What to do and see in Caen, Normandy: The Best Cultural Tours

March 26, 2022 Elouise Mccaul

French Land Register data, which excludes lakes, ponds, glaciers > 1 km (0.386 sq mi or 247 acres) and river estuaries.
Restaurants in Caen

1. Normandy Private Excursion

Paris in Person
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5.0 based on 5 reviews

The D-day is today seen as  one of the turning points of the World War II, as well as the largest military operation in history of warfare. The largest intervention of the joint Canadian, British and American forces, it was a massive debarquement on the beaches of Normandy, filled with German forces that were waiting for them. What ensued was a bloody and desperate battle where tens of thousands of lives were lost on both sides. This tour is not only a visit of the most important sites where these battles took place, but also the glimpse into a very complicated situation in the World War II and France’s actual role and position in this war.

Inclusions: Driver/guide, Professional art historian guide, Hotel/port pickup and drop-off, Private tour, Round-trip private transfer

Exclusions: Food and drinks

Reviewed By Deanna A

Boris was our tour guide for a trip to France in December, 2019. We visited The Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, and spent a day seeing WWII sites in Normandy. Boris made all the arrangements ahead of time, and was an incredible guide throughout our stay in France. My mom, aunt, and I recently did a virtual tour of Versailles with Boris; and while not as good as being there in person, it was a great way to see this beautiful palace. Boris' knowledge of history, culture, and architecture are absolutely incredible. We learned so much! Boris made the whole thing easy, fun and informative. It was great catching up with all that is going on in Paris. If you've got "travel fever" like we do, I would highly recommend booking a virtual tour with Boris at Paris in Person to tide you over until we can visit Europe again safely. Thank you, Boris!

2. American Landing Beaches Discovery from Paris

Venez Discover France (Paris)
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5.0 based on 2 reviews

Uncover the legendary battles, historic secrets, and stories of exceptional courage, as you explore the notorious D-Day landing sites. Walk in the footsteps of allied soldiers, visit original German bunkers, and travel back in time at the Sainte-Mère-Église Museum. Stand on the same cliffs taken by American troops during WW2, and learn how and why Utah Beach became one of the most important locations in the history of Europe. Gaze down from the Pointe-Du-Hoc memorial more than 100m above sea-level, and visit the final resting places of soldiers who lost their lives fighting for freedom. Venez Discover brings the best out of each place by meticulously crafting each tour exclusively while taking care of our environment. We aim to bring the love, passion, and interest for our planet in each tour or service provided to you.

Inclusions: Bottled water, All Fees and Taxes, Air-conditioned vehicle, Private transportation, Skip-the-Line Airborne Museum Entry Ticket, Multilingual Private Expert Guide

Exclusions: Lunch

Reviewed By CulturalTraveller19

Myself and my wife had a fantastic time our guide was very knowledgable and accommodating. Although, it was during COVID-19 we felt safe and appreciate the precautions which were taken by Versailles and Venez Discover during our tour.

3. Pointe du Hoc,Omaha Beach, American Cemetery - Day trip from Paris to Normandy

ADRIAN ROADS
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4.8 based on 12 reviews

Visit to Normandy D-Day battle sites and U.S landing beaches from Paris See the 100 feet high cliffs and german bunkers overlooking the British channel at Point du Hoc Walk along the Bloody Beach (Omaha) Visit the American War Cemetery Discover the pretty little town of Arromanche and the vestige of the artificial port Step back in time on a history tour, and learn about the events of June 6, 1944 Visit the Caen Peace Memorial and german general « Von Richter » Communications center & headquaters underneath bunker

Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Driver Guide, Admission tickets to the Caen Peace of Memorial, This tour includes pick up and drop off from your hotel location (in central Paris) by minibus

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities (optional)

Reviewed By L3505NSmaryw

November 11th is a day of remembrance in the US for all of our veterans but this day holds a very special meaning to everyone affected by WW1. In 1918, on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month the War to End All Wars was over. I had very little knowledge of the details other than my grandfather’s recently discovered military records from his service in Europe during WW1. Regis was able to use these few details to discover my grandfather’s exact battlefield locations and the significance of his unit’s contribution to the war effort. I was so enthralled by my 1st tour in November of 2019, that I booked another private tour with Regis in February 2020. Regis was able to expand on my knowledge of the war and of my grandfather’s role in the overall Allied effort. Now after a year has passed, I can reflect on this experience and humbly try to express my thanks to Regis for his extraordinary knowledge and interest in the history of his country and the Allies during WW1 and WW2. I hope to be able to return soon when the situation allows, and to explore more of the lessons of this important time. On this special day, I want to extend a special thanks to Regis for 2 incredible tours and for my deepened understanding of a grandfather’s legacy.

4. Normandy D-Day Tour From Paris

14000 Caen, France Link Paris
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4.8 based on 29 reviews

Take a one day trip from Paris to see the American sector of the Normandy landing beaches.  Leave Paris in the morning via rail and meet your guide in Caen (the capital of the Normandy region). Essential historical background is covered in your morning at the Memorial de Caen museum, where you also have a 3 course lunch featuring local Normandy ingredients.   The afternoon features an excursion via minivan to see Arromanches Harbor, the Pointe du Hoc, and the American cemetery and visitor center and Omaha Beach.

