normandy beaches ww2 tour

DAY 11 The Ardennes

This is where Hitler put everything he had into his final counter-attack in the Ardennes that became the Battle of the Bulge. On December 16, 1944, Lt. Lyle Bouck was one of the first people to see the German columns coming. Your first stop will be in the Ardennes at Lanzereth, the town where Bouck and a platoon of 19 men held off a full-strength German SS Battalion under the infamous Joachim Peiper for an entire day. You will visit the American positions and hear their story, a breathtaking tale of heroism.

On December 17, 1944, the second day of the offensive, the Germans had several breakthroughs and many Americans surrendered near the town of Malmedy. Outside the town, Peiper's SS lined up about 150 GIs and fired at them point-blank. Less than half escaped alive. You will view the site of the massacre and the American Memorial at Malmedy. From there, you will enjoy a scenic drive through the Ardennes Mountains en route to the evening's lodging.

DAY 12 Luxembourg

Today, you will continue your study of the Battle of the Bulge. After breakfast, we drive to Bastogne where the Americans rallied and stopped the German attack. Here, you will view the route of the initial American retreat and the place where the 101st Airborne and elements of the 10th Armored Division held off fifteen German divisions for six days. You will visit key sites in and around this historic crossroads town. You will also go to General McAuliffe's HQ where he replied to German surrender demands with one word: "NUTS." After your visit, it is a short ride to Luxembourg. This afternoon affords some relaxing free time in the center of this bustling but charming old-world city.

DAY 13 Frankfurt

This morning you will visit nearby Hamm and the Luxembourg American Cemetery, the site of General George S. Patton's grave. America's foremost WWII field general rests here among his men.

You will then travel to the Siegfried Line to see remnants of the German communication trenches, pillboxes, and dragon's teeth that American GIs fought so hard to take in late 1944. This evening you will enjoy a farewell dinner and discussion after an enriching campaign into history.

DAY 14 Flight Home

Early morning departure to the Frankfurt International Airport.

Post-Tour - DAY 1 Nuremberg

You will continue your journey toward the Bavarian Alps, stopping first in the historic city of Nuremberg, where Hitler staged his infamous Nazi rallies and the International Tribunal conducted the Nuremberg Trials. After lunch in the picturesque market center dominated by the Frauenkirche, you will tour the Nazi Party Rally Grounds and visit the Nuremberg Trials Courtroom 600.

Post-Tour - DAY 2 Munich

We continue south through Bavaria toward Munich, first stopping in Dachau, where you will visit the site of some of the most nefarious acts against humankind during the war. In total, over 200,000 prisoners from more than 30 countries were confined in Dachau: notably Jews, resistance fighters, clergymen, politicians, communists, writers, artists, and royalty. The second camp liberated by Anglo-American forces, Dachau was one of the first places where the West was exposed to Nazi brutality. After lunch in a traditional Munich restaurant, you will enjoy a city tour of Munich before checking into a hotel in the heart of Munich, your base for our final two days.

Post-Tour - DAY 3 Munich

The day includes a city tour of Berchtesgaden and Obersalzberg where you will visit the Eagle’s Nest and the remains of the vast Nazi Party complex liberated by the Allies in May 1945. Eagle’s Nest was built as a 50th birthday present to Hitler from the Nazi Party. Perched at 6017 feet, the complex and road network leading to it were considered feats of engineering genius as they were completed in only 13 months in 1937-1938. For your final night, you will reflect on your journey and enjoy the camaraderie of a farewell dinner.

Post-Tour - DAY 4 Flights Home

Morning transfer to Munich Airport (MUC).

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Recommended Reading

• Citizen Soldiers by Stephen E. Ambrose
• D-Day: June 6, 1944 by Stephen E. Ambrose
• Voices of D-Day by Ronald Drez & Stephen E. Ambrose

Tour Includes

• Itinerary designed by Dr. Stephen E. Ambrose
• Full time historian and tour manager
• Educational road book full of maps and historical information
• 3 or 4 star hotels accommodations
• Rooms with private bath or shower, hotel taxes, porterage (where available) and service charges
• Touring by private first class air-conditioned motor coach
• All Breakfasts, some lunches, most dinners and a Welcome Reception
• Channel crossing to Normandy via ferry
• High-speed train from Paris to Brussels
• Rhine River Lunch Cruise
• All entrance fees to museums and attractions
• Flights are not included in tour costs.
• We are happy to help you book your flights.
• If you purchase your own airline ticket, please know that Day 1 is the day that you fly, Day 2 is the day you arrive in London.
• Before you purchase your airline tickets, please call us to confirm the recommended time of arrival.

Activity Level

As with all of our tours, we prefer to spend our time on the battlefields. There will be some museum stops, but please be prepared to walk on sandy beaches and cobblestone streets. There is a fair amount of walking, especially in Normandy.

Photo Gallery

• Charles Brower, Ph.D.

TRIP COST $6,590

Prices are per person based on double occupancy. For a single room add $1,650.

POST TOUR EXTENSION $1,790 per person based on double occupancy; for post-tour single room add $725.

Our Guests’ Reviews

There are 15 reviews for ' D-Day to the Rhine '. Add your review

I was on the second tour August 1999. I hope to go again. Ron and Judy Drez hosted the tour and they really made it simple and enjoyable. It’s really worth doing

Bucket List CHECK OFF

Having fulfilled my #1 Bucket List item, I can truthfully say that this was the best trip I’ve ever taken, Jonathan Carroll, our historian and chief entertainer, along with David, our tour manager and Johan, our magic-man driver, made these days a memory that I will never forget. Thank you.

Bucket List CHECK

Normandy to the rhine.

This was a trip of a lifetime for me. Learned so much, saw so much. Stood on Utah and Omaha Beach which was important to me. I LOVED it!!

Wonderful journey

The DDay to the Rhine trip(June 2022) was our second trip with SAHT and hopefully not the last. Our historian was Chris Anderson and he is truly a walking encyclopedia! His passion for WW2 history is evident in every visit. He kindly made an unscheduled stop for me at Sugar Red sector of Utah Beach because he knew that was where my father had landed! Looking forward to another trip with SAHT! Cheryl and George Holt

Trip of a Lifetime

My wife and I enjoyed every minute of every day. Our historian, Chris Anderson, provided personal anecdotes from residents and veterans that helped make each site all the more interesting and moving. We had the honor of being at the American Cemetery at Omaha Beach for the 78th anniversary ceremony. It was amazing being there with some of the surviving veterans sharing the moment honoring them. Chris was masterful knowing his topic inside and out yet making it interesting for all regardless of how much knowledge one had going in. Sabine was the camp Mom, making sure everyone was happy and safe as well as keeping us all on schedule so we could see and do as much as possible. She even helped put my wife and I in contact with a friend who is a master clock builder as a side project in the midst of all her other responsibilities. Klaus, our driver, was friendly and added to the experience dining with him and learning from him as well. The lodgings and meals were very nice as well. We have already booked a follow up trip waitlist with the Pacific theater tour and are looking at several of their other offerings in the meantime. I cannot imagine a better tour experience, and we can’t wait to go again..

This is the bucket list trip that I have been waiting for and it was beyond my expectations. From walking on the Normandy beaches, and attending the D-Day ceremony and sitting in the audience was a special treat. There were so many outstanding sites that we visited. Our London tour guide Tim was great. Bletchley Park was so neat and how the code breakers overcame astronomical odds to break the German codes. Standing inside one of the bunkers overlooking the Pointe du Hoc waterfront brought home what terror the Germans there must have experienced seeing the armada of ships descending on them. Both the American and Germany cemeteries brought home the human element of the war. The Berchtesgarden extension was very worthwhile and touring Dachau brought the trip to an emotional climax. I highly recommend this trip. I will remember this trip for years to come and made many new friends along the way.

I really enjoyed it. I was on the second trip in August of 1999. I’d like to go again but this disease thing keeps me out this year. I am retired now and can see some changes that will make it better. Berchestgarden wasn’t available then. Can’t say when but I’m going again.

My son and I took this tour some yars ago and are still talking about it. The tour and it’s guide were fist class. I have been to Normandy since and it was more impressive having been with Ambrose before.

Stephen Ambrose Historical Tours is the place for D-Day Tours

Stephen Ambrose Historical Tours is by far the leaders in keeping younger generations informed with regard to historical events and history of World War II on Facebook.

Content with regard to tours, past and future are encouraging and reminding people of the importance of the outcome of the war for present and future generations is informative.

The acknowledgement they give to the men who sacrificed themselves, especially on D-Day, not forgetting but honoring those who have been blessed to live a long and fulfilled life, must be the only place where these men to whom we all owe the life we enjoy today are really honored.

Their D-Day Tours are well known and if one ever decide to attend a D-Day tour Stephen Ambrose Historical Tours is the place to do it, first on Facebook and then joining the actual tour.

Thank you for keeping us informed and all the best I hope you will be with us for a long time. Your valuable input in the most important time in world history is to be commended.

Dream trip for any WWII history buff

This D-Day tour is a dream trip for any WWII history buff who wants to stand on the beaches at Normandy, experience the powerful emotions brought forth by the military cemeteries in France and Luxembourg, stand in a foxhole in the Ardennes, and tour General McAuliffe’s office in Bastogne.

Best experience!

Overall, the tour was the best experience Ive had. I will remember it for the rest of my life. I took over 600 photos. I got to see where my dad was at and wondered what made him what he was.

We saw so much

We saw so much – places I’ve read about but never thought I’d see.

Outstanding Trip!

I am a history and WWII buff and I felt this was an outstanding trip. My wife, who does not have a great interest in military matters, also feels this was one of her best trips.

Excellent tour

Excellent tour. I would highly recommend it to anyone with WWII interest. Best company and historians.

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A World War II historic guide to discover the D-Day Landing Beaches in Normandy

Travel normandy guide françois gauthron offers tours of the normandy landing beaches, world war ii battlefield. come and discover the most famous part of normandy where took place the landing and the battle of normandy in june 1944 to liberate france and europe. you will be escorted by a qualified bilingual guide who will show you round the major sites of the beaches. visit the highlights of world war ii sites in normandy with an expert license guide, first the most important sites of the landing beaches., cool d-day american tour from paris.

• 5 D-Day Beaches Highlights from Paris

American Landing Sectors Highlights 1 Day

• British and Canadian Highlights 1 Day
• 5 D-Day Beaches Highlights 2 Days

American Landing Sectors 2 Days

American airborne battleground in normandy 2 days.

• British Landing Sectors 2 Days
• Canadian Battleground 2 Days
• Customized Tours
• The Loire Valley
• A Taste of Brittany
• Canadian Battlefields in Europe

Normandy Travel

Travel in normandy with francois gauthron, d-day tours on landing beaches - world war ii battlefield tours in normandy.

• All the Tours
• The Books on line
• Practical details

D-Day Tours: the American Sectors

D-day tours on utah beach, omaha beach and airborne battleground.

4 hours tour

9 hours tour

18 hours tour

Utah Beach, major sites of the american D-Day tours

The Church. The parachute and John Steele mannequin.

Sainte-Mère-Église

One of the most disastrous drops (in a night filled with disasters) occurred in Sainte-Mère-Église. Around midnight, a stray incendiary bomb had set fire to the house of Monsieur Harion, located to the east of the square.

