This tour includes a self-guided visit of the Mémorial de Caen and a guided tour of key D-Day sites. Visitors can spend as much time as they wish discovering the Mémorial de Caen (entrance tickets to the museum are valid for 24 hours from first entry).
The Mémorial de Caen offers visitors the opportunity to take a historical journey through the 20th century, discovering major events from the end of the First World War to the fall of the Berlin Wall. It has a whole section covering D-Day and is the only museum in Normandy to relate the intensity of the Invasion that followed and explain its preparation in both enemy camps.
The Landing Beaches guided tour gives visitors the chance to learn the story of a day that changed the course of history. It's is a complete 5 hours round trip with a guide from Mémorial de Caen in an air-conditioned mini-van, and it includes the visit of the following sites: Pointe du Hoc, Omaha Beach, and the American Military Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer.
The visit of the Memorial is self-guided and you can do it before the guided tour of the D-Day sites departs at 13h00, or the day after as the ticket is valid for 24 hours.
The Mémorial de Caen offers its visitors the opportunity to take an unforgettable historical journey through the 20th century, discovering major events from the end of the First World War to the fall of the Berlin Wall. It has a whole section covering D-Day and is the only museum in Normandy to relate the intensity of the Invasion that followed and explain its preparation in both enemy camps.
In World War II, Pointe du Hoc was the location of a series of German bunkers and machine gun posts. Prior to the invasion of Normandy, the German army fortified the area with concrete casemates and gun pits. On D-Day, the United States Army Provisional Ranger Group attacked and captured Pointe du Hoc after scaling the cliffs. United States generals including Dwight D. Eisenhower had determined that the place housed artillery that could slow down nearby beach attacks.
(Wikipedia)
Omaha Beach was one of five beach landing sectors designated for the amphibious assault component of Operation Overlord during the Second World War. On June 6, 1944, the Allies invaded German-occupied France with the Normandy landings. "Omaha" refers to an 8-kilometer (5 mi) section of the coast of Normandy, France, facing the English Channel, from east of Sainte-Honorine-des-Pertes to west of Vierville-sur-Mer on the right bank of the Douve River estuary. Landings here were necessary to link the British landings to the east at Gold with the American landing to the west at Utah, thus providing a continuous lodgement on the Normandy coast of the Bay of the Seine. Taking Omaha was to be the responsibility of United States Army troops, with sea transport, mine sweeping, and a naval bombardment force provided predominantly by the United States Navy and Coast Guard, with contributions from the British, Canadian and Free French navies.
(Wikipedia)
The Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial is a World War II cemetery and memorial that honors American troops who died in Europe during World War II.
A memorial in the cemetery includes maps and details of the Normandy landings and military operations that followed. At the memorial's center is Spirit of American Youth Rising from the Waves, a bronze statue. The cemetery also includes two flag poles where, at different times, people gather to watch the American flags being lowered and folded.
The cemetery, which was dedicated in 1956, is the most visited cemetery of those maintained by the American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC), with one million visitors a year. In 2007, the ABMC opened a visitor center at the cemetery, relating the global significance and meaning of Operation Overlord.
(Wikipedia)
Directions: The museum can easily be accessed by car or by taking bus number 2 from the town center
Please note:
• The guided tour of the D-Day sites is bilingual in French and English.
• The D-Day sites tour leaves at 1PM / 13.00 hours. Please be ready at least 15 minutes prior to departure time in the Memorial de Caen main hall.
Caen, a historic city in Normandy, is known for its rich heritage and significant role in World War II. It offers a blend of medieval architecture, war museums, and charming parks, making it a compelling destination for history buffs and culture seekers alike.
Built by William the Conqueror, this medieval castle houses the Normandy Museum and fine arts museum.
Dedicated to the history of the Battle of Normandy and the consequences of war.
A Benedictine abbey founded by William the Conqueror, featuring beautiful Romanesque architecture.
A beautiful 12-hectare garden featuring a variety of plants, a greenhouse, and a rose garden.
A traditional dish made with tripe cooked in cider and Calvados.
Mussels steamed in white wine, served with French fries.
A Norman apple tart made with caramelized apples and cream.
This is the warmest and most popular time to visit, with long daylight hours and numerous outdoor events.
Euro (EUR)
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)
230VV, 50HzHz
Caen is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas.
Caen Station
Caen Bus Station
Affordable and efficient, with frequent services. Single tickets cost €1.50.
Available • Apps: G7, Uber
Car, Bike, Scooter
A charming town known for its Bayeux Tapestry and medieval cathedral.
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring a stunning abbey and tidal island.
A popular seaside resort known for its beach, casino, and film festival.
Price varies by option