best tours of normandy france

THE 10 BEST Normandy Tours & Excursions

Normandy tours.

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

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

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

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

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

6. D-Day Beaches Shore Excursion with Packed Lunch from Le Havre

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

8. Omaha and Utah beaches

9. Private DDAY Tour Omaha Beach Normandy

10. Giverny Small-Group Half Day Trip with Monet’s Gardens from Paris

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

12. Giverny Monet's House and Gardens Small-Group Tour Hotel Pick-up

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

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

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

16. Omaha and Band Of Brothers Full Day Tour

17. Day Tour- Normandy Omaha Beach - Cemetery - Cider Tasting

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

19. Mt St. Michel Private Tour with Abbey tickets and tour guide

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

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

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

23. Full-Day US Battlefields of Normandy Tour from Bayeux (A3LST)

24. Giverny and Monet's House Guided Half Day Trip from Paris

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

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

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

28. D-Day tour - Utah Beach & Omaha Beach (from Bayeux Station)

29. Mont Saint Michel Guided Day Trip with Abbey Entry from Paris

30. All-in-One Paris Highlights Shore Excursion from Le Havre Port

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

8 days, 1 country and 13 cities

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7 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 4 Dinners

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

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Sightseeing highlights.

Explore Mont-Saint-Michel and Châteaux of the Loire Valley 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

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Home » Travel Guides » France » 15 Best Normandy Tours

15 Best Normandy Tours

One of the gems of Northern France, Normandy is the perfect destination to get a slice of history, culture, and gastronomy that this region is most famous for. The coastline here is a poignant area, where you can get in touch with your inner historian and learn about the beaches where many battles were fought in World War 2.

There’s also Mont-Saint-Michel – one of the most famous monasteries in the world – located just off the coast on its own island.

UNESCO World Heritage sites are dotted throughout the region: in historical cities, ornate villages, and along the coastline, many of which inspired some of France’s most famous impressionist painters. Don’t miss discovering the secrets of the unbeatable gastronomy either.

Here are 15 of the best Normandy tours that we’ve carefully selected to help you get the best out of your trip.

1. Day Trip to Mont-Saint-Michel from Paris

One of Europe’s most recognizable pilgrimage sites, the abbey at Mont-Saint-Michel is a UNESCO World Heritage site which is near the top of most visitors’ itineraries during their visit to Normandy. This tour not only includes your entrance ticket to the fortified city but transportation in a luxury air-conditioned coach from the French capital – Paris.

You’ll have the opportunity to stop in a traditional Norman village, where you can stroll through the narrow, cobbled alleys, before heading to the mouth of the Couesnon river, to get your first view of Mont-Saint-Michel.

Once on the island, you’ll be able to climb the ramparts before heading to the abbey overlooking the rest of the town and the bay. When you’re tired out from all the climbing and descending, you’re comfortably whisked back to the Paris starting point on the same luxury coach that you arrived in.

2. Normandy D-Day Beaches: Day Trip from Paris with Lunch

This poignant and unforgettable day trip is a must for anyone with an interest in the Second World War. This 14-hour tour is an informative and sobering experience that teaches you about the D-Day landings and the advance of the allied forces in France.

It’s an early start; board the luxury air-conditioned coach in Paris and settle back for the journey to Caen, where your first stop is. The Caen memorial museum tells the story of the Battle of Normandy. After you’ve enjoyed the films and exhibits, you can stop here for a tasty lunch.

The next stop is Pointe-du-Hoc, located between Utah and Omaha beaches. This is close to the American cemetery, which you’ll also visit, before heading to Arromanches and Juno Beach. After such a packed day, you’re sure to be exhausted, so settle back into the coach before a 9 pm arrival in Paris.

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3. From Paris: WWI Somme Battlefields Full-Day Tour

Not only was a large part of World War 2 fought on French soil, the 1st World War was too. Pay your respects to those who lost their lives in the 1st World War on this full-day trip to the Somme Battlefields.

Get picked up from your hotel by a knowledgeable and considerate guide, who will drive you from Paris by minivan and explain what’s coming up as you travel through the beautiful French countryside. You’ll learn about all the major memorials, cemeteries, and battles of the Somme on this trip while picking up many interesting facts about World War 1 at Péronne’s historical museum.

At the end of the day, your driver will take you back to your hotel in Paris.

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

This day trip encompasses two of Normandy’s most charming and beautiful towns. On this tour, you’ll travel in comfort in an air-conditioned minivan, as your local guide regales you with tales and information about both historical towns.

You aren’t just left to fend for yourself in the cities; a guided walking tour of Rouen takes you to the Notre Dame Cathedral, while in Giverny, you’ll get tickets allowing you to skip the line and visit the home of the iconic painter, Claude Monet. Admire his water garden: the inspiration behind one of the most recognizable impressionist paintings – the famous Water Lilies.

After a relaxing yet full day, you’ll be dropped back on the doorstep of your accommodation in Paris.

5. Welcome to Rouen: Private Walking Tour with a Local

Here’s one for those who really want to get to know Rouen. This walking tour of the historical city is one with a difference. A local guide with a wealth of knowledge will pick you up from your accommodation and show you secrets from the city that you’d never be able to find on your own.

Experiencing the city through the eyes of a local means that you’ll be able to find the best markets to buy fresh produce or the best restaurants where they cook said produce if you’re too lazy to do it yourself. But the best thing? Because it’s just you and your guide, they’re able to tailor the tour to your interests. Don’t worry if English isn’t your first language, tours are also available in Spanish, French, German, and Russian.

6. Day Trip to Normandy: Sightseeing & Calvados Liquor Tasting

This fantastic day trip doesn’t just allow you to see the sights of Normandy, it will also see you spending time at the Christian Drouin factory, where you’ll try three types of the apple-based drinks Calvados and Cider.

The day starts with pick up from your hotel in Paris, before a two-and-a-half-hour journey through the rolling French countryside, where you’ll stop and taste the local beverages. Then, it’s on to the jaw-dropping fishing port of Honfleur, its harbor, and 18th-century townhouses which inspired many of the great French impressionists.

The port is also where you’ll enjoy some delicious French cuisine for lunch. After filling up, you’ll continue to the white cliffs and natural arches of Etretat, before ending the tour at the beautiful Fécamp Palace.

After a day which will be sure to have you going home tired but happy, you’ll be dropped off on your doorstep back in Paris.

7. Normandy and Brittany 2-Day Tour from Paris

The perfect tour for those who have a little more time on their trip, this overnight tour of Normandy and Brittany shows you the best that both regions have to offer. Day one will see you picked up at your hotel in Paris in a luxury air-conditioned coach to embark on a walking tour through the charming city of Rouen, before jumping back on the coach to travel to Honfleur for a delicious lunch.

After lunch, you’ll learn more about the region’s war history, stopping off at the D-Day landing beaches and the American cemetery. In the evening, you’ll be whisked to a luxury 3-star hotel in the town of Caen.

Day 2 starts with a buffet breakfast (stock up on croissants) before you head to the town of St. Malo for a tasty lunch, then a trip to the mesmerizing Mont-Saint-Michel. Here, you’ll have free time to explore the abbey before heading back to Paris.

The best part of this trip? Everything mentioned above is included in the price.

8. From Paris: Full-Day Gourmet Tour to Normandy

This incredible tour is a must for foodies. Not only will you visit a cheese factory and sample the delicious food that France is world-famous for, but you’ll also try calvados and cider from a local farm too.

To make sure you’re not just scoffing food but also learning something, there’ll be a wine and spirits expert on hand to tell you all about the alcohol you’re enjoying with your gourmet lunch at the farm.

Before heading back to Paris and being dropped at your hotel at the end of the day, there’s a chance to walk off all those calories in the village of Honfleur and the charming seafront of Deauville.

