Set out on a full-day private tour exploring the historical Normandy American sites from the picturesque harbor town of Honfleur. This immersive experience guides you through the pivotal WWII locations, including the famous Utah and Omaha beaches, where Allied forces landed during the Normandy Campaign. Along the way, you’ll gain a profound understanding of the bravery and sacrifices that shaped history, while enjoying a traditional French lunch and regional drinks. As you retrace the steps of the past, the profound impact of these sites is sure to leave a lasting impression.
This experience made our list of the 2 Best Full-Day Tours In Honfleur.
Key Points
- A private full-day tour from Honfleur harbor focusing on the historical significance of key WWII sites in Normandy, including Utah and Omaha beaches.
- Visits to the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer, honoring thousands of U.S. soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the Normandy Campaign.
- Transportation in a deluxe SUV, with lunch and alcoholic drinks provided for an immersive experience.
- Explores the critical turning points and battles that marked the beginning of the Allied push to liberate Europe.
- Offers a poignant glimpse into the bravery and sacrifice of the troops during the Normandy Campaign.
Overview of the Tour
This private shore excursion from the Honfleur cruise port allows travelers to explore the historical significance of Normandy’s landscape.
During this full-day tour, visitors will explore key World War II sites, focusing on the 100-day Normandy Campaign. The experience includes transportation in a deluxe SUV to Utah and Omaha beaches, as well as the American cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer.
Lunch and alcoholic drinks are provided, enhancing the immersive nature of the tour. Customers can reference the Viator product code (26915P4) for additional details and support through the Help Center if needed.
This comprehensive tour offers an in-depth look at the region’s pivotal role in the Allied invasion of Normandy.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Honfleur
Key WWII Locations Visited
The tour takes visitors to several key World War II sites in Normandy, allowing them to retrace the steps of the Allied forces during the historic Normandy Campaign.
Travelers will visit Utah and Omaha beaches, the famous landing sites where the Allied forces stormed the coastline on D-Day.
They’ll also explore the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer, the final resting place for over 9,000 American soldiers who lost their lives in the battle for Normandy.
These significant locations provide a poignant glimpse into the bravery and sacrifice of the troops who fought to liberate Europe from Nazi occupation during the 100-day Normandy Campaign.
Normandy Campaign Highlights
The Normandy Campaign was a pivotal moment in World War II, marking the beginning of the Allied forces‘ push to liberate Europe from Nazi occupation.
This full-day private tour from Honfleur cruise port offers an in-depth exploration of key battlegrounds and memorials from this historic 100-day campaign. Guests will visit iconic sites like Utah and Omaha Beaches, where Allied troops stormed the shores in the D-Day landings.
The tour also includes a stop at the American Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer, honoring the thousands of U.S. soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Through this comprehensive experience, travelers gain a deeper understanding of the Normandy Campaign’s significance in turning the tide of the war.
Utah and Omaha Beaches
On this private tour, guests visit the iconic Utah and Omaha Beaches, where the pivotal D-Day landings took place in June 1944. These two sites were the main focus of the American forces’ amphibious assault on June 6th. At Utah Beach, the 4th Infantry Division overcame unexpected currents to land safely and advance inland. Meanwhile, the 1st and 29th Infantry Divisions faced heavy German resistance at Omaha Beach, suffering significant casualties before securing the beachhead. Guests have the opportunity to explore the historic shorelines, imagine the chaos of the battles, and gain a deeper understanding of this critical turning point in World War II.
Utah Beach | Omaha Beach |
---|---|
Conquered by the 4th Infantry Division | Faced heavy German resistance |
Overcame unexpected currents | 1st and 29th Infantry Divisions involved |
Secured beachhead and advanced inland | Suffered significant casualties |
American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer
After visiting the historic beaches, the tour proceeds to the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer.
This solemn site honors the thousands of American soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the Normandy Campaign. Visitors are struck by the rows of pristine white marble crosses and Stars of David, each representing an individual hero.
The cemetery’s visitor center provides historical context and personal accounts, deepening one’s appreciation for the immense courage displayed.
Overlooking Omaha Beach, the cemetery’s tranquil setting allows for quiet reflection. Guests may lay flowers at the graves, explore the memorial, and pay their respects to the fallen.
