Bayeux (France) | London (England) | Paris (France) | Portsmouth
The following are Signature: The Legacy Of Wwii In London & Normandy tour dates available from G Adventures. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
Welcome to London. Your expedition begins upon arrival to the Heathrow Airport, where you will be met and transferred to your hotel. In the evening, meet your National Geographic Expedition Leader and be immediately immersed in wartime history at the Churchill War Rooms, a fortified bunker deep underneath Whitehall from which Winston Churchill directed the British war effort. Wander through the historic rooms and the adjacent Churchill Museum, examining maps and items from Churchill's life. Your tour is guided by a former IWM Operations Director, providing deep context to the war. Continue with a welcome reception and dinner inside one of the museum's unique spaces.
You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
Your opportunity to meet your Expedition Leader and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group. There will be an included group welcome dinner after the meeting.
Enjoy an exclusive evening at the Churchill War Rooms, featuring a private tour and lecture led by a former director or military historian within the underground nerve center of Britain's wartime government. The experience concludes with a sophisticated 1940s-themed dinner in the historic Harmsworth Room, complete with English sparkling wine, period memorabilia, and a curated three-course menu.
Set out on a powerful walking tour curated and led by professional guides previously affected by homelessness. This experience provides intimate, human insight into the resilience and challenges of London life. Next, board your coach for a panoramic tour of London's WWII highlights, viewing Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey. Visit inside St Paul's Cathedral, a symbol of London's defiance during the Blitz. After free time for lunch near Borough Market, explore the decks of the HMS Belfast, a crucial survivor of the Imperial War Museum fleet, gaining firsthand insight into naval warfare. Enjoy a free evening to explore London on your own.
Explore world-famous landmarks like Westminster Bridge while learning about the trailblazing women who shaped British history, and hearing a powerful firsthand account of homelessness that challenges how we think about the city's public spaces.
Enjoy a curated journey through the heart of the capital, passing luxury icons like Harrods before pausing for photos at legendary landmarks including Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and Trafalgar Square. The experience culminates with a grand visit to Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of His Majesty the King.
Step inside this world-famous landmark to admire the stunning architecture and grand interior of Sir Christopher Wren's masterpiece.
Join your Expedition Leader on a walk to Borough Market.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, this tour explores the historic decks and specialized compartments of HMS Belfast. You will learn about the ship's significant naval history and see how the crew lived and worked during its years of active service.
After a day of exploring on foot, enjoy a relaxed evening at your own pace to experience London's world-class dining or the vibrant energy of the West End. Whether you choose a quiet riverside stroll or a cozy corner in a historic pub, the night is yours to soak in the city's charm.
Depart London for the countryside and be immersed in a world of intrigue and espionage at Bletchley Park. Discover the untold story behind the Enigma code breakers, who successfully deciphered the encryption used by German forces - a crucial insight into the pivot of the war. Lunch is at your leisure at the Canteen. Afterwards, travel to Portsmouth to visit the D-Day Story Museum. Your experience includes a private discussion with the museum curator, gaining unparalleled, personal insight into the invasion history and artifacts before touring the exhibits.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Step back in time with a local expert as you tour the once-secret rooms where codebreakers worked to shorten the Second World War. You will explore the historic huts and blocks where the world's first computers were born and see an original Enigma machine up close.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Gain a unique perspective on the Normandy landings with a private discussion with the museum curator, followed by a guided tour of the museum. This experience combines expert historical context to accompany the fascinating artifacts and exhibits.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Today, you cross the English Channel by ferry to Caen, tracing the route of the invasion forces. Your exploration of Normandy begins at the Pegasus Memorial Bridge, dedicated to the 6th British Airborne Division, who executed the famous coup de main raid. Walk the poignant sands of Sword Beach, one of the five critical landing points for the Allied invasion, reflecting on the scale of the operation and the thousands of soldiers who arrived here. You'll then transfer to your hotel in Bayeux, a town steeped in history.
Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
Visit the iconic Pegasus Bridge for a photo opportunity at the very location where the Allied liberation of France began. It is a perfect moment to capture images of this world-famous landmark and its dedicated war memorials.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Walk the historic length of Sword Beach under the guidance of your expedition leader, who will bring the events of June 6th to life.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Continue your exploration of Normandy and WWII history with the airborne assault. You'll visit the village of Sainte-Mere-Eglise, where paratroopers dropped amid gunfire on the night of June 5th. See the church steeple where one paratrooper was famously entangled. Continue to Utah Beach, one of the American landing sites, and visit its museum. Your tour traces the path of resilience: Visit Sainte-Marie-du-Mont, one of the first liberated villages, and see the memorial for Easy Company. Head to La Fiere Bridge, site of an important battle led by the 82nd Airborne Division. Afterwards, venture into the field where Easy Company Commander Thomas Meehan and his crew perished when their 47 crashed under enemy fire - a powerful connection to the history that was dramatically recounted in Stephen E. Ambrose's book Band of Brothers.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Join your Expedition Leader for a walk through Sainte-Mere-Eglise, the first French town liberated by American paratroopers during the D-Day landings.