Wakened by the mayor and the tolling of the church bell, the townspeople turned out in large numbers to form a bucket brigade supervised by members of the German garrison. (The hand pump used that night still sits on the east side of the square.) While the house continued to burn, the drone of planes could be heard over the tolling bell. The fire-fighters, looking skyward, saw ghostly silhouettes drifting down on them. Two sticks from the 1st and 2d battalions had gotten their green jump light directly over the village. Illuminated by light from the burning house and tracers from German AA guns, the paratroopers were easy targets for the Germans below. Few survived.

One who did was Private John Steele, whose parachute caught on the steeple of the church in front of you. The wounded paratrooper hung there limply for two hours, pretending to be dead, before the Germans took him prisoner.

The less fortunate hung from the trees all around the square where they had been shot. Once the fire in Monsieur Harion's house had burned itself out and the last of the paratroopers were killed or captured, the German garrison (a transportation company) quite inexplicably called it an evening and turned in.

A mile northeast of Sainte-Mère-Église, Lieutenant Colonel Edward Krause, commanding the 3d Battalion, assembled ninety men within an hour of landing and promptly ordered an advance on the village. Around dawn, the German garrison was again turned out, this time by the rattle of small-arms fire. Krause's men cleared the village in a rush, capturing thirty Germans and killing another eleven. With Sainte-Mère-Église in American hands, Krause ran a worn American flag to the top of the village flagpole, a flag that he had carried with him from Sicily.

Sainte-Mère-Église Stain glass signification dedicated to 82nd Airborne

This stain glass has been offered by the 505th Regiment to celebrate the 25th Anniversary.

American Airborne Museum

Inside of the glider displayed in the American Airborne Museum at Sainte-Mère-Église. I highly recommend the visit of this great Museum.

Merderet Bridge.

General Gavin's fox hole at La Fière.

La Fière Bridge and Merderet River

The 82nd airborne division astride the merderet.

One of the most confused fights took place west of the village at La Fière Bridge, over the Merderet River. Uncoordinated groups from the 505th, 507th, and 508th regiments hold the position and finally went over the bridge on the 7th. The Monument Iron Mike is overlooking the site, its twin statutes is at Fort Benning. Alongside the road is General Gavin's fox hole. The photo of flooded marshland, a common occurrence that Germans exploited, shows the conditions as they were in 1944.

A piece of cake

«general omar n. bradley called the assault landing on utah beach «a piece of cake», and it was, compared to that on omaha».

General Omar N. Bradley called the assault landing on Utah Beach «a piece of cake», and it was, compared to that on Omaha. The landing plan called for the 4th Infantry Division (Major General Raymond O. Barton) to land along 2,200 yards of sandy beach on a two-regiment front, two battalions abreast. Colonel James A. Van Fleet's 8th Infantry (including the 3d Battalion, 22d Infantry) was to land at 0630, followed by the 22d Infantry in eighty-five minutes and the 12th Infantry at 1030.

DD tanks were to lead the way in, preceded by an intense naval and air bombardment. Various engineer units were scheduled to land close behind the infantry to clear beach obstructions and to blow gaps in the low sea wall paralleling the beach.

The landing of the thirty-two DD tanks was delayed when one of the control ships was sunk by a mine. Four of the tanks were lost when the LCT carrying them sank before they could be launched. In contrast to the heavy losses off Omaha, twenty-eight DD's made it to the beach able to provide fire support for the infantry already ashore.

In proud memory of our dead

In addition to a D-Day museum, La Madeleine is the site of these monuments:

• an obelisk commemorating the D Day landing of the 4th U.S. Infantry Division,
• a stone commemorating the 90th U.S. Infantry Division.

The first (designated 00) of the 1182 cylindrical milestones marking the «Voie de la Liberté», the route that the U.S. Third Army followed from Normandy to Bastogne. All bear forty-eight stars and a symbolic torch of liberty patterned after that held aloft by «Liberty» in New York harbor. They are similar to the stones which line La Voie Sacrée (the Sacred Way), the road from Bar-le-Duc to Verdun along which hundreds of thousands of French soldiers moved in 1916. A monument to the 1st Engineer Special Brigade, raised in 1945 atop a blockhouse of the W5 strongpoint. This massive blockhouse, captured on D-Day and used as the Brigade HQ, contains a memorial crypt (protected by a locked iron grill) commemorating the members of the Brigade who died on Utah Beach. Another plaque commemorates Maj. General Eugene Mead Caffey and the achievements of the Brigade he commanded. Other plaques in French and English commemorate the assault on Utah Beach. An imposing stone plinth, unveiled by General J. Laughton Collins on 5 June 1984, commemorating «in humble tribute... its sons who lost their lives in the liberation of these beaches, June 6, 1944». A stone plaque marking the presence of the heads of state of the United States, France, Great Britain, Luxembourg, Belgium, Norway, and the Netherlands for the 40th anniversary of D-Day. A stone plaque commemorating General Dwight D. Eisenhower as Supreme Allied Commander. Some fifty-nine road signs named after members of the 1st Engineer Special Brigade who died in the fighting on Utah Beach.

Azeville, Casemates.

German Batteries

Crisbecq, german battery.

I highly recommend this visit. Take an hour or so to discover an amazing number of bunkers, which were buried for years after the war and finally exhumed by the landowner. This fortified complex contained casemates housing 210-mm guns which easily reached Utah Beach. Despite shelling from large-caliber guns and repeated infantry assaults, the battery held out until 12 June, all the while harassing landing operations. It was the one major battery in the lodgement area that actually became a factor in the post-D-Day battle.

Azeville, German Battery

The casemates, that housed four French 105-mm guns, flank the road just before you enter the village. The casemates are not open to visitors. After withstanding attacks from the 22d Infantry for two days, the battery surrendered after a flamethrower, triggered by Private Ralph G. Riley, set off ammunition inside one of the casemates. Riley was awarded the Silver Star for his single-handed attack.

Foucarville, Prisonners Camp No. 19

By the end of June a camp for 20,000 German prisoners was established, which finally was extended to 40,000 men including 18 Generals and 6 Admirals. The Camp was commanded by Lt. Col. Kennedy.

This CCE was almost a town, with hospital, prison, churches, theatre, pub, bakery etc... The total surface was 306 acres including 48 acres of garden, circumference 3.2 miles, roads and side walks 3.9 miles, barbe wired fences 180 miles, water pipe lines 24 miles, high voltage line 19 miles, communication lines 64 miles, phone installed 275, squad tents 1100, pyramidal tents 370, 50 kitchen...

Unfortunately nothing subsists today apart a barn made with field stones use as explosive storage and use as private living home today.

Les Dunes-de-Varreville, 2nd DB Memorial

Les Dunes-de-Varreville (WN 10), the original D-Day landing objective of the 4th Division.

In 1944, this area was strongly defended, and many of the original blockhouses still squat ominously amid the dunes.

Today, the site is marked by a monument, a Sherman tank with French insignia which commemorate the 1 August landing of the 2d French Armored Division, a half-track and an armored car M18.

The D-Day tours with Utah Beach

Cool-d-day-american-tour-from-paris, american-landing-sectors-highlights-1-day, american-landing-sectors-2-days, american-airborne-battleground-in-normandy-2-days, 5-d-day-beaches-highlights-from-paris, 5-d-day-beaches-highlights-2-days, the parts of my books about utah beach, battlefield guide book , chap. 1: tour a, utah sector, battlefield guide book , chap. 2: tour a/a, utah sector special, battlefield guide book , chap. 3: tour a/b, utah sector special historical 101st airborne & band of brothers tour, omaha beach, major sites of the american d-day tours.

Quentin Roosevelt grave.

American Cemetery

The garden of the missing.

Its semi-circular wall contains the name of 1.557 MIAs, they come from 49 of the 50 States. The tragic night of December 24th is engraved on that wall. German U-Boats were trying to prevent Allied reinforcements from reaching «The Battle of the Bulge». The 66th Infantry Division was not going to the Bulge, but Saint-Nazaire. At 6.00 pm on Christmas Eve, a torpedo exploded into the starboard aft hold of the transport ship «Leopoldville», packed with 2,235 G.I.'s from the Division. The ship remained afloat for 2-1/2 hours before sinking into the English Channel 5-1/2 miles north Cherbourg. Because of the holiday celebrations, rescue was slow in coming to the ship. When rescue ships arrived while the ship was taking on sea water, many different scenarios developed around victims and survivors. Approximately 516 G.I.'s were missing and presumably went down with the ship, and another 248 died from injuries, drowning, or hypothermia from the 48° sea water. The huge loss of lives proved embarrassing to the governments of France, England, Belgium, and the U.S.A. Wartime security kept the tragedy details buried for fifty years. Many families of the 764 victims and the 1,471 survivors still do not know details about the Christmas death of their sons.

The Memorial

The Memorial is centered by a 22 foot bronze statue, on both sides two enamel maps, representing the Battle of Normandy in South loggia till August 1st and the Battle of Europe in North loggia, notice the shingles on the ground, reminding the beach. The four scenes on the urns in the north loggia are the same in the south one. The Statues and the urns were made by De Lue.

Theodore J. Roosevelt and Quentin Roosevelt

Theodore J. Roosevelt, President Theodore son's and President Franklin D. Roosevelt nephew's. Born: 9/13/1887. Medal of Honor. Dead from heart attack at Méautis on July 12th during the night. Plot D, Row 28, grave 45.

Quentin Roosevelt, President Theodore son's and President Franklin D. Roosevelt nephew's. Theodore's youngest brother. Born 11/19/1897.Dead in a Nieuport 28 fighter, was shot down behind German lines by Sgt. Thom, a German ace with 24 victories on Jul 14th 1918 WWI. Plot D, Row 28, grave 46.

Pointe du Hoc

To reach the Pointe du Hoc Ranger Monument, now maintained by the American Battle Monuments Commission, follow the direction signs west along D 514 to the car park outside the monument (6 m).

The Pointe du Hoc today retains much of its battlefield character because of the destruction left by the rain of bombs and shells the Allies unleashed to neutralize this rocky point. The much feared battery was bombed three times before D-Day, then hit from the air again that morning. 600 tones of bombs were dropped. The battleships Texas and Arkansas battered the area with their 14- and 12-inch guns just after dawn. The destroyer Satterlee saturated the position with her 5-inch guns in direct support of the Rangers.

This concentration of fire left craters and ruined casemates which over sixty years have yet to erase. From the barbed-wire fence along the cliff top, you can look down the hundred-foot cliff to the east beach where three companies of the 2d Ranger Battalion, commanded by Lieutenant Colonel James E. Rudder, landed on D Day. Their mission was to scale the cliff, then silence the six 155-mm GPF thought to threaten the landing operations on both American beaches.

Omaha Sector First Wave

«every man who set foot on omaha beach that day was a hero», the american planning.

H-Hour was 6.30 am on June 6th 1944. The landing window had to consider the availabilities of landing craft, Navy and air support. Plus the combination of daylight, tide and moonlight. Low tide was at 05.30 am, sunrise was at 05.58 am. The D-Day planners decided to land at 06.30 for several reasons: LCA's could come closer to the bluff, minimizing the uncovered distance for the GIs, and all the obstacles would be exposed. The sunrise hour permitted the Navy and the Air Force to optimize their shelling and Bombardment.

