Normandy 2Days Trip Landing Beaches and Mont St Michel from Paris

Exploring the historic regions of Normandy and Brittany in just two days from Paris offers a compelling mix of history, architecture, and scenic landscapes. This guided tour from Paris, priced at $659.47 per person, covers key WWII sites, picturesque towns, and the iconic Mont St-Michel, making it an efficient way to experience these regions without the hassle of planning each detail. The tour includes luxury transportation, hotel stays, and meals, providing comfort and convenience, especially for those with limited time.

While the itinerary is packed and the pace can be brisk, this tour suits those eager to see major highlights in a short time, with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and insights into French history and culture. However, the quick stops at certain locations, like Omaha Beach, may leave visitors wishing for more time to explore deeply. Overall, it delivers a balanced mix of sightseeing, education, and scenic moments.

Key Points

• Two-day guided tour departing from Paris, with all transportation, lodging, and meals included
• Visits Normandy’s WWII landing beaches, American Cemetery, and memorials
• Tours Rouen and Honfleur, charming towns with rich histories and impressionist ties
• Tours Saint-Malo, an ancient walled city, and Mont St-Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Accommodations in Caen, with one dinner and one breakfast included
• The tour is fast-paced, with some reviews mentioning limited time at certain sites

From Paris to Normandy: Starting with a Comfortable Coach Journey

The tour begins at 22 Rue Jean Rey in Paris, where guests are picked up in a luxury coach. The drive through the Normandy countryside lasts around 30 minutes, offering a relaxed start away from the city’s hustle. The coach is described as air-conditioned and designed for comfort, making the long day ahead easier to manage.

This initial transfer sets a smooth tone for the trip, with the guide providing an overview before arriving at the first stops. Known for a small group size of up to 40 travelers, the tour balances personalized attention with the opportunity to meet others sharing similar interests.

Exploring Rouen: The Medieval Heart of Normandy

The first major stop is Rouen, the regional capital with a rich medieval history. The city was once a thriving hub, home to wealthy trade and powerful dynasties. Visitors are led through the historic city center, where the Rouen Cathedral dominates the skyline.

A walking tour highlights Joan of Arc’s execution site in 1431, adding a poignant layer to the visit. The guide explains Rouen’s past as a prosperous city in medieval Europe, giving context to its impressive architecture. Guests have about 30-60 minutes to wander and take photos, though some reviews note that this might feel a bit rushed.

Honfleur: Charm at the Old Harbour

Next, the tour visits Honfleur, famous for its picturesque harbor that inspired several Impressionist painters, including Claude Monet. The Le Vieux Bassin area features colorful buildings and a lively atmosphere, making it perfect for a stroll.

Guests receive about an hour in Honfleur, which includes free time for lunch at their own expense. The Old Town offers quaint shops and cafes, ideal for soaking in the coastal charm. Many appreciate the scenic setting, which provides a relaxing contrast to the WWII sites later in the day.

Normandy’s D-Day Landings: Omaha Beach and American Cemetery

One of the tour’s most significant stops is Omaha Beach, a site of intense WWII combat during the D-Day invasion. The guide shares stories about the Allied landings and the challenges faced by soldiers. Visitors can walk along the beach, reflecting on the scale of the operation.

The Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial overlooks the sea, paying tribute to fallen soldiers. Guests have around 45 minutes at each site to pay respects and photograph the scenery. The visit to Omaha Beach and the cemetery is often praised for its reverent atmosphere and informative narration, although some reviews point out the short time to absorb the depth of history.

Additional WWII Sites and the City of Caen

In the afternoon, the tour stops at Arromanches, known for its Mulberry Harbour remains, used during the invasion. The Musee Du Debarquement offers insights into the D-Day logistics, although the stop lasts only 45 minutes, which some feel is limiting.

Before heading to Caen for the night, the group visits the Office de Tourisme de Caen for a quick overview. The overnight stay takes place in a 4-star hotel in Caen, with porterage included. Guests enjoy a group dinner that is part of the package, providing a chance to discuss the day’s sights and prepare for the next.

