2-Days Customisable Private Guided Tour in Normandy & Brittany

A 2-day private guided tour in Normandy and Brittany offers a flexible and immersive way to explore some of France’s most iconic sites. Priced at $3,152.58 per group (up to 2 people), this tour provides a personalized experience with the ability to customize visits according to your interests. It departs from Paris and features air-conditioned transportation, WiFi onboard, and pickup options from your hotel or the airport, making logistics smooth and comfortable.

This tour is designed for those who want to balance historical exploration with scenic beauty, all within a manageable two-day schedule. The focus on World War II history, especially the D-Day beaches and Normandy battle sites, is complemented by visits to Mont Saint-Michel Abbey, one of France’s most remarkable Gothic landmarks. Based on reviews, the guides’ deep knowledge and passion for storytelling stand out, ensuring an engaging experience.

An important consideration is that some stops, like Mont Saint-Michel, involve strenuous climbs, which travelers should plan for. The tour is an ideal choice for history enthusiasts, scenery lovers, and anyone seeking a private, customizable itinerary that balances culture with comfort.

Key Points

• Private, customizable 2-day tour from Paris focusing on Normandy and Brittany
• Includes visits to Mont Saint-Michel, D-Day beaches, Rouen, and Honfleur
• Luxury and comfort with air-conditioned vehicles and WiFi onboard
• Expert guides provide detailed narratives, especially on D-Day history
• Price of $3,152.58 covers up to 2 people, booking is made 198 days in advance
• Flexible stops and timing tailored to your interests, with pickup from hotel or airport

Starting the Tour: From Paris to Normandy’s Highlights

The journey begins early in the morning with pick-up from your hotel or airport in Paris. The tour features private transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, with WiFi available on board. The first stop is Rouen, a city famous for its medieval history and stunning cathedrals, with about 2 hours allocated for exploration.

Afterward, the tour proceeds to Etretat, where visitors walk along the famous chalk cliffs and relax over lunch. The short walking tour offers breathtaking views of the seaside landscape, providing plenty of photo opportunities. Etretat is known for its dramatic cliffs and natural beauty, making it a highlight for scenery lovers.

The afternoon includes a visit to Honfleur, a charming port town admired by 19th-century artists. Here, a walking tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, giving enough time to enjoy the picturesque bay and historic streets. The combination of scenic views and historical ambiance makes this stop a favorite.

Visiting Calvados Pere Magloire for An Apple Brandy Tasting

Just before evening, the tour makes a special stop at Calvados Pere Magloire L’Experience. This Calvados tasting lasts about one hour and ten minutes, where guests experience the famous Normandy apple brandy. The tasting session is described as entertaining and informative, offering insight into the Normandy apple brandy universe.

This stop adds a sensory dimension to the trip, allowing visitors to appreciate a local specialty in an engaging setting. It’s an included part of the tour, adding value and a taste of Normandy’s craftsmanship.

Exploring Mont Saint-Michel and Its Medieval Charm

On the second day, the tour starts early, with a 9:00 am departure towards Mont Saint-Michel. The visit includes a guided walk through the medieval village’s narrow streets leading up to the abbey, with a guided tour led by an expert in Mont Saint-Michel’s history.

The Benedictine Abbey, started in the 700s and completed through the 1200s, remains the centerpiece of Mont Saint-Michel. Visitors can explore the fortress, medieval streets, and climb to the abbey for spectacular views. The site attracts around 4 million visitors annually, and the tour allows time to enjoy the atmosphere and take photos.

Following the visit, there is free time for lunch and exploration around Mont Saint-Michel, giving flexibility to enjoy this iconic site at your pace.

D-Day Beaches and Omaha Beach Memorial

In the afternoon, the focus shifts to D-Day history with visits to the Normandy American Cemetery and Omaha Beach. The cemetery is home to 9,387 fallen soldiers’ graves, with a chapel and memorial walls that evoke reflection.

This site offers a profound glimpse into the scale of the WWII invasion, with the Omaha Beach area known for its intense fighting. The tour spends about 2.5 hours exploring these emotional landmarks, providing a detailed understanding of the Normandy landings.