9. Normandy: Omaha Beach U.S. Cemetery Guided Walking Tour

This poignant one-and-a-half-hour tour will enable you to learn more about and see the final resting place of many American soldiers who sadly lost their lives in the D-Day battles on Normandy’s beaches. There are over 9,000 marble headstones, making it one of the largest cemeteries dedicated to allied soldiers in Normandy.

Your knowledgeable local guide will supply you with the information that you need to know about this huge site of remembrance and peace. This tour is especially recommended to those who are interested in war history.

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

Do you want to see the places that inspired the great French Impressionists? Of course you do. That’s why this private tour of Honfleur, Deauville, and Trouville will be right up your alley. You’ll be whisked in comfort from your accommodation in Paris to the beautiful Normandy coast. Start the day by exploring the cobbled streets of the quaint seaside town of Honfleur, regarded as one of the most picturesque towns in this area, where you’ll enjoy a guided visit of the harbor town.

Next, you’ll head to the Côte Fleurie (the flowery coast) and the fishing towns of Deaville and Trouville, were you’ll also get an informative and interesting guided tour. After a day taking in the sea views and sandy beaches, you’ll be driven back and dropped off on the doorstep of your accommodation in Paris.

11. Paris: Full-Day Étretat & Le Havre with Cooking Class

Head to Étretat in an air-conditioned minibus equipped with Wi-Fi and educational tablets to prepare you for your trip. The highlight of the day is undoubtedly the impressionist-inspired cooking class which takes place in a manor house. The chef in charge has carefully crafted a menu from Monet’s notebooks, which you’ll be able to create and sample; it’s certain to tantalize your taste buds.

After you’ve filled up on delicious food, you’ll head to Le Havre to get to know the UNESCO World Heritage port of the town. Round off your trip with a visit to the Museum of Modern Art before heading back to your hotel in Paris.

12. Normandy Tour of D-Day Landing Beaches & Museum Tickets

A must see for any war or history enthusiast, don’t miss your opportunity to see the famous beaches where the allied forces landed in World War 2. This five and a half tour will show you the key D-Day sites and tell you everything you need to know to understand the complexities of the war, and also to pay your respects to the thousands who lost their lives here.

You’ll be driven to the Mémorial de Caen, Arromanches, and the military cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer by air-conditioned minivan, meaning you’ll be able to reflect on your day in comfort.

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

If you’re a nature lover, you won’t want to miss this private guided tour showing the best that the beautiful Northern French coast has to offer, as well as the historic cities. Get picked up at your accommodation in Paris in a luxurious air-conditioned minivan before embarking on Normandy’s route.

14. Paris: Small Group Tour to Mont St-Michel & Honfleur

Not only does this trip take you to see Mont-Saint-Michael, where the Archangel Michael supposedly made an appearance in the 8th century, it also takes you to the lovely town of Honfleur, one of Normandy’s prettiest towns. This 13-hour tour will see you picked up at your hotel in Paris before a four-hour drive to the iconic monastery, where you’ll skip the line and be able to choose between an audio-guide or a human guide.

Although lunch isn’t included in the trip, you’ll stop off at a traditional French patisserie before shooting off to Honfleur. In this town, you’ll see what inspired the great impressionists and wander around the cobbled streets, before heading back to your hotel in Paris.

15. Private Mont Saint-Michel Family Walking Tour

Perfect if you’re traveling with children, this guided family walking tour will engage you and your kids in a way that really makes the town’s 1,300-year-old history come alive. Your guide will regale you with stories as you walk from the base of Mont-Saint-Michel up to the top of the 83-meter-tall rock, where you’ll be able to explore the monastery.

As well as your guide, your entrance ticket is included. You’ll also have a chance to descend into the dungeons. The kids will love it!

15 Best Normandy Tours:

• Day Trip to Mont-Saint-Michel from Paris
• Normandy D-Day Beaches: Day Trip from Paris with Lunch
• From Paris: WWI Somme Battlefields Full-Day Tour
• From Paris: Small Group Day Trip to Rouen and Giverny
• Welcome to Rouen: Private Walking Tour with a Local
• Day Trip to Normandy: Sightseeing & Calvados Liquor Tasting
• Normandy and Brittany 2-Day Tour from Paris
• From Paris: Full-Day Gourmet Tour to Normandy
• Normandy: Omaha Beach U.S. Cemetery Guided Walking Tour
• From Paris: Full-Day Small Group Tour to Honfleur
• Paris: Full-Day Étretat & Le Havre with Cooking Class
• Normandy Tour of D-Day Landing Beaches & Museum Tickets
• Normandy D-Day All Day Tour by Minibus from Paris
• Paris: Small Group Tour to Mont St-Michel & Honfleur
• Private Mont Saint-Michel Family Walking Tour

• Full day tours
• Half day tour
• Mont Saint Michel
• Personalized Tours
• Tour from Paris
• Tour from Ports
• Two days tours

You want the best guides on the Normandy Beaches ?

… Take our shuttle in Bayeux for a sightseeing tour of the D-Day Beaches

TOUR #1 Omaha Beach – Half Day Tour

TOUR #2 Omaha Beach / Utah Beach – Full Day Tour

TOUR #2B The Battle of The Hedgerows Tour – Full Day Tour

TOUR #2FS Omaha / Utah – Full Day Tour

TOUR #3 Omaha / Band of Brothers – Full Day Tour

TOUR #4 British / Canadian Sectors Tour – Full Day Tour

TOUR #5 101st Airborne Tour – Full Day Tour

TOUR #6 Neptune Tour – Two Days Tour

TOUR #7 Bradley’s Tour – Two Days Tour

TOUR #7B Beyond The Beachead Tour

Private Tours #8 – Specialized Tours

Private Tours #9 from Cruise Ports in Van

Group Tours #9B from Cruise Ports

Private TOUR #10 Pick Up Paris – Two Days Tour

Tour #11 Mont-Saint-Michel Tour

Tour #12 – Normandy Jeep Experience – Specialized Tours

TOUR #13 Omaha-Utah / Mont-Saint-Michel – Two Days Tour

Canadian Tour #8B – Specialized Tours

Revisit History With Us

Enjoy a guided sightseeing tour in normandy with overlordtour and take advantage of our 30 years of experience guiding the d-day battlefields of normandy . our shuttles from bayeux offer you the best tours of the normandy d-day beaches ..

On June 6 1944, 135,000 men and 20,000 vehicles were brought onto the shores of Normandy during the night via five landing beaches . Come and re-live the Normandy invasion with a guided tour and discover: the D-Day landing beaches (Sword, Juno, Gold, Omaha and Utah), Point du Hoc, the Airborne sectors, the D-day battlefields and the D-day museums. Take a fascinating and informative battle site tour led by our expert guides. We are recommended by veterans!

Don’t delay! Depart for all your tour destinations with Overlordtour in our luxury air conditioned vehicles:

“Thanks to the most experienced and professional guides , you will take the best guided tours of Omaha and Utah and also of Sword, Juno and Gold beaches.”

“Discover the exciting history of the scattered paratrooper landings of “Easy Company” with Overlordtour. We will take you to the authentic Norman Battlefields where the 506th, Colonel Sink, and Lt Dick Winters fought – including, Drop Zones, Battlefields, D-Day beaches, Headquarters, and remote private locations.”

“The Longest Day” – Twentieth Century Fox, F. Zarruck Productions: All rights reserved. “Saving Private Ryan” – Paramount Pictures: All rights reserved. “Band of Brothers” – HBO (A Divsion of Time Warner Entertainment Company): All rights reserved.

Overlordtour’s Normandy Group Tours are waiting to explore Omaha and Utah with you!

Enjoy a tour with our 1944’s vehicles.

Jeeptours.fr

No better place to die.

Captain Dale Adam Dye Jr., USMC (Ret.) (born October 8, 1944) is an American actor, technical advisor, radio personality and writer. A decorated Marine veteran of the Vietnam War, Dye has also offered his expertise to television, such as the HBO mini-series Band of Brothers and The Pacific , and video games, including the Medal of Honor

His next film “No better place to die” tells of the fierce battle of La Fiere.

