Best of Normandy

Arrival to Paris
Bonjour and welcome to the most romantic city in the world and the charming capital of France - Paris!

Upon arrival, your driver meets you and takes you to the train station for your departure to Rouen. Immerse yourself on a sophisticated trip to Normandy! Visit the region which inspired Claude Monet and many other impressionists.

Arrival to Rouen

Upon arrival at Rouen hotel, you have the rest of the day free.

As an optional extra activity we recommend you to include the Impressionists in Normandy Tour in your experience which will let you discover Normandy from a cultural perspective, exploring its artistic heritage, historic towns, and scenic landscapes that inspired generations of painters. This enriching excursion offers a refined insight into the region’s creative spirit and timeless charm.

Rouen Sightseeing Tour

Embark on an enriching guided sightseeing journey, where you'll be captivated by the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral, the pinnacle of French Gothic architecture and the tallest cathedral in France. Delve into the past as you stroll through the beautifully preserved medieval quarter, home to the Saint-Maclou church and its atmospheric churchyard, symbolizing the rich religious heritage. Discover the Gros Horloge, a stunning astronomical clock, marking the passage of time in the heart of the old city. Witness the grandeur of the Renaissance-era Parlement de Normandie, a testament to the city's political history. Explore the bustling old marketplace, a hub of local life and commerce. Conclude your tour at the futuristic St. Joan of Arc church, a modern marvel erected in honour of the iconic French heroine, commemorating her sacrifice in the very city where she met her fate.

Traces of the Second World War in Rouen

After breakfast you meet your guide who takes you on a 3-hour walking sightseeing tour of Rouen. You see the soaring Notre-Dame Cathedral which is the tallest cathedral in France, the Saint-Maclou church and churchyard, the the Gros Horloge or Clock Tower in the beautifully restored medieval quarter, the Renaissance Parlement de Normandie as well as the old marketplace and the futuristic St. Joan of Arc church, erected in honor of Joan of Arc who was executed in this city. During the tour you also learn about the tragic fate of the city during the Second World War when approximately 45% of Rouen was destroyed. Your guide shows the area between the Seine River and the Rouen Cathedral which burned for 48 hours in June 1940 as the Nazis did not allow firemen access to the fire. You also explore other areas and sights which were destroyed in 1944 before and during the Battle of Normandy.

Departure

Following breakfast in your hotel you check out, meet your driver and continue your journey.

Arrival and City Tour

Upon arrival to the train station meet your driver to have a transfer to the hotel.

Later today start a private 2-hour guided walking tour in a city of William the Conqueror, the most famous of the dukes of Normandy. During the tour, you see William the Conqueror’s grave, in the Abbey of the Men, Norman church with exceptional proportions. Continue to the remnants of the palace of William inside the castle and enjoy the view on the city, and the flamboyant gothic spire of the church St Pierre. Witness the black marble headstone of Queen Mathilda in the beautiful church of the Abbey of Women.

Tour to Honfleur and the Cliffs of Etretat

Your guide driver will pick you up from your desired location. Upon arrival in Honfleur, explore the charming Vieux Bassin area, known for its colorful buildings and picturesque harbor. Visit the Sainte-Catherine Church, a remarkable wooden church, and admire its unique architecture. Wander through the cobblestone streets, browse art galleries, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant in Honfleur, savoring regional specialties. (Not included) Depart from Honfleur and embark on a scenic drive to Étretat, known for its stunning cliffs. Enjoy the picturesque Normandy countryside during the journey. Arrive at Étretat and start your exploration of the famous cliffs. Walk along the coastal path to witness breathtaking views of the cliffs, arches, and the English Channel. Visit the iconic landmarks such as the Porte d'Aval and Porte d'Amont for spectacular photo opportunities. If time permits, descend to the pebble beach and feel the awe-inspiring presence of the cliffs up close. Bid farewell to Étretat and begin your return journey. Enjoy the scenic drive back, reflecting on the natural beauty and memorable experiences of the day. Your guide driver will drop you off at your desired location. Please note that the timings provided are approximate and can be adjusted based on your preferences and the traffic conditions.

Exploring D-Day Beaches Tour

Meet your private guide-driver as today you go on a D-Day Tour, dedicated to the Allied invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944, for the liberation of Western Europe from Nazi Germany’s control. During the tour, you get to see places where the D-Day landings took place, the Invasion and the Battle of Normandy. You visit places such as Omaha Beach, Sainte-Mère-Église, and Pointe du Hoc. You also have time to explore Airborne museum located in Sainte-Mère-Eglise.

Mont Saint Michel Tour

Join a private tour of the Mont Saint-Michel, a magical island topped by a gravity-defying medieval monastery in Normandy. Upon arrival at the parking lot together with your guide-driver, you take a shuttle to Mont Saint-Michel as cars are not allowed to go on further.

Today you see the iconic Gothic-style Benedictine abbey in honor of the archangel St Michael built between the 11th and 16th centuries and the village that grew up in the shadow of its great walls. Perched on a rocky islet in the midst of vast sandbanks, Mont Saint-Michel is exposed to powerful tides between Normandy and Brittany - the highest spring tides in Continental Europe. The tide comes very quickly with the sea level rising by 15 meters between low and high tide, making Mont Saint-Michel an island.

Juno Beach & Canadian D-Day Tribute

Embark on an insightful afternoon tour through the Canadian landing sites of D-Day, retracing the steps of the brave soldiers who fought here. Begin at the Juno Beach Centre, a moving tribute to the Canadian forces that played a key role in the invasion.

Continue through the picturesque villages of Bernières, Graye, and Courseulles, each with its own wartime stories. Visit the Beny-sur-Mer Canadian Cemetery to honor those who gave their lives for freedom.

Conclude at the Ardenne Abbey, a site marked by dramatic events during the liberation. This afternoon tour offers a heartfelt tribute to Canada’s vital contributions during World War II.

Schedule: 13h00 - 18h00

Departure

Following breakfast in your hotel, you check out and depart from Caen.

Arrival to Paris
Upon arrival, your driver meets you and takes you to your centrally located hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is free so you can start exploring the magnificent city center on your own, dine in one of the local restaurants or take a good rest in your comfortable room.

Departure

Following breakfast in your hotel you check out, meet your driver and continue your journey.