Inclusions: Rail to and from Paris to Caen, Normandy, Lunch, Pick-up and drop-off in Caen

Exclusions: Local transfers to and from your hotel/apartment in Paris, Gratuities

Reviewed By J347WKmatthewj

As I’m sure we have all unfortunately experienced during Covid, there are numerous companies in the travel industry which have pocketed our money while we got nothing. I’m happy to share, however, that Link Paris refunded the cost of my cancelled trip abroad in-full, within a week, courteously, and with no argument. In fact, after my refunded costs, I got a personalized follow-up phone call just to chat. I cannot say enough how much I appreciate their customer service and upstanding business practice. It’s a rare thing these days. They’re a class act.

5. Guided Normandy D-Day Beaches Day Trip from Paris

28 Rue Jean Rey, 75015 Paris, France Paris City Vision
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4.4 based on 15 reviews

Memorable day trip from Paris to visit the Normandy battlefields and landing beaches of World War II. Your guide will take you to famous wartime sites and also to the American cemetery.You will gain insight into the sacrifices of Allied soldiers and the French citizens they liberated.

Inclusions: Roundtrip transportation to Normandy from Paris, Service of a Normandy D-Day expert licensed guide., Admission ticket to the Caen Memorial Museum., Visit of the Pointe du Hoc., Photo-stop at Omaha Beach, Visit of the American Cemetery, Stop at Arromanches or at Juno Beach

Exclusions: Gratuities, Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option not selected), Lunch

Reviewed By leannem578

***DO NOT USE THIS SERVICE*** TERRIBLE customer service. Have contacted them before the Covid pandemic asking for a refund. Did not receive it. Then Covid hit - asked MANY times via email for a refund. This trip was for 4 adults - for a cost of 476Euros. There have been so many emails - and they keep saying that a refund is in the works. First they said immediately, then they said 6 months. I cannot recommend this tour operator due to this blatant disrespect of their customers. I need these funds back. I was out of work for more than 8 months - and this is really unacceptable.

6. All Day Trip to Mont Saint-Michel From Paris, Audio guided Tour

22 Rue Jean Rey, 75015 Paris, France Paris City Vision
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4.4 based on 168 reviews

Mont St. Michel, or “The Wonder of the West”, is one of France’s top attractions and the most popular destination in Normandy. Our day-trip transports you to this UNESCO World Heritage Site on a comfortable coach ride from Paris, taking in the landscapes of Normandy along the way. As you approach this unique island, you’ll catch your first glimpse of its famous 10th-century gothic abbey. You’ll have four hours to lunch and explore at your leisure, with your multi-language audio guide. Wander through the village and its steep streets, visit the abbey with its medieval architecture, hunt out picture-postcard views across the Atlantic, and watch as the tide rises around the island. Don’t forget to taste local, seasonal products in the traditional décor of one of the many eateries. We’ve negotiated preferential offers in several restaurants, as well as discounts in shops and museums. The island is yours to enjoy at your own pace, before you return to Paris by coach.

Inclusions: Round-trip transport from Paris by air-conditioned coach, Audio guide in 10 languages (English, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Japanese, Chinese, German, etc), Special offers for museums, Reductions in shops selling "La Mère Poulard", Discount flyers at Mont Saint Michel, Entrance ticket for the Abbey, Service of a multilingual host

Exclusions: Guide, Gratuities, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Food and drinks

Reviewed By leannem578

***DO NOT USE THIS SERVICE*** TERRIBLE customer service. Have contacted them before the Covid pandemic asking for a refund. Did not receive it. Then Covid hit - asked MANY times via email for a refund. This trip was for 4 adults - for a cost of 476Euros. There have been so many emails - and they keep saying that a refund is in the works. First they said immediately, then they said 6 months. I cannot recommend this tour operator due to this blatant disrespect of their customers. I need these funds back. I was out of work for more than 8 months - and this is really unacceptable.

7. Normandy D-Day Beaches & American Cemetery Trip from Paris

22 Rue Jean Rey, 75015 Paris, France Paris City Vision
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4.3 based on 1,942 reviews

On your pilgrimage from Paris to Normandy, leave the details to us. In one unforgettable day, we’ll take you to experience history where it happened. What better way to honor the sacrifices that changed the course of WW2?You’ll visit legendary Omaha Beach and remnants of the Arromanches artificial harbor left by allied forces, and get fascinating insights into those fateful days, learning just some of the incredible stories at the Visitor Center. Take the Memorial Drive along Juno and Gold Beaches,names that will echo with meaning for all eternity. Pause to reflect in the solemn setting of the pristine American Cemetery. Your guide will bring memories to life and help you gain a special understanding of what the Allied soldiers faced and why French locals are still so grateful to the Liberation forces. If you want, when booking, upgrade to a small-group tour for a more personal experience.

