TripUSAFrance logo

Experience Normandy For 6 Days Breathtaking, Magical, Authentic

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

On our 6 day tour, you will stay in the wonderful historic town of Bayeux and have the perfect amount of time to experience the highlights of Normandy. You will gaze in awe at the Mont St Michel. Learn intricate details of WW2 at the sites where the battles took place. Explore the market at the historic port in Honfleur. Enjoy a tasting of Calvados, the famous drink of the region. Discover a fabulous chateau that has remained in the same family for centuries. Walk in the streets of Rouen where Rollo the Viking who was the first Duke of Normandy ruled. See the famous Japanese footbridge and walk through Monet's private home and gardens. 

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

5/5 TripAdvisor

16 Travelers Max

Normandy Tour 2024 Calendar

Most of our Normandy tours and South of France tours can be combined! Simply book the South of France tour starting the day your Normandy tour ends and book your train or flight to Montpellier from Paris to be picked up in the afternoon before the tour starts with the Welcome dinner!

Normandy Tour 2025 Calendar

Coming February!

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

When is the best time to travel to Normandy?

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

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

293728239_1361330151029176_7940999880696465306_n

» Read More

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

mont_st_michel_10949_qfp8k

Mont St Michel

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

graveyard-g2ee0d2359_1280

American Cemetery & Omaha Beach

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

normandy (3)

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

normandy small group tours

The Bayeux Tapestry

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

normandy (2)

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

utah beach

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

Normandy 8 day tour

Pointe du Hoc

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

german-3397671_640

Longues-Sur-Mer

Arromanches mulberry harbor normandy tour

Mulberry Harbor at Arromanches

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

52020673143_ee6f84716a_c

Monet's House in Giverny

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

https://www.flickr.com/photos/martin55/10253547506/ CC martin_vmorris https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/

Normandy Airborne Museum

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

Sainte Mere Eglise St Mere

Sainte Mere Eglise

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

Rouen Cathedral

Rouen Cathedral

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

normandy tour

Calvados Distillery

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

market

French Market

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

Small group tour Normandy

Fabulous Restaurants!

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

Julia-and-Stef-2-1-550x390

Local Guides!

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

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

Sub-domains

What's included

Local tour guide with you throughout the tour

 6 Hotel Nights

6 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 3 Dinners

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

 Transportation to All Sites / Activities    

Daily Water

All Entry Fees

All Guided Tours or Audio Guides

1 Calvados Tasting

Personal Help To Book Your Flight & Plan Your Trip

What's not included

Airfare to/from France

Extra Food/Drinks Not Included In Our Selected Menus

3 Dinners (restaurant recommendations provided)

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

Accommodations 5 nights in Bayeux and 1 night near Charles de Gaulle Airport!

domaine bayeux1

Hotel Domaine de Bayeux (5 Nights) - Airport Hotel near CDG, Paris (1 Night)

Air-Conditioned Room

Private Bathroom

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

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

PLAN - PRICE

Description

normandy small group tours

  SINGLE ROOM

USD $4,095 /PERSON 

BASED ON 1 PERSON PER ROOM

6 HOTEL NIGHTS INCLUDED

6 BREAKFASTS + 6 LUNCHES + 3 DINNERS

ALL VISIT FEES + TRANSPORTATION INCLUDED EXPERT LOCAL GUIDES

normandy small group tours

2 ADULTS ROOM

USD $3,595 / PERSON 

BASED ON 2 PERSONS PER ROOM

6 HOTEL NIG HTS INCLUDED

ALL VISIT FEES + TRANSPORTATION  INCLUDED

EXPERT LOCAL GUIDES

normandy small group tours

PRIVATE GROUP

Group Price

CUSTOMIZED TOUR

ALL VISIT FEES + TRANSPORTATION INCLUDED

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

normandy small group tours

Brenda C.    Normandy Tour

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

Bill G.    Normandy Tour

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

Dorothy B.    Normandy Tour

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

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

Select Image South of France tour (2)

Any Questions?

DSC_0030-1-550x390

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

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

Stay connected with TripUSAFrance on Facebook where we love posting pictures about France and our tours.

Stay-in-touch-with-France

Subscribe to our monthly newsletter!

Thanks for subscribing! Please check your email for further instructions.

> Contact

> My Account

normandy small group tours

  • All Destinations
  • United States
  • European Theater
  • Pacific Theater
  • North Africa
  • The Home Front
  • The Holocaust
  • Pearl Harbor
  • WWII Events
  • Wings, Wheels, & Weapons
  • General WWII Travel Topics
  • Work With Me
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

DESTINATION: WWII

A World War II Travel Blog

normandy small group tours

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

Last Updated: January 29, 2024 //  by  Ashley Smith Leave a Comment

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

Table of Contents

Man in WWII soldiers uniform photographing a memorial in front of gold beach normandy

Why book one of the Normandy D-Day tours?

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

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

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

14 Must-Visit Normandy Museums for WWII Enthusiasts | Arromanches Musée du Debarquement

Choosing the best Normandy D-Day tours

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

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

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

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

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

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

tall cliffs in front of the ocean under an overcast sky

My favorite day tour companies

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

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

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

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

normandy small group tours

Best D-Day tours in Normandy: at a glance

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

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

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

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

white marble crosses in front of red roses on a sunny day

1. Best overall Normandy D-Day tour from Bayeux

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

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

What you’ll see on this tour

This tour includes stops at:

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

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

Why it’s the best

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

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

What to expect on this tour:

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

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

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

How much this tour costs

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

A similar option

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

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

france and EU flag against a blue sky

2. Best half-day Normandy D-Day tour

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

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

This half-day Normandy tour includes stops at:

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

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

small american flags in front of a steel memorial on a beach

What to expect on this tour

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

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

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

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

14 Must-Visit Normandy Museums for WWII Enthusiasts | Airborne Museums in Saint-Mère-Église, paratrooper John Steele memorial

3. Best private D-Day Normandy tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Honorable mentions

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

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

old remains of a bunker in front of the ocean surrounded by green grass

4. Best shore excursion Normandy D-Day tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

old stone building and street signs

5. Best Band of Brothers tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

statue of a man reaching for the blue sky

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8 flags of many countries under a blue sky

6. Best D-Day tour for Canadian visitors

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

man in a wwii jeep on a beach

7. Most unique Normandy D-Day tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

normandy small group tours

8. Best Normandy D-Day tour from Caen

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

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

This full-day tour includes visits to:

  • Caen Memorial Museum

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

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

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

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

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

old jeep with british flag on top in a small french town

9. Best tour for British visitors

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It does not include lunch or other personal expenses.

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

colorful map of the normandy invasion

10. Best bonus D-Day sites tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

wwii travel shop ad

Other Normandy D-Day tours

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

small dog in front of a white fence with red flowers

More info for your Normandy D-Day trip

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

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

normandy small group tours

Save this info, pin this image:

normandy small group tours

Subscribe to DWWII

' src=

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.

normandy small group tours

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

close-link

Paris WWII Sites Map

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience.

This site uses cookies. For more information, please see our cookie policy.

Grand European Travel Logo

Mon - Fri: 7am - 5pm PST

Closed Sat & Sun

Contact us HERE

Email

North America

Central & south america, south pacific.

  • Middle East

Multi-Country Tours

Today's top trips, best of italy, european whirl, national park wonders.

Grand European Travel Logo

Normandy, Brittany and the Loire Valley - Small Group

normandy small group tours

Manage My Booking

  • My GET Tour Log In
  • Uniworld Express Check-In
  • Travel Restrictions/Guidelines
  • South America
  • US & Canada
  • Australia & New Zealand

Top Destinations

  • Great Britain
  • Switzerland

Collections

  • Edinburgh Military Tattoo Tours
  • Europe's Christmas Markets
  • Multi-Country European Packages
  • CostSaver Tours
  • Insight Vacations Tours
  • Trafalgar Tours
  • Uniworld River Cruises

For more than 40 years, Grand European Travel has been providing a wonderfully simple, and genuinely personal, way to travel.

Meet Our Team

Our Travel Specialists make planning your trip fun and hassle free

Guided Vacations

Top 10 advantages of taking a guided tour

Guest Reviews

As you plan your trip read our unedited guest reviews

Travel Insurance

Protect your vacation with travel insurance.

