2-day Mont Saint-Michel, Full D-Day, Normandy Private from Paris

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Mont Saint-Michel and Normandy Private Tour

This 2-day private tour from Paris, priced at $1,483.54 per person, offers a comprehensive journey through some of France’s most iconic sights. Starting early, it takes you out of the city to explore Etretat’s chalk cliffs, Honfleur’s charming port, and Normandy’s historic D-Day beaches, culminating with a visit to the spectacular Mont Saint-Michel.

Designed for those wanting an intimate experience, the tour features luxury Mercedes E220 or Minivan transport, hotel accommodations with breakfast, and many entrance tickets included—meaning less hassle and more focus on the sights. While the tour’s pace suits most, recent reviews highlight some issues with guide language consistency, though overall, the experience is well-regarded and rich in memorable highlights.

This private tour is ideal for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, or anyone eager to explore Normandy’s WWII sites and the medieval splendor of Mont Saint-Michel with flexibility and comfort.

Key Points

• Private, fully guided 2-day experience departing from Paris with hotel stay included
• Visit Etretat Chalk Cliffs, Honfleur, Normandy American Cemetery, and Omaha Beach
• Explore Mont Saint-Michel Abbey with included entrance tickets and audio guides
• Comfortable Mercedes transport with live guided commentary
• Many entrance tickets and meals are included, with hotel accommodations arranged
• Tour flexibility allows stopping for photos, questions, and personalized pacing

Luxury Transport and Convenient Pickup Options

Traveling from Paris to Normandy and Mont Saint-Michel is made simple with luxurious Mercedes E220 or Minivans. The tour departs early from your hotel at 7:30 am, with pickup included, ensuring a smooth start. The vehicle is air-conditioned, providing comfort throughout the long drive, which takes roughly 3 hours to Etretat. A rest stop is scheduled for refreshment, and the guided commentary begins en route, giving insight into the regions you pass through.

This private setup means you’re not constrained by group schedules, allowing the guide to cater to your interests and adjust the pace as needed. The approach combines comfort with efficiency, so you can focus on enjoying each stop without feeling rushed.

Discovering the Stunning Chalk Cliffs at Etretat

The tour first visits Etretat, arriving around 10:30 am. Famous for its white chalk cliffs, natural arches, and the Needle, Etretat was a favorite of impressionist painters like Claude Monet. Visitors can walk along the beach or climb the cliffs for impressive views of the seaside landscape.

The walk around the cliffs provides ample photo opportunities, and the town offers a variety of restaurants that serve local seafood, especially the classic Moules/Frites. The free time here allows for exploring at your own pace, soaking in the scenery or visiting local cafes.

Exploring Honfleur’s Picturesque Port and Artistic Heritage

By 12:45 pm, the tour moves on to Honfleur, about an hour’s drive away. The walk through Honfleur’s historic port lasts approximately one hour, revealing its transformation from a 15th-century defensive port into a lively seaside resort favored by 19th-century artists.

Walking through the narrow streets, visitors see the Vieux Bassin—the main harbor—lined with colorful houses and cafes. The town’s past includes trade with American colonies and piracy in the 17th and 18th centuries. Today, Honfleur’s charming atmosphere makes it a favorite spot for strolling and capturing photos.

Normandy American Cemetery and Omaha Beach Memorial

In the late afternoon, the focus shifts to World War II history. The Normandy American Cemetery & Visitor Center in Colleville-sur-Mer opens at 4:00 pm. Here, nearly 9,387 U.S. soldiers are buried, with a memorial wall listing 1,557 soldiers missing in action.

The site offers stunning views over the Omaha Beach cliffs and incorporates memorial sculptures like the Spirit of American Youth Rising from the Waves. The Visitor Center features a museum with detailed information about the Normandy Landings, providing context for this pivotal WWII event.

Shortly after, the Overlord Museum is visited, displaying WW2 artefacts, military vehicles, and personal belongings. The Omaha Signal Monument marks the landing site where 34,000 men fought on D-Day, offering a poignant reminder of the sacrifice made.