The battle at La Fiere was an epic engagement for the 82nd Airborne in Normandy. La Fiere takes its importance from being a crossing for the Merderet River near St. Mere Eglise. As the Merderet River was a significant obstacle in the invasion, securing the river crossings was a major objective of the 82nd Airborne on D-Day in order to anchor the right flank of the invasion.

Exclusive access granted to Overlordtour

Overlordtour has now an official contract with the owner of Brecourt, Mr Devalavielle, who grants us the exclusive access to the Brecourt field.

OVERLORDTOUR provide interactive maps for your convenience

After you have selected or created your own tour with us, Overlordtour will provide you with detailed interactive maps to assist you with orientation and a birds-eye view of the history and excitement that awaits your arrival!

Let Overlordtour take you on a Normandy WWII beaches tour

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Normandy & Brittany Cultural Walking Tour

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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.

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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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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The 7 Best Normandy Tours From Paris [2024 Reviews]

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

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

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

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

Best tours of normandy from paris.

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

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

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

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

Normandy Tour Reviews

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More Information & Tour Booking

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other Paris Experiences You May Enjoy:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Planning Guide For Your Normandy D-Day Beach Tour

Why you should visit the normandy d-day beaches.

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

Can You Visit Normandy as a Day Trip from Paris?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How Long is the Train Ride from Paris to Normandy?

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

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

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

Tour Guides

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

Krysha Thayer

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

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A World War II Travel Blog

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

Last Updated: January 29, 2024 //  by  Ashley Smith 4 Comments

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

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 .

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 .

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.

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About Ashley Smith

Ashley is a World War II historian and travel expert who has visited 33 countries. She specializes in quick trips throughout Europe and the Americas with a focus on World War II museums, memorials, battlefields, and other sites of interest. Originally from Memphis, TN, she currently lives in Boston with her husband and two feline commanders.

Reader Interactions

April 28, 2024 at 1:30 pm

what itinerary would you recommend if you have a day and half to visit the area. I’ll be staying in Bayeux.

April 29, 2024 at 4:55 am

Hi Ray! I would definitely check out the sites in this post , and then add in another museum or two according to your interests. Check out this post to see which area you might want to focus on.

April 29, 2024 at 12:48 pm

Thanks Ashley. Can you recommend a private tour for my second day?

April 30, 2024 at 2:33 am

Yes – take a look at the many options here on Tours By Locals . They always have great reviews and are usually customizable.

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Rendezvous on the Seine

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Uniquely Tauck

EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

Tauck Exclusive – Private Tauck evening at a Normandy château featuring a reception, dinner and music

Early opening visit to Impressionist artist Claude Monet's house and gardens at Giverny

Visit a farm along Normandy's Cider Route to taste the region's elegantly crafted apple ciders and calvados, and see how they're made; in Normandy, cider is an art, like winemaking, centuries old

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

Tauck's private shore excursions and distinctive inclusions valued at $2,788

Excursion from Paris to Louis XIV's opulent Château de Versailles

Visit to the D-Day Beaches and American Cemetery overlooking Omaha Beach

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Moderately paced, and may include some early morning hotel departures, one or two on-tour flights, and extended motor coach travel.

Exclusively inclusive river cruising

Your Parisian rhapsody... flows through the heart of the city of l'amour, meanders through painted landscapes and flowers with romance in seaside villages and exquisite gardens along the Seine...

Impressions of France... rendered on canvas within famed art or quickly captured by street artists in Montmartre, gilded into a golden palace at Versailles, indulged during a château dinner, distilled into apple brandy and cider, carved into a clifftop castle, and floating in a Water Garden... linger long after you return home. Follow the Seine to coastal Normandy on a 10-day journey that's sure to impress. Discover the art of Paris for two nights before a 7-night cruise to Rouen, Honfleur and Giverny, immortalized by Impressionist artists. Visit D-Day beaches, sample Calvados where it is made, dine at a private château and more before returning to Paris via riverboat.

Paris to Normandy – The River Seine

Tauck exclusive – early-opening at monet's giverny, discovering monet on an early-opening visit to his home and gardens in giverny.

Impressionist master Claude Monet arranged the compositions of his garden landscapes often by rearranging his garden. It was, after all, his outdoor studio. And since it's carefully maintained to look like it did during the painter's lifetime, you can sense what it was like to be present at the moment when life became art. Observe his water lilies in a book or a print – or even better, on canvas at the Musée de l'Orangerie in Paris – then experience them firsthand, where art becomes life, at his restored home and gardens in Giverny... where you'll enjoy a Tauck Exclusive early-opening visit to this remarkable place before the normal daily crowds appear.

A private evening at Château du Taillis

Enjoying the pleasures of normandy with a private evening at château du taillis.

Prepare to be pampered during an evening of finery and fun at a grand 16th-century Renaissance château set on a park-like estate in the Normandy countryside not far from the Seine. Built in 1530 atop the foundation of a fortified 13th-century castle, the Château du Taillis boasts a 300-year medley of architectural styles that reflect the tastes and times of its owners. Today, you'll own the night at the château as you are feted at a private reception and dinner inside its opulent ballroom, music playing.

This was my first international trip and Paris was at the top of my "bucket list." Tauck provided the absolute trip of a lifetime with more than outstanding service!

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Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally, you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey for entry into France. You do not need a visa for the short duration of this journey.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally, you should contact a French consulate or embassy to determine what travel documentation is required.

Please Note: Longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

The deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $900 per person

Final Payments:

Final Payment is due to Tauck  60  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Cruise Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection

Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. It must be purchased within 10 days of your initial deposit. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON and Tauck will  reduce the regular cancellation fees outlined herein, provided we are notified of cancellation before your cruise departs. Certain terms and restrictions apply (see below*).

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.  Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  Should you cancel for covered reasons, the plan reimburses cancellation fees imposed, up to your total trip cost. 
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.

Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection is:   $799   per person

This plan provides cancellation coverage for your trip and other insurance coverages that apply only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Cruise and Event Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included in initial payment. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your reservation. Cruise and Event Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACCREINTL

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit

Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees.

If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit

Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply for this tour.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan:

120 days or more before departure: Loss of cost of Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection fee per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 25% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person 59 – 1 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan: 120 days or more before departure: $900 per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person 59 - 1 days before departure: Loss of 100% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

Tour Interruption Fees

If you have to interrupt your tour en route, you may be entitled to a refund for the unused land portion if it exceeds 24 hours; certain restrictions apply. Such refunds are based upon the number of overnights missed less a fee of $40 per person per day for unused transportation and other fixed expenses.

Partial Room Cancellation

A person who cancels or leaves a tour while a roommate remains constitutes a cancellation of one type of accommodation and rebooking of another type of accommodation. The price charged to the remaining person is the new, higher price for the new accommodation.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation and transfer terms outlined herein. Note: All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck riverboat. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Carry-on Luggage - General

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

Because you will be cruising on a river and not on the open sea, you are never far from land and, therefore, there is no doctor onboard the riverboat. In case of emergency, we can easily dock the boat and call for an ambulance or medical assistance.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

The riverboat is registered in Basel, Switzerland. Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

VACCINATIONS

If you are a resident of the U.S., please contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control to obtain information regarding vaccinations that may be required for your journey. You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here .

If you are a resident of another country , please contact a French embassy or consulate to determine what vaccinations may be required for you to visit.

To enjoy this cruise, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. The amount of walking you do, however, is at your discretion.

The riverboat has four decks: Emerald, Ruby, Diamond and Sun. The elevator runs between the Diamond Deck and the Dining room, which includes stops at the Lounge and the Ruby Deck. There is no chair lift between any of the decks.