Responsible Travel

Powered by our not-for-profit foundation, TreadRight

Aarp Logo Red

8 Day France Tour to Paris & the Loire Valley

France Normandy Britt Loire Francechateau Dazay Le Rideau

Paris, Rouen, Deauville, Omaha Beach, Arromanches-les-Bains, Gold Beach, Mont-Saint-Michel, Saint-Malo, Angers, Saumur, Loire-Ouchamps, Cheverny

3 Dinner with Wines, 7 Breakfasts

Faster paces with mix of 1–2-night stays in each location. Typically features 4+ miles of walking on some days and may involve steep hills and uneven surfaces, such as cobblestones.

Insight Small Groups Italy Alberobello

Insight - Small Groups

If you prefer to travel with a smaller group of curious fellow travelers passionate about diving into incredible experiences, Insight Vacations Small Group tours are the perfect choice. With all the premium features of Insight Vacations including 4 and 5-star hotels, one-of-a-kind inclusions, immersive local cultural experiences and superior dining, small group departures have a maximum of just 24 guests allowing for a more intimate, premium touring experience. Every tour includes at least one MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. These immersive impact experiences are not only a positive force for change in the destinations you visit, by advancing one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), but also offer you the chance to take a deep dive into culture and community.

Small Group Travel Style

Small Group Tours

Insight Vacations Small Group departures are limited to only 24 guests. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, more personalized attention from your Travel Director, and the opportunity to form closer connections with fellow travelers. Perfect for couples, families, and solo travelers who want to explore must-see destinations with like-minded people.

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

normandy small group tours

Flexible booking 30-day deposit refund guarantee + no change fees See flexible booking terms >

Best Value Why touring is the easiest way to travel Learn more >

Current Entry Requirements Check your destination View Entry Guide >

Day-by-day itinerary

print itinerary icon

After checking in, the capital’s grand boulevards and world-famous landmarks are yours to explore. Meet your Travel Director and fellow guests at the hotel before enjoying a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant with cuisine inspired by fresh home-made recipes.

Skyline of Paris with Eiffel Tower, Paris, France

Le Méridien Etoile

normandy small group tours

About the Hotel

Paris, france.

The Le Méridien Etoile is centrally located in the 17th arrondissement and just a short drive from key sights such as the Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Elysées. Contemporary, yet comfortable furnishing bring about a homely sense throughout the hotel and guest rooms.

Hotel Amenities

  • Room Service
  • Foreign Currency Exchange
  • 24-hour Front Desk
  • Contemporary

Guests Enjoying a Welcome Dinner in Paris, France

Join your Travel Director and fellow guests at a local restaurant in the heart of Paris for a delightful Welcome Dinner, served with wine.

Authentic Dining

Guests Enjoying a Welcome Dinner in Paris, France

Paris Welcome Dinner

Cruise River Seine in Paris, France

The City of Light really lives up to its name when the city's monuments, buildings and bridges are lit up in all of their glory. First, a specially ...

Optional Experiences

Cruise River Seine in Paris, France

Seine Cruise and Illuminations

The City of Light really lives up to its name when the city's monuments, buildings and bridges are lit up in all of their glory. First, a specially-designed sightseeing boat takes us for an unforgettable cruise along the Seine and beneath famous bridges to appreciate the Left and Right Banks and the Île de la Cité and St Louis. Then, we'll enjoy an illuminations tour, when the rubies and diamonds of the Champs Élysées and the Eiffel Tower are at their magnificent best.

Pricing Info

How to book.

Optional experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked by your Travel Director while on tour.

Follow the River Seine to Rouen, capital of Normandy, to admire its ancient cathedral - a masterpiece of Gothic style and the subject of a series of paintings by Claude Monet. Wander through the narrow streets beneath the Great Clock to the Old Market Square. Here, a superb modern church commemorates the burning of Joan of Arc on this very spot in 1431. Continue to the charming fishing town of Honfleur and wander along the harbor or stroll through the colorful streets. Close by, meet a farming family who grow apples to produce local juice, cider and calvados of Normandy. Sample the local produce paired with Normandy cheese. Later, arrive at your luxurious hotel, located in the chic seaside resort of Deauville.

Gothic 12th century cathedral Rouen, Normandy, France

Hotel Barrière L'Hôtel du Golf

normandy small group tours

Deauville, France

Hotel Barrière L'Hôtel du Golf is located just 10 minutes from Deauville Beach, known as a weekend getaway for Parisians. With it's Tudor-style facade and tasteful, modern interiors, relax in comfort during your stay. Perhaps play a round of golf on one of the three 9-hoole courses, known as some of the most beautiful in France.

  • Business Centre
  • Traditional

The Great Clock of Rouen, France

See the cathedral, the Great Clock, the Old Market square and Place du Vieux-Marché where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake.

Top Rated Highlights

The Great Clock of Rouen, France

Rouen Orientation

Village Orientation Honfleur, France

See this charming fishing town.

Village Orientation Honfleur, France

See the Town of Honfleur

This evening, with our Local Expert, we'll enjoy a guided tour of the famous Deauville boardwalk, lined with the names of Hollywood stars. We'll pa ...

Deauville at Night

This evening, with our Local Expert, we'll enjoy a guided tour of the famous Deauville boardwalk, lined with the names of Hollywood stars. We'll pass by Coco Chanel's very first boutique, opened in 1913, before having a three-course dinner in the charming and animated port of Trouville. 

Follow the route of the Rangers and visit the bunkers and the Rangers Memorial at Pointe du Hoc. Then with a Local Expert, spend a few reflective moments at the American Military Cemetery of Saint-Laurent, near Omaha Beach. Explore Normandy with Insight Choice. Choose to visit the D-Day Museum in Arromanches and see the remnants of the artificial port in the bay. Alternatively, visit the Bayeux Tapestry Museum and learn about the epic story of William, Duke of Normandy becoming the King of England. This evening you are treated to a delightful dinner, which promises creative cuisine, seasonal ingredients and delicious wines.

Sunny Gold beach, Deauville, France

Follow the route of the Rangers, visit the bunkers and the Rangers Memorial.

Pointe du Hoc Rangers Memorial at Omaha Beach, France

Pointe du Hoc Rangers Memorial Visit

Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial in Omaha Beach, France

With a Local Expert, spend a few reflective moments at the American Military Cemetery of Saint-Laurent.

Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial in Omaha Beach, France

Visit the American Military Cemetery at Omaha Beach

The Bayeux Tapestry inside the Bayeux Museum, France.

Visit the Bayeux Tapestry Museum and learn about the epic story of William, Duke of Normandy becoming the King of England.

The Bayeux Tapestry inside the Bayeux Museum, France.

Bayeux Tapestry Museum Visit

Mulberry harbour in Deauville, France

Visit the D-Day Museum in Arromanches and see the remnants of the artificial port in the bay.

Mulberry harbour in Deauville, France

D-Day Museum Visit

Journey through bocage country and explore the hilltop abbey of Mont Saint-Michel with your Local Expert. Situated on an island, the abbey is reached by a bridge across the shining sands. Behind the outer ring of defences huddles the small town - it's one street containing shops, cafes and hotels. Continue along the Emerald Coast to stunning Saint-Malo, situated on the Rance Estuary and one of the most charming places in France. A Local Expert will take you on an exploration of the City of the Corsairs. Walk through the maze of streets of Intra Muros, the walled city, home of Jacques Cartier and other celebrated voyagers. At your leisure, you can wander around the ramparts of the thick city walls, offering fantastic views over the old town and the bay. By night, the town’s medieval maze of winding streets is abuzz with quaint bars and restaurants. Alternatively, you may wish to join an Optional Experience to Cancale, known throughout France for its oyster beds, for a delicious meal of fresh seafood and other Breton specialties.

Ancient buildings of the old town on Mont Saint Michel, France

Hôtel Le Nouveau Monde

normandy small group tours

Saint-Malo, France

Hôtel Le Nouveau Monde is a 4-star hotel, perfectly located in the heart of Saint-Malo, facing the sea and close to the charming old town.

