Normandy & Mont St-Michel – 2 Days In The French Countryside

Trade the buzzing energy of Paris for the tranquil charm of Normandy and Brittany, journeying through landscapes that have inspired artists and historians alike. This two-day adventure includes stops at some of France's most storied sites: the medieval city of Rouen, with its rich history and Gothic architecture; the artistic haven of Honfleur; and the unique coastal town of Saint Malo. At the pinnacle, visit Mont Saint-Michel, an awe-inspiring island abbey rising above the sea, treasured by pilgrims and travelers for centuries.

The journey begins in Rouen, the capital of Normandy and once one of Europe's grandest cities. Walking its streets feels like stepping into history, with architectural gems like the intricate Notre Dame Cathedral, the Abbey of St. Ouen, and the historic Palais de Justice. The Church of Saint Joan of Arc stands as a tribute to the city's medieval past, embodying centuries of Rouen's remarkable history

Highlights of the Normandy & Mont St-Michel Tour

At Omaha Beach visit the American Cemetery, a solemn place set high above the English Channel, honoring those who served during World War II. This iconic cliffside spot provides both historical perspective and sweeping ocean views.

The journey moves into Brittany with a visit to Saint Malo, a stunning port city known for its stone ramparts and striking views. Then, the spectacular Mont Saint-Michel appears, rising from the sea like something out of legend. This island abbey has been one of Europe's great pilgrimage destinations, combining religious heritage with natural beauty.

You also wander through Saint Malo, the port city of Brittany, considered to be one of the most attractive ports in France. Then, like a mirage rising from the sea, you will explore one of the top pilgrimage sites in all Christendom, the island of Mont Saint-Michel.

Day One

Explore the medieval heart of Rouen, admiring highlights like the grand Gothic Notre Dame Cathedral and the intricate half-timbered buildings lining the cobbled streets. Cross the impressive Normandy cable bridge en route to Honfleur, and later, experience the solemn beauty of the American Cemetery overlooking Omaha Beach.

Day Two

Leave Normandy behind for Brittany's Saint Malo, a historic port city filled with charm. After lunch, continue to Mont Saint-Michel, where you'll have a guided tour followed by free time to wander its quaint streets and enjoy a touch of shopping. Return to Paris by evening, with a wealth of memories from an unforgettable journey.

What's Included

Travel in style in a luxury, air-conditioned coach. The tour includes entrance fees, expert-guided tours, accommodations in comfortable 3-star hotels, and selected meals.

2-Day Normandy & Mont St-Michel Highlights

Rouen

Dazzling Gothic buildings, a busy port, and a medieval cathedral with the tallest bell tower in France reminds us of its historical importance on the Seine River. Rouen's history stretches back to the Gauls and its importance continued on through the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. Rouen is also famous for being the city where, in 1431, Joan of Arc was burned at the stake.

• Rouen Tourism Website…

Honfleur

Here's where artists Gustave Courbet, Eugène Boudin, and Claude Monet stepped out of the studio and into the light to create the École de Honfleur.

Another Honfleur landmark is the Church of Saint Catherine. Built by boat builders without an architect, the church of Saint Catherine, if flipped over, would float!

• Honfleur Tourism Website…

Saint Malo & Mont Saint-Michel

Saint Malo's cobbled streets are brimming with quaint hotels, restaurants, bars and shops. Saint Malo is famous for the highest concentration of seafood restaurants in all of Europe!

Mont Saint-Michel floats like a mirage on the horizon. Although the town of of Mont Saint-Michel has only 30 residents it receives almost two million visitors per year. Since the 6th-century, monks have lived in solitary existence on the isolated island.

The American Cemetery of Saint-Laurent

On June 8, 1944, just days after the D-Day invasion, the U.S. Army buried their dead soldiers in a cemetery near to the beaches.

The American cemetery covers an area of 172 acres and holds the graves of nearly 10,000 Allied soldiers. On the east side of the memorial is the Wall of the Missing. Etched into stone are 1,557 names with rosettes to mark those since recovered and identified.