Inclusions: Round-trip transportation by luxury air-conditioned coach from Paris, Service of a Normandy D-Day expert licensed guide, Departure from Paris, near Eiffel Tower , Visit of the American Cemetery., Stop at Arromanches with free time for lunch , Photo-stop at Omaha Beach., Visit the 360 Musemum in Arromanches

Exclusions: Gratuities, Hotel pickup and drop-off , Lunch

Reviewed By leannem578

***DO NOT USE THIS SERVICE*** TERRIBLE customer service. Have contacted them before the Covid pandemic asking for a refund. Did not receive it. Then Covid hit - asked MANY times via email for a refund. This trip was for 4 adults - for a cost of 476Euros. There have been so many emails - and they keep saying that a refund is in the works. First they said immediately, then they said 6 months. I cannot recommend this tour operator due to this blatant disrespect of their customers. I need these funds back. I was out of work for more than 8 months - and this is really unacceptable.

8. All Day Trip to Mont Saint-Michel From Paris, Guided Tour With Lunch

22 Rue Jean Rey, 75015 Paris, France Paris City Vision
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4.2 based on 944 reviews

Expand your horizons with a day trip to medieval Mont St Michel, one of France’s most iconic attractions. This magical UNESCO World Heritage island is a step out of the ordinary with its famous gothic abbey and legendary stories. You’ll arrive after a scenic drive from Paris through the landscapes of Normandy, with a guide to brush up on your history. There’ll be plenty of time to explore the island, admire the bay views and do a little shopping, with a delicious lunch included.

Inclusions: Service of a Professional Licensed Guide, Entrance ticket to the Abbey, Return transportation from Paris, 3 Courses Menu (starter + main course + dessert), drinks included, Benefit from attractive special offers to museum, shops with "La Mère Poulard", discount flyers

Exclusions: Gratuities, Hotel Pick-up & Drop-off in Paris

Reviewed By leannem578

***DO NOT USE THIS SERVICE*** TERRIBLE customer service. Have contacted them before the Covid pandemic asking for a refund. Did not receive it. Then Covid hit - asked MANY times via email for a refund. This trip was for 4 adults - for a cost of 476Euros. There have been so many emails - and they keep saying that a refund is in the works. First they said immediately, then they said 6 months. I cannot recommend this tour operator due to this blatant disrespect of their customers. I need these funds back. I was out of work for more than 8 months - and this is really unacceptable.

9. Caen Like a Local: Customized Private Tour

Esplanade Jean-Marie Louvel, 14000 Caen, France Esplanade Jean-Marie Louvel, 14000 Caen, France
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3.0 based on 2 reviews

With our walking tours, you’ll skip the mundane historical tours and discover the city through a local’s eyes. Experience a tour that will transform the way you travel to make it as much about the people you meet, as it is the places you see. Our local guides (Lokafyers) are passionate about their city and eager to share their knowledge and perspective. Since Lokafyers are not professional guides and tour occasionally, they provide an experience that’s authentic and personal, like a friend showing you around their city. By the end of the tour, you'll feel comfortable navigating the city and confident that you have all the information you need to make the most of your stay.

Inclusions: Local guide "Lokafyer", Customized private walking tour

Exclusions: Entrance fees, Personal expenses, Tips and gratuities (optional), Food and drinks, Local transportation around the city (It’s a walking tour, car transportation isn’t included)

10. Normandy D-Day Beaches (2 Day Tour) + Option Mont-Saint-Michel

Mike Eyns Tours

If you wish to tribute to these Thousands of Heroes who offered their lives for our freedom, this is the perfect tour. Caen Memorial - best WW II Museum in France Sword Beach Juno Beach Gold Beach Arromanches - modest seaside resort Coast to Colleville-sur-Mer The Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial Omaha Beach La Pointe du Hoc Carentan Sainte Mere l'Eglise Utah Beach Immerse yourself in the history of the life altering events of World War. As you travel among the places where so many dedicated soldiers fought bravely to secure our freedom, you begin to feel an overwhelming respect and gratitude for their sacrifices. Your Normandy private guide will share with you stories of the significant events that occurred in these areas and create a memorable day touring the beaches, museums and memorials in this area. This tour can be extended to The Mont-Saint-Michel ( Classified World Heritage UNESCO) and would become a most unforgettable journey!

Inclusions: All Fees and Taxes

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Reviewed By jimsZ2896HZ

Thankfully, the battlefield is largely as it appeared in 1815. Rolling hills, farm fields, the wooded and walled Hougoumont (well-restored) and la Haye Saint (not so much). Still, the vibe and the atmosphere is evocative of the crucial Napoleonic struggle that took place here. The museum is excellent. Creative displays, lots of artifacts. The great Lions mound is a bit of a distraction. But it does afford spectacular views of the entire battlefield. Two downsides: the busy road that runs right through the field, north to south, is a little offputting. And Napoleon’s command position was overgrown with shrubs when I was there.

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