9 Ways to See Paris and Normandy at All Different Price Points

Written By Krista Nannery

Etretat, Normandy, France

Paris dazzles with timeless romance, but just a few hours away lie the windswept shores of Normandy, where history was written on June 6, 1944. Visiting the D-Day beaches isn’t just another sightseeing stop — it’s an emotional journey. Whether you prefer a luxury river cruise, a fully guided land tour, or a budget-friendly coach experience, there’s a way to explore both Paris and Normandy that fits your style and your wallet.

Here are seven different ways to see Paris and Normandy, ranked from the most luxurious to the most affordable. Ready to book this milestone trip? Book a complimentary vacation consultation here.

The American Cemetery in Normandy, France

Abercrombie & Kent – Journey Through Time: Paris and Normandy

Cost: From $14,995 per person for the 8-day tailor-made itinerary
Link: Journey Through Time, Paris & Normandy

Overview: A&K’s hallmark luxury is evident from the first line: this curated journey delivers Parisian splendor and Normandy's solemn history in equal measure. Highlights include an after-dark ride in a classic Citroën to the Louvre and Eiffel Tower, a private tour of Versailles’ Hall of Mirrors, Monet’s gardens in Giverny, D-Day sites like Omaha Beach and the U.S. Military Cemetery, Mont-Saint-Michel, and stays in exquisite French hotels—from the heart of Paris to Normandy’s countryside

Why it makes the list: It’s truly the pinnacle of bespoke storytelling, revealing France’s past and present through intimate, richly layered experiences—crafted for travelers who demand elegance, depth, and personalization in their journey.

Arromanches-les-Bains, Normandy France

Tauck – Luxury River & Land Journeys

Cost: Up to $10,290 per person
Link: Tauck Seine River Cruise

Tauck sits at the very top of the price ladder, but with good reason. Their Seine itineraries feature exclusive experiences you simply won’t get elsewhere: private chateau receptions, early entry to Versailles, expert WWII historians guiding you along Omaha Beach. Whether you choose the river cruise or the 13-day land itinerary through Normandy, Brittany, and the Loire, Tauck blends luxury with meaning.

Why it makes the list: If you want the most seamless, exclusive, and deeply curated way to stand on the sands of Omaha Beach, this is it.

Smithsonian Journeys with AmaWaterways

Cost: From $5,049 per person
Link: Smithsonian Journeys Along the Seine

Pair the comfort of AmaWaterways with the scholarly touch of Smithsonian experts. These river cruises emphasize history and culture at every stop, whether you’re visiting Monet’s gardens at Giverny or exploring the poignant cemeteries of Normandy. Think of it as a floating classroom, but with wine tastings and French cuisine at every meal.

Why it makes the list: Ideal for lifelong learners who want luxury plus deep cultural storytelling. AmaWaterways is my favorite European river cruise line.

Collette – France Magnifique (Versailles to Paris)

Cost: From $4,599 per person for 2026 departures
Link: France Magnifique

Why it makes the list: A compelling escorted land tour weaving through Versailles, Giverny, Omaha Beach, Bayeux, Mont-Saint-Michel, Loire Valley châteaux, and more. Comfortable yet immersive, with thoughtful pacing and rich narrative via expert guides.

Insight Vacations – Normandy, Brittany & the Loire Valley

Cost: Starting at $3,371 per person
Link: Insight Vacations Normandy, Brittany & the Loire

This 8-day escorted land tour travels from Paris through Normandy, Mont-Saint-Michel, and the Loire Valley. Expect comfortable hotels, luxury coaches, and a balance of guided touring and free time. While not as exclusive as Tauck, Insight does a fantastic job curating cultural experiences and local dining.

Why it makes the list: A polished land-based tour with a good mix of history, culture, and value.

Viking River Cruises – Paris & the Heart of Normandy

Cost: From $2,799 per person
Link: Viking Paris & the Heart of Normandy

Viking is a household name for adults-only river cruises — last year, they spent $2.8 billion on advertising, which explains why everyone knows their name. Their 8-day Paris to Normandy sailings deliver strong value: guided tours are included at every stop, and the ships are sleek but not fussy. You’ll visit Rouen, Vernon, and the D-Day beaches before looping back to Paris.

Why it makes the list: Viking hits the sweet spot between quality and cost, with reliable service and guided touring built in. Just understand that the cabins are the smallest on the market and you’ll be drinking California wine even when you’re in France.

Trafalgar – Treasures of France Including Normandy

Cost: Roughly $2,543 per person
Link: Trafalgar Treasures of France

This Trafalgar itinerary delivers the highlights of Normandy, the Loire Valley, and Paris in a guided coach format. Expect well-planned logistics, comfortable hotels, and local specialists bringing history to life.

Why it makes the list: A tried-and-true coach tour option that blends ease, affordability, and cultural storytelling.

G Adventures – Paris & Normandy Highlights

Cost: Starting from $2,519 per person
Link: G Adventures Paris & Normandy Highlights

For small-group, culturally immersive travel, G Adventures is a strong choice. Their itineraries take you beyond the “checklist” sights, with visits to Giverny, Bayeux, Mont-Saint-Michel, and of course the D-Day landing sites. The group sizes are smaller, and the vibe is active and curious rather than luxurious.

Why it makes the list: Perfect for travelers who want history and culture in a more intimate, adventurous setting. Just get ready for more transportation time and lower quality hotels.

Cosmos – Paris, Normandy & the Loire

Cost: Starting under $1,829 per person
Link: Cosmos Paris, Normandy & the Loire

Cosmos is the most budget-friendly way to combine Paris and Normandy in one trip. Hotels and transportation are included, and while it’s not luxury, it’s efficient and affordable. You’ll still see the key sites — from the D-Day beaches to Loire Valley castles — just with fewer frills.

Why it makes the list: The best value for travelers who want to experience the history and beauty of Normandy without a luxury price tag.

Final Thoughts

From ultra-luxury Tauck river cruises to Cosmos value tours, there’s a way for every traveler to stand on the beaches of Normandy and experience Parisian charm along the way. The real question is: what kind of experience speaks to you — exclusive and pampered, small-group immersive, or practical and budget-savvy?

Whichever path you choose, one thing is certain: Normandy’s history will stay with you long after you return home.

About Krista

I’m a Virtuoso travel advisor based in West Palm Beach, Florida. I attended the University of Notre Dame for undergrad, and have my MBA from the University of Chicago. Prior to moving to Florida to take care of my elderly mom with Parkinson’s Disease, I spent over 11 years living and working in London, England. My background and 20 year career in the investment management industry have taken me all over the world. To date, I’ve been to 78 countries. Now I bring the joy of travel to others as a Virtuoso travel advisor. I offer a 30 minute complimentary vacation consultation to anyone looking to plan their next trip.

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Krista Nannery
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