Normandy Private Tour: A Perfect Blend of Art and History
Highlights of the Trip
✅ Impressionist Pilgrimage: Monet's Garden, Etretat Elephant Rock, Honfleur Old Port
✅ Medieval Wonders: Mont Saint-Michel "Pyramid of the Sea," Rouen Cathedral
✅ WWII History: Omaha Beach, American Cemetery, Caen Memorial
✅ Private Car Tour: Chinese-speaking guide + customized itinerary, avoid crowds and capture stunning photos!
Day 1: Impressionist Art Journey
Route: Paris → Giverny (Monet's Garden) → Rouen Cathedral → Honfleur Port
Monet's Garden 🌸
Japanese-style water lily pond, wisteria-covered walkway, and candy-colored cottages—every snapshot feels like a painting. Arrive before 9 AM to avoid the crowds!
Rouen Cathedral ⛪️
Monet painted over 30 versions of this Gothic cathedral! Don't miss the rose window with its play of light and shadow, and the Butter Tower (built using butter tax funds).
Honfleur Old Port 🎨
16th-century colorful wooden houses reflected in the harbor. Walk along the boardwalk that inspired "Impression, Sunrise" for the best photos—sunset lighting is the most flattering.
Day 2: Cliffside Coastlines and Saintly Marvels
Route: Etretat Elephant Rock → Mont Saint-Michel → Overnight near Mont Saint-Michel
Etretat Elephant Rock 🐘
A signature Normandy landmark! Three elephant-shaped rock formations (small, medium, large) rise like sculptures from the sea. Monet created dozens of paintings here. Climb to the top of Alabaster Cliff for panoramic views!
Mont Saint-Michel 🌅
A UNESCO World Heritage "Island Abbey," breathtaking during high tide when it becomes a true island. Visit at sunset to see the bay bathed in red hues, and capture "mirror of the sky" reflections during low tide.
Day 3: War History and French Countryside
Route: Omaha Beach → American Cemetery → Return to Paris
Omaha Beach 🕊️
The bloodiest battlefield of the Normandy landings. The bronze sculpture "Les Braves" is deeply moving. Walk along the beach to feel the weight of history.
American Cemetery ⚓️
9,000 white crosses arranged in perfect rows. The entrance wall is inscribed with the names of the missing, creating a solemn and emotional atmosphere.
🚗 Return: Head back to Paris in the evening. Your guide will thoughtfully arrange rest stops and recommend buying Normandy apple tarts and cheese!
Private Car Tour Tips
Vehicle Options: Choose a 5-seater (2-3 people + luggage) or a 9-seater (family/friends group). Mercedes vans are highly recommended for comfort.
Chinese-speaking Guide: Flexible itinerary adjustments and recommendations for hidden photo spots!
🍤 Food Recommendations:
🦪 Normandy Seafood Platter: Oysters, sweet shrimp, mussels, paired with white wine!
🍖 Thyme-Seared Lamb Chops: Locally sourced lamb, tender and juicy
🍷 Cider (Cidre): Slightly sweet sparkling wine, perfect with crepes!
📸 Best Photo Spots:
Japanese Bridge in Monet's Garden (light-colored dresses for dreamy shots)
Top of Etretat Cliff (use a wide-angle lens for full views)
Mont Saint-Michel Nightscape (tripod for long exposure)