. You can visit the village at your own pace, where winding streets, charming shops, and the unique atmosphere of Mont St. Michel will steal your heart.

One big alert:  You will fall in love with the essence of this medieval wonder in every corner. Hence, make sure to be prepared for it!

Multi-Day D-Day Tours from Paris

Honoring the heroes of World War II and getting into the pivotal events of D-Day doesn’t have to be a rushed day trip. For a deeper understanding and more experience, you can consider a multi-day D-Day tour from Paris.

3 day normandy tours from paris

These journeys will take you beyond the beaches, where the land is filled with history, local culture, and the poignant landscapes of Normandy.

Try to make your day trips from Paris by train at least for 3 days .  To be more precise, plan your 3-day itinerary from the City of Light in Paris and finish up with the Caen Memorial Museum or the Overlord Museum.

After all, a multi-day D-Day tour from Paris is more than just a sightseeing trip; it’s a transformative journey.

  • Day 1: Start your adventure with a comfortable train ride from Paris and finish it with a destination in Bayeux or Caen. They will both take you back in history and offer diverse cultural experiences.
  • Day 2: For the next day, take a deep look at the heart of D-Day history. The iconic beaches of Omaha and Utah invite you to learn more about the past, where the tide still whispers stories of bravery and sacrifice.
  • Day 3: Go beyond the battlefields and visit museums like the Caen Memorial Museum or the Overlord Museum to witness artifacts, exhibits, and personal stories that bring the events to life. Lastly, explore charming towns like Sainte-Mère-Église, where a commando still hangs from the church steeple, a reminder of D-Day’s brave airborne operations.

2-Days Guided Tour of Normandy, St Malo, and Loire Valley Chateaux from Paris

Are you already feeling the craving for medieval charm, coastal beauty, and fairytale castles?

Here we have made a 2-day Normandy tour from Paris. This plan covers from Paris to Normandy, St. Malo and Loire Valley châteaux. So, let’s begin:

First of all, leave Paris and start the journey to the beautiful Normandy region. Our first destination is the historic city of Rouen , the charming capital known for its beautiful cathedral and medieval half-timbered houses.

Next, we’ll head to the charming town of Honfleur and the D-Day landing beaches. Honfleur is famous for its vibrant harbor and lively art scene. So, make sure to enjoy your leisurely walk along the waterfront and marvel at the colorful buildings.

D-Day landing beaches

Day 2 

The second day opens up with a journey to the coastal gem of St. Malo . You will enjoy the medieval city walls, charming streets, and coastal environment there.

In the afternoon, the enchanting Loire Valley will reveal the Renaissance marvel of Château de Chambord and the iconic “ Ladies’ Castle ,” Château de Chenonceau in Amboise.

3-Days Discovery Trip with D-Day Beaches and Mont St Michel

The 3 day Normandy tour from Paris is an exciting adventure that takes you on a journey through history and natural beauty. Over the course of three days, you will have the opportunity to explore two iconic landmarks in France.

Firstly, you will visit the D-Day Beaches, where the Allied forces landed during World War II. Why? Well, this historic site allows you to learn about the bravery and sacrifices made by the soldiers who fought for freedom. You can walk along the sandy beaches, visit the museums, and see the remnants of the war.

Next, you will venture on a day trip from Paris to Normandy and Mont St. Michel, a breathtaking island village known for its medieval architecture and stunning views. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a unique and beautiful experience that is hard to forget.

Throughout the trip, you will be accompanied by knowledgeable guides, comfortable accommodations, and delicious local cuisine.

Tips for a Memorable D-Day Tour from Paris

Planning a memorable D-Day tour from Paris? Here are some pro tips to make your tour more perfect.

  • Start your plan by booking a guided tour for expert insights into the historical sites.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing for the day.
  • Bring a camera to capture the poignant moments and scenic views.
  • Pack enough snacks and drinks to stay hydrated and to keep your energy up during the tour.

“Be respectful at the D-Day Beaches, recognizing their historical significance. And take time to reflect on the courage displayed by soldiers.”