  • Beach Access

Sunset on Mont Saint Michel, France

Savor your first sight of the fortified island of Mont Saint-Michel. Cross the causeway for a guided tour with your Local Expert through the maze o ...

Sunset on Mont Saint Michel, France

Mont Saint-Michel City Tour

Savor your first sight of the fortified island of Mont Saint-Michel. Cross the causeway for a guided tour with your Local Expert through the maze of halls and vaults of the abbey.

The Mole beach at the walled city of Saint-Malo, France

Your Local Expert guides you trough the intertwined streets of the walled city to arrive at the cathedral. Later enjoy the chance to walk along the ...

The Mole beach at the walled city of Saint-Malo, France

Saint Malo City Tour

Your Local Expert guides you trough the intertwined streets of the walled city to arrive at the cathedral. Later enjoy the chance to walk along the fortifications and explore the cities nightlife at your leisure.

A short drive along the Emerald Coast road of Brittany takes us to the famous fishing village of Cancale, known throughout France for its oyster be ...

Breton Evening

A short drive along the Emerald Coast road of Brittany takes us to the famous fishing village of Cancale, known throughout France for its oyster beds on the Bay of Mont St. Michel. On the menu in our delightful and rustic sea front bistro, a selection of sea food and other Breton specialties, finished off with a traditional seafarer's tot of rum!

Head south to follow the valley of the Loire, passing the moated Angers Castle. Cross the Loire to Saumur, where a local vintner will guide you through tastings of the region's delicious wines. Head to Château de Villandry, the jewel of the Loire, to visit the glorious sustainable gardens on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Ensure you don't miss the water, ornamental and kitchen gardens. This stunning sea of fragrant green herbs, silvery cabbages and purple basil is grown organically to re-generate the local ecosystem. 

Chateau de Villandry, Villandry, France

Discover the sustainable gardens of Château de Villandry. In the scenic Loire Valley, explore France’s finest formal gardens. Now a hub for sustain ...

Make Travel Matter

The beautiful gardens of Villandry castle in Loire Valley, France

Discover the Elegant Estates of the Loire Valley

Discover the sustainable gardens of Château de Villandry. In the scenic Loire Valley, explore France’s finest formal gardens. Now a hub for sustainability preserving the estate's biological diversity, learn all about the a sea of fragrant green herbs, silvery cabbages, and purple basil, all grown organically to re-generate the local ecosystem. Their aim is to preserve a remarkable garden, maintained with meticulous care, while incorporating maintenance work into a balanced ecosystem. They have partnered with a local university to bring biodiversity back into the gardens.  Villandry Gardens advance UN Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life On Land.

The Château d'Angers northwestern battlements, Angers, France

Enjoy exploring the western gateway to the Loire Valley in the little town of Angers and see its imposing chateau.

The Château d'Angers northwestern battlements, Angers, France

Angers Orientation

Wine tasting in Saumur in the Loire Valley.

Fun and informative, discuss the grape varieties and local terroir while sampling wines of the Loire Valley.

Wine tasting in Saumur in the Loire Valley.

Saumur Wine Tasting

Dinner in the Loire Valley, France

Good company, good wine and delicious local specialties are the hallmarks of a great evening out in the Loire. Enjoy dinner in a traditional family ...

Dinner in the Loire Valley, France

Dinner in Loire

Good company, good wine and delicious local specialties are the hallmarks of a great evening out in the Loire. Enjoy dinner in a traditional family-owned and operated gastronomic restaurant.

Journey to the family-owned Château de Cheverny inhabited by the same family for over six centuries. Arrive through the forest and park lands with your Local Expert who will show you the château's decor and aristocratic costumes of the family through the centuries. Listen out for the hounds and find out about the connection with Tintin while you are there. Return to your superb château for relaxation and free time. This evening, your Celebration Dinner starts with a glass of local sparkling wine and continues with excellent service and delicious Farm-to-Table dishes in the most wholesome setting, ensuring the memory of your meal will linger long after you've returned home.

Vineyard Loire Valley, France

During your visit to Château de Cheverny, your Local Expert will show you the château's decor and aristocratic costumes of the family through the c ...

Château de Cheverny Visit

During your visit to Château de Cheverny, your Local Expert will show you the château's decor and aristocratic costumes of the family through the centuries. Inhabited by the same family for more than 6 centuries, the castle, its gardens and its connection to Tintin will provide an unforgettable experience.

You are introduced to the splendor and luxury of French court life with a visit to Château de Chenonceau. Set on elegant arches spanning the River ...

Visit the Château and Gardens of Chenonceau

You are introduced to the splendor and luxury of French court life with a visit to Château de Chenonceau. Set on elegant arches spanning the River Cher, it is said to be one of the most beautiful buildings in existence. A Local Expert will recount tales of King Henri II's mistress, Diane de Poitiers, as you tour the home she loved, but from which she was driven by the vengeful Queen, Catherine de Medici. One of the jewels of the French Renaissance, admire the rich decor, stroll beneath the trees of the Broad Walk and the formal gardens where roses and clipped lavender are laid out in typical French style.

Traveling through the vast wheat fields of the the Beauce region, Chartres Cathedral, nicknamed the 'Acropolis of France' by August Rodin, looms large on the horizon. Enjoy a guided tour of this architectural delight. From here, return to the French capital where your Travel Director introduces you to the fabulous sights of Paris, including the vast Place de la Concorde, where the guillotine once stood. Travel up the Champs Élysées to Napoléon's Arc de Triomphe. After dark, the City of Light really lives up to its name, when the monuments, buildings and bridges are lit up in all their glory. For that special touch of excitement and glamour, don't miss the chance to experience a world-famous cabaret show.

Pont Alexandre III over the Seine River at sunset, Paris, France

Enjoy dinner and cabaret, including wine and champagne, at the world-famous Moulin Rouge – the original Paris cabaret. Immortalized by the award-wi ...

Cabaret and dinner in Paris, France

Moulin Rouge Cabaret and Dinner

Enjoy dinner and cabaret, including wine and champagne, at the world-famous Moulin Rouge – the original Paris cabaret. Immortalized by the award-winning film of the same name, this Parisian institution features 60 dancers and entertainers and over 1000 costumes!

Today, bid farewell to your journey along the country roads of France as you transfer to the airport.

Au Revoir, Paris, France

Select your date

Special departure, included highlights, top rated highlights.

Learn more about the landmarks, history and culture that makes your destination special.

normandy small group tours

About this trip

Great food is at the heart of every journey with us. Here is a selection of the incredible dining experiences you'll enjoy on this tour.

normandy small group tours

Hand-Picked Hotels

Stay at highly rated hotels in desirable locations offering superb service, superior rooms with comfy beds to rest in.

Sign up on tour for additional experiences that have been curated by your Travel Director from their own in-depth local knowledge.

normandy small group tours

Compare similar tours

The treasures of france including normandy, 8 days from $2,493.

Treasures Of France Including Normandy Guided Tour

Country Roads of France

16 days from $5,181.

Country Roads of France Guided Tour

WWI and WWII Battlefields

11 days from $3,336.

WWI and WWII Battlefields Guided Tour

Best of France

13 days from $4,136.

Best Of France Guided Tour

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Official Language in France: French
  • Currency used in France: Euro (€)
  • Capital of France: Paris
  • Time Zone(s) in France: Central European Time Zone (CET), Central European Summer Time (CEST)

France passport, visa, and entry requirement information for US citizens.

  • Passport: Your passport should have at least two blank pages for entry stamps. Your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of your trip
  • Visa Requirement: A visa is not required to enter France
  • Entry Requirements: You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to getours.com/travel-requirements-restrictions .

France has a varied climate due to its size and geographical diversity. The northern regions, including Paris, have a temperate climate with mild summers and cool winters. Coastal areas along the Mediterranean, such as Nice and Marseille, have a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The mountainous regions, like the French Alps, experience alpine climate conditions with cold winters and heavy snowfall, making them popular for winter sports. Western France, including cities like Bordeaux and Nantes, has an oceanic climate with mild, damp winters and mild summers. Overall, France experiences regional variations in temperature, precipitation, and sunshine hours throughout the year.

