This tour will allow travelers to delve deeper into the history of Normandy, beyond the sheen of World War II, showcasing its medieval and renaissance architecture.

The discovery starts with a visit to the city of Rouen, the capital of Upper Normandy since the Roman era. Beginning at the Place du Vieux Marché (Old Market Square), where Joan of Arc was burnt at the stake, the tour continues to the House of Exchequer, the 15th-century Archbishop Palace, the splendid Renaissance Palace of Justice, and the "Grosse Horloge," Rouen's most popular monument, a clock dating from 1527 with its superb belfry topped by a dome. The visit to Rouen concludes with a private guided tour of the Cathedral of Notre Dame de Rouen, a stunning example of French Gothic architecture immortalized over 20 times by Claude Monet.

The journey then continues to the lovely, romantic town of Honfleur, located on the Seine estuary. Honfleur has a holiday feeling year-round, with its character and ambiance inspiring painters, writers, and musicians for centuries. Travelers will enjoy walking around the old dock, the narrow winding streets where the fishing fleet unloads fresh fish and shellfish daily, and admiring the slate facades of the old houses. After lunch in a typical bistro on the picturesque quayside, there will be a closer look at St. Catherine's Church, a rare example in Western Europe constructed entirely of wood with a massive oak belfry covered in chestnut wood.

The final destination is Bayeux, the first French town liberated by the Allies on June 7, 1944. Travelers will visit the beautiful 12th-century Cathedral and stroll through the pedestrian precinct to the Centre Guillaume le Conquerant (William the Conqueror's Center) to view the Tapestry of Bayeux, the oldest tapestry in the world. This 203-foot-long jewel of Romanesque art provides a realistic account of the Battle of Hastings in 1066, offering detailed information about the clothes, ships, arms, and general lifestyle of the period.

The tour concludes with a drive back to the hotel in Paris.

This tour is provided on a reserved basis prior to departure. Passengers must contact the local sightseeing company upon arrival to reconfirm their tour.

Start time:
7:00 AM

Duration:
Approximately 12 hours

Meeting point:
Hotel lobby if pre-arranged

Ending point:
Hotel or location agreed upon with the driver

Departures:
7:00am daily year round

Not Included:
Meals, gratuities, entrances other than places mentioned in the description

Additional Information:
Customized itinerary can be discussed with your guide.
Photo stops and breaks are at your convenience.