Normandia

About the destination: Paris, located on the river Seine, is the capital and biggest city in France. It's one of the most iconic cities in the world and is considered one of the most beautiful and romantic cities, so much so that it's been nicknamed the City of Love. Paris offers historical sights, monuments, a pleasant atmosphere, lovely cafés, parks and museums to satisfy any traveller. A large part of this City of Light, including the River Seine, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is home to some of the greatest old buildings in the world such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Sacre Coeur, the Arc de Triomphe, Palace of Versailles, the Moulin Rouge or the Hotel des Invalides. There's no end to the list of things you have to see in this city, but the Louvre, one of the finest museums in the world of art and culture, should not be missed. Paris remains hugely influential in the realms of art and design and is home to some of the most impressive modern buildings such as La Défense, the Centre Pompidou, the Arab World Institute or the Stade de France. Paris is a city of immense vitality and beauty and it's an amazing and fascinating destination. With its history and architectural heritage, Paris is the city everyone wants to see.

About the destination: Rouen is the capital of the French region of Upper Normandy and situated on the River Seine, approximately 90 minutes’ drive northwest from the centre of Paris. The city has a population of 110,000 and its metropolitan area includes some 520,000 inhabitants. It is where Joan of Arc was burnt at the stake, but the main reason for visiting is its incredible cathedral that inspired Monet to paint over 30 canvases. Rouen was the home of the author, Gustave Flaubert. The most important places to visit in Rouen are: Rouen Cathedral, a stunning building that dates back to the 4th Century and is a wonderful mixture of various architectural styles, the birthplace of writer Gustave Flaubert, which has been converted into a museum of his life and the Big Clock, located in the middle of the rue du Gros Horloge. Climb to the top for a beautiful view of the city.

About the destination: Caen is the capital of Lower Normandy and of Calvados département in northern France and has a population of 115,000. Caen is a university city and thus very lively. In summer, tourists flock to Normandy for Second World War remains and the Memorial for Peace. Caen is a modern city, four-fifths of which was demolished in 1944 and rebuilt in the 1950s and 1960s. However, some old buildings remain, especially churches. The most important places to visit in Caen are: the Memorial for peace, a modern museum focusing on Second World War and the Cold War, the Caen Castle, one of the largest medieval castles in Europe and the Abbaye aux Hommes and the Abbaye aux Dames, a wonderful example of Romanesque architecture. Caen is close enough to the D-Day sites to act as a base from which to explore the D-Day sites.

About the destination: Tucked away on the scenic Normandy coast, Courseulles-sur-Mer is a charming seaside town where history, culture, and natural beauty come together. With its wide sandy beaches and lively harbour, it’s an ideal spot for travellers looking for a peaceful break with real historical depth. The town is especially significant as one of the key D-Day landing sites, and the Juno Beach Centre offers a powerful and moving tribute to the Canadian forces who came ashore here in 1944. Beyond its historic sites, Courseulles-sur-Mer draws visitors to its busy marina, where fishing boats and yachts set a picturesque scene. Fresh seafood takes centre stage, with local markets and waterfront restaurants serving the day’s catch—make sure to try the oysters, a regional speciality. You can stroll along the seafront promenade, breathe in the fresh sea air, or hire a bike and head out into the surrounding countryside, dotted with traditional Normandy houses. There’s plenty for families too, from sailing and building sandcastles on the beach to a round of mini-golf or a spin on the summer carousel. Culture-lovers are well catered for, with regular events and markets in the town, while nearby villages and coastal walking routes make for memorable day trips. Whether you’re drawn by history, nature, or simply the appeal of genuine French charm, Courseulles-sur-Mer offers a delightful and rewarding escape.

About the destination: Tucked away in the heart of Normandy, Sainte-Mère-Église is a charming French village best known for the crucial part it played in the D-Day landings during the Second World War. This postcard-perfect town, surrounded by lush countryside, was the first village to be liberated by Allied paratroopers on 6 June 1944. Today, Sainte-Mère-Église welcomes visitors keen to delve into its rich history and experience the warmth of Norman hospitality. A highlight is the Airborne Museum, just a short stroll from the town’s iconic church. Here, interactive displays and original artefacts vividly recreate the events of D-Day and the bravery of the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions. Be sure to visit the famous church itself, where a mannequin of paratrooper John Steele hangs from the steeple – a tribute to the real soldier who was left dangling from the spire during the night of the invasion. As you wander through the village, you’ll come across cosy little shops, local cafés and lively markets selling delicious Normandy cheeses, cider and pastries. Sainte-Mère-Église also makes an ideal base for exploring the broader Cotentin Peninsula, with its peaceful beaches, historic sites and scenic cycling routes. Whether you’re a history buff or simply after a quiet break, Sainte-Mère-Église offers a memorable mix of heritage, culture and charm.