On-Tour Luggage & Carry-On Bag Size Limits

Luggage : Each guest traveling may bring one suitcase no larger than 30” x 18” x 10" and weighing no more than 50 lb

Carry-On Bag : *Restricted to one piece per person, not to exceed 12” x 11” x 6”

  • *Please note : A "carry-on bag" on a tour coach is not the same as a "carry-on" for a flight. Because our coaches have large windows to enjoy the view, there is minimal space to store large items securely overhead or under the seats. A "carry-on bag" may be a soft-sided daypack, purse, backpack, tote bag, or the like. Because we value our guests' safety, small rolling suitcases or bags with telescopic handles are not permitted. In order to guarantee a smooth trip, guests are not permitted to store an additional "carry-on" bag beneath the coach with the luggage. 

So your driver and any hotel porters can safely lift and transport your suitcase throughout your vacation, we strongly recommend that you test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances. 

Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline, and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.

Packing Tips for Your Tour

Packing for a guided tour will vary depending on the duration of the trip, the time of year, and the activities planned. Here is a general packing list to help you get started:

Passport and Travel Documents : Ensure you have your passport , travel insurance , and any necessary travel documents.

  • Comfortable walking shoes: Cobblestone streets and uneven terrain require comfortable footwear.
  • Lightweight, breathable clothing: Pack clothes suitable for the season. Bring a mix of short-sleeved tops, lightweight pants or skirts, and a few long-sleeved options for cooler evenings for the summer months, and long-sleeved and heavier layers for early Spring, Fall, and Winter.
  • Layers: It's advisable to bring a light jacket or sweater and a scarf for layering, especially in Spring or Fall.
  • Nice evening wear: You may wish to wear a dressier outfit if you plan on dining in an elegant restaurant, for example. Smart-casual clothes are usually acceptable for all included daytime and evening activities throughout your tour.
  • Rain Gear: Depending on the season and the countries you're visiting, it's a good idea to pack a compact rain jacket or umbrella.

Sun Protection:

  • Hat, sunglasses, UV-protective clothing.
  • Sunscreen with high SPF. If you're visiting any coastal areas, bring reef-safe sunscreen formulated without harmful chemicals known to be damaging to coral reefs and marine life. Traditional sunscreens often contain ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which have been found to contribute to coral bleaching and negatively impact marine ecosystems. Look for sunscreens with certifications such as "Reef Safe," "Coral Safe," or "Ocean-Friendly" to ensure they are environmentally friendly .

Medications and First Aid:

  • Any prescription medications you need. (See more below under Health & Wellness)
  • Basic first aid kit with adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, etc.

Toiletries:

  • Travel-sized toiletries, including shampoo, conditioner, soap, and toothpaste.
  • Travel towel (quick-drying and compact).
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
  • A washcloth and carry bag (often not available in hotels abroad).

Electronics:

  • A camera: You’re traveling to see extraordinary scenery and sites. So that you don't miss a single moment, bring a trustworthy camera. Check out our travel photography tips for capturing the best photos of your trips. If you feel comfortable, you can also try the camera on your phone . However, if you want to zoom in or capture moving objects, a camera might be your best bet.
  • Mobile phone.
  • Chargers for each electronic you bring.
  • Travel adapter and/or voltage converter
  • Portable power bank for charging devices on the go.
  • Small travel hair dryer (make sure you have the correct converter and adapter).

Miscellaneous:

  • A travel-friendly daypack or bag to carry your essentials during excursions.
  • Insect repellent.
  • Reusable water bottle. At GET, we’re all about caring for our planet , and with that in mind, we always recommend that you pack a reusable water bottle for your trip. Bringing your own reusable water bottle or asking for tap water at restaurants means you can make a difference by reducing your vacation plastic waste.
  • A small travel alarm.
  • A travel iron if you like your clothes to be pressed.
  • A travel pillow.
  • Scarf or shawl for visiting religious sites or to cover up in conservative areas.
  • Light sleepwear.
  • A new, blank journal to document your trip. Don't know your travel journal style? Find out here !
  • Ziplock bags (storing snacks, toiletries, and keeping things organized).

Remember to pack light and versatile items that can be mixed and matched for different outfits. Laundry facilities are often available, or you can have your clothes laundered at hotels during your trip. It's also a good idea to pack a small bag or backpack to bring on the coach for day trips and excursions, leaving your larger luggage at the hotel.

Electricity

American appliances run on 110-120 volts at 60 Hz, while European appliances run on 220-230 volts at 50 Hz.

As a result, American appliances designed for use in the United States (typically 120 volts at 60 Hz) may not be directly compatible with the higher voltage used in European countries. Plugging a 120-volt appliance into a 220-240-volt outlet without the appropriate voltage converter or transformer can cause damage to the appliance or pose safety risks.

If you plan to bring American appliances to Europe, you will need a voltage converter or transformer to change the voltage to 220-240 volts from 110 volts. Additionally, you will likely need a plug adapter to fit the American-style plug into the European power outlets. All of Europe operates on the same two round-pronged outlets (Type C).

It's important to note that not all appliances are compatible with voltage converters, so it's essential to check the labels or user manuals of your devices before using them with a voltage converter. Some electronic devices, such as laptops, smartphones, and camera chargers, are dual voltage and can support 120V and 220-240V, so they may not require a voltage converter, but a plug adapter will still be necessary.

To avoid any issues with electrical compatibility during your travels, consider purchasing appliances specifically designed for the voltage used in the region you'll be visiting or use appropriate voltage converters and plug adapters to ensure the safe operation of your American appliances in Europe.

We recommend purchasing an adapter with a voltage converter so you can pack less. And to pick up any necessary adapters or converters for your electronic devices before departing on your guided tour and bringing them with you.

Hair Dryers in Your Hotel

Hair dryers are common accessories in hotels. Should you want to bring your own, though, you will need to bring an adapter and voltage converter or make sure it is dual voltage by checking the label for INPUT AC 120V - 240V or a switch that can be set to 125V or 250V. Many devices have this feature, so it's worth checking before you travel. If you need a hair dryer during your trip but can't find one in your hotel room, you can inquire with the hotel staff. Many hotels will be able to provide a hair dryer upon request, either at the front desk or through housekeeping.

Air Conditioning

Air conditioning is commonly available in European hotels, restaurants, and public spaces, especially in major cities and tourist areas, but it is worth noting that the settings will differ from what you are used to in the USA.

However, it's important to note that not all accommodations or historic buildings may have air conditioning, particularly in more traditional or rural settings. Most hotels in Europe can provide a portable fan for additional room cooling if requested. Your Travel Director will be on hand to assist you throughout your trip.

Traveling by coach

Our modern air-conditioned coaches have been selected with your comfort in mind. Your Travel Director will familiarize you with all the onboard features, including a washroom fitted for your convenience and comfort. Regular stops are made to stretch your legs, take refreshments, fill up your water bottles, and use the facilities.

Airport transfers

Airport transfers to and from the airport on the first and last days of your tour are complimentary only if you are traveling on a tour operated by Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, or Luxury Gold and   your flight times coincide with the shuttle-coach transfer timings. Learn more about Airport Transfers here .

To enable you to personalize your tour experience, you will find a number of Optional Experiences designed to complement the itinerary. These are designed to offer a deeper insight into the culture and character of the areas to be visited and provide some wonderful highlights to your travels. The optional program is designed to let you experience more of what interests you and to get the most from your vacation without replacing or overlapping with anything included in an itinerary.

The majority of Optional Experiences will be offered to you by your Travel Director at the beginning of your trip. Some may be subject to change, depending on the time you are traveling or local circumstances, including weather and days of the week. Your Travel Director will provide further information.

Usually, most Optional Experiences will be priced in the local currency, but please read through the details of individual optional experiences for specific information. Exact payment options will be advised locally by your Travel Director/Local Representative for each Optional Experience, but in many cases, cash, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are all accepted.

It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad.

In order to ensure a healthy and enjoyable trip, we strongly suggest that you pack a plentiful supply of any medication you may need while on vacation. Here’s what you need to know about traveling with medications .

Prior to traveling, please notify GET of any disability requiring special assistance or any specific dietary needs that you may have, and we will strive to accommodate these.

