Embark on an immersive and informative journey to the key US D-Day sites in Normandy!
Join our private tour from Bayeux as we explore the historic coastal battlegrounds where the Allied troops landed on June 6, 1944. This pivotal moment in history marked the beginning of a fierce and heroic battle that ultimately led to the liberation of France a few months later.
Convenient Pick-up in Bayeux or Surrounding Area
To start your day, we'll pick you up directly from your accommodation in Bayeux or the surrounding area. Meet our knowledgeable English-speaking guide/driver, who will provide you with a detailed overview of the itinerary and program for the day. As this is a private tour, your guide can be flexible and accommodate specific requests, within the constraints of time and availability.
Rest assured that our experienced guide is intimately familiar with the region and will ensure that you visit the most significant landmarks related to the US forces on D-Day. We have carefully curated a selection of major sites for you to explore. During the tour, your guide will offer appropriate suggestions for lunch, depending on the sites you choose to visit. Alternatively, we can make restaurant reservations in advance to streamline your experience.
Craft Your Personalized Tour of Normandy's Landing Beaches and Sites. You will be able to make a selection of your preferred stops during the booking process. The most significant sites include:
1. Omaha Beach
Among the Allied troops, the Americans landed on two distinct beaches—Omaha and Utah. Despite preliminary bombings, the German positions in the Omaha sector remained formidable, leading to a tragic outcome with numerous casualties. At Omaha Beach, you'll step back in time and hear the incredible story of one of the most audacious and successful large-scale invasions in military history. This beach presented the toughest challenges for the Allied forces, with heavily fortified bunkers, fighting positions, and obstacles designed to repel any invasion. Gain a deeper understanding of the events that unfolded on the beach and how the battle progressed inland, as depicted in the powerful opening scenes of the film 'Saving Private Ryan.
2. Normandy American Cemetery in Colleville
Prepare to be moved by the awe-inspiring Normandy American Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer. This hallowed ground serves as the final resting place for 9,387 American soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Battle of Normandy. The cemetery stands as a poignant tribute to the sacrifices made by the United States in the liberation of Europe. From this vantage point, you'll overlook Omaha Beach, where the deadliest landing occurred during Operation Overlord.
Immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of the cemetery, enhanced by its carefully crafted aesthetics. Marvel at the half circle of columns, intricate statuary, and reflective pond—all enclosed within a meticulously maintained park. Detailed maps and commentaries within the loggias provide insights into the Allied operations in Normandy and Northwestern Europe. An orientation table offers a panoramic view of Omaha Beach, while a visitor center sheds light on the historical context and course of the battles.
3. Utah Beach
Utah Beach, the westernmost landing beach during D-Day, witnessed the arrival of the U.S. 4th Infantry Division. Thanks to the valiant efforts of airborne troops, the Utah Beach landing achieved significant success and thwarted major counterattacks. The German strongpoint at La Madeleine featured shelters, bunkers, a grenade launcher, and four cannons assigned to defend against any tanks. However, these defenses proved insufficient against the relentless air and naval bombardments on D-Day. The airborne troops, dropped five hours before the seaborne landings, fought their way towards the beach, neutralizing enemy positions that posed a threat to the Allied forces. Discover the remarkable stories of these paratroopers and their pivotal role in securing the landing area.
4. Sainte-Mère-Église
Sainte-Mère-Église holds a significant place in history as the landing site for American and British airborne troops on the fateful night of June 5-6, 1944. Two U.S. Airborne Divisions were assigned to establish a bridgehead in the Sainte-Mère-Église sector, providing support for the landing of U.S. infantry at Utah Beach. Witness the bravery of the 82nd and 101st U.S. Airborne Divisions as they parachuted from 821 Douglas C-47 planes and were transported in gliders. Their mission involved reinforcing the American infantry troops at Utah Beach and expediting the capture of Cherbourg.
5. Pointe du Hoc
Pointe du Hoc stands as one of the most dramatic and heroic sites of the D-Day landings. Perched between Omaha and Utah Beaches, its towering cliffs were fortified by German gun batteries that posed a major threat to the Allied invasion. On June 6, 1944, U.S. Army Rangers scaled these sheer cliffs under heavy fire to disable the enemy positions, a daring assault that became a symbol of courage and determination. Today, Pointe du Hoc remains a powerful reminder of the bravery and sacrifice that defined the Normandy landings.
⚠️ Please note: Due to road and construction works at Pointe du Hoc, access to the site may be limited in 2026 & 2027. In the event of closure, your visit will be replaced by another historically significant location such as Sainte-Marie-du-Mont, Angoville, or Carentan, ensuring the same depth of historical insight and experience.
Join us for an unforgettable day tour, meticulously designed to cater to the interests of international guests, including adults and families, seeking to delve into the historical significance of the D-Day landings in Normandy. Our expert guides will ensure you gain a comprehensive understanding of the events that unfolded on these hallowed grounds.
