2-day Mont Saint-Michel, Full D-Day, Normandy Private from Paris

Travelers craving an immersive, flexible, and comfortably guided journey through Normandy and Mont Saint-Michel will find this 2-day private tour offers a well-rounded experience. With a focus on authentic sights, historical sites, and charming towns, it promises a memorable peek into the region’s history and scenery — all without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

One of the standout features? The tour’s customizable nature and all-inclusive approach—from transportation to accommodation and tickets—makes it especially appealing for those who want a smooth, well-organized trip. However, with a price tag close to $1,500 per person, it’s worth considering whether the value justifies the cost, especially for travelers on a tight budget.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, photography lovers, and anyone interested in France’s coastal beauty and WWII history, looking for a private, tailored experience that balances guided commentary with free time.

Key Points

• Comfortable transport in a Mercedes E220 or minivan ensures a relaxed journey.
• All major entrance tickets and accommodation are included, saving time and money.
• The flexible itinerary allows you to ask questions, stop for photos, and explore at your own pace.
• The tour covers iconic sites like Mont Saint-Michel, Omaha Beach, and Honfleur, blending history, scenery, and culture.
• Walking tours at Etretat, Honfleur, and Rouen add an authentic, up-close feel.
• The experience is private, making it ideal for personalized attention and flexibility.

What to Expect from This Private Normandy & Mont Saint-Michel Tour

This 2-day adventure offers a well-rounded look at some of France’s most iconic sights, all with the convenience of private transport and accommodations included. The tour, operated by Clewel Travel, is designed to blend sightseeing, history, and leisure, making it suitable for travelers who prefer a more personal, curated experience.

While it doesn’t promise the intimacy of a small group, the private nature means you’ll have your guide’s undivided attention—plus the ability to shape the day according to your interests. The tour operates with a luxurious Mercedes E220 or a comfortable minivan, which makes the long drives—up to three hours between Paris and Normandy—much more pleasant.

The tour’s price includes most entrance tickets, hotel stay, and breakfast, easing the logistical burden. This means you won’t be scrambling for tickets or figuring out where to stay, and can focus on enjoying each stop.

However, it’s important to note that the price may be a consideration for budget travelers, and some reviews hint at occasional organizational hiccups. We’ll explore that further below.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See Day-by-Day

Day 1: From Paris to Normandy and Mont Saint-Michel

Your journey begins early at 7:30 am with a hotel pickup, setting off in a cozy, air-conditioned Mercedes. The first stop is Étretat, famed for its breathtaking chalk cliffs and natural arches. Arriving around 10:30 am, you’ll have about 90 minutes to walk along the cliffs, take photos, and soak in views that inspired Monet and countless artists.

Étretat’s cliffs are truly a sight—towering limestone structures that seem to rise straight out of the sea, with an air of untouched natural grandeur. You can stroll on the beach or climb for better vantage points, and enjoy the seaside ambiance with plenty of cafés serving local specialties like Moules/Frites. The experience here is largely about soaking in unspoiled coastal scenery.

Next, the tour heads to Honfleur, an artist’s haven with a picturesque port. Arriving around 12:45 pm, you’ll enjoy a guided walk through its charming streets, admiring historic buildings, art galleries, and the bustling harbor. Honfleur has roots dating back to 1027, once a crucial port in Normandy, and its architecture reflects centuries of maritime activity. The 1-hour walking tour offers a taste of its history and ambiance, with time for lunch or a coffee break.

By late afternoon, you’ll visit the Normandy American Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer. Arriving between 4 pm and 5:15 pm, this site is a sobering reminder of D-Day’s human cost, with nearly 9,400 fallen soldiers memorialized and the Wall of the Missing. The site offers a moving view of Omaha Beach and German defenses, along with a visitor center housing WWII exhibits.

Right nearby, the Overlord Museum adds depth with its collection of WWII artifacts, tanks, military vehicles, and personal belongings, offering a tangible connection to the battle. Reviewers describe it as a personal, emotionally resonant experience—one reviewer noted how it provided a “personal feeling about D-Day.”

The day wraps up with a visit to Omaha Beach Signal Monument, where you’ll learn about the size, scale, and sacrifice of the landings—an emotional highlight for many travelers.

Finally, around 8 pm, you’ll arrive at your hotel near Mont Saint-Michel, ready for an early start the next day.

Day 2: Mont Saint-Michel, Caen, and Rouen

Your second day kicks off early, with departure at 8 am towards Mont Saint-Michel. Arriving around 9 am, you’ll have about three hours to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site. Your guide will lead you through the narrow, winding streets of the medieval village, culminating at the Benedictine Abbey at the top of the island.

