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Adventure Tours   >   Europe Adventure Tours   >  Signature: The Legacy of WWII in London & Normandy

Signature: The Legacy of WWII in London & Normandy Adventure Tour

Europe

  • France
  • United Kingdom

Trace the dramatic arc of WWII from London's secret bunkers to the liberation of Paris. Enjoy a private dinner in the Churchill War Rooms, uncover Enigma secrets at Bletchley Park, and walk the hallowed sands of D-Day. This journey connects you to stories of strategy and sacrifice, ending with the enduring charm of the French capital.

Details

Prices from: €8499.00

Duration: 9 Days

Merchandising: New Trips

Trip Type: Small Group

Physical Grading: 2 - Light

Service Level: Luxury

Travel Style: National Geographic Signature

Call Us: 01 2311889
Day 1 London

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.

Day 2 London

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.

Day 3 London/Portsmouth

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.

Day 4 Portsmouth/Bayeux

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.

Day 5 Bayeux

Continue your exploration of Normandy and WWII history with the airborne assault. You'll visit the village of Sainte-Mère-Église, 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 Fière 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.

Day 6 Bayeux

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.

Day 7 Bayeux/Paris

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.

Day 8 Paris

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 Marché du Président 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.

Day 9 Paris

Your expedition concludes today. Transfers are provided to the airport at any time during the day.


What's Included  

Your G for Good Moment: Westminster Area Walking Tour, London
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group, London
Signature Moment: Churchill War Rooms, London
Signature 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-Mère-Église. Self Guided Airbon Museum Visit. La Fière 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 Président 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. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.


Are there any health considerations I should know before travelling?  

Please note that health requirements and recommended inoculations vary by destination. To ensure your well-being, it is your responsibility to consult with a specialized travel physician for up-to-date medical guidance well before departure.

We highly recommend carrying a personal first aid kit, hand sanitizer, and any essential prescription medications. Because our itineraries frequently trace paths through remote regions far from advanced medical facilities, legal regulations prohibit our National Geographic Expedition Leaders from administering any medication, including standard over-the-counter pain relievers. While local pharmacies along our route may stock familiar remedies, they are often produced under regional names, so we advise bringing the generic chemical name of any critical prescription. Before finalising your plans, please carefully review the itinerary and physical requirements to ensure your personal fitness aligns with our style of exploration. To safeguard the well-being of the group, we reserve the right to excuse any traveller from all or part of an itinerary if, in the professional judgment of our Expedition Leader, continuing would pose an undue risk to themselves or their fellow travellers.


What rules should I know before joining this trip?  

Our philosophy of travel is rooted in deep respect for the people, cultures, and lands we encounter. To ensure the safety of our travellers, staff, and the communities that welcome us, the possession or use of illegal drugs is strictly prohibited on all departures. While certain substances may be woven into local traditions in some regions, they are not permitted within our groups. Furthermore, any form of exploitation, including the solicitation of sex workers, directly contradicts our values. To protect the integrity of the experience and the well-being of the group, our National Geographic Expedition Leader retains the right to remove any traveller who violates these standards.


Are international flights included in this trip?  

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.


What are the trip specific safety considerations?  

For peace of mind while on the move, we strongly advise using a concealed neck wallet or money belt to secure your passport, travel documentation, and currency. We suggest leaving exceptional jewelry at home, as it is unnecessary for our style of travel; instead, make use of the safety deposit boxes available at most of our accommodations. Securing your luggage with a reliable lock is also highly recommended.


What are the main highlights of this trip?  

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.


Is travel insurance required for my trip?  

Comprehensive travel insurance is a mandatory prerequisite for participation in all our departures. To safeguard your well-being, your National Geographic Expedition Leader will kindly request to verify your physical policy details before you may officially join your fellow travellers.

When choosing your coverage, please ensure your policy includes full medical protection, featuring a strict minimum requirement of $200,000 USD for emergency rescue and medical repatriation. For complete peace of mind while exploring, we also strongly advise securing comprehensive coverage for personal liability, trip cancellation or curtailment, and the loss of luggage and personal belongings. If you intend to rely on insurance provided through your credit card, you must supply formal proof of purchase-such as a credit card statement or receipt in your name-along with explicit confirmation from your banking institution regarding the participating insurer, exact policy limits, and their dedicated 24-hour emergency contact number.


Is there a travel disclaimer for my itinerary I should review before booking this trip?  