On the Emerald deck, you will find a Fitness & Massage Center on board. The Fitness Center is complimentary and includes a limited variety of fitness equipment such as treadmills, stationary cycling machines and free weights. Massages are available for a fee in a private room off of the Fitness center. The water on board the ship is potable and complimentary bottled water is placed in your cabin each day. We also provide bottled water on the motor coaches.

PLEASE NOTE: We regret that this Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters.  Likewise, we regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs.  The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest.  Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate service animals on any river cruise for medical and legal reasons.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

On board the riverboat, smoking is permitted in a limited area of the Sun deck. Smoking (including e-Cigarettes) is not permitted in any cabin, the restaurant, the lounge or any other interior space.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

Northern France, including Paris, has a temperate climate similar to southern England with warm summers, cold winters and rainfall throughout the year. From April through October, the average high temperature in Paris ranges from 60 to 80˚F (16 to 27˚C) and the average low temperature ranges from 50 to 70˚F (10 to 21˚C). The warm season in Rouen lasts from June 16 to September 9 with an average daily high temperature above 68°F. The hottest day of the year is August 5, with an average high of 74°F and low of 56°F. The cold season lasts from November 15 to March 7 with an average daily high temperature below 49°F. The coldest day of the year is February 4, with an average low of 33°F and high of 43°F.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov , by clicking here .

What To Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with Necessary Gear who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Generally, during the day, casual, comfortable, cotton clothing is recommended. Cool weather at higher elevations or at night will require warmer, layered clothing.

During evenings aboard the riverboat, dress is resort casual.  Items such as slacks and collared shirts are appropriate for men.  For women, slacks, a dress or a skirt and blouse are suitable.  For dinner and throughout the evening, guests should refrain from wearing shorts, t-shirts, flip-flops or sneakers.  Your journey also includes one or two special occasion dinners, where a sport coat and tie for gentlemen and a dress/pantsuit for ladies are suggested.  (Your Tauck Director will advise you prior to those evenings.)

Valet laundry service is available at the hotel and on the riverboat for a fee. There is no valet dry cleaning available on the riverboat. Ironing facilities are available on the riverboat by request to the front desk. Category 7 cabins feature their own irons and ironing boards. For other cabins, they are available by request from Reception.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed. No medications are sold on board the riverboat.

We suggest that you pack the following items your journey:

• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
• An optional jacket and tie for men
• Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• Swimwear for the whirlpools on the riverboat; the riverboat does not have a swimming pool
• A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
• Binoculars (7x50 preferably)
• Insect repellent
• Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
• Lightweight, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
• Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm function (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
• Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
• Reusable zipper-lock bags or other waterproof bags
• Daypack for camera equipment
• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
• Copies of your travel documents to be secured in the safe in your hotel room or cabin

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Seine river facts, first timer's guide, why take a tauck river cruise, choosing the best european river cruise for you.

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Normandy   Travel Guide

Courtesy of © Marco Bottigelli | Getty Images

18 Best Things To Do in Normandy

Updated Feb. 11, 2021

Normandy's attractions are spread across the region, so we suggest you either spend a few days in just one or two towns or you set aside a week or two, rent a car and see a cache. If you're a foodie, you'll enjoy the bounty in Trouville and Honfleur

• All Things To Do

D-Day Beaches D-Day Beaches free

World War II's successful Operation Overlord took place on the coast of France. Although there were heavy Allied casualties, this invasion turned the tide in the war and helped lead to the fall of Nazi Germany. Today this piece of coastline, which includes Sword, Juno, Gold, Omaha and Utah beaches, is collectively known as the D-Day Beaches.

Visitors can tour the approximately 50-mile stretch of sand and pop by a number of museums, memorials and cemeteries that are spread out alongside the coastline either with a tour or on their own. If you're driving yourself, start in the town of Arromanches, which hosts two museums that help provide context for the battle sites. The American Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer and the Pointe-du-Hoc bomb craters are also especially moving. If you'd rather let someone else do the driving, recent visitors recommend going with a tour guide to fully appreciate the area's historic importance and receive a comprehensive overview. If you're visiting in June, you'll likely come across several ceremonies and reenactment groups commemorating the anniversary. Thanks to Normandy's unpredictable weather, you'll want to dress in layers (no matter the time of your visit) and bring rain gear, according to past visitors.

Mont Saint-Michel Abbey (Abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel) Mont Saint-Michel Abbey (Abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel)

Surrounded by sea in the high tide and sand in low, Abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel is one of France's most-toured sites outside of the popular Parisian landmarks. It's also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its first incarnation was raised on the 264-foot-high rock beginning in the 10th century, but additions were added well into the 19th century. Today, you can tour the abbey and the little village at its base, as well as several museums. Tours are offered year-round, but you can also traipse the massive structure on your own.

Guided tours – which are included in the cost of admission – do not require advance booking and are offered in French and English year-round. Tours are also offered in German, Italian and Spanish in July and August.

Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Rouen Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Rouen free

Dating back to the 12th century, this Gothic cathedral was the world's tallest building for about five years – 1876 to 1880. But its beauty in changing light is what drew the impressionist artist, Claude Monet, whose work can be viewed at the Musee des Beaux-Arts de Rouen , to paint it several times. Today, the cathedral is one of the defining pieces of architecture in this part of Normandy. Aside from its striking architecture, it's also famous for its tombs – one of which houses the heart of Richard the Lionheart.

Visitors recommend going inside to view the many parts of this working Roman Catholic cathedral, including the lovely stained glass in the Lady Chapel, the transepts and the ambulatory monuments. Others add that it is worth coming at night in the summer to see the free light shows displayed outside. Reviewers also recommended reading up on the history of the church before you visit to enhance your experience and develop a better understanding of the many architectural styles on display.

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Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial free

Somewhere around 9,000 soldiers are buried in this Colleville-sur-Mer war cemetery, which overlooks Omaha Beach . Most of these lost their lives during the D-Day invasion. There's also a memorial that gives a narrative of the invasion, as well as a reflecting pool and a chapel. And about 1,500 soldiers who were missing-in-action are remembered on the Walls of the Missing, in a semicircle garden to the east of the memorial.

Recent visitors advised setting aside more time than you think you might need, as there is a lot to take in and you don't want to rush through such a moving place. Several others recommended visiting with a tour company to enjoy a more in-depth understanding of the site's significance. Companies like Normandy Sightseeing Tours , Bayeux Shuttle and Paris City Vision earn high praise from past visitors.

Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen

The sprawling Museum of Fine Arts features paintings, sculptures, drawings and objets d'art that date back to the 15th century. Throughout the 19th century, generous donations made the museum home to one of the largest impressionist collections in France, with paintings by masters such as Monet, Sisley, Caillebotte, Pissarro, Degas and Renoir. Other highlights include works by Perugino, Veronese, Rubens, Caravaggio, Velázquez, Ribera and Poussin.

Recent visitors praised the museum's collection of impressionist works and the impressive range of styles represented here. For many, viewing Monet's paintings of the Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Rouen was a particular highlight. However, reviewers advised going in with a plan, as the museum can be a little hard to navigate.

Claude Monet's House and Garden Claude Monet's House and Garden

Who doesn't love water lilies, haystacks and gardens? Claude Monet, one of the world's most famous impressionists, lived and painted many of these subjects in his home in Giverny. Today, Monet fans can tour his excellently preserved home, studio and gardens. Among the highlights are the water garden (home to his famous water lilies) and the artist's house (especially the kitchen and the blue sitting room), which has been meticulously restored.

Recent visitors raved about the house and gardens, but many expressed disappointment with the crowds. If you want to avoid the onslaught of visitors, heed the advice of reviewers and visit right when the attraction opens to avoid the tour buses that descend in the afternoon. Others suggested visiting the lily ponds first and saving your house visit until the end.

Bayeux War Cemetery Bayeux War Cemetery free

The Bayeux War Cemetery is one of the largest of 18 military cemeteries in Normandy, with more than 4,000 graves – many of which mark the plots of soldiers who were never identified. These headstones are inscribed with "A Soldier Known Unto God." Keep in mind that if you're an American looking for your ancestors, you'll most likely have more luck at the American cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer . The Bayeux War Cemetery contains soldiers from the United Kingdom and "the Continent," including some from Germany.