Things to Remember while Planning a D-Day Tour

When getting ready for your D-Day tour, remember a few important things to make it special. D-Day, which stands for “Day of Decision,” refers to the historic invasion of Normandy during World War II. So, you can only imagine the gravity these places hold.

Following is a list of some important things that you need to keep in mind when organizing your D-Day tour:

  • Time: Make sure to choose the off-peak season between the Spring and Fall. Ideal for tourists!
  • Weather: Normandy’s weather can be unpredictable , so pack accordingly for rain or shine.
  • Special Events: D-Day Anniversary Commemorations, Normandy WWII International Film Festival, Sainte-Mère-Église Commemorations, and Airborne Troops Anniversaries; all these events occur in June in D-Day areas.
  • Comfortable Attire: Wear comfortable shoes and clothing for lengthy walks.
  • Local Guides: Hire knowledgeable guides for in-depth insightful stories.
  • Logistics: Plan transportation and accommodation at least 3 months earlier .
  • Respect Memorials: Show respect at cemeteries and memorials; obey guidelines as instructed.
  • Cultural Etiquette: Learn and follow local customs for a positive and respectful experience. Such as learning basic French phrases, silence in churches, greeting Shopkeepers before shopping, etc.

What to Pack for Your D-Day Tour?

When preparing for your D-Day tour, it’s important to pack wisely to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here are some items you should consider bringing along:

  • Clothing: Pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring historical sites and weather-appropriate attire for occasional rain and varying temperatures.
  • Documentation: Take your passport, identification, and travel insurance details.
  • Essentials: Don’t forget to bring your camera or smartphone for capturing memorable moments. Also, bring a travel-sized first aid kit for unexpected needs and a portable phone charger to stay connected.

N.B. Download translation apps or learn some basic French phrases for communication.

Are D-Day Tours from Paris Worth the Time and Money?

If you’re wondering whether D-Day tours from Paris are worth your time and money, the answer is absolutely YES!

These tours offer a unique opportunity to invent the history and significance of the D-Day invasion. With knowledgeable guides and convenient transportation, you’ll have a hassle-free experience exploring iconic sites like Omaha Beach and the Normandy American Cemetery.

Besides, witnessing iconic landmarks like the D-Day beaches and Mont St. Michael is a unique and moving experience that is hard to feel elsewhere.

Last but not least, it is an opportunity to pay loyalty to the past and pay deep respect to those who sacrificed their lives for the greater good.

Concluding Words

As the sun sets over the historic landscapes, you’ll carry the echoes of bravery and resilience with you. After all, this D-Day tour from Paris is not just a journey; it’s an exploration into the pages of history, building a connection to the past that’s both powerful and touching.

Whether you select the private D-day tours from Paris, American Cemetery, or the iconic Mont St. Michel, each experience is enriched with stories of courage and sacrifice.

So, are you ready to make history come alive? If not, make sure to book your tour now to be part of an unforgettable journey where history comes alive.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can you do a Normandy day trip from Paris?

Yes, you can easily do a Normandy day trip from Paris. With convenient transportation options like high-speed trains and guided tours, it will be a worthwhile trip!

How far are D-Day beaches from Paris?

D-Day beaches stretch about 200 kilometers northwest of Paris. To reach Normandy from Paris, it takes approximately 3 hours by car.

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

Yes, there are high-speed trains available from Paris to Normand. Gare Saint-Lazare is used as a primary departure station for journeys to destinations like Caen, Rouen, and Le Havre.

How long is the train ride from Paris to Normandy?

Paris to Normandy tours by train typically take around 2 to 3 hours.

What is the best month to visit Normandy?

The best month to visit or make a tour of Normandy is generally late spring (May to June) or early fall (September to October), when the weather is mild and tourist crowds are smaller.

Which city is closest to the D-Day landing beaches?

The cities closest to the D-Day landing beaches are Bayeux and Caen, both of which serve as convenient bases for exploring the historic sites in Normandy. Both cities are easily reachable from Paris in less than 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Can you do a day trip from Paris to Normandy?

