D-Day's Legacy: A Private Half-Day Tour from Bayeux

Step back in time and explore the pivotal battlegrounds of D-Day on this private, expertly guided excursion from Bayeux.

Immerse Yourself in History:

• Join a passionate, local guide with unparalleled knowledge of World War II for an intimate and engaging experience.
• Our comprehensive itinerary caters to both adults and families yearning to delve deeper into the D-Day narrative.

Discover Iconic Landmarks:

• Witness the legendary Omaha Beach, a powerful testament to the courage of Allied troops.
• Explore Pointe du Hoc, a strategically significant clifftop conquered by the U.S. Rangers.
• Pay your respects at the Normandy American Cemetery, a solemn memorial honoring fallen soldiers.

Journey Through Time:

• Travel aboard a comfortable vehicle as you traverse the Normandy coast, following the path of the historic battlefield road.
• Imagine the intensity of the D-Day invasion as your guide narrates the captivating story of this audacious military operation.
• Stand on the windswept cliffs of Pointe du Hoc, a lunar landscape etched with the scars of battle.

A Moment of Reflection:

• Conclude your tour with a visit to the Normandy American Cemetery, a place of profound peace and remembrance.
• Reflect on the immense sacrifices made and gain a deeper appreciation for the D-Day landings' monumental significance.

Unforgettable Memories:

• Return to Bayeux with a wealth of knowledge and a renewed understanding of this critical moment in history.
• This private tour offers a personalized and impactful experience, ensuring a lasting memory.

Book your exclusive D-Day exploration today and embark on a journey that honors heroism and sacrifice.

Explore the D-Day Landings of Normandy: Small Group Tour from Bayeux

Join our knowledgeable English-speaking driver/guide, an expert on World War II, as you embark on an immersive small group private tour from Bayeux to discover the historic sites of the D-Day landings. Designed for international guests, including adults and families, who have a keen interest in this significant chapter of history, this tour provides an unforgettable experience.

Meet Your Expert English-Speaking Driver/Guide

Upon arrival at the designated meeting point, you will be warmly greeted by your English-speaking guide holding a sign displaying the tour name and the recognizable Ophorus logo. Our guides wear distinctive badges, making them easy to identify. Your guide will personally introduce the day's program and itinerary, ensuring you have a clear understanding of what lies ahead. Step into our comfortable and air-conditioned Mercedes minivan, setting the stage for a seamless and enjoyable journey to your first destination, Omaha Beach.

Comfort and Convenience in a Mercedes Minivan

Our spacious Mercedes minivan is equipped with an onboard P/A system, ensuring that everyone in the group can hear the guide's commentary, regardless of their seating location. Enjoy the informative narration as you travel between destinations. 

Thrilling Half-Day Trip: Pegasus Bridge, Sword Beach, and British Cemeteries

Begin your adventure with a visit to Pegasus Bridge, a crucial objective for the 6th British Airborne Division during the D-Day landings. These two bridges, spanning the Canal of Caen and Orne River, played a pivotal role in securing the left flank of the invasion. Learn about the daring mission known as operation Deadstick, where Horsa gliders were towed by Halifax bombers in the darkness of the night. Discover how the bridges were successfully captured and the significance of the "Ham and Jam" message sent to the Allied ships. Witness the historical meeting between French commandos and British soldiers, which symbolized the unity of the Allied forces.

Sword Beach

Continue your journey to Sword Beach, one of the Anglo-Canadian landing sites on D-Day. Gain insights into the crucial moments of the landing, the troops involved, and the heroic story of Piper Bill Millin. Pay tribute to the fallen soldiers who fought valiantly on this hallowed beach.

Pay Homage at the New British Normandy Memorial

Your half-day tour culminates with a visit to the newly constructed British Normandy Memorial. This poignant memorial was initiated based on the suggestion of Normandy veteran George Batts, recognizing the absence of a national tribute to fallen soldiers under British Command in Normandy. 

Situated overlooking "Gold Beach," the memorial was inaugurated on the 75th anniversary of D-Day in 2019. Take a moment to reflect on the more than 22,000 names inscribed on the memorial's columns, representing the brave men and women, predominantly British soldiers, marines, and airmen who made the ultimate sacrifice. The memorial also honors individuals from other countries who fought under British Command, including South Africa, France, the Netherlands, Poland, Australia, New Zealand, and the USA.