Recent visitors found the cemetery to be quite moving and somber. Others said this is a "must-see," applauding the beautiful grounds.

Eglise Jeanne d'Arc Eglise Jeanne d'Arc free

This modern-looking church sits on the site of Jeanne d'Arc's (or Joan of Arc, to us Yanks) burning. The 19-year-old girl was burned at the stake for heresy in 1431. Today, you can tour this contemporary church built in 1979 (the exterior of which is reminiscent of fish scales) at Place du Vieux-Marche in Rouen. Pay attention to the building's design – the architect, Louis Arretche, wanted it to resemble the shape of an overturned boat.

Recent visitors loved the church's gorgeous stained-glass windows and say it was quite moving to be in the spot where Joan of Arc was killed.

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Etretat Cliffs Etretat Cliffs free

These stunning white chalk cliffs have drawn people, especially artists, such as Claude Monet and Guy de Maupassant, to the area for eons. The cliffs are often compared to the famous White Cliffs of Dover. Visitors can hike along the top of cliffs, as well as on the beach to check out the striking sight.

Recent visitors were astonished at the beauty of the cliffs and recommended visiting at sunrise and sunset for spectacular photo ops. Others suggested hiking to the top of the cliffs for unforgettable views. Reviewers also reported touring the town of Étretat.

Museum of Modern Art André Malraux Museum of Modern Art André Malraux

This Le Havre art museum, located in a bright 1960s glass-and-metal building, boasts enormous plate glass windows that perfectly allow in the famous light that has fascinated artists for decades. This museum was actually the first to be built after the war. Le Havre's original Museum of Fine Arts was destroyed by bombing in 1944. Two local painters who immortalized the Normandy coast are highlighted here. The collection of works by Raoul Dufy includes oils, watercolors and sketches. Works by Eugène Boudin include his Normandy beach scenes and landscapes. It also has a number of works by Renoir, Pissarro, Sisley and Degas. 

Past visitors raved about the museum's stunning coastal location and the collection of impressionist works. Others praised the friendly, knowledgeable staff.

Bayeux Tapestry Museum Bayeux Tapestry Museum

You might ask why on earth would you make a stop to see a tapestry when Camembert cheese, hard cider and the rolling Normandy hills are beckoning? Well, because the Bayeux Tapestry, an astonishingly long and beautifully made work of art, chronicles the 1066 Battle of Hastings.

The approximately 230-foot-long tapestry is displayed in a dark room with special lighting, so you can see every detail. Though it's described as a tapestry, it is actually linen cloth embroidered with wool thread. In another room of the museum, a permanent exhibition describes how it was made and gives an overview of the historical context and the Anglo-Norman kingdom in the 11th century. There is also a short 16-minute film, which details the making of the tapestry and includes reconstructions of scenes from the Battle of Hastings.

Mémorial de Caen Mémorial de Caen

This museum details events leading up to WWII as well as its decadeslong aftermath, with exhibits ranging from photos and documents charting the Nazi's rise to power in the 1930s, to life before and after the fall of the Berlin Wall. A tabletop map shows the location of the D-Day landings and a split-screen presentation of the D-Day invasion from both the Allied and Nazi standpoints gives a good overview. A 17-minute film, called "Europe Our History," is shown in a 360-degree theater and included with admission. Outside, you'll find three gardens dedicated to the memory of the Resistance fighters and Allied soldiers who died in Normandy. 

Recent visitors appreciated the comprehensive and educational way the museum covers the war. Others said a visit here is a must before a trip to the D-Day Beaches as it provides important context to the sites. Reviewers said you should plan to spend half a day here to make the most of the museum's offerings and that the audio guide is essential. One particular highlight for travelers was the reconstructed underground bunker of a Nazi general.

Musée du Débarquement Musée du Débarquement

The Musée du Débarquement, located on the seafront where one of the most incredible achievements of WWII happened, shows how the prefabricated Mulberry Harbour was constructed. An engineering feat, the harbors were used to unload troops, vehicles and supplies during the Allied invasion of Normandy in June 1944. While not much is left of the floating harbors, you can still see some remnants of the concrete blocks that were towed across the English Channel. Museum exhibits include models, mock-ups, and photographs depicting its creation and the D-Day landings.

Recent visitors praised the small museum's models and explanations of how the harbor was conceived. However, some said its exhibits are a little dated.

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Palais Bénédictine Palais Bénédictine

Bénédictine liqueur is a big deal in Normandy and if you want to learn more about it, as well as take in the Palais Bénédictine – a Gothic- and Renaissance-inspired building erected in the late 1800s – this is the spot. Le Palais Bénédictine was built in honor of the Bénédictine liqueur by Alexandre Le Grand, a wine merchant from Fécamp who discovered a lost recipe for a potent elixir dating back to 1510 created by a Bénédictine monk. Le Grand named the liqueur after the monks. He also stocked the palace with his art collection. 

Today, visitors can explore the museum on a guided tour, which features collections of sacred and ancient art related to the legacy of Bénédictine, as well as a room dedicated to its industrial history. After the museum tour, you head to the only Bénédictine distillery in the world and enjoy a tasting of the liqueur in the palace's Winter Garden. 

Chateau Gaillard Chateau Gaillard

This castle fortress was amazingly built in a mere two years, between 1196 and 1198, at the direction of Richard the Lionheart, King of England and the Duke of Normandy to protect Rouen against the French. It was captured by Philip II after a six-month siege; Henry IV later ordered that it be destroyed. Today, its clifftop ruins are a reminder of its dramatic past and a fascinating place to visit.

Recent visitors were fascinated by the complex history of the fortress. Others raved about the views and recommend bringing a picnic to enjoy on the grounds. According to recent travelers, there is a large free parking lot within walking distance.

Historial Jeanne d’Arc Historial Jeanne d’Arc

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"Rudy created a 1-week custom tour for my dad, uncle, brother and I to follow the path of my Grandpas division (2nd Infantry Division) in WWII. We have been researching and talking about going on this trip for over 5 years and Rudy made our dream trip come true and exceeded all expectations. Rudy has great knowledge of WWII and has detailed stories of what took place at each of the battle sites that we visited. Rudy was able to customize a tour for us to travel all over France to visit every battle my Grandpa's division fought and took us to other historic sites and museums. He created a tour that was a true honor to my Grandpa and all the heroes from WWII. Rudy will take care of all of your logistics once you arrive in France. He is the best tour guide I have experienced!"

"Our recent private Normandy tour helped us appreciate through first-hand experience why Rudy has so many 5 Star ratings from his clients. Rudy has absolutely earned all the accolades posted here; they are spot on. What still brings tears to my eyes is the profound concern Rudy has in making his tours personal. War is about great battles, but it is carried out by individuals. At every stop along our route, Rudy spoke of the soldiers as well as the civilians caught up in the war. We learned about tactics, armor, artillery, tanks, bombings in a way that gave us an inkling of what being in battle really means. Cemeteries became more than just rows of stone markers as we stopped and paid homage to particular soldiers as well as a randomly picked gravesite. In each cemetery, Rudy explained the concept behind the design layout of the cemetery as well as provided the time we needed to process our emotions."

"This tour was very personal as we were retracing the steps of my uncle who ultimately died in the Battle of the Bulge. Rudy was glad I mentioned Steve was wounded near Vire and he said we would go there. Long story short, it was dark as we drove through the village to find the monument that Rudy knew was there. He parked so the car lights lit up the Memorial. The stars were brilliant and the connection I felt to my Uncle in that place will be with me always."

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There is no one better than Rudy to have by your side as you experience the true meaning of courage, competence and devotion to duty as demonstrated by the heroes of WWII.