In military times are discussed from the moment an operation begins thus: D-Day for the invasion of France in 1944 was June 6th. H-Hour is the beginning hour and minute of an operation. For the 29th, 1st and 4th Infantry Divisions H-Hour was 06.30 am, for the paratroopers 82nd and 101st H-Hour was 01.30 am on D-Day June 6th 1944.

«Two kinds of people are staying on this beach, the dead and those who are going to die now let's get the hell out of here» Col. George A. Taylor

Medal of honor in the cemetery and 1st id memorial, «we too born to freedom and believing in freedom are willing to fight to maintain freedom - we and all others who believe as deeply as we do would rather die on our feet than live on our knees» f.d. roosevelt 19 june 1941, ike head quarter on continent.

On April 27th 1944 was established the first Headquarter «SHARPENER» located at 0.8 mile from Southwick House, close by the huge SHAEF Camp «SHIPMATE». General Eisenhower stayed there from June 2nd to June 12th 1944.

Regarding the inland movement on the continent, it had been decided to establish an advance HQ in the village of Maison in-between Port-en-Bessin and Bayeux on D6 road. Maison was selected because of its immediate proximity with Longues Air Strip (B11) and Tour en Bessin Airstrip (A13) and also a midway position between Omaha and Gold Sectors. This CP will be operational from July 31st and will be referenced as CP12.

But it wasn't used by Eisenhower, only as a SHAEF transit camp in August 1944. It was decided to organize a new CP at Le Planitre near Molay Littry close by A9D, this camp will be use from August 5th but still not by Ike. Another one is activated on August 7th at Tournières, referenced as CP21 «SHELLBURST» where Ike welcomed Prime Minister Churchill, Gen. Montgommery, on August 20th Gen. De Gaulle with Gen. Koenig and many other celebrities. An airstrip was built in the next field. After the Saint-Lô breakthrough («Cobra» Operation) the SHAEF HQ was transferred near Grainville, on August 16th, Communication Service was established in the Hôtel Normandy, code-named «LIBERTY».

On September 15th the new Grand HQ was moved to Saint-Ouen at Jullouville. Almost 3000 people worked there, and on August 30th Ike stayed at Château Montgommery at Saint Jean le Thomas 4 miles away from Jullouville. On September 10th the Grand HQ was transferred to Versailles (Palace Trianon).

The D-Day tours with Omaha Beach

The parts of my books about omaha beach, battlefield guide book , chap. 4: tour a/c, omaha sector first wave, battlefield guide book , chap. 5: tour a, omaha sector, normandy travel: françois gauthron, wwii battlefields expert licensed guide.

François Gauthron is an official tour guide.

He has been guiding Battlefields for more than 15 years, Normandy is his region of birth.

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Visiting the D-Day Beaches: With Normandy Beach Map

Learn more about the historic Normandy Beaches during Context's Full-Day Private Tour with Private Car Service

Over one million people visit the beaches of Normandy every year to pay respects to the soldiers who lost their lives and experience the site of one of World War II’s most crucial turning points.

When was the D-Day Invasion?

D-Day, also known as Operation Overlord, was a significant event in history that took place on June 6, 1944. It marked the beginning of the Allied invasion of Normandy during World War II – which continued until July 24, 1944.

On this day, a massive amphibious assault was launched on the beaches of Normandy, France, by British, American, Canadian, and other Allied forces. D-Day represented a pivotal moment in the war, as it opened a crucial front against Nazi Germany and ultimately led to the liberation of Western Europe from the control of the Axis powers.

If you’re interested in touring this historic site, here’s what you need to know about planning a visit to the D-Day beaches in Normandy.

Can you visit D-Day Beaches?

Visitors can walk the beaches, but those inclined to learn more about history can visit dozens of nearby museums and monuments. Planning ahead will help you optimize your itinerary and ensure you get the most out of this impactful experience.

Context offers a Full-Day D-Day and Normandy Beaches Tour so you can explore key Normandy landmarks, including Normandy Landing Beaches, Pointe du Hoc, Omaha Beach, The Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial, and the Mulberry Harbour at Arromaches.

An expert on D-Day history leads the full-day tour, and it is a meaningful and educational opportunity to learn more about the events of June 6, 1944 and their impact on European liberation.

What were the 5 beaches on D-Day?

Code-named Operation Overlord, the Allied Operation included over 156,000 American, British, and Canadian troops landing on five beaches along a 50-mile stretch of coastline occupied by Germans. This meticulously planned amphibious military assault is widely considered the turning point in World War II and ultimately led to the liberation of France and the rest of Western Europe.

1. Utah Beach

Utah Beach was a last-minute addition to the plan due to its proximity to Cherbourg, a port city. Sadly, many U.S. paratroopers perished when their heavy equipment weighed them down in the flooded marshlands near the beach. Others landed outside their drop zones, but they eventually secured the beach’s only four exit points.

2. Omaha Beach

Because U.S. troops suffered massive casualties at Omaha beach, it is named the bloodiest beach on D-Day. About 2,400 U.S. troops were dead, wounded, or missing once the battle ended. Omaha beach was flanked by steep cliffs and was heavily defended, making it a perilous and devastating battle scene.

3. Gold Beach

British troops stormed Gold Beach, located in the middle of the five D-Day Beaches, about an hour after Utah and Omaha (due to the direction of the tides). While the Germans initially had a stronghold on the beach, British warships, aerial attacks, and armored vehicles proved victorious.

4. Sword Beach

Canadian and British troops invaded Sword Beach’s eastern flank and took out key bridges to prevent German reinforcements from arriving. The Germans answered with moderate fire, but the British and Canadian troops took out critical German artillery resources.

5. Juno Beach

Rough seas made for a challenging landing at Juno Beach, giving German soldiers the initial upper hand. Canadian troops faced monumental casualties as Germans fired from seaside bunkers. However, as soon as German resistance slowed, Canadians quickly advanced inland and captured several towns.

World War II Sites to Visit in Normandy

Did you know that D-Day was only the beginning of the Allied Invasion of Normandy? For twelve more weeks after June 6th, Allied forces continued to fight . Normandy played a large role in World War II, so it's no surprise that history buffs flock to the area to see the many significant locations across this region firsthand.

Omaha Beach

The serenity of Omaha Beach today starkly contrasts the violent scene that occurred here nearly 80 years ago. Visitors walk the coastline and honor those who lost their lives in a wartime battle that lives in infamy.

Visitors can also see remnants of the artificial harbor constructed by the Allies, known as Mulberry Harbour, and view the German bunkers and fortifications that remain on the beach. There are also several museums in the area, including the Omaha Beach Memorial Museum.

Normandy American Cemetery

Just beyond Omaha, the Normandy American Cemetery honors the American troops who gave their lives on the D-Day beaches. It is a poignant way to pay tribute to the legacy of those U.S. troops who never had the opportunity to return home.

Each of the 9,386 headstones contains the name, date of death, service unit, and country where he volunteered, except for the 307 who have no name. There is also a monument to the 1,557 servicemembers whose mortal remains were lost.

Caen Memorial Museum

As you make your way across the D-Day sites, plan a visit to the Caen Memorial Museum . The Museum focuses on the Battle of Normandy and 20th-century history, offering visitors unique insights into the events that marked World War II.

With a range of exhibits that provide a glimpse into the wartime life of troops and civilians, the Museum offers multimedia experiences, films, and a firsthand look at personal items from soldiers.

Arromanches-les-Bains

Today, this picturesque town is known as a seaside resort, but its coast, Gold Beach, played a major role in the Normandy landings.

Gold Beach was one of the beaches designated to receive man-made landing harbors on D-Day, also known as Mulberry Harbours. The harbors were specially created to float across the English Channel and serve as temporary harbors on D-Day. Many of the large concrete blocks remain in Arromanches today as a reminder of its significance to World War II.

Longues-sur-Mer

Longues-sur-Mer was a battery built by the German navy and strategically positioned between the Omaha and Gold Beaches. On D-Day, Longues-sur-Mer was the site of an extended gunfight between the Allied fleet and the Germans. British troops eventually landed at Gold Beach and captured both the position and the surviving German soldiers.

Visitors today can see the original cannon and take in the view from the firing command. Longues-sur-Mer is one of the best-preserved World War II sites anywhere in France, giving visitors an unparalleled view not just of the Bay of Seine, but of what life was like on that fateful day in 1944.

Map of D-Day Beaches

Each beach has its own unique history, and as you examine the map you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the scale and scope of this historic operation.

To look at a Normandy Beach map is not just a lesson in geography; it’s a lesson in understanding what happened on June 6, 1944. Looking at the map, you can imagine the struggles, triumphs, and heart-wrenching losses suffered on the sand.

Whether you’re zooming in for a closer look at each beach’s remaining craters, or as you stand in person on the hillside above a neverending sea of white headstones, you’ll come away with a sense of gratitude, awe, and respect for those who gave their lives on the beaches of Normandy.

Tips and Tricks for Visiting the Normandy Beaches:

• Hire a Context Tour Guide, with Private Car Service: A knowledgeable local historian can offer unique insights into each landmark’s significance to WWII and provide you with a more personalized experience. Additionally, while it is possible to visit the beaches using public transportation, it's much more convenient to rent a car and book a tour. This will give you more flexibility to explore the area at your own pace.
• Dress appropriately: Wear comfortable clothes and shoes for walking, and bring a jacket in case it gets cold or rainy. Because you will be along the coastline, wind gusts can be an important factor when planning your wardrobe.
• Pack snacks and water bottles: Weather conditions can be brutal, especially during the summer. While most museums do offer concessions, it’s important to be prepared with adequate water and snacks to keep yourself comfortable throughout the day.
• Consider visiting early or late in the day: To avoid crowds, it's best to visit the beaches early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
• Allow plenty of time: Plan to spend a full day or more exploring the Normandy beaches. There is a lot to see and learn, and rushing through the sites won't do them justice. You’ll also want to consider the seasonal tides so that you can safely walk along the beaches.
• Respect the sites: The D-Day beaches and surrounding areas are sacred places. Show respect by not littering, staying on designated paths, and not disturbing any artifacts.
• Take a moment for reflection: The D-Day beaches are solemn places that hold somber historical significance. Take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made by the thousands of brave souls who fought and died there.

Tour the D-Day Beaches

Enhance your Normandy experience with a guided tour of the D-Day Beaches with a local expert. Our Full-Day D-Day and Normandy Beaches Tour has exclusive insights into World War II history to ensure you leave Normandy with a complete understanding and appreciation for its pivotal role in the war.

If you’re looking for other opportunities to learn more about Normandy, take our Full-Day Mont-Saint-Michel Tour and see this gravity-defying medieval monastery with an expert guide.

Learn more about the Normandy Beaches with Context Learning

Are you planning a trip to France? Check out Context’s Upcoming Online Seminars and Courses about France – which feature local experts in WWII History, Archaeology, and Art History.

Or, stream French History and Culture content instantly through Context On-Demand – hosted by the same local experts who lead our tours.

You May Also Like:

• Exploring the Coast of Normandy: Top Sites for History Lovers
• Timeline of the Normandy Invasion
• Reflections on the 75th Anniversary of D-Day
• 10 Best Day Trips from Paris
• Vive la France: Bastille Day
• How to Spend 36 Hours in Paris

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Visiting the beaches of Normandy: D-Day landings and WW2 sites – your ultimate guide

Visiting the beaches of Normandy, with its wealth of D-Day and world war 2 sites, was on our bucket list of things to do while in France and it’s one of those places that are well worth the visit.  