Enjoy a self-guided visit to the Airborne Museum, exploring the history of the American paratroopers through an extensive collection of WWII artifacts. This visit offers the opportunity to see original gliders and transport planes used during the liberation of Sainte-Mere-Eglise.
Stop at the historic La Fiere Bridge, a critical site where paratroopers of the 82nd Airborne fought a legendary three-day battle to secure the Merderet River crossing. The site features the "Iron Mike" statue and offers a clear view of the flooded marshes that defined this pivotal D-Day objective.
Join an expert expedition leader for an exploration of Utah Beach and its historic landmarks. Gain insight into the D-Day landings as your leader breaks down key events that took place across this storied coastline.
Take a photo stop at the Major Richard Winters Leadership Memorial, a 12-foot bronze statue of the "Band of Brothers" commander charging toward Brecourt Manor. This monument serves as a powerful tribute to the courage and leadership of all junior officers who spearheaded the D-Day landings.
Return to your hotel and enjoy a free evening in Bayeux to fill however you wish.
The day begins by boarding US Army trucks for the drive to the German artillery battery at Longues-sur-Mer. Then, visit the dramatic Pointe du Hoc, where US Rangers used hooks and ropes to scale 30-metre-high (100ft) cliffs - walk along pathways still cratered by mortar blasts, viewing the concrete bunkers. Wander the poignant sands of Omaha Beach, site of the bloodiest fighting during the invasion. A guide uses wartime pictures to bring the operation to life. You'll pause for a minute of reflection on the sand. Conclude your tour at the serene American Military Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer, taking in the moving sight of row upon row of small white grave markers.
Board authentic, period-correct US Army trucks for a scenic drive to the historic coastal battery at Longues-sur-Mer.
Join your Expedition Leader for a walk to the Bunker du Poste de Direction de Tir, where you will explore the strategic remnants of coastal defense history. This excursion includes the rare opportunity to go inside the bunker's reinforced chambers to examine its original layout and learn about its role in maritime surveillance.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Join your Expedition Leader for a guided walk along the rugged cliffs of Pointe du Hoc to view the historic bunkers and craters left by the daring Ranger assault. This excursion offers a powerful perspective on the battlefield's dramatic terrain and the strategic fortifications that once overlooked the English Channel.
Walk through the "Dog Red" and "Easy Red" sectors of Omaha Beach on a guided journey that traces the intense struggle for the Vierville Draw and the German fortifications of the Atlantic Wall. This commemorative experience incorporates historical artifacts and archival imagery, concluding with a poignant tribute as a remembrance cross is placed in the sand followed by a moment of silence.
Pay your respects at the Normandy American Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer, a hallowed site overlooking the English Channel where 9,387 white marble headstones stand in silent tribute to the fallen. Stroll through the impeccably maintained grounds, pausing at the memorial colonnade and the reflecting pool to honor the immense sacrifice made on the nearby shores of Omaha Beach.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Visit the Bayeux War Cemetery, the largest British military cemetery of World War II in France, to pay your respects at this beautifully maintained memorial to the Commonwealth forces.
Depart Bayeux in the morning bound for the village of Giverny. Visit the sanctuary of artist Claude Monet, restored in the late 1970s, where the pink rendered house and the flower and water gardens are perfectly preserved, immersing visitors in the artist and gardener's world. Afterwards, continue to Paris. Join your National Geographic Expedition Leader for an optional discovery walk, providing an initial orientation of the French capital before enjoying the rest of the day at leisure.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Stroll to the historic home of Claude Monet for a delightful afternoon in Giverny, beginning with a leisurely lunch just steps from the artist's front gate. Following your meal, enjoy a self-guided exploration of the vibrant house and its world-famous gardens, including the tranquil Water Garden where you can cross the iconic Japanese bridge and see the lilies that inspired Monet's greatest masterpieces.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Settle in however you wish this evening; perhaps join your Expedition Leader on a walk to the Louvre.
Discover another side of Paris on a guided journey into a 'city within a city', exploring historic, glass-roofed passageways filled with 19th-century charm. A local guide highlights this captivating, intimate glimpse into Parisian life. Next, travel to the upscale Marche du President Wilson, a bustling Saturday market known for fresh seafood, pastries, and cheese. Enjoy a walking exploration of the market, followed by free time for lunch on your own near the Eiffel Tower area. The day concludes with a special farewell dinner, celebrating the end of your journey from resistance to liberation.
