2-day Private Mont Saint-Michel, 3 Loire Castles, D-Day Express

Make the most of a carefully curated two-day private tour that takes you from Paris into the heart of France’s most iconic sights. For $1,469.30 per person, this tour offers a flexible, guided experience in a Mercedes minivan or a luxurious vehicle designed for small groups. With hotel accommodation included and all entrance fees paid, it’s a convenient way to visit Mont Saint-Michel, three famous Loire castles, and key D-Day sites in Normandy. The tour is highly recommended by 90% of those who booked it and boasts a solid 4.5/5 rating based on 10 reviews.

This private experience is best suited for those who want a personalized, efficient journey, with the comfort of hassle-free logistics and insightful guides. While the pace is fast to cover so many sights in two days, it offers good value for those eager to see France’s most celebrated landmarks without the stress of planning every detail.

Key Points

• Private, guided two-day tour with hotel included in Normandy and Loire Valley
• Travel in a Mercedes minivan with round-trip transportation from Paris
• Visit Mont Saint-Michel, three Loire castles, and D-Day beaches and memorials
• All entrance fees and tastings are covered, including Mont Saint-Michel Abbey entry and wine tasting
• Tour is highly rated for knowledgeable guides and smooth logistics
• Suitable for those seeking a comprehensive, stress-free French sightseeing experience

Starting from Paris: Hassle-Free Round-Trip Transportation

This tour begins early at 7:30 am with pickup from your hotel in Paris, facilitating a seamless start to the adventure. The journey to the Loire Valley takes about 2.5 hours in a comfortable air-conditioned Mercedes minivan, with a brief stop at a rest area. This setup allows travelers to relax immediately, avoiding the stress of driving or navigating.

The tour’s round-trip transportation ensures a hassle-free experience, letting you focus entirely on the sights rather than logistics. The vehicle’s luxurious nature adds to the comfort, especially after a full day of sightseeing.

Exploring the Loire Valley: Castles, Gardens, and Royalty

The first day is packed with visits to three renowned Loire castles: Château de Chambord, Amboise, and Château de Chenonceau.

Château de Chambord: The Largest Renaissance Castle

The journey begins with a visit to Château de Chambord, one of the most iconic castles in the Loire Valley. Built from 1519 to 1547 by Francis I, it features 440 rooms, 282 fireplaces, and 84 staircases. The double-spiral staircase is a highlight, with a legend suggesting Leonardo da Vinci might have designed it.

The guide shares insights into the history and architecture of this French Renaissance masterpiece. Visitors appreciate the vast size, the distinctive design, and the chance to walk through the grand halls.

Amboise: Medieval Charm and Royal Heritage

Next, the tour stops in Amboise, with an hour-long drive between castles. Here, the Royal Château d’Amboise awaits, offering skip-the-line access with a guide and a Histopad explaining the castle’s history. This site was a 15th-century residence of King Charles VIII, blending Gothic and Renaissance styles.

The castle is famous as the birthplace of princes, and for being the final resting place of Leonardo da Vinci—his grave is within the chapel. The guide highlights the castle’s significance in French royal history and the renaissance movement.

Château de Chenonceau: The “Ladies Castle”

The final Loire stop is Château de Chenonceau, known for its feminine history and stunning architecture. Built over the River Cher, it has unique arches and renowned Renaissance gardens with over 130,000 flowering plants.

The guide details the castle’s rich history involving famous women like Catherine de Medici and the notable architecture that makes it a highlight of the Loire Valley. The visit includes skip-the-line access to the castle and gardens, with an informative brochure for each room.

Evening in Normandy: Comfortable Hotel Stay

After a full day of castle touring, the group departs at around 5:10 pm to 5:30 pm (season-dependent) for a 3.5-hour drive to Normandy. The evening concludes with check-in at a 3-star+/4-star hotel near Mont Saint-Michel, offering a restful overnight stay in a comfortable, well-rated hotel.

Discovering Mont Saint-Michel: Medieval Fortress and UNESCO Site

The second day begins early with a hotel check-out at 8:30 am. The group heads to Mont Saint-Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for a 3-hour guided exploration.