They can be accessed easily from either the UK or other parts of France (and as such, the rest of Europe) and each year they get more and more visitors eager to learn of what happened on 6th June 1944, or as it’s now known – D-Day.

This article probably contains affiliate links. This means that if you buy or book after clicking, I may get a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

I hope our guide to visiting these WW2 sites on the French coast of Normandy will be helpful and inspiring to anyone planning a visit and also anyone with a passing interest in our recent history.

Essentials for your D-Day explorations:

• Guide book with background info on the D-Day Sites
• Normandy Road map

Guided tour from Bayeux

• Half Day Small group tour to Omaha Beach

Our guide to visiting the beaches of Normandy and WW2 sites

The words have become almost normal now – incorporated into our everyday speech – D-day, beaches of Omaha, Utah, Sword, Gold and Juno.  Strange to think that 100 years ago, these words meant nothing in the context that we now think of them.

That’s what’s so moving about visiting the beaches of Normandy , the fact that it was so recent, that there are still people alive who remember those days, lived through them and either were there themselves or heard the news about it.  As time moves on fewer are around to tell the tale first hand, so it’s all the more important to keep the stories alive and to give weight to those words.

I knew of D-day, of course.  I grew up with fairly limited knowledge of the history though, I had heard the term but only really learned about the operation when our son developed a passion about the time period.  We watched films, documentaries and tv series about the war – I thought I knew what we were going to see when we visited Normandy!

What remains of World War 2 in Normandy today is sombre, touching and hopeful.  Sombre because it was the scene of many deaths, not just fallen men, but brothers in arms (to coin a phrase), comrades and friends.  Touching because there are still memories of a time gone by scattered around.  Hopeful because it’s a reminder of what can be achieved by humans in the pursuit of a better world.

Pin for later!

It’s not all about the war in Normandy though.   If you’re planning a trip with those who aren’t quite as interested, or perhaps with children who might not cope with days learning about death and fighting, the area has so much more too.  Gorgeous little towns, beautiful scenery and of course that amazing French food!

Normandy Invasion – a super quick history

Ok, this will be quick as I imagine if you’re interested in visiting the Normandy D-Day beaches you have a slight inkling of the history involved.

It was one of the largest organised invasions of all time that incorporated naval, air and land troops and it was a turning point for the Allies in World War 2.  The Normandy invasion on D-Day, 6th June 1944, were truly immense undertakings from the armed forces of not only Britain but also the USA and Canada.

Prior to it happening, France was under occupation from the Germans and their advancement throughout Europe was continuing. The Allies needed to have a foothold in Europe in order to have any hope of turning the tide.  What’s interesting is that the Germans actually knew that an invasion was likely to be happening, but they didn’t know where from and where the Allies would land.  There were many attempts to throw off the scent and the Germans did think the invasion would come further up the French coast in Calais or Dunkirk where it was much closer to the UK coast but of course that never happened.

It was so much more than D-Day itself though – there was months of preparation which included simulating the Normandy coastline in areas of the UK coast, practicing their manoeuvres and training the personnel.  This was an immense undertaking.  Further to this there was an operation whereby the coastal defences were bombed in advance of the invasion.

On the day itself, the Allies began by parachuting in airborne forces behind the enemy lines where they took strategic points and would meet up with the troops that began to land in the early hours of June 6th.  They fought with the soldiers and guards of the Atlantic Wall that Hitler built.   It certainly wasn’t easy but eventually they took the areas one by one, strategic towns and points were gained and the Allied forces pushed the Germans back.

Although the operation as a whole was a success there were many stories within D-Day where it seems the opposite.  Many, many lives were lost on both sides which is a terrible tragedy no matter the outcome.

A note on the names of the beaches in case you don’t know.  

There were many different areas of the coastline that troops landed on but they were generally split in to 5 sections and each had a different armed force in charge of landing there.  

Each area was given a code name – Utah, Omaha, Sword, Gold and Juno.  The Americans were charged with the Utah and Omaha landings.  The British landed at Sword and Gold and Juno was mainly Canadians.   The overall operation was called Operation Overlord and the landings themselves Operation Neptune.  

The history of this time is vast and I’ve researched thoroughly for this article but I’m not a historian so please forgive me if there are any inaccuracies – and also let me know so I can put it right!  For more in depth research of this time period Wikipedia is a good start and from there explore their related links at the bottom.

Why visit the D-Day beaches in Normandy?

Of course D-Day has been immortalised in films and tv series over the years and it’s one of the biggest and most well known operations from the Second World War.  

It’s an iconic moment in history and one where we can look back and see the huge sacrifice that was made actually did make a difference.  If D-Day hadn’t turned out as it did the outcome of the war might have been very different.  As such it’s a huge part of our history.

I feel that we must always remember the sacrifices made for us and while watching documentaries, reading books and enjoying movies about it can keep the stories alive, visiting the sites really gives a new dimension.  

You can know that soldiers lost their lives on a beach, but it’s just words.  Seeing that area and visiting the nearby graves really brings home the personal sacrifices.

For many of us it’s important to visit because we have a personal connection to the day too.  Many people come as a pilgrimage to pay their respects to family members who fought there.

For others, and I include myself personally in this, it’s just a really interesting place to go.  This is recent history and an important piece of the huge story that is the second world war.  No matter what I know about a place or piece of history I can’t fail to get something out of experiencing the place in real life.  

Museums help to keep the information of each area in an organised manner and you’ll find many enthusiasts willing to speak to you about the history if you take the time to ask.  By supporting these places you’re also helping to preserve the historic sites for future generations – definitely worth it.

Lastly, Normandy is a beautiful place in its own right.  I’m focusing this guide on the D-Day beaches and the war history of the area, but there’s so much to enjoy here that’s not just war related so go enjoy the food, the countryside and the people too!

What are the Top 10 must see sights at the D-Day Normandy beaches?

Here’s the places you really shouldn’t miss on your tour of the D-Day beaches in Normandy – I’ve listed them in order from west to east rather than importance:  

The first beach that you’ll get to if you are coming from Cherbourg or doing the tour West to East is Utah.

This beach was landed by American troops and was the more successful out of the two the US were dealt.  The reasons are most likely geographical, the Germans were defending a wide open coastline here, flat with no difficult to reach areas they could attack from.  Overall there were less than 200 casualties for the Allies here and it was a relatively quick victory.

Utah beach is one that isn’t in a built up area and the beach itself is nice to walk along if you get good weather with many remains of the German defences scattered along and lots of monuments to the battalions and units present there.  There’s also a museum which attracts most people with an interest in the time period and is fairly inexpensive.

Utah Beach Landing Museum – learn about the chronology of the landings, see a B26 bomber.

Winter opening hours (Oct 1st – May 31st): 10am – 6pm. (It is closed for the majority of December, opening from the 26th – 30th only)

Summer opening hours (June 1st – Sep 30th): 9.30am – 7pm

Get tickets here

Sainte-Mère-Église

A big part of the operation at Utah beach was the destruction and capturing of many of the strategic points in the area from the airborne divisions who landed at various places including Sainte-Mère-Église, a small Normandy town.

Some of the 82nd Airborne division landed at Sainte-Mère-Église in the very early hours of the 6th of June 1944, unfortunately too close to where they planned to land.   Many of them died as some buildings on fire in the town lit up the parachutists descending and were easy targets for the Germans.   One interesting tale is about the soldier, John Steele, who found himself caught on the steeple of the church as he tried to land.  He was shot in the foot, in lots of pain and could only watch some of the others in his company as they were killed.  He dropped his knife so could not free himself and so had to pretend to be dead while the fighting was going on around him.  He eventually was rescued from his precarious position by the Germans and he became a prisoner of war until he escaped a few days later. Despite early German dominance the town of Sainte-Mère-Église was taken soon after on June 7th 1944 and it also has the honour of being the first liberated town of the Normandy invasions.

In the town itself there’s a museum dedicated to the 82nd and 101st Airborne division – if you’ve watched Band of Brothers, 101st Airborne is portrayed in it.  

It’s well worth spending some time there with plenty that will keep kids happy (both of mine enjoyed their time there) and provide an insight in to what happened in the area for those interested to learn more.  Lots of replica planes and gliders to get a sense of what was involved!

The church keeps the story of the parachutist alive by keeping a fake dummy of a soldier on its roof top.

It’s a pretty town to explore round with many tourist shops selling world war 2 memorabilia, some restaurants and cafes too.  We really enjoyed our time there.

Airborne Museum  – learn about the airborne attack, how they liberated the town and also see some of the gliders and planes used.

Opening times:

• May – Aug: 9am – 7pm
• April and September: 9.30am – 6.30pm
• October – March: 10am – 6pm (the museum is closed throughout December and January)

See  here  for more information

Pointe du Hoc

One of the areas of Normandy that remains much as it was during the time of the landings is Pointe du Hoc.  It’s a steep cliff edge and the highest point of the area which sat between the beaches of Utah towards the East and Omaha which lay to the west.  As such it was heavily fortified and protected by the Germans despite it having been bombed prior to D-Day.  

The United States Army Ranger Assault group were charged with the scaling of the cliffs at Pointe du Hoc and removing the German artillery with the help of the British to land them at the scene.   Before even landing there were problems straight away with the sinking, and subsequent loss of those on board, of one of the amphibious DUKW vehicles. On landing the Germans fired heavily on all of the troops with disastrous effect and on reaching the base of the cliffs the Rangers were at half the initial numbers. To reduce the risk of them being fired at as they grappled up the cliffs, navy ships from the US and British navies fired on the German defences.   On reaching the top the soldiers struggled with yet more set backs: their radios didn’t work and their objective of removing a main artillery defence was already gone.   After intense fighting the finally overpowered the remaining guns and destroyed them.  They held off lots of counter attacks from the Germans over the next couple of days until they got relieved by further US troops on the 8th June.  

Pointe du Hoc is one of the stories I personally didn’t know much about but which I’m so glad I learned about.  

The museum at Pointe du Hoc does a really touching video which explains what happened.   Reading about the words often don’t convey the sense of what happened, but listening to the stories from the soldiers who scaled the cliffs themselves, watched their friends get fired upon and who came home to tell the tale brought tears to my eyes.  

There’s lots to see at Pointe du Hoc as well as the visitor centre – the remains of the casemates built by the Germans can be explored and you can imagine how it might have looked to them as the enormous amounts of D-Day troops descended on the area.   Craters litter the site too where it was heavily bombed.  

Visiting Pointe du Hoc

Open daily throughout the year

• April 15th – September 15th: 9am – 6pm
• Rest of the year: 9am – 5pm

Pointe du Hoc is one of the few free things to do in Normandy related to WW2 – if you’d like more information about visiting see here .

Maisy Battery

I have such a soft spot for parts of history that are covered over and forgotten about for years and Maisy Battery is one such place.

It was a very important German defensive position situated between the Utah and Omaha beaches and consists of over 2 miles of tunnels, bunkers and trenches.   The history of the site is still coming to light with all the war documents being released over the years – it seems that it was an unknown site to the Allies and that the Germans used Pointe Du Hoc as a ruse to confuse them and with the removal of the big guns that were expected to be there, this could certainly be true. It was lost to the world for over 60 years and was only rediscovered as someone found an old map to it in a veteran soldiers trousers.   That discovery combined with the opening of war files has opened up an exciting and interesting chapter!

