Rouen , France

Private Tour: D-Day Beaches from Rouen

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About this experience

Visit coastal Normandy and explore Europe’s World War II history on this private 8-hour tour of the D-Day beaches from Rouen. Travel to the D-Day beaches of Normandy with a private guide, and learn of the efforts made by the German and Allied soldiers during battle. Discover key sites of interest including Arromanches, the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial in Colleville-sur-Mer, Longues-sur-Mer, the Pointe du Hoc, and Sainte-Mère-Église, and gain insight into the violent fighting between the opposing forces in WWII. This private 8-hour tour includes round-trip travel from Rouen.

Available options

Group up to 16pax Sprinter Bus

Mercedes Sprinter Bus: 16 seater 2022 Mercedes Sprinter Bus<br/>Pickup included

Private Tour: D-Day Beaches from Rouen

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Private guide

Transport by air-conditioned minivan

What you'll see

Meet your private guide during a 9am pickup at your accommodation or the local train station in Rouen, then take a seat in your air-conditioned minivan and head onward to the beaches of Normandy — where so much of the violent fighting of WWII took place.

During your 8-hour tour, visit the port at Arromanches — constructed by British forces to help land the Allied troops in June 1944. Enjoy lunch in a local restaurant (own expense) and admire panoramic views over the famous beaches.

Visit the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial in Colleville-sur-Mer with your private guide and learn of the many Allied soldiers who laid down their lives in battle. Next, head to Longues-sur-Mer to see the batteries the Germans used to protect the coast from the Allies.

Head onward to the Pointe du Hoc and listen as your private guide explains how the how the U.S soldiers climbed the cliffs to disarm the German defence. Time permitting, perhaps visit Sainte-Mère-Église — where the first Allied paratroopers of WWII landed — and learn of the fighting that took place here those years ago.

When your tour comes to an end, return in comfort to your hotel or the train station in Rouen at approximately 6pm.

What's not included

Drinks

DVD (available to purchase)

Souvenir photos (available to purchase)

Lunch

Available languages

Audio guide

Guide guide

EN IT PL FR ES

Written guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.0

4 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

May be operated by a multi-lingual guide

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking

A maximum of 6 people per booking

Tour Guide and Driver will wear a mask and/or a safety shield and virus safety shield is installed in the Van

Important notes

Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

About Rouen

Rouen, the historic capital of Normandy, is a city rich in medieval and Viking heritage. Known for its stunning Gothic cathedral, half-timbered houses, and the dramatic story of Joan of Arc, Rouen offers a deep dive into France's past with its well-preserved architecture and vibrant cultural scene.

Top Attractions

Rouen Cathedral

The iconic Rouen Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and was famously painted by Monet. It's a symbol of the city's religious and historical significance.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours €5.50 for tower access

Place du Vieux-Marché

This historic square is where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake. It's a vibrant area with cafes, shops, and the striking Joan of Arc Church.

Historical/Cultural 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Historial Jeanne d'Arc

A multimedia museum dedicated to Joan of Arc, offering an immersive experience of her trial and execution in Rouen.

Historical/Museum 1 hour €7.50

Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen

One of France's oldest fine arts museums, housing an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the 15th to the 20th centuries.

Museum/Art 1-2 hours €7

Rouen Castle and Museum of Antiquities

The ruins of the medieval castle of Rouen, now home to a museum showcasing Gallo-Roman and Viking artifacts found in the region.

Historical/Museum 1 hour €4.50

Must-Try Local Dishes

Moules à la Crème Normande

Mussels cooked in a creamy Normandy sauce made with cream, shallots, and sometimes apple cider.

Main Course Contains seafood and dairy.

Tarte Normande

A traditional apple tart with a custard filling, often topped with caramelized apples and cream.

Dessert Contains dairy and gluten.

Canard à la Rouennaise

Duck cooked in a rich sauce with apples, cider, and sometimes Calvados (apple brandy).

Main Course Contains meat and alcohol.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the surrounding Normandy countryside Kayaking on the Seine River Picnicking in the Jardin des Plantes Wine tasting at local vineyards Visiting museums and historical sites Attending local festivals and events Boat tours on the Seine River Beachcombing in nearby coastal towns

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather and numerous festivals. The city is bustling with visitors, and all attractions are open.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: French
Widely spoken: English, Spanish, German
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Rouen is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use common sense and stay aware of your surroundings
• Avoid walking alone late at night in isolated areas

Getting there

By air

Rouen Vallée de Seine Airport • 10 km from city center
Paris Beauvais-Tillé Airport • 130 km from Rouen

By train

Rouen Rive Droite, Rouen Orléans

By bus

Rouen Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network is efficient and covers most of the city. Buses are a convenient way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: G7, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Vieux-Marché Saint-Sever Cathédrale Jardin des Plantes

Day trips

Étretat

40 km from Rouen • Full day

A charming coastal town known for its stunning white cliffs and beautiful beaches. Perfect for hiking, sightseeing, and relaxing by the sea.

Le Havre

50 km from Rouen • Full day

A port city with a rich history and modern architecture. Known for its UNESCO-listed city center and maritime heritage.

Honfleur

50 km from Rouen • Full day

A picturesque fishing town with a charming old harbor and colorful houses. Known for its artistic heritage and maritime history.

Festivals

Rouen Armada • Every 5 years (next in 2023) Fête de la Musique • June 21st annually Rouen Christmas Market • December annually

Pro tips

Visit the Rouen Cathedral at different times of the day to see how the light changes its appearance
Explore the underground cellars of Rouen for a unique and fascinating experience
Try local specialties like duck dishes, apple-based desserts, and Normandy cider
Use the Rouen City Pass for discounts on attractions and public transport
Combine a visit to Rouen with day trips to nearby coastal towns like Étretat and Honfleur