Paris: Normandy D-Day Sites Guided Day Trip with Lunch

History

The Normandy D-Day landings on June 6, 1944, marked a turning point in World War II, as Allied forces launched Operation Overlord to liberate Europe from Nazi control. The beaches of Normandy, including Utah and Omaha, became the stage for one of history’s largest military operations, with immense bravery and sacrifice.

The American Cemetery, Pointe du Hoc, and Utah Beach Museum stand as enduring tributes to the soldiers who fought and died. These sites preserve the legacy of D-Day, offering a poignant reminder of the cost of freedom and the resilience of those who shaped history.

Highlights

• Honor fallen soldiers at the American Cemetery overlooking Omaha Beach.
• Reflect on history while walking along the sands of Omaha Beach.
• Visit Utah Beach Museum in a historic German bunker with ocean views.
• Explore bomb craters and bunkers at the dramatic Pointe du Hoc site.
• Save time with a pre-booked Norman-style lunch at a port restaurant.

Full Description

Embark on a fully guided day trip from Paris to explore the historic D-Day landing sites and the stunning Normandy countryside. Your journey begins at Utah Beach Museum, located in an original German bunker where the first American troops landed. Discover the intricate planning of Operation Overlord, hear stories of bravery, and see a rare B-26 bomber while enjoying breathtaking views over Utah Beach.

After a scenic drive, savor a two-course Norman-style lunch with a glass of cider at a restaurant overlooking the port of Grandcamp-Maisy. Next, visit Pointe du Hoc, a dramatic clifftop site where U.S. Army Rangers scaled cliffs under heavy fire. Walk among bomb craters and bunkers, taking in views of the English Channel and reflecting on the battle’s intensity.

Continue to Omaha Beach for free time to walk the shoreline and contemplate its significance as a site of fierce resistance in 1944. Conclude at the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer, overlooking Omaha Beach, where you can explore the serene grounds, reflecting pool, and memorial, paying tribute to nearly 10,000 American soldiers, including Theodore Roosevelt Jr. This immersive tour offers a profound connection to D-Day’s legacy.

Why Choose This Experience?

This guided day trip provides a deeply moving exploration of D-Day’s historic sites, led by an expert English-speaking guide who brings the events of 1944 to life. With roundtrip transportation, pre-booked lunch, and curated visits, it’s a seamless way to honor a pivotal moment in history.

Perfect for history enthusiasts and those seeking a meaningful travel experience, the tour combines education, reflection, and the beauty of Normandy’s coast. The small group setting and expert insights ensure a personal and impactful journey through one of World War II’s defining chapters.

What’s Included

• English-speaking expert guide.
• Roundtrip transportation from Paris by air-conditioned coach.
• Entrance ticket to the Utah Beach Museum.
• Guided visit of Pointe du Hoc.
• Visit to the American Cemetery overlooking Omaha Beach.
• Two-course local lunch with one glass of cider.

Itinerary

• Start at Église Notre-Dame de Compassion, Place du Général Kœnig, 75017 Paris.
• Travel by bus/coach (4 hours).
• Visit Utah Beach Museum (75 minutes).
• Travel by bus/coach (30 minutes).
• Enjoy lunch (1 hour).
• Travel by bus/coach (15 minutes).
• Visit Pointe du Hoc (1 hour).
• Travel by bus/coach (30 minutes).
• Visit Omaha Beach (20 minutes).
• Travel by bus/coach (5 minutes).
• Visit Normandy American Cemetery with guided tour and free time (75 minutes).
• Return by bus/coach (3.5 hours).
• Finish at Pl. de la Porte Maillot, Paris, France.

Pricing

From $139 per person

Meeting Point

• Place du Général Kœnig, 75017 Paris, beside Église Notre-Dame de Compassion at the intersection of Boulevard d’Aurelle de Paladines and Avenue de la Porte des Ternes. Look for the City Wonders representative holding a sign on the right side when facing the church (Open in Google Maps).

How to Get There

• By Metro: Take Line 1 to Porte Maillot station, a 3-minute walk to the meeting point.
• By RER: Take RER C to Porte Maillot, exiting directly near Place du Général Kœnig.
• By Bus: Routes 43 or 73 stop at Porte Maillot, a short walk to the meeting point.
• By Taxi/Rideshare: Request a drop-off at Place du Général Kœnig for convenience.

Good to Know

What to Bring:

• Comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain.
• Weather-appropriate clothing, as Normandy can be windy or rainy.
• A small water bottle for hydration during the tour.

Know Before You Go:

• Not allowed: Baby strollers, non-folding strollers.
• Advise dietary requirements at booking for lunch accommodations.
• Bring an infant or child seat if traveling with young children for safety.
• Tours operate rain or shine; bring an umbrella or jacket if needed.

Reviews

• The trip was very well organized, with a clear meeting point and a knowledgeable guide. Everything ran smoothly, making it a stress-free and meaningful experience.
• The guide was exceptional, offering detailed explanations and helpful tips for Paris. Their passion for the subject made the tour unforgettable and highly recommended.
• The guide’s expertise and engaging style made learning about D-Day truly enjoyable. The sites were powerful, and the tour was perfectly paced.