If you drive past you might miss it – it’s completely camouflaged from the casual viewer!   Nowadays you can walk round the site, explore the tunnels, see some old guns, cannons and weaponry.   It’s a great day out and quite different to many of the other WW2 sites around Normandy.

Visiting Maisy Battery

Opening times

• April 1st – May 31st: 10am – 4pm
• June 1st – Aug 31st: 10am – 6pm
• September 1st – September 30th: 10am – 4pm
• Closed from October – March (although you can contact them with a possibility of visiting)

See here for more details and tickets

Omaha beach

The US Army had the objective of securing the Omaha beachhead however a catalogue of mistakes and confusion led to this being an extremely difficult operation with huge numbers of soldiers losing their life.   It started with the naval bombardment of the German defences – it wasn’t enough as they navy didn’t want to risk hitting the landing crafts. The landing troops were also blown off course quite a lot on the morning of the invasion due to the weather and this did not help matters.   The intelligence about the defences were flawed, they had trouble bringing vehicles on land with many of them being swamped as they tried to land and finally many of the soldiers were wiped out as soon as they did land due to heavy gun fire from the Germans.   As many as 2000 lost their lives (some sources report up to 5000) on that day.  After many days of fighting the objectives were completed, the beach secured and it was eventually used as a harbour to bring artillery and troops in to France and to help the push against the Germans.

Nowadays there’s a few remnants of the war still visible.  There’s many monuments to the regiments that fought along this stretch of land and who also lost lives as well as a memorial museum.  At low tide you might also be able to see the remains of the harbour that they built but not as prominent as the one at Arromanches.

Omaha Beach Memorial Museum

• February: 10am – 5pm (opens mid February – check their site for dates if travelling round then)
• March: 10am – 6pm
• April – May: 9.30am – 6.30pm
• June: 9.30am – 7pm
• July – August: – 9.30am- 7.30pm
• September: 9.30am – 6.30pm
• October – November: 9.30am – 6pm (closes mid November)
• Closes from mid November – mid February.

See more information  here

American cemetery

Overlooking the beach at Omaha is the American Cemetery which holds a great number of US soldiers who died in the second world war and with many of them being in the time of the Normandy landings.  It’s a beautiful place which overlooks the sea and it’s a heartbreaking visual reminder of the loss of life suffered.

Of course, it’s not the most cheery of places to visit and we couldn’t stay long as our daughter didn’t want to go (always something to bear in mind when visiting these WW2 sites with kids) but it’s a very important place that should be included in your itinerary if you can.  

There’s a visitors centre there too which tells the stories of the soldiers and is free to enter.

Normandy American Cemetery Visitor Centre

Admission is free – see more info about the site here

Gold beach & Arromanches sur les bains

This was my favourite site of our trip (see below for our thoughts on what to visit if you can only visit one beach) and it provides lots for anyone visiting Normandy with hopes of seeing WW2 history – there’s lots still visible!

The landings at Gold beach are slightly to the east of Arromanches and this was on of the two beaches that was taken by British troops.   The day started like many of the others with bombardment and bombing of the area the night before and the troops landed in the early hours of the morning of 6th June.   Choppy and rough seas meant that like many other beaches the men landed slightly off course and the vehicles they tried to bring ashore would get bogged down in the sand.   There were many casualties at Gold with around 1000 reported.   At the end of the day, almost 25,000 troops landed, they took Arromanches and eventually used that site to build a mulberry harbour which allowed them to bring in more weaponry to mainland Europe for the rest of the war.

There’s lots to see at this area.   We really enjoyed our visit to the town of Arromanches-sur-les-bains as you can see lots of the remains of the mulberry harbour.   This was the temporary harbour that was built to move tanks, weapons and soldiers in to the country.   There’s also a really good museum in the town too which I recommend to learn more about this area and how they landed and used the town.   Longues-sur-mer battery is also a well preserved German defence area that is worth visiting if you’re around this section.

Longues-Sur-Mer Battery

Freely open to look around – there are guided tours as well at the following times of year:

April, May, June, September & October: weekends only

July & August: daily

Tours run in both English and French – see here for more details.

Musée du Débarquement / D-Day Museum in Arromanches – learn about the mulberry harbours and the d day landing beaches

• January: Closed
• February: 10am – 12.30pm & 1.30pm – 5pm
• March: 9.30am – 12.30pm & 1.30pm – 5.30pm
• April: 9am – 12.30pm & 1.30pm – 6pm
• May – August: 9am – 7pm
• September: 9am – 6pm
• October: 9.30am – 12.30pm & 1.30pm – 5.30pm
• November & December: 10am – 12.30pm & 1.30pm – 5pm

See here for more details

The responsibility of the Canadian army was Juno beach which was located inbetween Gold and Sword.   The familiar story of the sea conditions causing delays and problems to the landings also applied here and the beaches were heavily protected by the Germans.   Although there was a preliminary bombardment of the sites they weren’t very effective and as such the troops landing were under heavy fire from the very start.   It’s considered one of the more successful landings, alongside Utah, even though many of the objectives weren’t actually met.   Casualties were relatively low, around 340 dead on the day.  

One of the towns in the area, Courselles-sur-Mer, now features a museum and memorial called the Juno Beach Centre.   If you’re at all interested in the Canadian effort in the war as well as the specifics of the Juno landings then I’d highly recommend a visit.  

Juno Beach Centre

• January: closed
• February: 10am – 5pm
• April – September: 9.30am – 7pm
• October: 10am – 6pm
• November- December: 10am – 5pm

Get more information  here .

Sword beach & Pegasus bridge

The final beach going from west to east is Sword beach at the town of Ouistreham.  

Sword was the responsibility of the British army and although the experienced quite a few casualties on landing at the beach, they managed to get their armoured vehicles landed quickly and took the beach in fairly good time.   This beach was the closest to Caen which was a major objective in Operation Overlord and so the troops moved onwards to there but suffered lots of setbacks and resistance on the way. Another important place nearby is Pegasus Bridge which played a part on the night before the landings where the plan was to secure the bridge and prevent any further German troops from gaining access to the bridge and hindering the landings the day after.  They arrived by using gliders successfully taking the Germans by surprise.

Sword beach was the first that we visited and it’s very strange, yet happy place that is a completely normal beach town.   Not what we were expecting at all.   There were people playing on the beach, lots of land sailing going on and just a generally nice atmosphere.  

The town of Ouistreham is a pleasant town to spend a night as well with lots to see if you’re interested in the landings.   There’s the Grand Bunker museum which is well worth a look, No4 Commando museum and also the Pegasus bridge memorial too all within that town.

Grand Bunker Museum, Ouistreham – see the command post as it was and learn about the Atlantic Wall

• Jan 6th – Feb 8th: Closed (2019 dates)
• Feb 9th – March: 10am – 6pm
• April – September: 9am – 7pm
• October – January 5th: 10am – 6pm

See here for more information

Pegasus Memorial Museum

Open every day from 1st February – 15th December

• February – March: 10am – 5pm
• April – September: 9.30am – 6.30pm
• October – 15th December: 10am – 5pm

See here for more information.

Though not a beach, a major player in the Battle for Normandy is the city of Caen which suffered terribly in the days after D-Day.  It was actually in the plans for it to be captured on D-Day itself, but that never happened, the Germans defended it fiercely and what ensued was fierce fighting and many casualties on both sides and civilians.  It actually took around 7 weeks for the city to be taken and ended with a bombing from the Allies which killed many French citizens and completely destroyed the city, reducing the majority of it to a pile of rubble.

Caen has many memorials about WW2 but the main one is the Memorial de Caen which houses a really good museum which is worth checking out.  If you are in the area do also check out the Abbey d’Ardenne which was the site of an atrocity committed by the Germans against some Canadian soldiers they had taken as prisoners.  At least 20 soldiers were executed there and there’s a touching war memorial to the men.

Caen Normandie Memorial Museum

• February – March: 9am – 6pm
• October – December: 9.30am – 6pm (some Mondays are closed also in this time)

See here for more information and tickets

Tips for visiting the Normandy WW2 sites

• Winter sees lots of the sites close for the season – do be aware of this if you are coming in the winter months.  If sites are open their hours are reduced a lot too.  Although out of season is generally a good time to visit, do make sure what you want to see will be available.  January sees many of the museums close completely so I’d recommend not to visit that month at least.
• It rains.  A lot.  We were there for about a week in April and saw so much rain!  Later we learned that Normandy is a very rainy region and is well known for it!
• As these are war graves, dress and act respectfully
• Around D-Day itself many of the sites close for ceremonies and it will be much busier so if you’re visiting around then check individual sites and book well ahead.
• France is well known for long lunch hours – as you’re visiting the towns and villages around be aware of this and don’t be surprised that shops shut.
• Sundays are also a day when almost everything shuts (although the D-Day museums around here tend to be open) – get any supermarket shopping done in advance.  We were definitely taken by surprise by this on our first visit to France!

What Normandy WW2 museums are worth visiting?

There are many museums along the coast line and in towns, too many really for one trip.   Unless there’s a specific area or operation that you’re interested in I’d suggest heading to wherever is convenient for you and enjoying what is on offer there.   There’s a chance of information overload if you try to do too many.  

I mean, how many guns can you see without getting bored?  My son would probably argue with me about that!

We haven’t visited all the museums in the area (unfortunately!) but we did enjoy the D-Day museum in Arromanches as well as the Airborne museum in St Mere Eglise and I’ve heard good things about all the museums in Normandy.  

How long should you spend in Normandy?

If you’re planning a Normandy trip I’d say that a good time to take in the sites is around 3 or 4 days.   This would allow you to really see all the beaches, plenty of museums and other sites around the area and for you to take in the larger towns such as Bayeaux and Caen.  

More than this and I’d imagine that history overload might take over, but your mileage may vary!

If you want to incorporate checking out the rest of the area including the gorgeous Mont St Michel then I suggest as long as you can spare and at least a week!   France is a great place to visit and we enjoy the slow pace of life there a lot!   Try not to rush your time there.

You can only visit one beach – which one?

This is a difficult one to answer and each person in our family who I asked said a different place.  

I think this can possibly depend on your war knowledge or maybe your heritage – Americans will almost certainly say Utah or Omaha, Canadians will say Juno!  

Personally I found Gold beach and specifically the town of Arromanches to be a really special place to visit and this is coming from someone with only basic knowledge of what happened in Normandy in WW2.  With parts of the artificial harbour still in view and being able to be seen up close, it really helps you visualise what happened back then.  Obviously if you can, visit at least a couple, but if I had to choose just one it would be the area around Arromanches-sur-les-bains.

I asked my son (our resident WW2 nut – he knows way more than me!) for his opinion and he said Omaha due to the extreme loss of life there and the significance of that beach in later films so that would be my second choice.  You also have the American Cemetery nearby too so easy to incorporate that in to your day.

My husband said to visit Pointe du Hoc.  I know, we’re not very helpful in narrowing down the choices!

If you are pushed for time, consider what is important for you to see.  If you’re British and want to see the places that they fought concentrate on the middle to east part.  If you’re Canadian you’ll likely want to concentrate on the Juno area and if you’re American or interested in the infamous Bloody Omaha then you’ll want to stick to the west.

Interested in more WW2 travel? See our posts about London’s WW2 sites or visiting Colditz Castle in Germany

Getting to the Normandy beaches

How to get to the normandy beaches from the uk.