Detailed Visit to Omaha Beach and Its Significance

The tour includes a 30-minute stop at Omaha Beach, arriving around 6:00 pm. This location is one of the most recognized of the D-Day beaches, known for its tough landing conditions and heavy casualties. The Signal Monument provides historical context and honors those who fought here.

This stop offers a chance to reflect on the scale of the operation and the bravery involved, all while enjoying views of the Atlantic. The visit is brief but impactful, setting the scene for the next day’s exploration.

Overnight Accommodation in Mont Saint-Michel Region

After a full day of sightseeing, the tour proceeds to the Mont Saint-Michel area, arriving at the hotel around 8:15 pm. The accommodation is in a 3+/4 hotel, with breakfast included for the next morning’s visit. The proximity to Mont Saint-Michel means easy access and more time to explore the next day.

The hotel stay provides a restful break before the final highlight of the tour—the medieval marvel of Mont Saint-Michel.

Visiting Mont Saint-Michel’s Abbey and Medieval Streets

The second day begins early with a 20-minute transfer to Mont Saint-Michel Island. At 9:00 am, visitors can enjoy around 3 hours exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The guide leads you through the narrow medieval streets up to the Benedictine Abbey, which features audio guides in multiple languages.

The site’s architecture and panoramic views of the bay and Atlantic Ocean remain largely unchanged since the Middle Ages, making it one of France’s most visited landmarks. The visit includes entrance tickets, simplifying access to the Abbey and enabling a thorough exploration of this iconic site.

Reflecting at the Caen Memorial and Rouen’s Historic Sites

After Mont Saint-Michel, the tour continues to the Caen Memorial Museum from 2:30 pm to 4:00 pm. The museum provides a rundown of World War II battles and personal stories, supplemented by an informative 19-minute film.

Later, the guide leads a walking tour of Rouen, arriving around 5:30 pm. Highlights include Notre Dame Cathedral, famously painted by Monet, and the Old Market square, where Joan of Arc was executed. The medieval Gros-Horloge clock and Church of Joan d’Arc add historic charm to the city’s atmosphere.

Returning to Paris and Final Drop-off

The day wraps up with a 2-hour drive back to Paris, arriving around 9:00 pm. The tour concludes with drop-off at your hotel, leaving you with a comprehensive experience of Normandy’s key sites and Mont Saint-Michel, all arranged with comfort and flexibility.

Putting It All Together: Is This Tour Right for You?

This private tour balances cultural exploration, historical education, and scenic beauty, making it suitable for those who want a personalized experience without the hassle of planning logistics. The included hotel and entrance tickets add convenience, and the guided visits ensure in-depth understanding of each site.

However, the length of travel days and the busy itinerary may be demanding for some. Recent reviews note some issues with guide language consistency, but overall, the tour offers a rich, memorable journey through one of France’s most intriguing regions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking at sites like Honfleur, Rouen, and Mont Saint-Michel, which may include uneven surfaces. Please consider mobility needs before booking.

Are meals included in this tour?
No, meals and drinks are not included in the price, but hotel breakfast is provided.

Can the guide customize the stops or pace?
Yes, as a private tour, it allows for questions, photos, and some flexibility in timing.

What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if canceled at least 6 days in advance. Cancellations less than 6 days before the start are not eligible for refunds.

Are entrance tickets to Mont Saint-Michel and other sites included?
Yes, entrance tickets to Mont Saint-Michel Abbey, Caen Memorial, and the Overlord Museum are included.

What kind of vehicle is used for transport?
The tour uses a Mercedes E220 or Minivan, ensuring comfort for the long drive.

Is hotel accommodation provided?
Yes, a 3+/4 hotel in the Mont Saint-Michel area is included overnight, with breakfast the next morning.

How many stops are there on this tour?
Stops include Etretat, Honfleur, Normandy American Cemetery, Omaha Beach, Mont Saint-Michel, Caen Memorial, and Rouen.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Key highlights are the chalk cliffs of Etretat, Honfleur’s port, Normandy WWII sites, and Mont Saint-Michel’s medieval architecture.

Is this tour suitable for history enthusiasts?
Absolutely. The tour provides detailed insights into WWII, Normandy, and medieval France, making it ideal for history lovers.