Join a local guide to explore the enchanting 19th-century "covered passages" of Paris, beginning with the elegant mosaics of Galerie Vivienne and the bustling Passage Choiseul. Your walk continues through the historic Passage des Panoramas and Passage Jouffroy, concluding at Passage Verdeau to discover a hidden world of antique shops, boutiques, and glass-roofed charm.
Board a private coach for a panoramic drive past iconic landmarks like the Arc de Triomphe and Notre Dame on your way to the vibrant Marche President Wilson. Upon arrival, join your Expedition Leader for a guided exploration of one of Paris's premier open-air markets, where you'll have free time to sample local delicacies and enjoy lunch on your own.
Spend the afternoon however you wish. Perhaps join your Expedition Leader on a walk through the Eiffel Tower area or explore some of the many cafes, museums, or iconic sites.
Visit the most famous landmark in France, the Eiffel Tower. Opt to climb the stairs or take an elevator to the top for a stunning view over the city. Hang out at dusk and watch the tower light up.
Your expedition concludes today. Transfers are provided to the airport at any time during the day.
You will be met at your hotel and transferred to the airport at the end of your adventure.
Select a destination below to to view the hotel(s) included by G Adventures in their Signature: The Legacy Of Wwii In London & Normandy tour:
6 Pl. du Québec
Bayeux, France-14400
22-28 Broadway
London, United Kingdom-SW1H 0BH
Botley Rd, West End
London, United Kingdom-SO30 3XH
4 Boulevard Raspail
Paris, France-75007
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Signature: The Legacy Of Wwii In London & Normandy tour:
Max 22.
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group, LondonSignature Moment: Churchill War Rooms, LondonSignature Moment: D-Day Museum.Visit and Discussion with the Curator, Portsmouth. Arrival and Departure Transfers. Westminster Area Walking Tour. London Coach City Tour. St. Paul's Cathedral Entrance. Expedition Leader Walk to Borough Market. HMS Belfast Tour. Bletchley Park Guided Tour with Enigma Machine. Pegasus Bridge Visit. Expedition Leader Led Walk of Sword Beach. Expedition Leader-Led Walk of Sainte-Mere-Eglise. Self Guided Airbon Museum Visit. La Fiere Bridge Photo Stop. Tour of Utah Beach. Major Richard Winters Memorial Photo Stop. US Army Truck Transfer. Bunker du Poste de Direction de Tir Tour. Omaha Beach Excursion. American Military Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer Visit. onet House Visit. Guided Tour of Paris' Passageways. Sightseeing Coach Trip to President Wilson Market. Eiffel Tower Visit. Engaging Discussions with the National Geographic Expert Throughout. Porterage at hotels and when getting on and off of vehicles. Tips are included for all activities, meals and porterage, except for your Expedition Leader and Expert. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Enjoy a welcome reception and dinner at the historic Churchill War Rooms bunker beneath Whitehall, Immerse yourself in the world of wartime intrigue discovering the story behind the Enigma code breakers, Participate in a meaningful walking tour of London curated and led by people affected by homelessness, Walk the poignant sands of Omaha Beach reflecting on the bloodiest fighting of the D-Day invasion, Walk along the cratered cliffs where US Rangers scaled heights to destroy German gun positions during D-Day, Gain personal insight into the invasion history during a private discussion with the D-Day Story Museum curator.
Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Hotels (8 nts).
8 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners
National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert throughout.
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our National Geographic Expedition Leader throughout. The aim of the Expedition Leaders is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds.
No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour.However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your National Geographic Signature Specialist or booking agent for further details.In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Private vehicle, ferry, private army trucks, walking.
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a National Geographic Signature tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Documents:o Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)o Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)o Passport (required) (With photocopies)o Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)o Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)Essentials:o Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)o Binoculars (optional)o Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)o Cash, credit and debit cardso Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)o Ear plugso First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)o Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)o Fleece top/sweatero Footwearo Hato Headphones (Noice-cancelling recommended)o Locks for bagso Long pants/jeanso Moneybelto Outlet adaptero Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)o Reusable water bottleo Shirts/t-shirtso Sleepwearo Small travel towelo Sunglasseso Swimwearo Watch and alarm clocko Waterproof backpack covero Windproof rain jacketHealth & Safety:o Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)o Hand sanitizero Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)Smart Dress:o Smart outfit (For evenings out)Warm Weather:o Sandals/flip-flopso Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)o Sturdy water shoes/sandalso Sun hat/bandanao Swimwear
Luxury: Five-star hospitality and meticulously curated inclusions, featuring iconic properties, fine dining, and private door-to-door service.