Yes, you can definitely do a day trip from Paris to Normandy.

What is the best way to travel from Paris to Normandy?

The best way to travel from Paris to Normandy is by train. It may take you around  2 hours and 30 minutes, costing around €90- €190. On the other hand, if you take a bus, it may cost you around €65-€95, taking about 8 hours and 39 minutes to reach there.

How far is Paris from Normandy?

Paris is approximately 200 kilometers (about 124 miles) from Normandy, depending on the specific destination within Normandy.

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Kayla D. Martinez

Senior Travel Writer

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Day trips to Normandy from Paris

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Updated on 28 May 2021

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

Château Gaillard aux Andelys

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

Average journey times:

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

To reach Bayeux from Paris, there are two options:

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

Child on a train

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

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

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

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

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day tours from paris to normandy

15 Unforgettable Things to Do In Normandy, France

Updated: July 7, 2023

Discover the history and beauty of France as you plan things to do in Normandy and explore the significant historical sites from World War II, visit Mont Saint Michel, and discover quaint beach towns all along the coast of France.

Should You Visit the Beaches of Normandy with Kids?

As you visit the beaches of Normandy and gaze out from the cliffs or stand among the rows upons rows of crosses in the American cemetery, it is impossible not to be impacted by the tremendous acts of bravery as real life moments are shared on Normandy tours.

As a mother, as a sister, as a wife, as a human being, I was humbled by our family's tour of the beaches of Normandy on July 4, 2017 on one of our day trips from Paris.

Visiting the beaches of Normandy with our girls and learning more about the D-Day invasion seemed a most fitting way to celebrate the Independence Day of the United States of America.  

It worked out in our vacation scheduling that Chris, our girls, and I were able to tour the cemeteries, battlefields, fortifications, and beaches of Normandy together. I would totally recommend the experience for tweens and teens who can understand the significance of the tour.

Note: The Normandy Tours may be somewhat spendy. For our family of five, it was important to us and we planned for the investment. It was totally worth it.

You will want to plan for at least two days to explore Normandy if you are planning to visit Mont Saint Michel and other towns in the area while you visit the beaches of Normandy.

While many think of Normandy in relation to its role in World War II and D-Day, there are many additional things to do in Normandy that will captivate your heart and inspire your wanderlust as well.

1. Visit The Beaches of Normandy: Utah Beach

We met up with our tour guide, Adrien, in Bayeux for our bilingual Normandy tour.

The bilingual tour was nice because Adrien spoke to us in English; we then had a chance to look around as he then gave his spiel in French. We set off in a nine-passenger van for an amazing day of history.

Our first stop along the invasion beaches of Normandy was in Utah. Allied troops landed at five different beaches along a 50-miles stretch of the French coast. From east to west, the Normandy invasion beaches are Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno and Sword.

The Americans landed at Utah Beach and Omaha Beach. The Canadians landed at Juno Beach. The British landed a Gold Beach and Sword Beach.

During the Allied invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944—a Tuesday—the 4th Infantry Division was tasked with landing on Utah Beach. The division faced heavy resistance from German troops but was successful in securing the beach. From there, they began to advance inland.

Due to the success of the 4th Infantry Division at Utah Beach, their actions contributed to a significant turning point in the war.

2. Le Roosevelt Diner at Utah Beach

Across the street from Utah Beach, plan to stop for lunch at a little diner, " Le Roosevelt ". Your guide may also escort you down into a well-camouflaged bunker under the cafe that was taken from the Germans by US Soldiers.

3. Omaha Beach

Today, Omaha Beach is a beautiful seaside, summer destination. So different now from the Normandy beach of World War II.

Paragliders float gracefully in the sky above.

As you stand on the beach under the bluffs it is hard to fully imagine what went on that Tuesday morning so many years ago. Of the five D-Day Beaches in Normandy, Omaha Beach was considered to be the bloodiest of all the landings.

