Top things to do in Paris

On June 6, 1944, the windswept coast of Normandy became the front line of freedom. More than 156,000 Allied soldiers stormed five beaches—Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno, and Sword—in the largest amphibious invasion in military history. The operation, codenamed D-Day, marked the beginning of the end for Nazi occupation in Europe.

Today, the D-Day beaches remain etched into the cliffs and sand of northern France. A guided tour from Paris leads you through the scenic countryside and takes you to the very shores where the course of World War II changed forever. Let’s explore how to visit the D-Day beaches, what to expect, and why this experience stays with you long after you return.

The five D-Day beaches of Normandy

Pointe du Hoc cliffs and WWII bunkers, Normandy D-Day Tours, France.

Omaha Beach

Omaha Beach is perhaps the most infamous of the five landing zones. This is where U.S. forces faced brutal resistance on June 6, 1944. With its high bluffs, fortified bunkers, and exposed sands, it witnessed the highest number of Allied casualties. Today, you can walk the quiet shoreline marked by memorials like Les Braves and preserved German defenses.

Pointe du Hoc cliffs and WWII bunkers, Normandy D-Day Tours, France.
Pointe du Hoc cliffs and WWII bunkers, Normandy D-Day Tours, France.
Pointe du Hoc cliffs and WWII bunkers, Normandy D-Day Tours, France.
Pointe du Hoc cliffs and WWII bunkers, Normandy D-Day Tours, France.

Guided tours to the D-Day beaches from Paris

A guided day tour from Paris is one of the most insightful ways to explore these sites, especially if you’re short on time or prefer historical context delivered by experts.

From Paris: WWII US D-Day Beaches Guided Tour with Optional Lunch

This full-day tour is ideal for those looking to follow the path of American forces during the Normandy landings. Departing early from central Paris, you’ll travel in a comfortable air-conditioned coach to key U.S. sites like Omaha Beach, Utah Beach, Pointe du Hoc, and the Normandy American Cemetery. Depending on your booking option, the tour also includes a visit to the Overlord Museum and an optional two-course seaside lunch with local cider. With expert narration throughout, this tour brings history to life through personal stories and preserved landmarks.

Perfect for: First-time visitors, American history buffs, families, and those seeking a comprehensive D-Day overview.

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WWII Canadian D-Day Beaches Semi-Private Guided Tour

Designed for smaller groups (maximum 8 guests), this intimate tour focuses on Canada’s contribution to D-Day. You’ll visit Juno Beach, explore the Juno Beach Centre, and gain exclusive access to preserved German bunkers. Stops also include Canada House, the Bény-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery, Hell’s Corner, and Ardenne Abbey—the site of a tragic wartime atrocity. Traveling in a luxury minivan, you’ll have more interaction with your guide and time for personal reflection at each site.

Perfect for: Travelers seeking a focused Canadian perspective, smaller group size, and access to sites often missed on larger tours.

From Paris: WWII Canadian D-Day Beaches Semi-Private Guided Tour

Frequently asked questions on D-Day beaches tour

How long is a D-Day beaches tour from Paris?

Most full-day tours last 12–13 hours, with departures around 7am and returns in the evening.

Which beaches will I visit on the tour?

Most tours visit Omaha Beach, Utah Beach, and the Normandy American Cemetery. Small-group or Canadian tours may also include Juno Beach, Pointe du Hoc, and more.

Do I need to book in advance?

Yes, tours often sell out, especially around June 6 (D-Day anniversary) and summer. Booking early guarantees your spot.

What should I wear or bring?

Comfortable walking shoes, a weatherproof layer, and water. Normandy weather can change quickly.

Can I visit the D-Day beaches without a tour?

Technically yes, but it’s not recommended unless you have a car and a solid grasp of the sites. Guided tours offer convenience and historical depth.

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