Update – check out our new post about getting to Normandy from UK

When we travelled we took our motorhome over on the Dover to Calais crossing with DFDS  (always the cheapest option when I check) and travelled down from there.  It was a fairly straightforward journey but one thing I’d say is to not underestimate the time it can take to get to places in France.  It never looked too far on the map but it can be especially if you’re not using the motorways.

If you want to get yourself right in the heart of Normandy straight away and keep journey times to a minimum then I recommend a ferry to Cherbourg which means you can start at the Western end of the beaches near Utah within around 45 mins drive of the port.  Alternatively you can get a ferry to Le Havre which is about an hour and a half from Ouistreham and the eastern end of the beaches or Dieppe which is just over 2 hours drive away.

Brittany ferries – goes to Caen, Le Havre and Cherbourg

DFDS – goes from Newhaven to Dieppe

P&O ferries is another option to Calais

Looking for an itinerary for your trip? Check our 3 day self drive Normandy D-Day itinerary

There are also many tours that depart from the UK if you want to visit but aren’t too keen on doing it independently.  My Father in Law took a coach trip a few years back and thoroughly enjoyed his time there and it’s a great idea if you want to just sit back and enjoy your time there.

How to get there from Paris

If you are arriving in Paris and want to incorporate the beaches in to your France itinerary then I suggest one of two options: either hire a car or arrange a place on guided tour.  

It’s around a 3 hour drive to Ouistreham on the most eastern end of the landing sites so doable as a day tour if you wanted to, although it would be a long day.   To check out rental car options I recommend DiscoverCars.com which compares many companies to find the best deal.

Guided tours from Paris to Normandy are plentiful from the capital with some taking in the area over a couple of days and others just doing a day trip.  

When looking at these tours bear in mind if you have any specific places you want to visit and see if they include them as it’s impossible for them to cover everything!  

This one is a good option and if you have a couple of days to spare this one is worth a look  and even covers other Normandy sites such as Mont Saint Michel.

Visiting the beaches from Le Havre

Many cruise ships stop in Le Havre and as such it’s a good place to get excursions to the beaches.   Here’s one that covers many areas in a day.

Canadian sites from Le Havre

US sites from Le Havre

Using public transport to visit the Normandy beaches

It’s not particularly easy to use public transport to get to all the sites in Normandy but with some planning you should be able to visit a few places.  

Caen is an important part of the invasions and is worth seeing if you can.   Trains are around 2 hours from Paris in to the city.  If you want to do a tour from Caen this one would be worth checking out.

Bayeaux is another good town to visit and easily reached by train as well.   From Paris it can take between 2.5 and 3 hours to get there and it’s also easily reached by Cherbourg in about 1 and a half hours if you happen to be a foot passenger on one of the ferries.

Tours from Bayeux

There are many tours from Bayeaux that can take you on to the beaches themselves and are a better option that trying to navigate the buses which are infrequent.    

US Sites tour

US and British sites

Canadian sites tour

Driving tips for France

If you decide to drive over in France then here’s just a couple of tips:

• make sure you have a european driving kit that covers you for the legal things you need in France – Hi vis jackets, headlight deflectors (if coming from the UK),  
• the motorways in France are often toll roads and it can add up over time.   Either be prepared for this or plan a route that avoids them.

Where to stay when visiting the Normandy beaches

Bayeaux is a perfect base for any tour to the beaches whether it’s self drive or going by guided tour.  I’ve linked below to a couple of options with Booking.com – they are my preferred booking portal as often you can book without needing a deposit and they are super easy to use.

If you want to stay in the centre of town itself, be close to the town’s attractions such as the Bayeaux Tapestry (ok, now WW2 but still pretty cool) then I suggest the Hotel du Luxembourg which comes highly recommended.  It does have parking, although there’s a charge of €9 a day so do bear that in mind.   Check the hotel out here .

A budget option in Bayeux would be the Ibis hotel with free parking on site – here’s some more information about it .

Campervan and motorhome travel in Normandy

If, like us, you decide to take your motorhome to Normandy then you’re in for a treat as France is amazing for free or low cost camping areas (called Aires) in towns and villages all round the area.  

I think we managed pretty much not paying anything for the whole of our journey except for one night on a campsite.  I recommend getting the book All the Aires which gives all the information on where to stay and what facilities are available.

What next? Get inspired with movies, tv shows and books: Band of Brothers Saving Private Ryan D-day audio book Start planning your WW2 France trip with these guide books: Lonely Planet Normandy Travel the Liberation Route Book your hotel in Normandy: Booking.com

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Kirsty Bartholomew

2 thoughts on “Visiting the beaches of Normandy: D-Day landings and WW2 sites – your ultimate guide”

Opening times typically range from 9-10am to 5-6pm, but daylight stretches much further. Therefore, my usual question: which beaches/sites can be acceptably experienced outside 9-18 time bracket?

Good question Pablo – all the beaches are accessible outside of opening times for the visitor centres. I would say to perhaps look at the tide times especially for beaches like at Arromanches as when the tide is out you can walk up to the pontoons but of course when it’s in they are covered. BUT definitely don’t let the fact that the visitors centres not being open deter you from going. Plenty to see!

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Band of Brothers Tours

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If you are looking for military historical tours in Europe, we are the best local experts you can find. In terms of World War II tours, no one comes even close to offering the quality you get from us. Our Tour Directors and local guides are professionals who have perfected their craft. All our hotels and restaurants are tried and true, and our local knowledge is evident and all of our staff speak fluent English. Our secure and guaranteed payment systems allow you to shop online with the utmost confidence. Once you book your trip, we will guide you through everything related to your tour, from what travel documents you need and what to pack to a recommended list of books to read and movies to watch before your departure. We are not an assembly line company focused on mass production – our goal is to give you a once in a lifetime experience.

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This is an adventure designed for your bucket list and your pocket book. Feel the sands of the landing beaches between your toes, stand at the very foxholes where heroes fought for your freedom and breathe the Alpine air at Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest.

The ultimate trip through the American WWII effort: our Band of Brothers Tour is an epic journey from Normandy to Hitler's Eagle's Nest via the battlefields of the Battle of the Bulge in the footsteps of the famous Easy Company.

80th ANNIVERSARY BULGE TOUR

Remember the bloodiest battle for the American forces in World War II. On this tour you can see where the brave soldiers held their ground during the siege of Bastogne, and experience the citizens “throwing nuts” to commemorate their liberators.

THIRD REICH TOUR

Numerous historical sites tell the tales of the rise, the fall and the aftermath of Hitler’s Third Reich on this tour. Join us at the epicentre of WWII, where the Führer rallied followers, commanded armies, held events and eventually met his demise.

BRITAIN AT WAR TOUR

Hit all the essential sites on this streamlined 10-day tour combining the air war related sites with the iconic vehicles on display at the Bovington Tank Museum and finishing off with a cultural intake of the prehistoric monument of Stonehenge.

BEACHES OF NORMANDY TOUR

Our signature tour gives you an opportunity to thoroughly explore the beaches and the sites of Normandy connected to the D-Day landings. This tour is designed for people who want to enjoy military history and culture alike on their vacation in Normandy.

Our first-class historical tours take you on a journey through iconic World War II sites around Europe, as well as the most emblematic moments of American heroism of the time. From the Normandy beaches to Bastogne and the Bavarian Alps we guide you through the significant events and experiences of the war that changed the world. Band of Brothers Tour is a registered brand and protected trademark in the European Union by Beaches of Normandy Tours.

The first days of the tour dive into all five landing beaches, with a special focus on the American landing sectors. We then head east through the Ardennes to Belgium, where passengers can crouch in the foxholes of Bois Jacques and learn about the vehicles that defined the Allied war effort during the Battle of the Bulge and the Siege of Bastogne. Our journey ends in Germany, where we learn about the context of the Nazi regime, a sobering visit to the very first concentration camp of Dachau and we top off the tour with a day trip to the Bavarian Alps, where we visit the famous Eagle's Nest on top of the Kehlstein mountain.

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Updated on 1 December 2023

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The D-Day Landings on 6 June 1944 were nothing less than the largest and most complex combined airborne and amphibious military operation of all time. Today this epic history attracts millions of visitors to reflect on what was achieved – and why.

Stretching from Sainte-Marie-du-Mont to Quinéville, the Utah sector was to be key to capturing the port of Cherbourg as soon as possible. The Utah Beach D-Day Museum takes you through events in chronological order.

Omaha Beach

Two thirds of the seaborne effort by the United States on D-Day were launched against a four-mile long beach overlooked by steep bluffs and blocked off at either end by limestone cliffs, the place they call ‘Bloody Omaha.’

The British 50th Northumbrian Division, commanded by Major-General Graham, landed on Gold Beach on D-Day. By the evening, they were on the outskirts of Bayeux, and liberated the town the next day.

On D-Day, 14 000 Canadians and 6,400 British troops landed on Juno Beach, taking heavy casualties. At Courseulles-sur-Mer, the Juno Beach Centre is the only museum entirely funded by veterans and their charities, and commemorates Canada’s unique contribution.

Sword Beach

‘Sword’ was the code name thought up by the Allies for one of the two British sectors. Sword Beach extends west from Ouistreham to Lion-sur-Mer.

Find your way

Visiting the D-Day Landing Beaches

D-Day and the Battle of Normandy were predominantly fought in the départements of Calvados, Manche and Orne, and it is here that you will find the many memorials, cemeteries and museums that commemorate what happened.

The British Normandy Memorial

the D-Day Landing Beaches with children

Updated on 26 January 2024

Our weekend family tour of the D-Day Landing Beaches

Updated on 11 April 2023

Don’t miss

D-Day and the Battle of Normandy

1944 – 2024: 80th Anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy

D-Day and the Battle of Normandy sites and museums

D-Day 1944 visitor guide

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• Tours 8-day 80th ANNIVERSARY BULGE TOUR 9-day BAND OF BROTHERS TOUR 11-day BAND OF BROTHERS TOUR 12-day D-DAY ANNIVERSARY TOUR 12-day D-DAY LUXURY TOUR 6-day BEACHES OF NORMANDY TOUR 6-day AMERICAN NORMANDY TOUR 11-day WAR IN POLAND TOUR 11-day THIRD REICH TOUR 10-day BRITAIN AT WAR TOUR 11-day ITALIAN CAMPAIGN TOUR 12-day WORLD WAR I TOUR

12-day 80th ANNIVERSARY GOLD TOUR

• Average 4-6 miles walk a day
• Some uneven terrain
• Medium to long travel times
• Moderate pace
• D-Day Anniversary commemorations
• All five beaches of Normandy
• Normandy American Cemetery
• Pointe du Hoc
• Utah Beach Museum
• Luxembourg American Cemetery

Dachau concentration camp

• Eagle's Nest

This special 80th Anniversary D-Day Tour in 2024 takes you on an epic 12-day journey celebrating the heroes, courage and sacrifice that changed history in 1944. This tour features the unparalleled experience of being in Normandy during the 80th Anniversary commemorations of the greatest amphibious assault in history. From the beaches of Normandy to Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest, this tour hits the highlights of the American WWII war effort, with special stops focused on collectively honoring the sacrifice of our American heroes. We follow the path from D-Day to V-E Day, roughly in the footsteps of the famous Easy Company, who were present for the most pivotal moments in the later years of war. This trip is tailored for patriots who want to pay their respects and learn new details along the way.