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From uncovering World War II history at Omaha and Juno Beach to digging into some of the best cheese and seafood France has to offer, there's so much to experience on our trips to Normandy.

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What travelers say about their trips to Normandy

Travel tips for normandy trips.

If paying your respects during D-Day anniversary ceremonies is on your bucket list, June is the time to go on Normandy guided tours. It is unforgettable to walk in the footsteps of the brave soldiers who fought on that infamous day during the anniversary month. Just keep in mind that the summer months are also a time for people to flock to the region’s beautiful beaches to soak in the sun, so you may need to contend with bigger crowds.

If you’d still like to uncover the region’s history without the June crowds, tours of Normandy, France, that depart in the spring and fall months are for you. These quieter seasons allow for more reflective moments at Omaha and Juno Beach, and easier access to other historic sites. The winter months are the quietest, and some shops will close in the smaller villages for the season.

For many travelers, uncovering World War II history on our Normandy tours is a highlight. The stops vary depending on which tour you choose, but here are some of the sites, memorials, and museums you should see to learn more about the significant WWII history of the region:

• Omaha Beach, where American troops stormed the shore, and which you can visit on our American WWII History: London to Berlin tour
• The American Cemetery in Colleville
• Pointe du Hoc
• Juno Beach, where Canadian soldiers bravely fought, and which you can visit on our Canadian World War History: Vimy to Juno Beach tour
• The Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial
• The Bény-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery
• The D-Day Museum in seaside town of Arromanches.

Of course, no Normandy group tours are complete without a visit to the fortified island of Mont-Saint-Michel. Here, the UNESCO-listed Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel sits high above the sea, and you can step inside with an expert guide on all of our tours to Normandy, France.

Looking for the historical charm of a French village during your Normandy guided tours? Look no further than the picturesque hamlet of Honfleur, which is renowned for its tall buildings and ancient port.

French cuisine is some of the best in the world, and the specialties you’ll taste on our Normandy group tours are no exception. The region lays claim to miles of coastline and green countryside, where fresh seafood, rich dairy, and famous Normandy apples are sourced to create unforgettable dishes and drinks. Here are some of the can’t-miss specialties to seek out on all trips to Normandy:

• Cheeses like Camembert, Pont-l’Évêque, and Livarot
• Anything made with Normandy butter
• Apple cider
• Calvados, the region’s distinctive apple brandy
• A classic Normandy apple tart
• Any type of seafood, including lobsters, scallops, and famous Normandy oysters
• Marmite dieppoise , a creamy seafood stew made with local cider and crème fraîche
• Meadow-salted lamb, which are naturally salty cuts of meat from lambs that graze on pastures near the ocean

When planning what to pack for tours to the Normandy Coast, keep the region’s location in mind. Its proximity to the English Channel means that there can be impromptu rain showers and mist, so a rain coat, comfortable rain boots, and an umbrella are a good idea. Layers are also a must if the temperature shifts on your tours of Normandy, France.

French people are known to dress in a simple, sophisticated way, so it’s good to put your best foot forward when you’re out and about. But, feel free to remain a bit more casual on small group tours to Normandy—no need to get too dressy in the countryside or on the beach!

Of course, you can never go wrong by doing as the French do and keeping a light scarf on hand on trips to Normandy. It will come in handy when you need to cover up inside churches, or if the temperature changes as you relax at outdoor cafes or explore the famous beaches.

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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.

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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.

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Lesser-known D-Day sites to visit

28 May 2024

Taking a trip to Normandy? Read our guide on lesser-known D-Day sites to visit on your trip.

Must-see D-Day sites

D-day landing sites.

Image: Pegasus Bridge at the Pegasus Bridge Museum (Wikimedia Commons) 

While the amphibious beach landings dominate the D-Day story, it begins inland with the airborne assault.

British, Canadian, and American paratroopers and glider-borne troops were dropped in the early hours of June 6, 1944, behind enemy lines. 

Their job was to capture important canal and river crossings, knock out German artillery batteries, and generally prepare the way for the beach landings later in the morning.

The locations were the paratroopers and glider-borne forces landed were some of the first D-Day sites to see combat.

The Commonwealth soldiers were dropped to the east of the Allied landing zones. 

The capture of the bridges over the River Orne and Caen Canal by the Ox & Bucks Light Infantry was one of the first successful D-Day attacks. 

Landing by Horsa glider almost directly on top of their objective, the British airborne troops captured both bridges in just 10 minutes. They were able to hold them against counterattack until relieved by troops from Sword Beach.

The bridge over the Caen Canal was renamed Pegasus Bridge after the winged-horse emblem of the Parachute Division.

Another D-Day landing site to visit linked to the Commonwealth airborne assault is the Merville Battery.

Image: One of the casemates at the Merville Battery (Wikimedia Commons)

The Merville Battery was a major German artillery installation overlooking Sword Beach containing four heavy guns.

On the morning of D-Day, it was targeted by the 9th Parachute Battalion under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Terence Otway. 

Unfortunately, the British paratroopers had been scattered across Normandy. From a force of around 700, Otway was only able to assemble 150 lightly equipped paratroopers facing an entrenched enemy position.

The attack went ahead, nonetheless. What followed was a bloody attack but with the element of surprise, the 9th was able to take the battery after 20 minutes of furious action. 

The cost was high. Of the 150 British paratroopers attacking Merville, 50 men and officers were killed and a further 25 wounded.

Ranville War Cemetery and Ranville Churchyard are interesting D-Day sites to visit. They hold some of the earliest casualties of D-Day.

A purpose-built Commonwealth War Graves war cemetery, Ranville War Cemetery holds over 2,300 Commonwealth burials and over 300 German war graves. 

Ranville Churchyard holds close to 50 Commonwealth casualties, killed during the early hours of D-Day.

D-Day beach sites

Image: Gold Beach as it is today. The remnants of the massive Mulberry floating harbour lie in the water to this day.

The most evocative D-Day sites are probably the landing beaches themselves.

On the morning of June 6, 1944, thousands of Allied soldiers hit the beaches under Operation Overlord: the Allied invasion of Normandy.

Five landing beaches were chosen, split between British, Canadian, and American forces:

• Gold – British
• Sword – British
• Juno – Canadian
• Utah – American
• Omaha – American

For many, Omaha Beach is their favourite D-Day site to visit. Omaha was the bloodiest beach, where over 2,000 American GIs were killed.

The famous opening scene from Simon Spielberg’s Saving Private Ryan has made Omaha one of the most enduring battles in the public imagination.

But this does a disservice to the British and Canadian soldiers fighting their way ashore on Gold, Sword, and Juno. These were by no means walkovers. Juno was particularly bloody, with the Canadians losing 30% of their landing craft before even reaching the shore.

Today, the beaches of Normandy are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Northern France.

The remnants of German Atlantic Wall defences, including concrete bunkers and the remains of gun emplacements, can still be seen. For example, the remains of one of the enormous Mulberry floating harbours built by the Allies still lie off Gold Beach at Arromanches.

The beaches are easily accessible today and free to the public. A road and public transport network serves Normandy, so getting to and from them is easy.

It’s worth noting that the Normandy Beaches stretch across 50 miles of coastline. You may not be able visit them and all the museums and points of interest Normandy has to offer in just one visit.

D-Day launch sites

Operation Overlord, and the naval component of the Normandy Invasion Operation Neptune, were launched from ports along the English coast.

7,000 ships, boats, and landing craft, predominantly Royal Navy vessels, were assembled into a massive flotilla. They carried in their hulls over 150,000 soldiers assembled for the beach assault, as well as their guns, tanks, food, equipment, and ammunition.

By the end of the Normandy Campaign, the Royal Navy had transported over 2 million troops, 3 million tons of supplies and equipment, and 400,000 vehicles to France.

D-Day sites to visit in the UK include the embarkation ports:

• Southampton, Hampshire
• Portsmouth, Hampshire
• Portland, Devon
• Plymouth, Devon

The majority of Commonwealth troops involved in the D-Day Landings left via Southampton. A steady stream of men left the embarkation ports as the Battle for Normandy continued.