Conclude your tour with a visit to the Memorial before returning to Bayeux, carrying the memories and insights gained from this profound journey. Book Your Unforgettable Small Group D-Day Landings Tour from Bayeux Now.

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. Pointe du Hoc

Located within the American sector, Pointe du Hoc offers a breathtaking cliffside setting with lunar landscapes, dramatic bomb craters, and stunning views of the English Channel. This awe-inspiring site was entrusted to the Rangers due to its difficulty. It was a strategically crucial point of the Atlantic Wall, positioned as the highest elevation between Utah Beach and Omaha Beach, providing an advantageous vantage point to detect any hostile arrivals from the sea. You'll encounter German bunkers and experience a sense of stepping back into 1944 as you explore the site. Learn about the heroic mission assigned to Lt. Col. James E. Rudder and the 2nd Ranger Battalion to scale the 100-foot cliffs and disable the German positions, later reinforced by Lt. Col. Max F. Schneider and the 5th Ranger Battalion.

3. 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.

4. Longues-sur-Mer German Artillery

The German artillery battery at Longues-sur-Mer played a pivotal role in opposing the landings on June 6, 1944. Situated between Omaha and Gold Beaches, this strategically positioned battery boasted four casemates, each housing a 150 mm gun, along with a range-finding post. As a vital component of the Atlantic Wall, it commanded a commanding view of the English Channel and played a crucial role during the Normandy Landings. Today, it stands as one of France's best-preserved sites, allowing visitors to witness the original cannons capable of firing 45 kg shells over a distance of 22 km. Explore the firing command post nestled within the cliff, offering a sweeping panorama of the Bay of the Seine.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. Airborne Museum

The Sainte-Mère-Église Museum, situated at the location of fierce battles fought by American paratroopers during the night of June 5-6, 1944, stands as a testament to their heroism. Immerse yourself in history as you explore the extensive collection of uniforms, weaponry, and other war memorabilia. The museum's exhibits primarily focus on American paratroopers from the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions, who played a vital role in the Normandy Landing. Noteworthy artifacts include the iconic Douglas C-47 troop transportation plane (known as the 'Skytrain') and a rare Waco glider, found only in Sainte-Mère-Église in France. 

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.

Explore the Main British Forces D-Day Sites in Normandy - Private Tour from Bayeux

Embark on a vibrant excursion to the main British Forces D-Day sites! Departing from Bayeux, this private tour will take you to the historic Normandy coastal battlefield grounds. On June 6, 1944, the allied troops landed on the Normandy beaches, marking the beginning of a fierce and deadly battle that would culminate in the liberation of France a few months later.

Pick up in Bayeux or Surrounding Area

Enjoy the convenience of being picked up directly from your accommodation in Bayeux or the surrounding area. Our English-speaking guide/driver will greet you and provide an overview of the itinerary and program for the day. As a private tour, we offer flexibility to accommodate your specific requests, ensuring a personalized experience within the allocated time.

Discover the Major D-Day British Forces Sites

Our expert guides are well-versed in the region and will show you the most significant landmarks linked to the British Forces on D-Day. 

Here's a selection of the main sites that you can visit:

1.      British Normandy Memorial

Visit the brand-new British Memorial, inaugurated on June 6, 2019, to honor the fallen under British Command. This memorial overlook "Gold Beach" and features columns listing the names of over 22,000 men and women, including British soldiers, marines, and airmen, as well as those from other countries who fought under British Command.

2.      Pegasus Bridge

Explore the iconic Pegasus Bridge, captured by the 6th British Airborne Division to secure the left flank of the invasion. Learn about the daring operation and the successful capture of both bridges, accompanied by fascinating stories of courage and victory.

3.      Merville Battery Museum

Step into the Merville Battery Museum, a fortified area of the German defense system along the Normandy coastline. Discover the intense battle that took place as the British 9th Parachute Battalion successfully captured the battery, neutralizing its threat to Sword Beach.

4.      Sword Beach

Experience Sword Beach, one of the three landing beaches for the Anglo-Canadian troops. Learn about the British 8th Brigade and the Commandos of the 1st Special Service Brigade who landed here, as well as the successful clearing of the beach by noon.