This poignant experience encapsulates the tour’s focus on the Normandy invasion and the ultimate price paid for freedom.
Lunch and Alcoholic Drinks
Following the moving visit to the American Cemetery, the tour includes a lunch and alcoholic drinks at a local Normandy restaurant. This provides an opportunity for travelers to relax, refuel, and further enjoy the local culture.
The traditional French cuisine showcases regional specialties, complemented by regional wines or ciders. This convivial dining experience allows guests to discuss the powerful history they’ve witnessed and the significance of the Normandy Campaign.
The inclusion of drinks ensures travelers can fully enjoy the hospitality of the region while reflecting on the impactful tour. This component enhances the overall experience, creating lasting memories of the day’s meaningful exploration.
Traveler Photos and Experiences
Travelers have the opportunity to view photos from previous participants, which provide visual documentation of the historical sites visited during the private tour of Normandy.
These images showcase:
- American flags waving at the Normandy American Cemetery
- Group photos in front of the D-Day landing beaches
- Somber moments at the Pointe du Hoc battlefield
- Guides explaining the significance of monuments
- Travelers exploring the quaint streets of Honfleur
The shared travel photos offer inspiration and a glimpse into the personal experiences of those who’ve embarked on this Normandy tour.
Potential visitors can envision themselves immersed in the historical atmosphere, further enticing them to embark on this enriching journey.
Pricing and Cancellation Policy
The starting price for this private tour of historical Normandy sites is €1,280.00. The price varies based on the size of the group.
Viator, the tour operator, follows established guidelines and terms and conditions for the pricing. The price includes all listed services and amenities, such as transportation in a deluxe SUV, visits to key WWII locations, lunch, and alcoholic drinks.
Visitors should review the cancellation policy, which is available through the Viator Help Centre. Additional support and inquiries can also be addressed through the Help Center.
Pricing and policies are designed to provide a comprehensive, high-quality experience for travelers exploring the historical Normandy sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Specific Sites?
Yes, the tour can be customized to include specific sites. Travelers can work with the tour provider to tailor the itinerary to their interests and preferences, ensuring they visit the historical Normandy locations that are most meaningful to them.
What Type of Transportation Is Used During the Tour?
The tour uses a deluxe SUV for transportation. Travelers are taken to the key WWII locations in Normandy, including Utah and Omaha beaches, during the private shore excursion from the Honfleur cruise port.
Is There an Option to Extend or Shorten the Tour Duration?
The tour duration can be extended or shortened, depending on the travelers’ preferences and requirements. Customers should contact the tour operator to discuss customization options and any associated fees or changes to the itinerary.
Are the Tour Guides Fluent in Any Languages Besides English?
The tour guides are fluent in English and French. They can provide commentary and assistance in both languages to accommodate the needs of international travelers. Additional language support may be available upon request.
Can Children Under a Certain Age Participate in the Tour?
This private tour allows children of all ages to participate. However, parents are responsible for supervising their children throughout the tour. The experience may not be suitable for very young children due to the historical nature of the sites visited.
Recap
This full-day private tour of historical Normandy American sites from Honfleur Harbor offers an immersive and profound exploration of the pivotal locations and sacrifices of the Normandy Campaign. Visitors will retrace the steps of Allied forces, gain a deeper understanding of World War II history, and enjoy a traditional French lunch with regional drinks, all while traveling in a deluxe SUV. This comprehensive experience provides an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the past and honor the bravery of those who fought for freedom.
More Tour Reviews in Honfleur
Not for you? Here's more things to do in Honfleur we have recnetly reviewed
- 4 Best Guided Tours In Honfleur
- 2 Best Full-Day Tours In Honfleur
- Honfleur Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide
- E-Scavenger Hunt Honfleur: Explore the City at Your Own Pace
- 11 Best Tours In Honfleur
- Paris Tour With Pick up From Normandy (Price per Group up to 7)
- 2 Best City Tours In Honfleur
- Full Day Private Tour of Historical Normandy American Sites From Honfleur Harbor
- Private Full Day Landing Beaches Tour From Honfleur and Le Havre