4. Gold Beach & The Artificial Harbor at Arromanches-les-Bains

Gold Beach was the center beach of the invasion, taken by units in the British 50th Infantry Division.

On June 6, 1944, huge concrete chambers were towed towards the Normandy coast and then set in place creating Mulberry Harbour off of Gold Beach. German pilots were confused as they saw huge concrete chambers heading to France and could not figure out what they were witnessing.

You can still see the concrete blocks today off the shores of Arromanches-les-Bains.

5. Juno Beach

Juno Beach was successfully taken by heroic Canadian forces. The Canadian 3rd Infantry Division suffered heavy losses in the first wave of invasion, but by the end of the day they took control of the area from the German troops. You will find the Canadian cemetery nearby at Beny-sur-Mer.

6. Sword Beach

Caen, the main thoroughfare in this area of Normandy, was a vital city to both the Allied and German forces. As Allied forces arrived at Sword Beach, they found a light defense of obstacles on the beach and fortifications in the sand dunes.

You'll find a number of museums and memorials in the area:

  • The Atlantic Wall Museum - (Le Grand Bunker)
  • Musée du Commando No 4
  • Statue of Bill Millin the D-Day Piper
  • General Montgomery Monument
  • Churchill Tank Memorial
  • Hermanville War Cemetery

7. Sainte-Mere-Eglise Church

Sainte Mere Eglise

Sainte-Mere-Eglise  became the first town in France to be liberated . The fighting around the town continued until June 7, when the Germans were finally pushed back.

Did you know that parachutist John Steele hung from the bell tower of  Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption church  in Sainte-Mère-Église at the start of the Battle of Normandy in 1944?

When two plane loads of paratroopers were dropped into the area, Steele's parachute caught in one of the pinnacles of the church tower, leaving him hanging on the side of the church. Steele, pretending to be dead, hung from the bell tower for two hours before the Germans took him prisoner. He was able to escape four hours later.

8. Sainte-Mere-Eglise Museums

There are three small museums close to the church in Sainte-Mere-Eglise—C-47, Planeur Waco, and Operation Neptune. The museums are full of military memorabilia from airplanes to parachutes, clothing, supplies, uniforms, matches, guns, and medals. It is impressive.

As you walk into the C-47 replica museum, you'll immediately feel as though you are riding in a C-47 with the loud noises, the shake of the plane, cold temperatures, and surrounded by "paratroopers" (mannequins) solemnly waiting to jump.

9. Pointe du Hoc

Pointe du Hoc is a World War II Ranger Monument just eight miles west of the American Cemetery in Normandy. Pointe du Hoc sits high on a cliff offering expansive views of Omaha Beach.

On June 6, 1944, during the American assault of Omaha and Utah Beaches, U.S. Army Rangers scaled the cliffs of Omaha Beach, hand over fist to seize the German artillery pieces that were aimed at the American troops that would be landing on the beaches. The rangers' success came at a high cost of life.

10. Arromanches-les-Bains

Be sure to stop at the 360 °  Circular Cinema above the commune of Arromanches-les-Bains and Gold Beach. From here you have a dramatic view of the artificial harbors which were created to act as breakwater and allowed Allied forces to bring reinforcements and equipment to France.

Watch “The 100 Days of the Battle of Normandy” to see footage of the D-Day landings. Stand in the center of the room and watch as the film is projected on 9 different screens around you.

11. The American Cemetery in Normandy

When you see the 9,385 white crosses in the American Cemetery , row upon row upon row, you begin to sense the magnitude of war and freedom. Spend time wandering through the cemetery, reading the placards, visiting the chapel, and simply feeling the peace of this hallowed ground.

"The Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial in France is located in Colleville-sur-Mer, on the site of the temporary American St. Laurent Cemetery, established by the U.S. First Army on June 8, 1944 as the first American cemetery on European soil in World War II.
"The cemetery site, at the north end of its half mile access road, covers 172.5 acres and contains the graves of 9,385 of our military dead, most of whom lost their lives in the D-Day landings and ensuing operations. On the Walls of the Missing, in a semicircular garden on the east side of the memorial, are inscribed 1,557 names. Rosettes mark the names of those since recovered and identified."
American Battle Monuments Commission

12. German Cemetery

The German cemetery was temporarily used for American soldiers until a permanent place was given to them.