It's essential to ensure that your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before traveling to any destination. Routine vaccinations may include vaccinations for measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, and influenza.

When traveling with GET, baggage handling at hotels, service charges, and tips for hotel wait staff (for included meals) will all be taken care of by your Travel Director. There are, however, a few instances where individual tipping is welcome.

Local Specialists

It is customary to show appreciation for the insights, stories, and know-how shared with you by the Local Specialists, and we suggest a gratuity equivalent to $1.00-$2.00 USD per person per half day.

Your Coach Driver and Travel Director

The trip cost does not include gratuities for your Travel Director and Driver. At the end of your trip, you may express appreciation to your Travel Director and Driver for their excellent service and the personal attention you received. Gratuities are given at the discretion of each guest, and a suggested amount per person/per day is listed in your travel documents.

For your convenience and ease, there is an option to pre-pay gratuities for the Travel Director and Driver at the time of booking.

Hotel services

It is customary to tip hotel staff for room service delivery if the charge has not already been added to the bill. Where ice machines are not available, and you receive ice from the bar, a small tip to the bartender is always appreciated.

Your GET Wishlist

{{ tour.title }}, {{ tour.duration }} days from {{ tour.displayprice }}, find your perfect destination, 42 tours from $1,250.

normandy small group tours

Britain & Ireland

46 tours from $1,485.

normandy small group tours

Spain & Portugal

31 tours from $1,211.

normandy small group tours

29 tours from $1,999

normandy small group tours

10 tours from $2,444

normandy small group tours

United States

54 tours from $1,700.

normandy small group tours

9 tours from $4,257

normandy small group tours

11 tours from $3,225

normandy small group tours

Order Your Free Brochure

Sign up to order your FREE travel brochure subscription and get exclusive offers only available to our subscribers

Brochures can only be mailed to United States addresses. Please call us for assistance at 1-877-622-9109

Thanks for signing up to receive our latest brochure. As a subscriber, you'll be the first to receive our new brochures as they are released, plus great deals in your inbox.

Download Brochure

View brochure online.

Writing

Get $300 per couple Travel Credit toward your first trip when you sign up to our newsletter. *

Plus, receive travel inspiration, news and latest promotions.

You can unsubscribe at any time. Your Travel Credit will be sent by email.

Email Sign-up Travel Credit: Receive a $150 per person ($300 per couple) discount toward your first tour (operated by Trafalgar or Insight Vacations) when you sign up for GET emails; valid for each full-paying adult who signs up with a unique email address. Valid for new bookings only made from 01 January to December 31 2024 for travel from 01 January 2024 to 31 December 2025. Discount is not combinable with any other discount or offer, including GETAWAY Deals, Limited Time Offers, AARP member discount, Past Traveler Global Tour Rewards discount, Groups or Multiple Trip discounts. Offer cannot be booked online. GET reserves the right to validate bookings and will remove any additional offers added online that are not combinable. Other conditions may apply.

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

  • Reserve your spot

KEEPING HISTORY ALIVE!

Overlord Adventures

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

normandy small group tours

Overlord Adventures PRESENTS:

Map of the 5 Beaches in Normandy on D-Day

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

Our 2024 dates are all SOLD OUT: 

September 1 - 7, 2024  September 8 - 14, 2024

September 22 - 28, 2024   September 29 - October 5, 2024

Join us in 2025! These dates will sell out rapidly:

J une 15 - 21, 2025          June 22 - 28,  2025

September 14 - 20, 2025        September 21 - 27, 2025

The Lt. Dick Winters Leadership Memorial near Utah Beach

Join Us for the Most Complete Tour You Will Ever Experience

  • Expert battlefield Historians and Guides
  • Tour folder containing itinerary, frequently asked questions, maps, language tips
  • One of the most comprehensive, all inclusive, customized itineraries - maximizing the number of historic sites we are able to visit each day
  • Historic centrally located hotel in Bayeux, France
  • Six full breakfasts and six multi-course dinners prepared at our Hotel.  Lunches are Dutch treat while we are out visiting the D-Day area.
  • Ground transportation provided in a private 16-passenger Mercedes motor coach from Paris to Normandy, throughout Normandy, and then back to Paris
  • Entrance fees to all sites, museums, and historic attractions on itinerary. Access to sites not usually offered or visited on the larger big bus tours
  • Personal listening devices while touring the D-Day area
  • Numerous informative stories/videos sent to you via email prior to your Adventure to prepare you for this bucket list epic trip.
  • Special day trip to the historic Mont St. Michele
  • Check out our FAQ page! Click here.

normandy small group tours

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

  • All 5 Invasion Beaches
  • Arromanches 360° Cinema
  • Longues sur Mer Gun Battery
  • Crisbecq Battery, Marmion Farm
  • Utah Beach Museum
  • Dick Winters Leadership Memorial
  • 101st Airborne Memorial
  • Angoville au Plain Chapel
  • Sainte mere Eglise and Airborne Museum
  • General Collins Museum
  • La Fiere Bridge
  • Maisy Gun Battery and Pointe du Hoc
  • D-Day Omaha Museum
  • Overlord Museum
  • WN60 Strongpoint
  • Normandy American Cemetery
  • Bayeux, Ouistreham, and other towns
  • Juno Beach Center
  • Merville Gun Battery
  • Pegasus Bridge

Embarkation monument Omaha Beach WWII Normandy France June 6, 1944 Operation Overlord

We provide small group Adventures for a 

more personalized and enjoyable experience.

 We limit each Adventure to 12 people .

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

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

[email protected]

We will get back to you with a Reservation form.

normandy small group tours

Our Mission

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

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

Private John Steele Saint mer Eglise France D-Day 82nd Airborne Operation Overlord WWII

Our History

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

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

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

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

normandy small group tours

Our Desire to Never Forget

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

A survey recently revealed:

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

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

normandy small group tours

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

The Overlord Adventures staff members are all students of  World War II, especially focusing on D-Day. We are  here to answer your questions and offer personalized recommendations.

Overlord Adventures: keeping history alive!

Contact us today, get in touch.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Start up a Conversation

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

Overlord Adventures

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

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

Call, text, or email us at anytime.

follow us on facebook

Keep informed.

Sign up to hear from me about my adventures!

Copyright © 2024 Overlord Adventures - All Rights Reserved.

Powered by GoDaddy

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

' src=

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

normandy small group tours

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

normandy small group tours

  • 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

normandy small group tours

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

normandy small group tours

  • 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

normandy small group tours

  • 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

normandy small group tours

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

normandy small group tours

  • 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

normandy small group tours

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

normandy small group tours

  • 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

normandy small group tours

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

normandy small group tours

  • 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

normandy small group tours

  • 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?

normandy small group tours

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?

normandy small group tours

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?

normandy small group tours

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!

' src=

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!

Australia flag

Normandy and Brittany escorted history tours for small mature grups

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

From $10,332 USD

Departing Aug, May, Apr, Sep

Normandy & Brittany

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

Normandy and Brittany escorted history tours for small mature grups itinerary

  • Departure Dates

Normandy and Brittany escorted history tour.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Place Plumereau in Tours

Day 1: Paris

Accommodation: 1 night at Le Magellan Hotel or similar.

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

Day 2: Paris - Giverny - Rouen - Bayeux

Accommodation: 4 nights at Churchill Hotel or similar.

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

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

Day 3: Bayeux - Caen - Bayeux

Accommodation: Churchill Hotel or similar.

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

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

Day 4: Bayeux - Camembert - Honfleur - Bayeux

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

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

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

Day 6: Bayeux - Mont Saint-Michel - Tregastel

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

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

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

Day 7: Tregastel

Accommodation: Park Hotel Bellevue Hotel or similar.

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

Day 8: Tregastel - Quimper - Lorient

Accommodation: 4 nights at Mercure Lorient Centre or similar.

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

Day 9: Lorient - Concarneau - Port Aven - Lorient

Accommodation: Mercure Lorient Centre or similar.

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

Day 10: Lorient - Rennes - Lorient

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

Day 11: Lorient - Quibern - Carnac - Lorient

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

Day 12: Lorient - Josellin - Vannes - Noirmoutier

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

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

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

Day 13: Noirmoutier - Nantes - Noirmoutier

Accommodation: Hotel Fleur de Sel or similar.