5.      Gold Beach

Explore Gold Beach, the center beach of the Normandy Invasion. Witness the landing area where the British Second Army, specifically the British 50th (Northumbrian) Infantry Division, carried out their assault and achieved key objectives, including the capture of the Longues-sur-Mer battery.

6.      Arromanches

Discover the significance of Arromanches les Bains, a vital location for the artificial port installation during D-Day. Learn about the Hampshire Regiment's role in liberating the village and the subsequent arrival of the first buildings of the artificial port.

Once in Arromanches, why not also visit the brand-new D-Day Museum that re-opened in April 2023. The D-Day Museum in Arromanches, created in the aftermath of the Second World War, was the first museum to commemorate the Landings.

Its main goal is to bring to life the history of the Landings, and particularly the construction of the Mulberry B artificial harbor, the remains of which can still be seen outside the museum.

7.      Longues-sur-Mer

Visit Longues-sur-Mer, the location of a formidable coastal battery built by the Germans. Witness the remains of the battery and learn about the intense naval battle that ensued on D-Day as British, French, and U.S. forces fought to capture it. 

Immerse yourself in the history and heroism of the British Forces during D-Day with our expertly guided private tour. Experience an unforgettable journey through the iconic sites that shaped the outcome of World War II. Contact our travel advisors to customize your tour and create lasting memories in Normandy.

Experience the Enchanting Mont Saint Michel: Private Tour from Bayeux

Discover the captivating Mont Saint Michel, an iconic rocky island situated off the Normandy coast in the English Channel. Immerse yourself in one of the finest private tours available in Normandy, exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site. Located just 1 kilometer from the shore, Mont Saint Michel is nestled in a bay known for its extraordinary tides, some of the largest in Europe. Access to the island is facilitated by a bridge that is occasionally submerged during high tides. 

Convenient Pickup from Bayeux Accommodation

We will pick you up from your accommodation in Bayeux or the surrounding area, ensuring a stress-free start to your day. Meet your English-speaking driver/guide who will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the itinerary and program. Settle into your comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle as we embark on a full-day private tour to Mont Saint Michel, an architectural marvel and a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site.

Centuries of Architectural Splendor at Mont Saint Michel Abbey

The story of Mont Saint Michel begins in 709 when the first church was constructed at the behest of Archangel Michael. Over the course of several hundred years, a small group of Benedictine monks settled on the island, leading to the expansion of the church and the creation of the first monastery carved into the rock during the 11th century. Throughout the medieval period, Mont Saint Michel emerged as a significant pilgrimage destination, akin to Spain's Santiago de Compostela.

The abbey we marvel at today took shape over the 13th and 14th centuries, with further enhancements in the 15th century, including the magnificent grand chancel. Centuries of architectural brilliance have given rise to this extraordinary monument, now hailed as the "Wonder of the Western World."

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mont Saint Michel

Embark on a scenic journey from Bayeux to Mont Saint Michel, where we'll reach the island via a shuttle (following scheduled departures) and cross the bridge in accordance with local regulations. As you travel, savor the picturesque Normandy landscape and witness the enduring debate between Normandy and Brittany over the site's regional affiliation.

Our Mont Saint Michel tour from Bayeux will guide you to the abbey perched atop the mount, home to the Benedictine Abbey. Follow your knowledgeable guide on a walking tour, delving into the intricate history of the abbey's construction. Capture awe-inspiring views of the surrounding bay as you ascend. Enjoy a guided tour of the Mont Saint Michel Abbey, followed by leisure time to explore the town and indulge in a satisfying lunch.

Mont Saint Michel: A Vibrant Town with Shops, Restaurants, and Museums

After the abbey visit, our guide will grant you the freedom to discover the charming town at your own pace. Delight in the abundance of shops, restaurants, and museums that breathe life into Mont Saint Michel. Choose delightful souvenirs for your loved ones while our guide recommends excellent lunch options. Rest assured, your private guide will remain available to answer any queries regarding the history and architecture of Mont Saint Michel.

Our Mont Saint Michel private tour accommodates small groups, with a maximum of 2 to 8 individuals. You'll travel in a modern, fully equipped Mercedes minivan. An experienced, certified, English-speaking guide will accompany you throughout the day, ensuring a personalized and informative experience.

As the tour concludes, we'll transport you back to your accommodation. Before bidding farewell, take the opportunity to visit the renowned Bayeux Tapestry or revel in the charming Norman architecture found in this enchanting French town.