The German soldiers are buried two to a grave. It is the smallest cemetery size wise but has the most soldiers laid to rest there.

There are two branches of the Germany army in this cemetery, however, these soldiers are not separated by rank or politics.

In the center of the cemetery a huge mound rises up. Apparently, the identification of about 300 soldiers was mixed up. In order to still give them a proper burial, they were buried in a mass grave and given identification as their identity has been determined.

If you are planning to visit the beaches of Normandy or simply add a few more things to do in Normandy to your itinerary, be sure to allow for some time to explore Bayeux.

Bayeux features an Old Town with cobblestone streets, half timbered homes, a water wheel, the towering Norman-Gothic Cathédrale Notre-Dame, and the famous Tapisserie de Bayeux , an 11th-century tapestry that depicts the 1066 Norman invasion of England. You'll find it on display in the 18th-century seminary. 

If you are looking for a great place to eat, try Le Moulin de la Galette Restaurant ~ Creperie . We loved it.

14. Visit the Abbey of Mont Saint Michel (Abbaye du Mont Saint Michel)

Visit Mont Saint Michel, an island commune, that lies a little more than half a mile off the coast.

We parked our rental car across the bay to visit Mont Saint Michel and found a bus to board to drive the 3 km to the Abbey. Just know that you will not be alone as you visit Mont Saint Michel as it is a very popular tourist destination.

You will need to reserve tickets to visit the Abbey .

Mont Saint Michel is uniquely located on a small rocky island off the coast of Normandy surrounded by the waters of the sea during high tides.

Innovative construction techniques utilizing retaining walls, buttresses and arches were used to help maintain the structural stability of the entire complex.

There are a lot of stairs within the Abbey, but if you are able to climb, you'll enjoy seeing:

  • The view from the west terrace
  • The cloister gallery and its architectural details
  • The refectory (where the monks ate)
  • The monks’ walkway

Rouen is famous for its cathedral and for being the place where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake. Things to see and do in Rouen include:

  • Rouen Cathedral
  • The astronomical clock Gros Horloge
  • Musée des Beaux-Arts (Museum of Fine Arts)
  • Jardin des Plantes
  • Historial Jeanne d’Arc at Rouen’s Episcopal Palace
  • Old Market Square
  • Palais de Justice in the Jewish Quarter

Things to Bring When You Visit the Beaches of Normandy

You will want to pack snacks , water , jackets , and hats . If you will be touring in a van all day long (especially on day trips from Paris), it is handy to be able to leave your extras in a travel tote to keep them organized.

Make sure that your camera is fully charged with an extra battery on hand.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did d-day occur.

June 6, 1944.

How far is Mont St. Michel from the beaches of Normandy?

Mont St. Michel is approximately 1.5 hours driving from Utah Beach.

How far is Bayeux in Normandy from Paris?

If you are driving, it will take approximately 3.5 hours to get to Bayeux from Paris. By train, it can vary between 2.5 to 3.5 hours. If you are not taking a tour, you may wish to explore rental car options.

Can you stay in a hotel at Mont Saint Michel?

Yes. There are hotels on the island as well as a short distance away across the bay. Check Booking.com for places to stay in Mont Saint Michel.

Where to stay in Normandy?

Check Booking.com for places to stay in Normandy . Our family chose to stay in a vacation rental in Vaux-sur-Aure . Our girls loved the beautiful French breakfast from our Airbnb hosts—croissants, chocolate-filled croissants, fruit, fresh apple cider from the orchard down the street, yogurt, homemade jam, and baguettes.

Is there a train from Paris to Normandy?

To get to Normandy from Paris, take a train from Gare Saint-Lazare in Paris to the Bayeux train station . Not all trains are direct, so you may have to make a change at Caen.