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

Day 14: Noirmoutier

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

Day 15: Noirmoutier

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

Day 16: Noirmoutier - Angers - Saumur - Tours

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

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

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

Day 17: Tours - Amboise - Tours

Accommodation: Best Western L’Artiste or similar.

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

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

Day 18: Tours - Blois - Valencay - Tours

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

Day 19: Tours - Chambord - Chenonceau - Tours

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

Day 20: Tours - Chartres - Paris

Accommodation: 2 nights at Le Magellan Hotel or similar.

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

Day 21: Paris

Accommodation: Le Magellan Hotel or similar.

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

Day 22: Paris

Our tour concludes in Paris.

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

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

Includes / Excludes

What’s included in our Tour

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

What’s not included in our Tour

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

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

02 May 2024

Ends 24 May 2024 • 23 days

Change departure date

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

Payment Type

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

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

Make it a private tour

Easing your journey.

Crossing international borders with restrictions

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

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

Book With Confidence

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

See Terms and conditions for details.

Peace of Mind Travel

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

See Peace of Mind Travel for details.

Reading List Download PDF

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

Alistair Moffat

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

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

Jonathan Fenby

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

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

Sudhir Hazareesingh

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

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

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

The Ancient Paths: Discovering the Lost Map of Celtic Europe

Graham Robb

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

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

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

The Discovery of France

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

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

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

Lower Normandy: French Impressions

George East

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

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

The French Revolution

Christopher Hibbert

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

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

France: A History: from Gaul to de Gaulle

John Julius Norwich

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

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

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

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

Christopher H Johnson

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

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

Normandy and Brittany escorted history Tours

  • Return To Top
  • Tour Details
  • Reading List

Articles about France

Quimper

Quimper, France

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

Paris, France

Questions About France for Senior travellers

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

Atlantic Ocean - Punta del Este, Maldonado, Uruguay

Atlantic Ocean and How it Shaped Ancient Communities In Europe

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

Bayeux

Bayeux, France

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

Caen, France

Caen, France

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

Exploring Paris and France by rail

France Guide for Mature or Senior travellers

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

Monet's Giverny Garden

Monet's Giverny Garden

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

Monet's gift to France

Monet's Water Lillies: The Definitive Guide for Travellers

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

Mont Saint Michel

Mont-St-Michel, France

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

Arromanches les Bains, Normandy, France.

Normandy Beaches

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

Gargoyles and Grotesques

Studying Gargoyles and Grotesques: The Definitive Guide for Travellers

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

Shakespeare and Company

Writers of Paris, France

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

St. Malo in French Brittany

Exploring France's Saint-Malo

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

Historic Loire Valley

Historic Loire Valley

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

British History Tours

Standing Stones of Britain and Europe

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

Carcassonne at sunset, France

Related Tour Categories

Medieval bridge with antique gate

Level 2 - Moderate

Villages of Italy

Join 22,383 like-minded travellers receiving our weekly newsletter.

Customer Avatar

Olde Ipswich Tours

Normandy & Brittany, France

Normandy & Brittany, France

Normandy & Brittany Tour Snapshot

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

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

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

Normandy & Brittany, France Itinerary

Depart the US, flying overnight to Paris

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

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

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

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

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

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

normandy tours

  • I'm Not Sure
  • Yes, please sign me up. I understand that my email address will not be shared with any outside source, and I can unsubscribe at any time.

Normandy tours, guided D-Day tours from Bayeux, Paris, Ste Mere Eglise

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

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

normandy-d-day-tours-offered-by-bayeux-sightseeing-tours

/*1725-start*/ #btnsx-1725{margin-top:15px;margin-bottom:15px;margin-left:15px;margin-right:15px;padding-top:15px;padding-bottom:15px;padding-left:15px;padding-right:15px;} #btnsx-1725 .btnsx-text-primary{text-transform:uppercase;font-size:26px;line-height:26px;font-family:Inherit;color:#ffffff;padding-top:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;padding-right:0px;} #btnsx-1725:hover .btnsx-text-primary{color:rgba(0,0,0,0.34);} #btnsx-1725{background-color:#ed0700!important;} #btnsx-1725:hover{background-color:#ea6056!important;} #btnsx-1725{border-top-width:3px;border-bottom-width:3px;border-left-width:3px;border-right-width:3px;border-style:solid;border-color:#12177a;border-top-left-radius:13px;border-top-right-radius:13px;border-bottom-left-radius:13px;border-bottom-right-radius:13px;} #btnsx-1725:hover{border-top-width:5px;border-bottom-width:5px;border-left-width:5px;border-right-width:5px;border-style:solid;border-color:#151259;border-top-left-radius:13px;border-top-right-radius:13px;border-bottom-left-radius:13px;border-bottom-right-radius:13px;} #btnsx-1725{-webkit-box-shadow:none;box-shadow:none;} #btnsx-1725:hover{-webkit-box-shadow:none;box-shadow:none;} /*1725-end*/ Go directly to our tour offers

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our Normandy D-Day tours

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

TTC family of brands

My Trafalgar

Destinations

Get Inspired

866 513 1995

The Treasures of France including Normandy

548 reviews

The Big Tour Sale

Save up to $531

Available Dates

Your itinerary

Dates & prices

Treasures Of France Including Normandy Guided Tour

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

8 days, 1 country and 13 cities

Accommodation

7 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 4 Dinners

View day-by-day trip itinerary

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

Looking to book in a group of 9 or more?

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

Trip code: 

Low deposit from $200

Deposit protection

Free booking changes

Trip map & itinerary

Day by day itinerary

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

Download itinerary

Print itinerary

Expand all days

About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

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

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

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

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

Travel highlights

Specific transfer information can be found here:

Airport Transfers

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

All porterage and restaurant gratuities

All hotel tips, charges and local taxes

Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

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

Optional Experiences and free time

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

Three local female weavers in colourful traditional local dress including festooned hats, weaving colourful alpaca wool on the ground

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences

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

Find out more

Large People Preparing To Grow A Small Tree With Soil In The Garden 1198078044

Net-zero by 2050

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

Large BMG Australia Tasmania Mount Gnomon Farm With Guy Robertson

Support Local

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

Large Aerial View Over Solar Panels And Windmills 1367402534

Sustainable Practices

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

Scotland

Philanthropic Efforts

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

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

LIVE, UNEDITED & INDEPENDENT TRAVELER REVIEWS

The Treasures of France including Normandy trip reviews

#tttreasuresoffrance.

Real moments from real travelers, creating the greatest travel stories they’ll ever tell

Or search for something else

normandy small group tours

Help & Info

WE MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

Unedited Reviews

Our Destination Management Companies

Frequently Asked Questions

Travel Updates

Media & Press Room

Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information

Travel Planning

Get Your Free Brochure

Travel Insurance

Booking Conditions

Trip Deposit Level

Recommendations

Trafalgar is a proud member of  The Travel Corporation  family of companies.

#SimplyTrafalgar

Selected Region

United States

United Kingdom

New Zealand

South Africa

Copyright 2024 Trafalgar. All rights reserved.

Terms and Conditions

Privacy Policy

Cookie Policy

normandy small group tours

Private & Custom Tours

Can’t find what you’re looking for? Customize any tour to fit your needs.

  • Trip Finder

normandy small group tours

Travel Blog

  • Email Signup
  • Request Catalog
  • Guest Portal

Normandy, Mont. St. Michele

Normandy & Brittany Cultural Walking Adventure

  • Dates & Prices

Image Gallery

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

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

Starting Point:

Ending point:.

Dates & Prices

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

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

Why Choose Classic Journeys

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

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

Accommodations

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

normandy small group tours

Le Nouveau Monde Hotel & Spa

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

normandy small group tours

Château la Chenevière

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

Manoir des Impressionistes - Manoir

Le Manoir des Impressionnistes

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

normandy small group tours

Les Maisons de Léa

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

What’s Included

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

Above & Beyond Benefits

Invisible check-in.