Exploring the Abbey and Medieval Streets

From 9:00 am, the guide leads a narrow street walk to the top of the island, revealing the medieval village and Benedictine Abbey. Entrance tickets include an audio guide in multiple languages, allowing for an immersive experience. Visitors admire the panoramic views of the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel.

The Abbey’s architecture and the history of its construction are explained, with an emphasis on its status as a pilgrimage destination since the Middle Ages. The site remains popular and crowded, so early visits help avoid peak crowds.

Lunch and Free Time on the Island

Post-visit, there’s time for lunch in Mont Saint-Michel. The tour offers to assist with reservations, or visitors can explore local cafes and restaurants independently, enjoying traditional Norman cuisine.

Normandy D-Day Beaches and Memorials

After exploring Mont Saint-Michel, the tour moves to the Normandy D-Day beaches, with the first stop at Omaha Beach. The Signal Monument is visited, remembering the 34,000 men who landed here during D-Day.

Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery

A brief 4 km ride takes the group to the Normandy American Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer. Here, 9,387 U.S. soldiers are honored, with the Wall of the Missing listing over 1,500 names. The site offers a peaceful and impactful setting with sculptures, memorials, and panoramic views of the beaches.

Visitors can walk through the well-maintained gardens and reflect on the sacrifices made during the Normandy landings. The memorials and sculptures evoke a sense of history and respect.

Overlord Museum: A Closer Look at D-Day History

The Overlord Museum is nearby and provides detailed displays of military equipment, vehicles, and personal stories from the D-Day operations. The guide ensures a rundown of the Normandy invasion before the group departs for Paris.

Return to Paris

The return journey to Paris takes approximately 3.5 hours, with a brief rest stop. The group arrives back at their hotel around 9:00 pm, completing the two-day experience.

Final Thoughts on the Tour Experience

This private tour offers a well-structured itinerary covering France’s most iconic castles, Mont Saint-Michel, and key D-Day sites, making it ideal for travelers seeking a rundown in just two days. The hotel stay and all entrance fees reduce planning stress, while the expert guides add depth to the visits.

The tour’s speedy pace might limit time at each site for those wanting a more leisurely exploration, but it ensures you see the highlights without feeling rushed. Travel in comfort, learn fascinating stories, and enjoy memorable views with this private experience designed for convenience and quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price?
The tour price includes hotel accommodation, round-trip transportation, guided visits to Loire castles, Mont Saint-Michel with entrance tickets, and D-Day sites including the American Cemetery and Overlord Museum. All fees and taxes are covered, along with bottled water.

How long is the drive each day?
On Day 1, the drive to the Loire castles takes about 2.5 hours; on Day 2, the trip from Normandy back to Paris is approximately 3.5 hours. The drive between major stops generally ranges from 1 to 1.5 hours.

Are meals included?
Meals are not included in the tour price. Travelers have the opportunity to dine during allocated free time, with the option for reservations arranged for lunch on Day 2.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but the pace and walking at sites like Mont Saint-Michel and the castles may require some stamina. The tour is private, so adjustments can be made for specific needs.

What are the booking and cancellation policies?
Booking is confirmed upon receipt, and cancellation is possible up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Changes within 6 days are not accepted.

Can I customize the itinerary?
As a private tour, some flexibility exists, especially if requested in advance. However, the itinerary is designed to maximize sightseeing within the two days.

What guides lead the tour?
A professional guide and driver or a guide-driver combination leads the tour, delivering detailed commentary and ensuring smooth transitions between sites.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees to castles, Mont Saint-Michel Abbey, and D-Day museums are included in the tour price.

What are the accommodations like?
Guests stay in a 3-star+/4-star hotel near Mont Saint-Michel, rated highly for comfort and location, providing a restful base after the first day of sightseeing.

Is transportation climate-controlled and comfortable?
Yes, the Mercedes E220 or minivan used for transport is air-conditioned, offering a comfortable ride throughout the trip.