Detailed Highlights and Itinerary

Passengers are greeted at the Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris and transferred by coach to Normandy. After an orientation dinner to get to know your fellow patriots, we spend the next few days exploring the iconic shores of the Normandy Landings. Two days of this leg will focus on the American landing beaches Utah and Omaha, where we will pay our respects to the heroism that contributed to this battle that changed history. An entire day will focus on D-Day anniversary ceremonies, giving Passengers a chance to commemorate the occasion. We then visit the British landing beaches, where our fellow Allied troops fought to secure a foothold in Europe.

Utah Beach Memorial

82nd Airborne Commemoration

Sainte-Mère-Église

Omaha Beach

Veteran at the Normandy American Cemetery

Tank show on Gold Beach

Anniversary march in Carentan

Juno Beach Centre

Pegasus Bridge Memorial

The second leg of our journey heads east to Belgium, where we visit the sites of the Battle of the Bulge, the foxholes of Bois Jacques, and the military vehicles at the Bastogne Barracks. You’ll have ample time to explore these quaint areas independently and appreciate the incredible history and awe-inspiring monuments of this vital region. We cross border to Luxembourg to visit the National Museum of Military History in Diekirch. The museum exhibits a collection of military vehicles and weaponry among lifesize dioramas. We pay our respects to the fallen soldiers at Luxembourg American Cemetery where General Patton is also buried.

McAuliffe Square

Patton Monument

Foxholes of Bois Jacques

Mardasson Monument

Bastogne Barracks

Bastogne War Museum

General Patton's Grave

National Museum of Military History Diekirch

M45 Quadmount in the Diekirch Museum

Our journey culminates in Germany, where we will explore the genesis and defeat of Hitler’s Nazi Party. We begin by exploring the somber site of the first Nazi concentration camp, where we can pay our respects to the victims of Hitler’s genocide. We then head to Munich to learn about the Third Reich before we visit Obersalzberg and the Eagle’s Nest. The tour ends with a chance for reflection and community over a farewell dinner. The next day, our Passengers are brought to Munich’s airport for their return flights.

Eagle’s Nest

Restaurant in the Eagle's Nest

Mussolini's gift to Hitler

Tunnel under the Eagle’s Nest

Hitler's Bunker

Hofbräuhaus Munich

Marienplatz

Dates and prices, 80th anniversary bulge tour.

• Day 8: Departure

80th ANNIVERSARY OVERLORD TOUR

• Day 11: Departure

BAND OF BROTHERS TOUR

• Day 9: Departure

D-DAY ANNIVERSARY TOUR

• Day 12: Departure

D-DAY LUXURY TOUR

Beaches of normandy tour.

• Day 6: Departure

AMERICAN NORMANDY TOUR

War in poland tour, third reich tour, britain at war tour.

• Day 10: Departure

ITALIAN CAMPAIGN TOUR

World war i tour, 80th anniversary d-day tour, 80th anniversary gold tour, 80th anniversary silver tour, hotels, motorcoach, guides and other services.

Relax after a long flight and ease your mind knowing that your Tour Director will meet you at the airport on the first day of the tour, avoiding extra navigating and expensive taxi fares. With our all-inclusive tour package, we handle all the details of your tour, so you can focus on experiencing this trip of a lifetime. Sit back and let us wine and dine you as you explore history with our carefully planned itinerary, with all breakfasts, dinners and entrance fees included. You will sleep soundly each night at 4-star accommodations. Breakfasts are delicious and authentic, while the two-three course dinners are mix of buffet and limited menu dining options which offer a chance to taste some of the local wines or beers as well. This tour includes a 24/7 Tour Director and several local guides. Our dynamic, knowledgeable Tour Directors are with you from your arrival at the airport to departure on the final day. They proactively smooth the way for your entire tour experience. Our handpicked, trusted local guides are fluent in English and expert historians, who deliver their impressive wealth of knowledge, anecdotes, and local insights with skill that shows their years of research and experience.

Hotel in Normandy

Hotel Room in Germany

Hotel Room in France

Hotel in Germany

Motorcoach 2

Local guide in Normandy

Local Guide at the Bastogne barracks

Sausage plate in Germany

Lunch in Berchtesgaden

Ham plate in Normandy

They always address topics onsite so that you get to experience history where it happened as they guide both popular destinations and obscure locations only the locals would know. Do not worry about availability, wait times, or ticket costs as all museum and site admissions are pre-arranged and included in the cost of our all-inclusive tours. On this tour you ride in style in our motorcoaches complete with climate control, video entertainment and extra leg room. Our skilled, professional drivers maximize your tour time by navigating the busiest highways and tightest country lanes, giving you more time at sites and less time subjected to the inflexible scheduling, delays and crowded areas that accompany public transport. For those who want to stay connected, Wi-fi is available at all our hotels and on all of our buses.

Beaches of Normandy Tours Band of Brothers Tours 48 Rue de Thouays, 50480 Sainte-Marie-du-Mont, Normandy, France

Phone: +1 855-473-1999 Monday - Friday, 10am - 6pm ET e-mail: [email protected]

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"Rudy created a 1-week custom tour for my dad, uncle, brother and I to follow the path of my Grandpas division (2nd Infantry Division) in WWII. We have been researching and talking about going on this trip for over 5 years and Rudy made our dream trip come true and exceeded all expectations. Rudy has great knowledge of WWII and has detailed stories of what took place at each of the battle sites that we visited. Rudy was able to customize a tour for us to travel all over France to visit every battle my Grandpa's division fought and took us to other historic sites and museums. He created a tour that was a true honor to my Grandpa and all the heroes from WWII. Rudy will take care of all of your logistics once you arrive in France. He is the best tour guide I have experienced!"

"Our recent private Normandy tour helped us appreciate through first-hand experience why Rudy has so many 5 Star ratings from his clients. Rudy has absolutely earned all the accolades posted here; they are spot on. What still brings tears to my eyes is the profound concern Rudy has in making his tours personal. War is about great battles, but it is carried out by individuals. At every stop along our route, Rudy spoke of the soldiers as well as the civilians caught up in the war. We learned about tactics, armor, artillery, tanks, bombings in a way that gave us an inkling of what being in battle really means. Cemeteries became more than just rows of stone markers as we stopped and paid homage to particular soldiers as well as a randomly picked gravesite. In each cemetery, Rudy explained the concept behind the design layout of the cemetery as well as provided the time we needed to process our emotions."

"This tour was very personal as we were retracing the steps of my uncle who ultimately died in the Battle of the Bulge. Rudy was glad I mentioned Steve was wounded near Vire and he said we would go there. Long story short, it was dark as we drove through the village to find the monument that Rudy knew was there. He parked so the car lights lit up the Memorial. The stars were brilliant and the connection I felt to my Uncle in that place will be with me always."

We will be forever grateful to Rudy.

-Mike & Karen (Alaska)

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Rudy Passera is the founder of Normandy American Heroes, and serves as the guide for private group tours. To Rudy, historical tours are his business—but they mean much more than that. He intends for Normandy American Heroes tours to be a bridge between Europe, the U.S. and its allies, providing lessons that we all must learn from.

Rudy is the the only Interpretive Guide who has worked both for the Normandy American Cemetery/La Pointe du Hoc and the Utah Beach Museum. He has also served three times as the Master of Ceremonies for the International Commemoration at Utah Beach.

There is no one better than Rudy to have by your side as you experience the true meaning of courage, competence and devotion to duty as demonstrated by the heroes of WWII.

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• Into the Reich
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Tours of Normandy

D-day with our in-depth tour.

Discover the most iconic sites involved in D-Day with our in-depth tour. We take you across the channel and onto the iconic beaches of Normandy, exploring the local areas and the pivotal roles they played in WW2.

You will stand on the iconic beaches  Omaha, Utah, Gold, Juno and Sword. Visit and see where the British and US  airborn  operations took place.

The Tour in Detail

• We start our trip with a drive to Folkstone to take the Eurotunnel train 
• Under the channel to Calais (the train takes 35 minutes)
• We then drive through northern France across the great bridges over the river seine at le harve and down into Normandy
• We stop for comfort breaks, most of the route 3 hours is on the motorway
• Our first stop is Merville battery and the night assault story by the British 9th airborne on the night of the 6th of June. The museum and bunker complex are a story of British airborne spirit to capture an important strategic objective against terrible odds. Entry is approx 8 euros each
• Onto the Orne river bridge and the assault and capture and then the holding of this vital bridge until relieved
• Visit the museum here is 8 euros each, then a break at the café Grandide the first place liberated on D-Day
• We then visit the airborne cemetery at Ranville
• Hotel in Normandy - Dinner + Breakfast
• We go to and see the grand bunker just back from Sword beach and the landing on D-Day story
• Onto the D-Day beach coast road, past the Canadian Juno beach sector 
• Then down to the great gun battery at Longues Sur Mer and go into these great gun bunkers
• We then go on down into Arromanches, gold beach to see the Mulberry harbour and visit the 360 degrees day cinema with its unique d day British Memorial
• Lunch in Arromanches
• We move on then into the US zone, the great cemetery at Coleville onto Omaha beach and its memorials and bunkers
• We finish our day at the scene of one of the great assaults by the US rangers at Pointe du Hoc
• We then pass the bunker complex at grand camps Maisy and its incredible story
• Hotel in St. Mere-realise, where we have dinner and then at night we experience Church Square and the US airborne story of tragedy and victory. The paratrooper on the steeple is still there! 
• We start with the incredible story at the bridge over the Merderet River at la frere, where the legend of iron mike was born
• Onto the story of the medics and the church at Angloville, which is truly amazing. In the midst of a battle between the US paratroopers of the 101st and the german paratroopers, 2 amazing young medics make history
• The go through saint Marie du mont and pass the scene of easy company's battle at Brecourt Manor
• We move onto Utah beach and the great museum
• Grainger is a story to be told at this little church on a strategic hill where a group of the 82nd paratroopers held off a division of SS for 2 days. the price those civilians left behind paid
• (if time permits, we can stop at the D-Day experience museum at dead man's corner where the d day Dakota simulator gives a unique experience) 
• We arrive at the beautiful medieval city of Bayeux
• Hotel - Those that wish can venture into Bayeux to visit and see the Bayeux tapestry
• Dinner + Breakfast in Bayeux 
• Then a short drive to the commonwealth war cemetery at Bayeux 
• Then into the Bayeux D-Day museum
• Depart 11.30 
• Drive to Calais  
• Eurotunnel - UK - Home

Customer Briefing

Welcome to the briefing note on the four-day trip to Normandy and Battle of the Bulge with D Day story and experiences.

The objective is to give a bespoke experience. We meet and depart on day 1; we travel to the Eurotunnel at Folkstone.

Please be advised that, prior to the crossing, I will require your passport details for the compulsory checks made.

A Personal Note

I have been doing my tours now ever since 2005, everybody has found it a relaxing and interesting experience, above all be comfortable and enjoy our company as I take you to the Normandy experience.

In 4 days will we see it all, no, there is too much to show you. But I do promise you that you will see some places that the usual tourist groups never experience.