Today, the southern coast of England is littered with sites that are related to D-Day. The D-Day Story Museum has an interactive map detailing some of the most significant UK D-Day sites.

D-Day Sites of Remembrance

Amongst the most important D-Day sites are those that commemorate the dead of the battle. Alongside these sit D-Day war memorials and cemeteries commemorating all the Battle of Normandy’s fallen.

The Commonwealth War Graves Commission maintains many constructed sites in Normandy, including war memorials and cemeteries. Within lay D-Day war graves as well as burials from the wider Normandy campaign.

Here's a selection of CWGC sites that tell the story of Operation Overlord and the fight to liberate northern France.

Ranville War Cemetery

As touched on earlier, Pegasus Bridge was one of the key battles of the Normandy Invasion’s early stages.

The village of Ranville, close to Pegasus Bridge, was one of the first villages to be captured by the Allies on D-Day.

It now holds one of the largest CWGC war cemeteries in Normandy, holding 2,500 war graves.

Hermanville War Cemetery

Hermanville War Cemetery lies less than a mile from Sword Beach.

Just over 1,000 war graves can be found at Hermanville. Nearly all of the soldiers buried here were killed in the early days of June 1944.

Bayeux War Cemetery

Bayeux was spared from most of the fighting in Normandy, but it was one of the earliest towns to be liberated.

Bayeux War Cemetery is the largest CWGC cemetery in Normandy, holding over 4,100 Second World War graves . 

The Bayeux Memorial commemorates by name a further 1,800 Normandy casualties who have no known war grave.

Beny-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery

Some 2,000 Canadian servicemen are buried at Beny-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery. It lies some two miles inland from the Normandy beaches, near the village of Reivers.

Most of the men buried here were killed during the assault on Juno Beach, or in the advance on Caen. Caen was an important transport hub and the site of much bitter fighting in the summer of 1944.

Ryes War Cemetery

Located a little way inland from Gold Beach, Ryes War Cemetery lies in the village of Bezanville. The first burials came in the days after D-Day when casualties were moved off the beach at Arromanches.

Over 650 Commonwealth burials sit within Ryes War Cemetery. The site also holds 300 or so German war graves, cared for by CWGC.

La Deliverande War Cemetery

Lying just over a mile inland from Sword Beach.

Those buried within died across the length of the Normandy Campaign, either on Sword Beach on D-Day morning, or in the thrust to Caen.

Overwhelming British, the cemetery also contains several German, Australian, Canadian, and Polish war graves.

Jerusalem War Cemetery

48 Second World War war graves lie within Jerusalem War Cemetery.

The youngest casualty of the Normandy Campaign, Private Jack Banks, is buried here. He was just 16 years old when he was killed in action in a defensive action against a determined German counterattack at Caen.

St. Manvieu War Cemetery

St. Manvieu War Cemetery on the outskirts of Caen, just a stone’s throw from Carpiquet Airport – a key objective for Allied forces, and determinedly defended by the German army.

While there are burials in this cemetery as early as D-Day itself, the majority of the fallen here died between the end of June to mid-August, demonstrating the ferocity of the fighting in this region throughout the summer of 1944.

Banneville-La-Campagne War Cemetery

Over 2,000 British servicemen are commemorated at Banneville-La-Campagne War Cemetery, alongside casualties from Poland, New Zealand, Canada, and Australia.

Those buried here were largely killed in July 1944 towards the latter stages of the Normandy Campaign, including the Battle of the Falaise Pocket. The German 7th Army and 5th Panzer Army were encircled and destroyed at Falaise.

Tilly-sur-Seulles War Cemetery

While Bayeux was one of the first towns to be liberated by Operation Overlord, nearby Tilly-sur-Seulles was a tougher nut to crack.

It was taken on 18 June, the day before the liberation of Caen, but fighting around Tilly continued far into July, resulting in heavy casualties for attackers and defenders alike.

Some 1,000 Commonwealth servicemen are commemorated at Tilly-sur-Seulles War Cemetery. 200 German war graves are maintained here too.

Fontenay-Le-Pesnel War Cemetery

Found to the West of Caen, more than 500 Commonwealth casualties of the Second World War are commemorated at Fontenay-Le-Pesnel War Cemetery. 

Most of the men buried here are members of the South Staffordshire, East Lancashire, Royal Warwickshire Regiments, and the Durham Light Infantry. 

There are also 4 Canadian burials here, and 57 men of the German Army.

Hottot-les-Bagues War Cemetery

More than 1000 Second World War casualties are buried in Hottot-les-Bagues War Cemetery. Most were killed in June and July of 1944, following the capture of Bayeux and the push towards Caen. 

Many of these war dead were killed in sporadic fighting in the region and then moved to Hottot-les-Bagues.

St. Desir War Cemetery

The CWGC cemetery at St. Desir contains close to 600 WW2 burials, with around 450 who were killed in August 1944 in the fighting around the Falaise pocket towards the end of the Battle of Normandy.

Adjacent to the cemetery is the Saint-Désir-de-Lisieux German war cemetery, which contains 3,735 German burials of the Second World War. Begun by the British in August 1944, this cemetery is now under the care of our German sister organisation the Volksbund Deutsche Kriegsgräberfürsorge.

Bretteville-sur-Laize Canadian War Cemetery

Bretteville-sur-Laize Canadian War Cemetery is one of the largest CWGC sites in the Calvados department. Located a few miles south of Caen, the cemetery contains close to 3000 World War Two casualties – the vast majority from Canadian regiments.

Caen was a vital objective in the days immediately following D-Day and with many of those commemorated here dying in early June. A larger proportion of the casualties here are from the large Battle of Normandy and the thrust south by Allied forces.

St. Charles de Percy War Cemetery

The St. Charles de Percy war cemetery is one of the most southern of our Normandy cemeteries. More than 800 Second World War casualties are buried here, predominantly from Operation Bluecoat in August 1944.

Operation Bluecoat was an attack by British forces from the Caumont region towards Vire, with the added benefit of disrupting German forces in the area, preventing an organised counter-offensive, by driving a wedge between the German 7th Army and Panzer Group West.

To mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day , the final leg of the Lighting Their Legacy will see us light every grave in Normandy in the Great Vigil: a moving tribute to the fallen of Normandy.

The Best D-Day Sites in Normandy (according to our expert)

Lynelle Howson, one of our many brilliant CWGC historians, recommends a Normandy site that might have flown under your radar.

Brouay War Cemetery

“Looking for a lesser-known CWGC cemetery in Normandy to visit? A little off the beaten track, Brouay War Cemetery is a little gem. We care for the graves of 377 servicemen there, making it one of our smaller war cemeteries in Normandy. 

“Tucked behind this Norman village’s church is a beautifully laid out home for Commonwealth soldiers who died in this area in June, July and August 1944. Our entrance feature echoes medieval Norman stone architecture, taking visitors from the village churchyard via a staircase, up and around, to be welcomed by CWGC’s iconic Cross of Sacrifice.

“Today’s cemetery was created by bringing many graves here after the fighting moved away. But at its heart, this is one of the few remaining original ‘Divisional’ cemeteries from the Normandy campaign. Men of the 53rd Welsh Division of the British Army laid their fallen comrades to rest here from the end of June 1944. 

"Over 230 men – 2/3rds of those we now remember here -- died while serving with this division, including nearly all of those buried in Plot III. Two of these men were CANLOAN officers – Canadians serving with British units.

“When you visit, you will see many headstones in Plot III bearing the stringed bugle horn of the Oxford and Bucks Light Infantry. 81 soldiers of the 1st Battalion Ox and Bucks are buried here, 50 of whom died on a single day, 16 July 1944, one small part of the heavy fighting of June-July when Commonwealth forces attempted to encircle Caen to the south.”

