General information
Program details
Set out for a remarkable day as you travel across Normandy, France and discover a deep history set in a magnificent landscape. Stand in the midst of the landing beaches and be moved by the emotions that so many travellers have experienced before. Be taken back in time as this tour masterfully brings together the most poignant historical sites and an appreciation for Normandy's rich traditions.
Head out early and make your way to the picturesque lush greenery flanking the Atlantic seaboard on the northern coast of France. As you travel through the charming countryside, it’s hard to imagine that this area once served as the violent stage for the largest amphibious invasion in history. Listen as your guide illuminates the historic series of events that surround you. Arrive at the Utah Beach Museum, housed in an original German bunker on the very beach where the first American troops landed. Learn about the complicated planning behind Operation Overlord, along with touching stories of ordinary men and women who helped shape the face of Europe today.
The museum offers unparalleled views over Utah beach and is home to one of the only six remaining B-26 airplanes left in the world. Gain a better understanding of the events of D-day by experiencing the Norman countryside also. Enjoy the people and traditions of the region. Stop for a brief visit in a traditional Norman cider-making orchard where you'll take a taste of the cider and Calvados, before making your return to the city.
A pleasant day taking in the sights and sounds of one of the more lovely, historical regions of France, your time spent in Normandy will leave you with vibrant memories of an area full off natural beauty and a rich, deep history.
We’ll continue our exploration of Normandy with a typical Norman-style lunch, freshly prepared for us with only seasonal ingredients. We’ll enjoy our meal in a charming, local restaurant with a view overlooking the port of Grandcamp Maisy.
After lunch we will travel to Pointe du Hoc, a German defense situated on the cliff tops and heroically taken by US Rangers. This cliff overlooking the English Channel today remains very much as it was left over half a century ago by the Rangers. Many of the original German fortifications have been left in place and the area is still scarred by bomb craters. We’ll also have the opportunity to pay our respects to the fallen at the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer. The cemetery is located on a bluff that overlooks Omaha Beach, which was one of the landing beaches of the D-Day invasion. Theodore Roosevelt, Jr., son of President Theodore Roosevelt and a Medal of Honor recipient, is buried here together with the almost 10,000 soldiers who sacrificed their lives. Our stop in the area includes a visit to the Omaha Beach Visitor Centre, where we’ll learn that despite meticulous planning of the Omaha Beach landings, very little went as planned. Your guide will use the time spent driving to provide enriching commentary and answer questions, preparing you for each stop on the tour. This will leave plenty of time for you to explore freely upon arrival and focus on what is important to you.
Whether you are a history buff, served in WWII or are simply interested in the epic events of this historic moment, consider this comprehensive Normandy - US D-Day Beaches Day Trip from Paris including typical Norman Lunch and Cider Tasting.
Meeting/pick-up point: Steps of the Palais de Chaillot, at the Place du Trocadéro et du 11 Novembre.
Duration: 14 hours.
Start/opening time: 7am.
End/closing time: 9pm.
Languages: English.
Others: We regret that we are unable to accommodate guests with wheelchairs or any impairments requiring special assistance. We are also unable to accommodate strollers or baby carriages on our group tours.
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