Advanced Passenger Information

• The dress code throughout is entirely casual
• Please feel free to bring any drinks, water or snacks you want
• We will stop on our journey for comfort breaks as requested
• Once we have crossed the channel, we go via the main motorway for approx
• 3 hours to get to the Normandy area. We will cross the great bridges at le harve - a great spectacle in itself
• There is no heavy walking at all, the whole trip is on the flat
• It is the custom for the group to dine at the local French restaurants in the evenings, a great way to unwind and enjoy glorious French food
• If you would like to dine another way then please feel free, this is a casual no-pressure experience
• Normandy, in my opinion, is very like Devon and is very affluent
• If you wish to sample the main local drink, its Calvados, an apple brandy. 
• The 3 nominated hotels are very comfortable, and you can breakfast at each if you wish, breakfast is approx 8 euros. 
• Entry to the museums is approx 8 euros each we stop at 4 in all
• All museums and restaurants accept debit/credit cards
• Bring euros if you wish (when we reach Bayeux, you may wish to visit and see the Bayeux tapestry, this may cost approx 10 euros)
• It is a courtesy to meet at the appointed times, not to be late as it upsets the schedule
• Take as many pictures as you like and enjoy my tour
• Using your mobile in France is the same as the UK

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D-day 80th anniversary: your guide to commemorative events in normandy.

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80 years ago—a Landing Craft approaching Omaha Beach, Normandy, France, 6th June 1944.

There are many reasons to head to France in 2024—the Olympic Games in Paris, the Euro 2024 football competition or an Impressionist festival—but many will be heading to Normandy to commemorate the 160,000 Allied troops who landed on its beaches in World War II in the biggest military seaborne invasion in history.

The festival for the 80th anniversary of D-Day will take place from Pegasus Bridge to Sainte-Mère-Eglise—it's a stretch of almost 100 km of coastline (about 60 miles) that takes in the towns of Ouistreham and Arromanches-les-Bains (the latter was where Allied forces built Winston Harbor, to bring in supplies).

From 1-16 June 2024, there will be commemoration ceremonies as well as festivities (parades, picnics, reenactments and fireworks) along the same stretch of coastline, including across all five landing areas for the Allied troops in 1944—Utah Beach, Omaha Beach, Gold Beach, Juno Beach and Sword Beach.

The program has something for everyone (book fairs, jives), but there are several must-see events including a 30-minute light and sound show across all five landing beaches simultaneously on 31st May, an International Peace March (Utah Beach to Carentan) on 1 June and the parachuting in of hundreds of international soldiers above Sainte-Mère-Eglise.

The official state commemoration takes place on 6 June 2024 at Omaha Beach, in the town of Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer (Calvados) where 2,500 American soldiers died. It will be attended by President Emmanuel Macron and other global heads of state, as well as veterans, but it isn't a public event. There will be a giant public picnic afterwards though, on Omaha Beach, followed by a concert with fireworks.

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The U.S. will hold its own ceremony at the Normandy American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer that commemorates the 9,386 American soldiers who were killed in total. It will be open to 5,000 people but tickets must be secured in advance here (the site is currently closed due to high demand, but promises to reopen soon). It is expected to begin around midday.

Secretary Charles Djou of the American Battle Monuments Commission said of the American event, "we have a solemn duty to honor the courageous service of those who gave their all on June 6, 1944, and to reflect on the profound impact their sacrifices had on turning the tide of World War II. The anticipated gathering of over 10,000 visitors from around the globe underscores the indelible mark that D-Day has left on our shared history."

6th June 1944: Reinforcements disembarking from a landing barge at Normandy during the Allied ... [+] Invasion of France on D-Day. (Photo by Hulton Archive/Getty Images)

The British Normandy Memorial in France at Ver-sur-Mer commemorates the 22,442 people who died under British command on D-Day and during the Battle of Normandy. It too will hold a memorial service on 6 June 2024 (time to be confirmed) that will be broadcast live on U.K. television. Likewise, Canada will be holding its own commemoration ceremonies, as will other countries at memorials across the region.

Incidentally, two of France's biggest tourist draws of the summer collide on the morning of Thursday 30 May 2024 as the Olympic Flame passes across Omaha Beach.

For anyone planning a trip to the area to visit the D-Day landings, the official French tourist board has a 48-hour program of unmissable spots here and the D-Day commemoration program can be found in both French and English here .

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Bringing History to Life Beaches of Normandy Tours brings history to life for you with this application. If you are looking for military historical tours in Europe, we are the best local experts you can find. We are dedicated to preserving the legacy of the Greatest Generation. On our tours, you can pay tribute to and walk in the footsteps of the soldiers who fought heroically, and many times even paid the ultimate price for freedom on the battlefields. Our first-class historical trips take you on a journey through iconic World War II sites around Europe, as well as the most emblematic moments of American heroism of the time. From the D-Day landing beaches in Normandy to Bastogne and the Bavarian Alps, we guide you through the iconic events of the war that changed the course of history. Functions: - Subscribe to our newsletters to receive weekly free military history-related content, such as articles and quizzes, and receive updates related to our tours. - Browse our tours, read reviews, and book the tour of your liking. - Get in touch with our Travel Consultants. - Find out more about the backstory of our company. You can visit us also on our website: https://www.beachesofnormandy.com/

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History, culture, haute couture and haute cuisine aren’t all that France is famous for this year. The country’s iconic capital, Paris, may be warming up for the world’s largest sporting event this summer, but beyond the bustling boulevards, there are plenty of hidden gems for travelers to explore. With the enchanting regions of Champagne, Normandy, the Loire Valley and Burgundy, within easy reach, travelers can escape the crowds, enjoy the countryside and sample a different side of French life.  

POP THE CORKS 

Approximately an hour and 45 minutes by car, travelers can escape the busy city life and gently roll into the Champagne region to immerse themselves in the art of champagne-making. Reims, the capital of the region famous for the world’s favorite fizz, is home to the city’s cathedral Notre-Dame, a UNESCO World Heritage site where French Kings were crowned.  

Zip off on e-bike and take to the lush, rolling hills and explore one of the many Champagne vineyards on offer. From the historic cellars of the renowned champagne houses to the smaller family-owned producers, most offer tours and tastings, washed down with the region’s famous pink cookie that complements the delicious bubbles.  

LIVING HISTORY 

Home to the famous Bayeux Tapestry, 70 meters of intricate stitching that depicts the 1066 Norman conquest of Britain, Normandy holds special significance this year. June 6 marks the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings that changed the course of the Second World War. Visitors can pay their respects at the hallowed beaches of Omaha and Utah, where Allied forces made their historic landings, or at the moving American Cemetery.   

Virginie Durr, Enterprise Sales Manager at Delta, was born and raised in Normandy and visits every year for the D-Day commemorations. 

“Normandy offers the perfect blend of scenery, history, culture and gastronomy,” said Durr. “What makes Normandy so special is the legacy of William the Conqueror, the historic scars left by WWII, the settings immortalized by the Impressionist artists, its distinctive local cuisine and its world-famous sites such as the Mont-Saint-Michel, Monet’s gardens in Giverny, the D-Day Landing Beaches or the dramatic cliffs of Etretat.” 

For those wanting to visit Mont-Saint-Michel, which is the second most-visited monument in France after the Eiffel Tower, Durr has valuable tips for getting the most out of your experience: “Visit on weekdays rather than weekends, outside of holiday periods and long weekends, in autumn or winter.” 

Travelers looking to further their exploration of Normandy should visit Honfleur, which is known for attracting artists over many centuries and features colorful half-timbered houses that line the picturesque harbor, providing the perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls along the waterfront.  

Sylvie Poidevin, a Delta Red Coat stationed at CDG, says her favorite place in the city is "Les Maisons de Léa,” a charming hotel in the heart of Honfleur with a majestic view of Église Sainte Catherine – one of the oldest and largest wooden churches in France. 

“If visiting, I would also recommend doing a boat tour led by a captain and having a coffee and croissant in front of the Vieux Bassin – one of the most frequently painted harbors in the world,” said Poidevin. 

Deauville is around two hours and 45 minutes from central Paris.  

CHATEAU LIFE 

Around two and a half hours’ drive from Paris lies the Loire Valley. This UNESCO area of great cultural beauty is peppered with hundreds of castles – or chateaux – and produces some of France’s most delicious white wines, including Sancerre, Pouilly Fumé and Crémant – the region’s sparkling wine.  

The area is perfect to explore by bike, especially as it’s mostly flat, and the 900km Loire à Vélo route is enjoyable for cycle pros and novices alike. In the summer months, pop up restaurants known as guignettes offer local specialties, while nights can be comfortably spent in four-poster beds in the many chateaux that offer accommodation along the route.  

Famous Loire Valley towns not to miss include Samur, where an imposing castle towers over the flowing river and hundreds of underground caves, including an underground cathedral, lie under your feet. Tours, which was once a bustling Roman town, still boasts the ruins of an amphitheater.  

MEDIEVAL MASTERPIECE 

With its half-timbered buildings, gothic cathedrals and cobbled streets, the medieval city of Dijon casts visitors back in time. This laid-back university city offers a mix of history and delicious cuisine and is too often overlooked by American visitors.  

Small in size, Dijon is packed with sites of interest that visitors can easily discover on a self-guided walking tour following the Parcours de la Chouette, or Owl Trail. Marked by little owls, the tour includes every historical monument with explanations at every stop.  

Foodies will be in food heaven in Dijon. Aside from the eponymous mustard (Dijon had exclusive mustard-making rights in France during the 17th century), the region is known for Burgundy wines and Boeuf Bourguignon, a rich beef casserole. It is also home to several Michelin-starred restaurants, for travelers wanting to splash out.  

Dijon is located between Paris and Lyon (another city famous for cuisine), around four hours from the French capital.  

GETTING THERE WITH DELTA 

Delta is the No. 1 U.S. airline serving France, leading with more than 20% of capacity between the two countries during peak-summer.  

This provides customers with ample choices to travel to CDG through Delta’s extensive network, offering 16 daily flights from various U.S. cities including Atlanta (ATL), Boston (BOS), Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky (CVG), Detroit (DTW), New York (JFK), Los Angeles (LAX), Minneapolis St. Paul (MSP), Seattle (SEA), and Salt Lake City (SLC). 

Customers looking to venture beyond Paris can also enjoy flights to Nice from Atlanta and New York-JFK.    

Additionally, Delta’s partners Air France and KLM offer nearly 650 peak-day departures to over 150 cities across Europe, Middle East, Africa and India. 

As part of Delta’s $12 billion airport terminal investments, Delta will be opening its first-ever Delta One Lounge at New York’s JFK airport in late June. The expansive 38,000-square-foot Lounge will feature both a full-service brasserie and a casual, chef-assisted market with open kitchens, dedicated wellness areas and more. Connecting customers will also benefit from the upgrades at Delta’s JFK Terminal 4, enabling easier transfer to over 60 onward connections. 

Customers will have a choice of four product experiences including Delta One, Delta Premium Select, Delta Comfort+ and Main Cabin. Delta One customers can stretch out in a lie-flat seat and enjoy premium amenities like plush bedding made from recycled plastic bottles, more beverage options and a regularly refreshed and seasonally inspired onboard menu. Customers flying in Delta Premium Select will have more space to relax and stretch out, with a wider seat, deeper recline, an adjustable footrest and leg rest.  

And before you touch down in the romantic landscapes of France, you can immerse yourself in the language and artistry of French culture. With more than 161,000 seatback screens across more than 850 aircraft—the most seatback screens of any U.S.-based carrier—Delta’s in-house curation team takes pride in hand-picking the best content to bring onboard each month, including a curated selection of French titles and audio collections. So bid bon voyage with Delta, where your journey is just as important as your destination. 

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