D-Day sites map

Where are our normandy sites.

Discover our sites across Normandy. We welcome visitors to each of these sites to join with us in paying tribute to those who died during the Invasion of Normandy.

Museums & educational centres

The Commonwealth War Graves Commission does not operate any visitor centres or museums in Normandy. Our focus here is on the continued commemoration of the war dead, which involves year-round care of the war cemeteries, memorials and war graves in our care.

However, many charitable trusts and other organisations run museums on or close to the D-Day beaches. As you’d expect, they’re among the most popularly visited D-Day sites and are major tourist Attractions.

Juno Beach Centre

Located at Courseulles-sur-Mer, the Juno Beach Centre is focussed on the Canadian forces’ experience on D-Day and beyond.

The centre is run by the Juno Beach Centre Association, which aims to educate the public on Canada’s contribution to the Normandy Invasion.

American Gold Beach Museum

A dual museum, the American Gold Beach Museum has exhibits sharing the story of the British assault on Gold Beach. 

The American aspect actually refers to a pre-war event: the first attempt to establish an air-mail link between France and the United States, resulting in the American plane crash landing on the beachfront.

The American Gold Beach Museum is located in Ville-sur-Mer, Normandy.

Le Grand Bunker Museum of the Atlantic Wall

Formerly a 52-foot tall concrete tower built to defend against seaborne invasion, Le Grand Bunker Museum of the Atlantic Wall is entirely dedicated to the German coastal fortifications.

The bunker itself was a former Command and Fire Direction Post, used to coordinate artillery fire by German forces on D-Day. It’s now a fully renovated museum full of documents and photographs detailing the Atlantic Wall and its construction.

The D-Day Story

The D-Day Story is the only British museum dedicated to D-Day and Operation Overlord.

Located in Portsmouth, one of the embarkation ports for troops destined for France, the museum goes through the entire campaign. 

The D-Day Story also Landing Craft Tank 7074: the only surviving landing craft to take part in the D-Day invasion. The craft has been comprehensively restored after living a colourful post-war life, including a spell as a floating nightclub.

Areas of Historical Interest 

Image: The British Normandy Memorial

Normandy was a major battlefield during the summer of 1944. As such, lesser-known areas of historical interest can be found off the beaten track.

Here are some lesser-known D-Day sites you might want to explore on your next trip to Normandy.

British Normandy Memorial 

Overlooking Gold Beach, The British Normandy Memorial is one of the latest memorials to the dead of Normandy.

This is not a Commonwealth War Graves Commission Memorial, however we are caring for it on behalf of the Normandy Memorial Trust.

Opened on June 6, 2021, 77 years to the day after the Invasion of Normandy, the Memorial commemorates over 22,000 British service personnel who killed during the Battle of Normandy.

1944 Radar Museum

Situated in the Canadian sector, the radar installation at Douvres-la-Délivrande is a unique piece of Second World War history.

A German radar dish, the Wehrmacht used it to scan the Normandy skies for Allied aircraft. The museum shows a 1944-era radar plus information on how it was captured.

The D-Day Academy

One of the more unusual ways to tour D-Day sites comes with the D-Day Academy.

The Academy maintains a fleet of vintage period vehicles, including lots of trucks and even an amphibious troop carrier, taking tourists to key D-Day locations. Historians and D-Day paraphernalia are on board, turning Normandy into an open-air museum.

Key towns & cities

Bayeux was the first major town to be liberated during WW2's Operation Overlord . It is the site of the largest CWGC cemetery in Normandy.

Caen was the subject of horrendous fighting throughout most of the Battle for Normandy. It was an objective on D-Day, but it took over six weeks and hunreds of thousands of Commonwealth soldiers to capture.

The seaside town of Arromanches is connected to Gold Beach. It lay at the western edge of the landing zone. Sword Beach stretches for 8 kilometres of Normandy coast between Lion-sur-Mer in the west and Ouisteham in the east.

Juno Beach, situated between Gold to the west and Sword to the east, covers a 10-kilometre front, stretching along the small fishing port of Courseulles-sur-Mer.

Start your Normandy D-Day Adventure

Lighting their Legacy

Across the UK, May & June

Discover our national programme of events and inspire the next generation.

The Great Vigil

Normandy, 5 June

Join the culmination of our D-Day events as we illuminate every CWGC grave in Normandy.

DISCOVER OUR 80TH ANNIVERSARY WW2 EVENTS

We're holding a number of events across the UK and in Normandy in the build up to the 80th anniversary of D-Day . Find out more about what we're planning and discover how you can get involved.

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CBS News Texas to return to Normandy with North Texas D-Day heroes

Posted: May 27, 2024 | Last updated: May 27, 2024

When CBS News Texas traveled to Normandy in 2013 and 2014, we were amazed at those stories, reluctant heroes willing to share things that even their families had never heard about the role that they played in saving the world. With CBS News Texas committed to going back to cover those who are still with us we feel it is the right time to reflect on those heroes who we have already met on those previous journeys. An encore presentation all this week from 10 years ago of the North Texas heroes who did nothing less than help save the world. Next week marks the 80th anniversary of the D-day landings in Normandy, France. A moment in history that led to the downfall of Hitler. CBS News Texas' Doug Dunbar will be traveling to Normandy with North Texas D-day heroes.

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Prince William to be joined by European royals during solo overseas trip

The prince of wales is heading to france.

The Prince of Wales is set to join some of his European royal counterparts as he heads overseas to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day .

Prince William, 41, will attend the international commemorative ceremony at Omaha Beach, Saint Laurent sur Mur, alongside 25 heads of state and veterans from around the world on 6 June.

Joining the father-of-three at the service will be King Frederik of Denmark , Crown Prince Haakon of Norway , King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima of The Netherlands and King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium .

MORE ROYAL NEWS

Earlier in the day, King Charles and Queen Camilla will be at the Ministry of Defence and Royal British Legion's event at the British Normandy Memorial at Ver-sur-Mer, while William will attend the Canadian commemorative ceremony at the Juno Beach Centre, Courseulles-sur-Mer.

The Princess of Wales is not expected to join her husband in France amid her cancer treatment.

Teaming up with the European royals

William and Kate have enjoyed meetings with some of the European royals in recent years, and share a particular warm friendship with King Frederik and Queen Mary .

While Kate and Mary are often compared because of their brunette locks and similar sense of style, they also share some of the same interests with their royal work.

Queen Mary established her own foundation to improve the lives of vulnerable women and children in 2007, while the Princess of Wales launched the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood in June 2021, which focuses on the impact of the early years on later life.

The two royal ladies joined forces in Denmark in February 2022, when Kate accompanied Mary on a visit to the Danner Crisis Centre, which helps women and children affected by domestic violence.

The British royal couple were also reunited with the Danish royals at a Buckingham Palace reception the night before King Charles' coronation.

The Prince and Princess of Wales also held a meeting with Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit at Windsor Castle in March 2023, having also carried out a royal tour to Norway in 2018.

Kate's first ever solo trip abroad in 2016 saw her fly to the Netherlands, where she met King Willem-Alexander for lunch. The Dutch royals also enjoyed a state visit to the UK during Queen Elizabeth II's reign in 2018.

And in 2017, William and Kate joined the Belgian royals at commemorations for the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Passchendaele.

Royal engagements postponed

The royal family has postponed engagements "which may appear to divert attention or distract from the election campaign" after Rishi Sunak called a surprise summer General Election for 4 July.

A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said: "Following the Prime Minister’s statement this afternoon calling a General Election, the royal family will, in accordance with normal procedure, postpone engagements that may appear to divert attention or distract from the election campaign. Their Majesties send their sincere apologies to any of those who may be affected as a result."

While the D-Day commemorations on 5 and 6 June and Trooping the Colour on 15 June are expected to go ahead as planned, there is no confirmation as to whether the upcoming Japanese state visit, which was previously postponed due to the pandemic, will still happen in late June.

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