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Final thoughts on 15 unforgettable things to do in normandy, france.

If you ever have the opportunity to tour Normandy, I highly recommend it. I also recommend booking an immersive tour of Allied and German war cemeteries, famous battlefields, fortifications, and beaches.

After our visit to the beaches of Normandy, I wrote, “It was hard to fathom the killing, the blood, the sorrow, the anger, the fear, the courage, the fighting. But it happened and so many young men willingly gave their lives.

"As you stare across the expanse of the beaches and imagine, you can't help but realize that our freedoms were granted by young men pulling themselves arm over arm through the sand, by climbing hand over fist up the side of a cliff, or by jumping in the dark of night into enemy territory. Our freedoms come with a price.”

Normandy offers a wide range D-Day sites. Seeing the sites with a tour guide is totally worth it for the knowledge and guidance you will receive throughout the day.

While there is much to see in relation to the D-Day sites, there are also many other popular site to draw your interest (hint * visit Mont Saint Michel) , especially if you are planning day trips from Paris.

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Thoughts about driving from Paris to do MSM & Beaches - Normandy Forum

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day tours from paris to normandy

We wanted to do a weekend trip to MSM & the Beaches in Normandy

After researching the tours , they seem extremely expensive for the 3 of Us to do

Has anyone rented a car & drove to these sights on their own & then found a tour to go on & lodging etc

Is 2 days enough ? Ang help would be greatly appreciated !!!

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Take a look at the Top Questions in the upper right hand corner of the Normandy TA forum page; it will answer a lot of questions.

If you search the Normandy forum, as well as the sub-forums for Bayeux & MSM, you will find hundreds of threads on this topic, including trip reports by folks who have done this & detailed threads regarding making such plans. See, e.g.,

https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g187181-i947-k13238984-Bayeux_Mont_Sain_Michael_and_Normandy_Getting_around-Bayeux_Calvados_Basse_Normandie_Norman.html

About successfully visiting the D-Day beaches from Paris by a son who was initially daunted by the prospect but it was his father's only request for their trip to France , https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g187179-i607-k6571838-Dday_tour_father_s_only_request_on_weeklong_Paris_trip-Normandy.html#50164876

https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g187179-i607-k10494768-Help_planning_5_days_in_Normandy-Normandy.html#83426354

https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g187179-i607-k13180471-Senior_Female_Traveling_Solo_to_Bayeux_France-Normandy.html#105140945

https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g187179-i607-k14354200-2_day_trip_to_D_Day_beaches_and_Mont_St_Michel_from_Paris-Normandy.html#119539498

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  1. 25 Best Normandy Tours from Paris

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  2. 25 Best Normandy Tours from Paris

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

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

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

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COMMENTS

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

    Quick Answer: The 7 Best Normandy D-Day Beach Tours From Paris For 2024. Best Small Group Tour: Normandy D-Day Small-Group Day Trip w/ Omaha Beach, Cemetery & Cider Tasting. Best Private Tour: Private Day Tour to D-Day Beaches from Paris. Best Full Day Tour: Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches Tour w/ Cider-Tasting & Lunch.

  2. 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!

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

    Visit the D-Day beaches during this full-day trip from Paris to Normandy. Stop at Omaha Beach to learn stories and historical facts about WWII; stop at the Juno Beach Center; pause at the American Cemetery. Gain fascinating insights from your guide into the sacrifices of Allied soldiers and the French citizens they liberated. Upgrade to a small-group tour when booking for a more personal ...

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

    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. Read More. Thousands of 5-Star Reviews. 4.88. 424 Reviews. Excellent. 376. Great. 45. Average. 2.

  6. 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.

  7. 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.

  8. Normandy D-Day Tours from Paris, France

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

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    Private D-Day tour "Normandy". Omaha Beach and Gold Beach. Mulberry B. Longues-sur-Mer battery. American Cemetery. Point du Hoc. Pick up and drop-off in Paris. 8 Persons max 12h day trip, dependending on traffic. Private tour "Versailles".

