Full-Day Private D-Day to Saint Lô Tour in Normandy

Discover Normandy’s D-Day Landings with a Private Guide

This full-day private tour in Normandy costs $943.53 per group, accommodating up to 8 people, making it an intimate experience for history enthusiasts or families seeking a meaningful journey. Starting from Bayeux, the tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, with pickup and private transportation included. The focus on following the footsteps of the 29th US Infantry Division offers a personal perspective on one of the most significant moments of World War II.

The tour is designed to be both educational and emotional, with a knowledgeable guide providing detailed insights into the division’s battles, units, and accomplishments. It’s especially suited for those who want a comprehensive, private experience that balances history, terrain, and key landmarks. While the price may seem high, the private nature, full itinerary, and expert narration create value for those eager to understand the D-Day events deeply.

Key Points

• Private, guided experience following the 29th US Infantry Division in Normandy.
• Visits to Omaha Beach, the German cemetery at La Cambe, and Saint-Lô, among other sites.
• Duration of 8 to 9 hours with all fees and private transportation included.
• Tour departs from Bayeux at 8:30 am and is designed for groups up to 8 people.
• Highly rated with a perfect 5-star rating based on 13 reviews.
• Emphasizes learning about Operation Overlord, the battles, and soldiers’ experiences.

Starting Point: Bayeux at 8:30 am

The tour begins promptly at 8:30 am in Bayeux, a central location in Normandy. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort throughout the long day of exploration. Since this is a private tour, only your group participates, allowing for a personalized experience with your guide’s full attention.

The tour’s flexibility and private setup mean you can tailor questions and focus areas, making it ideal for history buffs or those wanting to explore specific sites in detail. The pickup service ensures convenience, and the mobile ticket option simplifies access.

Exploring Omaha Beach and the Hollywood Connection

The first major stop is Omaha Beach, where the tour visits the part of the beach famously depicted in the opening scenes of Saving Private Ryan. This site is where the heaviest casualties of D-Day happened, especially among the Blue and Gray units. The guide explains the fierce fighting and strategic importance of this landing.

A notable feature here is the location where Brigadier-General Norman Dutch Cotas led efforts that helped break through the German defenses. After about 45 minutes, visitors gain a vivid understanding of the intense combat and the significance of Omaha Beach in the overall invasion.

Visiting the German Cemetery at La Cambe

Next, the tour stops at the Cimetiere Militaire Allemand de La Cambe, just outside the village. Originally, a provisional US cemetery was created shortly after the liberation, but since 1954, it has functioned as a German cemetery. Around 45 minutes are allocated here for reflection and appreciation of the scale of loss on both sides.

This site provides a somber reminder of the war’s human cost and offers a chance to see the graves of many troops of the 29th Infantry Division buried here. It emphasizes the importance of remembrance and understanding the war from multiple perspectives.

Linking Isigny-sur-Mer and the Breakthrough Battles

The tour then visits Isigny-sur-Mer, a critical town taken by the 175th Infantry Regiment and 747th Tank Battalion, marking a key link to the Utah Sector and link-up with the 101st Airborne Division. This stop, lasting 45 minutes, illustrates how the Allied forces advanced inland and secured critical supply routes.

The next stop is Canchy, where a surprise tactical move by the 115th Infantry Regiment helped expand the beachhead by breaking through German lines. This 45-minute visit highlights the importance of tactical ingenuity in the success of D-Day.

Crossing the River Elle and the Battle for Saint-Lô

Crossing the river Elle at Saint-Clair-sur-l’Elle was a challenging and costly operation, and the tour dedicates about 1 hour to explore this terrain. Here, you see how difficult the soldiers’ journey was and how battles for the bridges were pivotal in progressing toward Saint-Lô.

The town of Saint-Lô, known as the Capital of Ruins, becomes a key focus. The 1 hour 30 minutes spent here covers the strategic importance of Saint-Lô and the intense fighting that took place to finally secure it on July 18, 1944.

Hill 102 and the Heroic Defense at Villiers-Fossard

At Hill 102, the tour highlights the heroic stand of the 175th Infantry Regiment at Purple Heart Hill. This site, visited for 45 minutes, showcases the soldiers’ resilience in the face of fierce German counterattacks.

Subsequently, the counterattack by German paratroopers at Bellefontaine is explored during a 1-hour stop. This event demonstrates the ongoing combat challenges faced by the Allied forces even after landings.

Concluding at Saint-Lô and Its Strategic Significance

The final major stop is Saint-Lô, where a Taskforce was formed to break through German defenses and secure the town, a vital crossroads. The visit lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, emphasizing Saint-Lô’s role as a key victory point and its reputation as the City of Ruins due to the relentless bombing and fighting.

This part of the tour provides a comprehensive view of the battle for Saint-Lô and the town’s importance in the broader Normandy campaign.

Practical Details and Additional Info

The Tour includes all fees, taxes, and private transportation, with a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. The lunch stop is optional at Le Pont de la Pierre Vintage B&B, with a cost of $10 per person, giving flexibility for a meal break.

The tour is suitable for most travelers aged 8 and above, with service animals allowed. It’s designed to be accessible via public transportation nearby, though the focus remains on a private, guided experience.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What sets this tour apart is its dedication to the 29th US Infantry Division, providing a focused narrative that traces their path from Omaha Beach through Saint-Lô. The private guide offers personalized storytelling, making the history vivid and engaging. The emotional depth of following real battles and sites is enhanced by the guide’s expertise, as reflected in reviews praising knowledgeable guides.

While the tour is quite comprehensive, it requires a full day of travel and walking, which may be a consideration for those with mobility issues. The cost reflects the private, tailored experience, suited for those seeking a deep understanding rather than a surface overview.

Normandy D-Day Exploration with Purpose and Personal Touch

This full-day private tour offers an in-depth, personal look at the D-Day invasion and the battle for Saint-Lô. It is ideal for history enthusiasts eager to understand the military strategies, terrain challenges, and soldiers’ stories behind the events. The expert guide’s knowledge and the detailed itinerary make it a meaningful and educational experience.

While the price point may be high for some, the private nature, comprehensive stops, and emotional storytelling deliver a compelling value. It’s a perfect choice for those who want a personalized, respectful exploration of one of history’s most pivotal moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours.

How many people can join this private tour?
The tour is designed for groups up to 8 people.

What is included in the price?
The price includes private transportation, all fees and taxes, and the guided service. Lunch is optional at $10 per person.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from Bayeux at 8:30 am.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but it is not suitable for children under 8 years old.

What sites will be visited?
Stops include Omaha Beach, La Cambe German Cemetery, Isigny-sur-Mer, Canchy, Saint-Clair-sur-l’Elle, Hill 102 at Villiers-Fossard, Bellefontaine, and Saint-Lô.

Are tickets and fees included?
Yes, all fees and taxes are covered in the price.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

What makes this tour special?
The focus on the 29th US Infantry Division, the private guide’s detailed narration, and visits to key battle sites make it a deeply informative and respectful experience.