About the destination: Set in the heart of Normandy, Lessay is a charming French town known for its rich history, scenic countryside, and warm welcome. Whether you’re after a quiet break or a taste of genuine rural France, Lessay offers a relaxed atmosphere that beautifully blends tradition and calm. A highlight of Lessay is the Abbey of Sainte-Trinité, an impressive Romanesque masterpiece dating back to the 11th century. Wander through its peaceful cloisters and admire the striking architecture that has stood the test of time. The abbey also hosts concerts and cultural events throughout the year, giving you a special chance to experience local heritage. Lessay is perhaps best known for its annual fair, “La Foire Sainte-Croix”, one of the oldest and largest fairs in France. Held each September, it attracts thousands of visitors with its lively market stalls, livestock shows, and festive atmosphere. Nature lovers will enjoy the nearby countryside, which offers beautiful walking and cycling routes, ideal for discovering Normandy’s green landscapes. After a day of exploring, unwind in one of Lessay’s snug cafés or traditional restaurants, where you can sample regional favourites such as Camembert cheese and fresh seafood. Whether you’re drawn by history, culture, or simply the chance to relax in a lovely setting, Lessay offers a memorable and authentic Normandy escape.

About the destination: Avranches, nestled in the picturesque region of Normandy in France, is a charming town full of history, culture and natural beauty. Best known for its stunning views of the iconic Mont‑Saint‑Michel, just a short drive away, it enchants visitors with its cobbled streets, historic landmarks and the warm welcome of its residents. Start your visit at the Scriptorial d’Avranches, a fascinating museum dedicated to the history of the Mont‑Saint‑Michel manuscripts. This modern space takes you on a journey through time, with ancient texts and artefacts that bring the region’s cultural heritage to life. Interactive displays make it an engaging stop for both history lovers and the simply curious, offering insight into the medieval world and monastic life at Mont‑Saint‑Michel. Stroll through the Jardin des Plantes, a peaceful botanical garden set among lush greenery. From its elevated position, you’ll enjoy sweeping views over the surrounding countryside and, on clear days, the distant outline of Mont‑Saint‑Michel. It’s an ideal place for a gentle walk or a quiet picnic, where you can soak up the calm atmosphere and admire a wide variety of plants. No trip to Avranches would be complete without browsing its lively local markets and tasting the region’s food specialities. Normandy is famous for its cheeses, cider and fresh seafood, and Avranches is no exception. Sit down in a local bistro to savour traditional dishes made with excellent local produce. Whether you’re passionate about history, drawn to nature or simply love good food, Avranches offers a rewarding escape into the heart of Normandy’s rich tapestry.

About the destination: Le Mont-Saint-Michel is an island commune in Normandy, France. It's situated about one kilometre (0.6 miles) off the country's northwestern coast, at the mouth of the Couesnon River near Avranches and is 100 hectares (247 acres) in size. The island has held strategic fortifications since ancient times and since the 8th century AD has been the seat of the monastery from which it gets its name. The structural composition of the town exemplifies the feudal society that built it: on top, God, the abbey and monastery; below, the great halls; then shops and housing; and at the bottom, outside the walls, houses for fishermen and farmers. The commune's position — on an island just 600 metres from land — made it accessible at low tide to the many pilgrims to its abbey, but defensible as an incoming tide stranded, drove off, or drowned potential attackers. The Mont remained unconquered during the Hundred Years' War; a small garrison fended off a full attack by the English in 1433. The reverse benefits of its natural defence were not lost on Louis XI, who turned the Mont into a prison. Thereafter the abbey began to be used more regularly as a jail during the Ancien Régime. One of France's most recognisable landmarks, visited by more than 3 million people each year, Mont Saint-Michel and its bay are on the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites. Over 60 buildings within the commune are protected in France as historical monuments.

About the destination: Paris, located on the river Seine, is the capital and biggest city in France. It's one of the most iconic cities in the world and is considered one of the most beautiful and romantic cities, so much so that it's been nicknamed the City of Love. Paris offers historical sights, monuments, a pleasant atmosphere, lovely cafés, parks and museums to satisfy any traveller. A large part of this City of Light, including the River Seine, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is home to some of the greatest old buildings in the world such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Sacre Coeur, the Arc de Triomphe, Palace of Versailles, the Moulin Rouge or the Hotel des Invalides. There's no end to the list of things you have to see in this city, but the Louvre, one of the finest museums in the world of art and culture, should not be missed. Paris remains hugely influential in the realms of art and design and is home to some of the most impressive modern buildings such as La Défense, the Centre Pompidou, the Arab World Institute or the Stade de France. Paris is a city of immense vitality and beauty and it's an amazing and fascinating destination. With its history and architectural heritage, Paris is the city everyone wants to see.