The entrance includes access to audio-guides, allowing you to learn at your own pace as you admire the panoramic views of the bay. Mont Saint-Michel’s architecture and setting make it one of France’s most visited sites, and several reviewers describe it as “magical,” with stunning scenery and history layered into every corner.

By early afternoon, the tour takes you to the Caen Memorial Museum, a comprehensive WWII exhibit located in the British Sector of Sword Beach. Here, you’ll learn about the Normandy invasion, with engaging films and exhibits that bring the history to life.

From Caen, you’ll drive to Rouen, the historic capital of Normandy. Arriving around 5:30 pm, you’ll enjoy a walking tour of this city of gothic cathedrals and medieval streets. Highlights include the famous Notre Dame Cathedral, painted by Monet, and the Old Market Square, where Joan of Arc was famously executed. The old city’s architecture and history are palpable, and the walk offers insights into Normandy’s medieval past.

By 7 pm, it’s back in the vehicle for the roughly 2-hour drive to Paris, arriving around 9 pm.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Flexibility and Personalization: Unlike standard group tours, this private option allows you to ask questions, stop for photos, or explore longer at places that catch your interest. Reviewers appreciated the ability to have the guide join them on Mont Saint-Michel, adding a personal touch to the visit.

All-Inclusive Convenience: With accommodations, breakfast, and most entrance tickets covered, you don’t have to worry about additional costs or logistics. This kind of package offers peace of mind, especially for those unfamiliar with the area or short on time to plan.

Comfortable Transport: Traveling in a Mercedes E220 or a spacious minivan ensures a smooth ride, which is especially appreciated during the long drives. The journey is part of the experience, with scenic views and a chance to relax between stops.

Rich Content and Authentic Experiences: The stops at historic sites like Omaha Beach and the Normandy Cemetery are thoughtfully chosen, providing both educational opportunities and emotional moments. Walking tours in Honfleur and Rouen add a local flavor, making these stops more than just photo ops.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

While the tour boasts many positives, a couple of points are worth noting. The price is on the higher side, which might be a barrier for some travelers. The cost includes accommodation, tickets, and private transport, but for those on a tight budget, it could be a stretch.

One review pointed out a service mix-up, where a traveler was taken on a different tour than booked. Although this was an isolated incident and was promptly resolved with a full refund, it highlights the importance of clear communication and confirming details beforehand.

Plus, the tour involves a fair amount of long-distance driving, which, despite the comfortable vehicle, might be tiring for some. If you prefer more time at each site or a slower pace, this itinerary might feel rushed.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This 2-day private tour is best suited for travelers seeking a comprehensive, hassle-free, and customizable experience of Normandy’s WWII sites, coastal beauty, and Mont Saint-Michel. It’s an excellent choice for history enthusiasts, photography buffs, and those who appreciate comfort and convenience.

Families or small groups who want a flexible itinerary with the benefits of private guiding will find this especially appealing. It’s also ideal for visitors who prefer to avoid the crowds or long lines, thanks to all tickets being included.

However, if you are traveling on a tight budget or prefer a more relaxed, slow-paced exploration, you might find the itinerary too packed or the price steep.

How long is the drive from Paris to Normandy and Mont Saint-Michel?
The trip from Paris to Étretat takes about 3 hours, with subsequent drives to Honfleur, Normandy sites, and Mont Saint-Michel, all within a manageable timeframe for a two-day tour.

Are entrance tickets to sites included?
Yes, most entrance tickets, including to Mont Saint-Michel Abbey, Caen Memorial, and Overlord Museum, are included, which simplifies planning and saves money.

Is accommodation provided?
Yes, the tour includes hotel accommodation for one night in a 3+/4 hotel near Mont Saint-Michel, along with breakfast.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, you’re encouraged to ask questions, stop for photos, or spend more time at sites, making it adaptable to your interests.

Is transportation comfortable?
Travel is in a Mercedes E220 or minivan, which offers a smooth, comfortable journey, especially important given the distance covered.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Highlights include Étretat’s chalk cliffs, Honfleur’s picturesque port, Normandy WWII sites (Omaha Beach, Normandy Cemetery, Overlord Museum), Mont Saint-Michel Abbey, and Rouen’s medieval streets.

How is the pacing of the tour?
It’s structured but allows for some flexibility. Expect a full, active schedule with some free time at key stops, like Étretat and Honfleur.

Who is this tour ideal for?
History enthusiasts, those seeking immersive experiences, small groups or families, and travelers who value comfort and personalized guidance.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but breakfast is provided at the hotel. You’ll have options for lunch and dinner during your stops.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a camera, weather-appropriate clothing (especially near the coast), and any personal essentials for a two-day trip.

This 2-day private tour offers a seamless blend of history, scenery, and cultural charm, all wrapped up in a flexible, guided package perfect for travelers who want a meaningful and hassle-free experience of Normandy and Mont Saint-Michel.