The visits are led by guides who are praised for their deep knowledge, bringing the history to life as they narrate the events of D-Day and its significance.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price includes a breakfast, air-conditioned vehicle, private transportation, and WiFi onboard. It also features admission tickets for key sites like Mont Saint-Michel and the Normandy American Cemetery, as well as the Calvados tasting.

Lunch and accommodation for the second night are not included, providing the flexibility to choose dining options based on personal preferences. The pickup service makes logistics straightforward, with options to be collected from your hotel or the airport.

The Vehicles and Comfort Level

The tour offers a selection of vehicles to suit different needs, including:
– Comfort Cars: Hyundai Tucson SUV, Renault Talisman, Lexus IS
– Luxury Cars: Mercedes E-class W213, BMW 5 Series
– Mini-vans: Mercedes V-class Minivan

These options ensure a comfortable ride during the full-day drives and stopovers, with climate control and WiFi to keep you connected.

The Guide Experience and Personalization

Guides are highlighted for their knowledgeability and storytelling skills. The tour is private, meaning it’s exclusively for your group, giving you the chance to customize the stops and ask questions freely. The guides aim to make the experience engaging and memorable by tailoring the narrative to your interests.

The tour’s flexibility allows for personalized visits, which adds to the overall value and enjoyment, especially for those with specific sites they wish to spend more time at.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

While the tour involves some walking, especially in Mont Saint-Michel and Honfleur, it’s suitable for most travelers. The climb to Mont Saint-Michel Abbey is noted in reviews as being more strenuous than it appears, so travelers should be prepared for some physical activity.

The vehicle options and pickup from accessible locations make the tour suitable for a wide range of participants, including travelers with varying mobility levels.

Suitability and Who Will Enjoy This Tour

This private, customizable tour is perfect for history buffs, especially those interested in World War II and medieval architecture. The scenic stops like Etretat and Honfleur appeal to those who love beautiful landscapes and charming towns.

The depth of guide expertise makes it ideal for travelers seeking informative storytelling, while the luxury transportation ensures a comfortable experience. It suits couples or small groups eager to manage their own schedule and dive deep into Normandy and Brittany’s highlights.

Final Thoughts on the Normandy & Brittany Private Tour

This 2-day private tour offers a well-balanced mix of historical sites, scenic views, and cultural experiences. Its customizable nature allows for a tailored visit, with expert guides bringing history vividly to life. The luxury vehicles and included activities, like the Calvados tasting, add value to the experience.

While some stops, such as Mont Saint-Michel, involve physical effort, the overall itinerary balances sightseeing with comfort. The private setting ensures a personalized, engaging journey suitable for those who want an in-depth exploration with flexibility.

Anyone interested in Normandy’s WWII history, medieval architecture, and the beautiful Normandy coast will find this tour a rewarding way to see the region without the hassle of self-driving or rigid schedules.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of this tour?
The price covers breakfast, private transportation, air-conditioned vehicles, WiFi onboard, admission tickets to Mont Saint-Michel and the Normandy American Cemetery, and the Calvados tasting.

How many stops are there in total?
There are four main stops on Day 1—Rouen, Etretat, Honfleur, and Calvados Pere Magloire—and two major sites on Day 2—Mont Saint-Michel and the D-Day beaches.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, this is a customizable private tour, allowing you to select sites that interest you most and adjust the schedule accordingly.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses luxury or comfort vehicles with climate control and WiFi, ensuring a smooth and pleasant ride.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Some stops, notably Mont Saint-Michel, involve strenuous climbs, so travelers should be prepared for some physical activity.

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs at 7:30 am from your hotel or pickup point in Paris.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, giving you flexibility to dine at your leisure.

Is this tour suitable for groups larger than two?
The current price applies to up to 2 people, but larger groups should inquire for possible customization or additional pricing.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Who operates this tour?
The tour is provided by Tour Up in Europe, with dedicated guides and transportation options.

Is this tour accessible for travelers with limited mobility?
While generally suitable, the strenuous climb at Mont Saint-Michel might be challenging for some. It’s recommended to assess mobility needs accordingly.