  10. Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches Small-Group Day Trip from Paris

    Private Normandy Live guided trip to Rouen — Honfleur — Deauville. from $549.15. Price varies by group size. Likely to Sell Out. Paris, Île-de-France. Mont Saint Michel Day Trip from Paris with English Speaking Guide. 689. from $147.55. Paris, Île-de-France.

  11. 25 Best Normandy Tours from Paris

    Compare Tours from Paris; 12. Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches Tour including Cider Tasting and Lunch. There are two distinct halves to this 14-hour run-around of Normandy. Come morning, you'll cruise north-west from the Eiffel Tower and straight to the coast of the English Channel. That's where you delve into WWII history.

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

    Full description. Enjoy an unforgettable day trip from Paris, and visit the Normandy Landing Beaches, where the outcome of changed World War II and the future of Europe forever. Learn about the dramatic events of 6 June 1944, with round-trip minibus transfers from Paris. Drive through the Normandy countryside to discover some of the most ...

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    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 ...

  14. Normandy From Paris Tours with Local Private Tour Guides

    It's popular to use the French capital as a base for meaningful daytrips. Experienced ToursByLocals guides can drive you from Paris to Normandy for a day-long immersion into WWII history, coastal countryside, and Norman culture, then back to Paris in time for a late dinner. It's easy to design your ideal day in advance with your ToursByLocals ...

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

    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.

  16. 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 ...

  17. 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.

  18. D-Day tour: Normandy & Landing Beaches -with lunch by minibus

    2. Select your tour. All day guided tour of the D-Day landing beaches in Normandy in a small group (1-15), with lunch and transport from Paris. 1 adult x 275,00 €. Cancellation fees : Go to general terms and conditions of sale.

  19. How to Plan a Paris to Normandy Day Trip

    Click here to book a day tour from Paris. Why You Should Go on a Day Trip From Paris to Normandy. On June 6, 1944, the Allied forces landed over 156,000 troops on a 50 miles section of Normandy to begin the liberation of Europe after five years of German occupation. Another 24,000 paratroopers parachuted behind enemy lines during the night before.

  20. Paris to Normandy 2-Day WWII Tour with D-Day Beaches, Bayeux 2024

    This trip includes transport from and to Paris and is limited to just 12 participants, ensuring a small-group experience. 2-day tour from Paris to Normandy's WWII sites. Relive the history of the D-Day landings as you visit the beaches the Allied forces stormed in 1944. Visit important WWII sites including Utah Beach, Omaha Beach, Pointe du ...

  21. 2-Day Normandy Tour from Paris Reviews (March 2024)

    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.

  22. D-Day Tours from Paris to Normandy's Iconic Sites in 2024!

    The Normandy D-Day Tours from Paris will help you learn the history of World War II. Read on to find out! Curious about the stories behind the D-Day landings? The Normandy D-Day Tours from Paris will help you learn the history of World War II. Read on to find out! Destinations. Asia; Europe; Americas; Africa;

  23. Day trips to Normandy from Paris

    Paris-Granville: 3 hours. Paris-Mont-Saint-Michel: a 2 hour 50 min train journey to Villedieu-les-Poëles plus 45 min by coach to the Mount. To reach Bayeux from Paris, there are two options: either take the train to Cherbourg with a scheduled stop at Bayeux: 2 hours 15 min. or travel to Caen and change there for Bayeux (30 min ride)

  24. 15 Unforgettable Things to Do In Normandy, France

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  25. Thoughts about driving from Paris to do MSM & Beaches

    Paris to MSM, or CDG to MSM yesterday. 2024 Restaurants open on Sunday and Monday in Bayeux, France Mar 23, 2024. Getting to Normandy and itinerary help Mar 23, 2024. Taxi stand at gare de Caen Mar 23, 2024. Good Friday (Vendredi saint) in Bayeux Mar 22, 2024. Overnight in MSM from Paris Mar 22, 2024. Domfront Mar 22, 2024.