Day Two: Saint-Malo’s Walled City and Mont St-Michel

The second day starts with a buffet breakfast at the hotel, fueling a day packed with coastal towns and the famed Mont St-Michel. The first stop is Les Remparts de Saint-Malo, a medieval fortress city on the Brittany coast. The ocean-front ramparts offer spectacular views of the bay, making it a favorite for many.

Guests visit Saint-Vincent Cathedral, exploring the narrow streets and historic architecture. The guide provides context about Saint-Malo’s pirate history and maritime importance. The visit lasts about an hour, with free time for lunch at guests’ own expense.

Mont St-Michel: The Crown Jewel of the Tour

The day’s highlight is Mont St-Michel, one of France’s most recognizable landmarks. The surreal island abbey is situated amidst a vast bay, connected to the mainland by a causeway. The tour includes a guided walk through the abbey, which dates back to the 8th century.

The Abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel features medieval architecture and history as a monastery, prison, and strategic fortification. Visitors learn about its history and structural features during the guided tour. The site is UNESCO-listed, and its spectacular tides provide a natural spectacle.

Guests have around an hour to explore the village, shop, or take photos. The tour ends with a return transfer to Paris, arriving in the evening.

Practical Details: Transport, Accommodation, and Inclusions

Transportation is via a luxury, air-conditioned coach, with professional guides leading the tours. The hotel stay in Caen offers double rooms with private bathrooms, with porterage service included. The tour package also includes meals—one dinner on day one and one breakfast on day two—as well as all entrance fees for the sites visited.

The tour is designed for moderate physical fitness, with many walking opportunities. Notably, the climb to Mont St-Michel involves many steps, so mobility limitations should be considered. The group size is capped at 40 travelers, balancing intimacy with the ability to see multiple sites efficiently.

Strengths and Limitations: What Makes It Stand Out

The expert guides, often praised for their knowledgeable narration, significantly enhance the experience. Guests appreciate the well-organized itinerary that covers major WWII sites, historic towns, and Mont St-Michel in just two days. Many reviews highlight outstanding guides like Layla and Amelia, who bring history to life and keep the group moving smoothly.

However, some reviews mention short durations at certain sites, especially Omaha Beach and Saint-Malo, leading to feelings of rushed visits. The coach’s amenities and hotel quality receive mixed reviews, with some noting cramped seats and lack of Wi-Fi. Still, the convenience of all logistics handled and meals included provide good value for travelers looking to maximize their time.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, especially those interested in WWII and Mont St-Michel. It suits travelers who prefer an organized, guided experience with transport and accommodation arranged. Those with limited mobility should consider the steps at Mont St-Michel and the walking involved.

While some may find the pace quick, others will appreciate the chance to see many highlights in just two days. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a rundown of Normandy and Brittany will enjoy the balance of sightseeing, education, and scenic moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
Pickup from your Paris hotel is offered if you select the option. Drop-off is not included, but the tour ends back at the initial meeting point in Paris.

Are all entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour covers all entry fees for the sites and museums visited, including the Mont St-Michel abbey, Normandy beaches, and memorials.

How much walking is involved?
Guests should be prepared for several walking tours at each site, including climbing steps at Mont St-Michel. The tour is not recommended for those with walking difficulties.

What meals are included?
One group dinner on the first evening and one breakfast on the second morning are included. Lunches are not included and are at guests’ own expense.

Is the pace suitable for all travelers?
The tour is fast-paced with limited time at each location, which may feel rushed for some. The guide aims to keep the group on schedule, but flexibility may be limited.

Can I customize this tour?
Modifications are not discussed, but cancellations are available up to 6 days in advance for a full refund, according to the policy.

This 2-day Normandy and Mont St-Michel trip from Paris offers an efficient and well-organized way to explore famous WWII sites, charming coastal towns, and an iconic abbey. While some may wish for more time at individual locations, the comprehensive itinerary, expert guides, and included logistics make it a solid option for a broad introduction to these historic regions.