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

Perfect Pairings Dinners

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

Privileged Access Events

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

Exterior of Chateau de Sully, Normandy

Similar Tours

normandy small group tours

Cotswolds Cultural Walking Adventure

  • Starting at $6,295

France Dordogne Valley

Dordogne Valley Cultural Walking Adventure

  • Starting at $6,395

normandy small group tours

Ireland Cultural Walking Adventure

  • Starting at $5,455

England Cornwall Woman Walking

Cornwall Cultural Walking Adventure

  • Starting at $5,995

From the Blog

normandy small group tours

A Vacation for the Senses

Traveler taking a close picture of a seal on the Galapagos Island Beaches

A Landlubber’s Galapagos; Experiencing Galapagos Island Travel

normandy small group tours

7 Must-Do Experiences in Norway

Thank you for your interest, privacy overview.

Normandy Melody

NORMANDY TOURS & EXCURSIONS

Find your experience, choose your activity.

results result

No Activities found.

  • Most Popular!
  • Checkmark Private tour
  • Hour Glass 9 hours

Giverny & Rouen Day Trip

On this day trip from Paris, discover two of the most colorful sites in Normandy, Giverny and Rouen.

Giverny & Versailles Day Tour

Join an exclusive experience to discover two of the most iconic sites around Paris, Versailles and Giverny.

  • Hour Glass 5 hours

Monet's House & Garden Morning Tour

Discover one of the most beautiful gardens in France in the morning light. This incredible place was rich in inspiration for the artist Claude Monet.

Monet House & Impressionism Museum

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

  • Hour Glass 5 or 9 hours

Versailles Day Trip

Experience a memorable visit in the footsteps of the Roi Soleil, Louis XIV of France, and Queen Marie Antoinette through the Château de Versailles, the Gardens and Trianon Domain.

  • Hour Glass 8 hours

Giverny & Marmottan Museum Tour

Visit the Marmottan Museum. From Claude Monet’s pink house and flower gardens in Giverny to his masterpieces, discover the Japanese bridge, “Water Lillies” and “Impression Sunrise.”

Giverny & Auvers-sur-Oise Tour

Join an exclusive experience to walk in the footsteps of two of the world’s most iconic painters, Claude Monet and Vincent van Gogh, in two beautiful villages, Giverny and Auvers sur Oise.

  • Hour Glass 10 hours

Honfleur & Côte Tour

Spend a beautiful day on the Normandy coast to discover the charming port of Honfleur and the first French seaside resorts like Trouville sur Mer.

Honfleur & Pays d’Auge Tour

On this exclusive experience, discover the unique beauty of Normandy: from the charming port of Honfleur to the countryside. A charming day.

  • Hour Glass 9-12 hours

Normandy D-Day Customized Tour

Customize your private excursion to the Normandy landing sites from Paris, Le Havre, or Bayeux. Visit the landing beaches, American cemetery, Overlord Museum and more.

  • Hour Glass 13 hours

Private Loire Valley Customized Tour

Create your own Loire Valley day trip on this private tour and visit the most interesting places available in France.

Rouen Day Trip from Paris

On this day trip from Paris, visit two of the most iconic sites of Normandy: Giverny & Rouen.

Le Havre & Etretat Tour from Paris

Enjoy the beautiful views of the alabaster coast with Etretat, its impressive cliffs and the charm of this old fishing village. Visit the fabulous MUMA museum.

  • Hour Glass 10-14 hours

Honfleur & Mont St. Michel Tour

Join an excursion to enjoy Mont St. Michel, one of the most magical sites of France and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day Trip to Fontainebleau & Vaux le Vicomte

Just a few miles away from Paris lie the mesmerizing chateaux of Fontainebleau and Vaux-le-Vicomte. They harbor some of the greatest treasures of French architecture, art and history.

  • Hour Glass 2 hours

Orangerie Museum Guided Tour

On this exclusive experience, visit one of the most beautiful museums, the true “Sistine Chapel of Impressionism” in Paris, to enjoy the Water Lilies Cycle, a unique masterpiece of Claude Monet.

Orsay Museum Guided Tour

Discover the Orsay Museum. Visit one of the most beautiful Impressionist collections in a fantastic building with your professional guide.

  • Hour Glass 1.5 hours

Guided Marmottan Museum Tour

Discover the largest collection of Claude Monet’s paintings, including Impression Sunrise and Water Lilies. Enjoy a guided tour in the footsteps of Berthe Morisot.

Montmartre Impressionist Art Walking Tour

Visit one of the most beautiful districts of Paris as you walk in the footsteps of the Impressionists on a walking tour with a private local guide.

  • Hour Glass 6 hours

Auvers-sur-Oise Van Gogh Tour

Visit the Van Gogh museum on a private tour. On this exclusive experience, walk in the footsteps of Vincent van Gogh in Auvers-sur-Oise from Paris.

Louvre Private Tour

Enjoy a private guided visit to discover the greatest repository of fine art in the world, the Louvre Museum. An absolute must-see. Appreciate the highlights or customize your exclusive experience.

Searching available activities for . . .

Showing Activities for -

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

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

Normandy Tour Reviews

1. best private tour: private day tour to d-day beaches from paris.

  • Departure Point : Hotel Pickup
  • Departure Time : 7:00 AM
  • Duration : 13 Hours (approx.)
  • Includes : Comfortable van transportation, private guide

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More Information & Tour Booking

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Search For Other Top Rated Paris Experiences:

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].

Deals of the Week   Women’s Day   Up to 50% OFF

Best of Paris & Normandy - 8 Days (Small Group)

  • In-depth Cultural
  • Partially Guided

Places You’ll See

Paris

  • Introduction
  • Day 1 Welcome to Paris
  • Day 2 The best of Paris with River Cruise & Afternoon Louvre Museum
  • Day 3 at leisure in Paris or optional Excursion to Versailles
  • Day 4 High-Speed Train to Bayeux
  • Day 5 Highlights of Normandy: Honfleur - Beuvron en Auge Village & Calvados Tasting
  • Day 6 Utah & Omaha D-DAY Beaches U.S Sector - Sainte-Mère-Eglise village
  • Day 7 Discovery of Mont Saint-Michel
  • Day 8 Departure Day

Want to read it later?

Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start tour planning offline

What's Included

  • Accommodation
  • Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

Operated by click tours.

Click Tours are a great company to travel with. They offer a selection of more than 200 itineraries that explore destinations across Europe and the Middle East. The experienced team provide carefully planned tours, as well as personalised tailor-made trips! See the wide selection of tours and start planning your next adventure.

Your Peace of Mind Options

Cancellation policy.

A transparent overview of applicable fees.

Customer Reviews

  • Overall Rating Good 4.0
  • Itinerary Good 4.0
  • Guide Average 3.0
  • Transport Good 4.0
  • Accommodation Average 3.0
  • Food Excellent 5.0
  • Tour Operator Click Tours 3.9
  • RA Robert L · 26th May 2022 We missed the guide for one of the tours--don't know what happened. We were on time at the right place. Otherwise everything was very good. Trip date: April 2022

Frequently Asked Questions

We are there for you! If you have any questions about this tour, then please don't hesitate to contact us 24/7 and we will get back to you latest within 2 hours!

Got a question about this tour?

Reach out to our travel experts.

Good to Know

  • Currency € Euro France

As a traveller from USA, Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F.

  • Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
  • Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
  • For any tour departing before 10th May 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 10th May 2024, a minimum payment of 25% is required to confirm your booking with Click Tours. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 65 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
  • Some departure dates and prices may vary and Click Tours will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
  • The following cards are accepted for "Click Tours" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
  • Your money is safe with TourRadar, as we only pay the tour operator after your tour has departed.
  • TourRadar is an authorised Agent of Click Tours. Please familiarise yourself with the Click Tours payment, cancellation and refund conditions .
  • Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
  • Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
  • Alberta Vacations
  • Greece Tours
  • Serengeti Safari
  • Iguazu Falls tours
  • Petra & Wadi Rum Wild Camping Under The Stars
  • Heritage of Rajasthan
  • Choquequirao Trek (with Vilcabamba Trek)

Keep Exploring France

  • France Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
  • Family Trip to Europe Itineraries (From 1 to 3 Weeks)
  • 10 Best Cultural Travel Companies
  • 10 Best Cultural Experiences in The World 2024/2025
  • France from Paris
  • France In-depth Cultural
  • Small group tour
  • Operators in Europe
  • Northern France
  • Best of Paris & Normandy - 8 Days (Small Group) Tours in France
  • France Tours
  • Europe Tours
  • In-depth Cultural Tours
  • Family Tours
  • Group Tours
  • Partially Guided Tours
  • France tours

IMAGES

  1. Normandy & Brittany

    normandy small group tours

  2. Normandy small group Day Tour from Bayeux, Mont Saint Michel abbey

    normandy small group tours

  3. Normandy small group tour

    normandy small group tours

  4. 15 Best Normandy Tours

    normandy small group tours

  5. D-Day tour: Normandy & Landing Beaches

    normandy small group tours

  6. 10 Best Normandy Small Group Tours & Trips 2021/2022

    normandy small group tours

COMMENTS

  1. D-Day Group Tours

    normandy battlefields - small group tours Take a fascinating and informative battle-site tour, led by Michael Grams, noted military historian and author of the Stand Where They Fought trilogy. Carlton will be your guide and host as you experience the culture of the area and appreciate the epic events of the summer of 1944, including meeting ...

  2. Unique Normandy Tours

    Experience Normandy For 6 Days. Breathtaking, Magical, Authentic. Normandy is a land rich with history, culture, and scenery. Since the times of the Viking invasions, Normandy has been at the center of many major historical events in France. It was the home of powerful figures such as Rollo, Richard Lionheart, and William the Conqueror.

  3. The 10 Best Local Normandy D-Day Tours (2024): Bayeux & Beyond

    10. Best bonus D-Day sites tour. My pick for best bonus D-Day sites tour: Utah & Omaha Beaches D-Day Group Tour from Bayeux. This tour visits many of the same sites as the others, but I'm calling this a "bonus" tour because it passes by a number of additional sites you might not otherwise see.

  4. Normandy, Brittany and the Loire Valley

    View Small Group Tours Enjoy the sights and sounds of France during this 8-day guided tour. Travel to Normandy and stand on the 100-foot-tall Pointe du Hoc, overlooking the beaches where soldiers fought in World War II — and walk with a Local Expert through the American Military Cemetery of Saint-Laurent, near Omaha Beach, where Allied Forces ...

  5. THE 10 BEST Normandy Tours & Excursions

    Normandy D-Day Small-Group Day Trip with Omaha Beach, Cemetery & Cider Tasting. 961. Historical Tours. 12-13 hours. Exploring Normandy's World War II's D-Day sites from Paris in just one day isn't easy on your own. ... Normandy American D-Day Beaches Full Day Tour from Bayeux; Normandy D-Day Small-Group Day Trip with Omaha Beach ...

  6. Small Group Tours to Normandy

    Dwayne's Dad was a C-47 Pilot during World War II and helped train many of the Glider Pilots who subsequently landed in Normandy during the D-Day invasion during June of 1944. Dwayne has hosted 15 small groups on Adventures in Normandy since 2018. He has also presented well over 275 programs on D-Day to civic, school, women's, veterans, and non ...

  7. THE 10 BEST Normandy Multi-Day Tours

    These experiences are best for multi-day tours in Normandy: Normandy 2-Days Discovery Trip with D-Day Beaches & Mont Saint Michel from Paris; Normandy Loire Valley 3-Days Trip with Mont Saint Michel and Castles from Paris; 2-Days Private Guided Tour in Normandy: D-day, MSM, Rouen etc; 3-day Private Omaha Utah Full D-Day M. St Michel Trip from Paris

  8. Normandy D-Day Small-Group Day Trip with Omaha Beach ...

    This tour pulls everything together: with minivan transport, visits to Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery, plus in-depth analysis using period military maps and plans. Other benefits include skip-the-lines entrance tickets, small group size, and a Normandy apple cider tasting. from. $268.85. per adult.

  9. Normandy D-Day Tour: Omaha Beach, and American Cemetery 2024

    Enjoy an intimate historical look at the D-Day landings on this full-day trip to the beaches of Normandy from Paris. Travel by comfortable van accommodating no more than eight people, and visit Omaha Beach, the Operation Overlord Museum, German bunkers, Pointe du Hoc, as well as the American Cemetery home to 10,000 white crosses. See period-era military maps, plans, and photos, while listening ...

  10. Small Group Guided Tour of Normandy D-Day Beaches

    Itinerary. Spend a day in Normandy with our guide and relive the key moments that led to the triumph of the D-Day landings on June 6, 1944. The day begins with a visit to Pointe du Hoc, the historic site where one of these operations took place. After a visit to Omaha Beach, you'll pause for lunch in a charming restaurant, before moving on to ...

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

    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; Departure Time ...

  12. Private & Small Group Tours of Normandy

    Browse our collection of Normandy France tours by Firebird which by default include private airport hotels, accommodation at best-location 4 or 5-star hotels, time-saving varied connections between destinations, as well as inspiring guided sightseeing tours with local professionals. 8 days 10 days.

  13. Normandy & Brittany

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

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

    Visit to Normandy D-Day battle sites and landing beaches from Paris. See the American Cemetery, Longues-sur-Mer and The Point du Hoc, a German fortification strong point before D-Day. Step back in time on a history tour, and learn about the events of June 6, 1944. Return transport from central meeting points in Paris.

  15. Small group tour of Normandy & Brittany, France

    Tour Dates: June 3 - June 16, 2024. Tour Price: $7,299. Tour price includes: Airport transfers to and from Charles de Gaulle Airport, Paris*. 12 nights in small, elegant accommodations of regional character. 12 breakfasts, 8 dinners. Full-time tour leader. Transportation by comfortable mini-coach or minivan.

  16. Bayeux Sightseeing Tours: The best D-Day Normandy tours in the region

    Book your private Normandy tours from Bayeux or join a shared small group tour and let our passionate licensed Normandy tour guides take you back in time, to June 6th, 1944. See where everything took place, learn the facts and details and hear amazing stories told by our English speaking Normandy tour guides.

  17. 7 Best Normandy Small Group Tours & Trips 2024/2025

    Discover Normandy with the best small group tours powered by top tour operators & travel companies. Explore new destinations at your pace accompanied by like-minded travelers. All Major Brands. Biggest Selection. Best Prices. Deals of The Week South Africa Up to 50% OFF. Deals end: 1d 12h 27m 43s. 0. ...

  18. The Treasures of France & Normandy Tour 2024

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

  19. Normandy & Brittany Walking Tours

    Come home from one of our tours of Normandy and Brittany and you'll tell everyone you know about the day you walked to Mont-St.-Michel. The cathedral-capped island floats on water—at least until the epic tide recedes to reveal the sandy seabed. Then, as the faithful have done for centuries, we make the pilgrimage on foot to one of France ...

  20. Normandy & Ile de France Tours & Excursions in France

    We offer the most interesting and original Normandy and Ile de France excursions. Choose between guided tours, small-group excursions, or private day trips. Book now. ... Visit one of the most beautiful districts of Paris as you walk in the footsteps of the Impressionists on a small-group walking tour with a private local guide.

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

    Normandy D-Day Small-Group Day Trip with Omaha Beach, Cemetery & Cider Tasting Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches Tour w/ Cider-Tasting & Lunch; Best Private Tour. Best Small Group Tour. Best Full Day Tour. Departure: Hotel Pickup: 6 Av. de Wagram, 75008 Paris: Pl. du Trocadéro et du 11 Novembre: Start: 7:00 AM: 7:00 AM: 7:00 AM: Duration: 13 ...

  22. Normandy D-Day Small-Group Tour from Paris (Mar 2024)

    From. $392.19. Paris Full Day 7 Iconic Sights Small-group Tour max 7 people. 0. 11 hours 30 minutes. Free Cancellation. From. $436.38. Normandy D-Day Small-Group Day Trip with Omaha Beach, Cemetery & Cider Tasting.

  23. Best of Paris & Normandy

    Start in Paris and end in Bayeux! With the In-depth Cultural tour Best of Paris & Normandy - 8 Days (Small Group), you have a 8 days tour package taking you through Paris, France and 7 other destinations in France. Best of Paris & Normandy - 8 Days (Small Group) includes accommodation in a hotel as well as an expert guide, meals, transport and ...