This compiled itinerary represents our thoughtfully designed plan, provided in good faith and correct at the time of publication. However, to ensure we deliver the most rewarding experience possible, our itineraries remain dynamic; we continuously refine our routes based on research, field insights, and guest feedback, meaning details may evolve between the release of our annual directory and your departure. Flexibility is a cornerstone of our travel philosophy, and while we intend to follow the path described, the nature of exploring unpredictable environments means alterations may occur, and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife encounters cannot be guaranteed. We invite you to view these travel times and details as an approximate guide rather than a strict contract, and we kindly ask that you review a final copy of your Trip Details a few days prior to departure to ensure you have the most current information for your upcoming expedition.


How can I share feedback about my trip experience?  

Upon your return, we invite you to share your insights with us. Your valued feedback shapes the future of our itineraries and ensures we continue to deliver meaningful experiences. As a token of our appreciation for your time, we are pleased to offer a 5% savings (up to a maximum of $100 USD) toward your next expedition with us. Simply submit your evaluation within four weeks of completing your travels to unlock this benefit and join our global community of returning travellers.

*This offer is valid for new bookings only, limited to one per person, and cannot be combined with other promotions or applied to independent itineraries. Maximum value of $100 USD (or local currency equivalent). This program may be amended or withdrawn at any time.


What meals are included in this trip?  

8 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners


What is the group leader like?  

Every National Geographic Signature departure is accompanied throughout by a dedicated National Geographic Expedition Leader, whose purpose is to ensure a seamless experience so you can fully immerse yourself in the destination. Your Expedition Leader offers deep insight into the landscapes you traverse, suggests enriching independent activities, recommends exceptional local dining venues, and connects you with our community friends along the way. Rather than acting as conventional guides, they possess a broad, sophisticated understanding of the historical, cultural, religious, and social tapestry of the region. To offer the ultimate perspective, we complement their expertise with specialist local guides whose deep regional knowledge adds profound depth to specific sites-delivering a masterfully balanced exploration.


Where will we stay during the trip?  

Hotels (8 nts).


What are the joining instructions?  

To review the specific details of your starting property, please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.

A seamless arrival transfer is included for guests landing on the first day of the itinerary, or up to three days prior if your pre-trip accommodations were arranged directly through G Adventures at our starting property. To maintain the exceptional quality and continuity of your experience, all scheduled services must run consecutively.

Upon arriving at the starting property, where check-in begins typically by 3:00PM, please look for a dedicated notice from your National Geographic Expedition Leader at the reception desk. This message will outline the specific details for our evening welcome reception and meeting-typically held between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.-where you will gather with your Expedition Leader, Expedition Expert, and fellow travellers to look ahead at the days to come. Should you arrive later in the evening and miss this initial gathering, your Expedition Leader will leave a comprehensive briefing note for you at reception detailing the next morning's schedule.

Please note that the joining day of the itinerary can vary, please refer to your specific itinerary for further details.


How large will the group be?  

Max 22.


What are the modes of transportation on my trip?  

Private vehicle, ferry, private army trucks, walking.


What happens if I experience problems when arriving?  

While we anticipate a seamless arrival, your peace of mind is our utmost priority. Should any unforeseen circumstances prevent you from beginning your expedition as scheduled, please refer to the essential emergency contact details provided in your documentation and contact us as soon as possible.

Upon landing, if you do not connect with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend making your own way to the starting point property by following the Joining Instructions. Rest assured, you may submit a request to your travel professional upon your return to secure a refund for any transport costs incurred during this time.


Who will be leading the group?  

National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert throughout.


Is there an extra cost for travelling solo?  

Yes, for those travelling solo there is a single supplement.


Who should I contact in case of an emergency?  

Should you require urgent assistance during your travels, your first point of contact should be our local representative or regional office. If your call is not answered immediately, please leave a detailed message with your contact information so our team can return your call and assist you as quickly as possible. The numbers can be found below.

EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS
G Adventures Berlin office: +441858378000

In addition, a dedicated toll-free line is available for guests within North America, connecting you directly to our global operations team during regular business hours. For support outside of standard hours, an emergency mobile line is actively monitored day and night to ensure you are never out of reach. In the rare event that your call is not answered immediately, please leave a detailed message along with your contact information so our team can return your call and assist you as swiftly as possible.

Toll-free (North America only): 1-800-465-5600

From the United Kingdom: 0870 080 1756

International (Outside North America and the UK): +1 416 260 0999

Emergency Mobile: (416) 305-6139

Your included arrival transfer has been meticulously arranged based on the flight details you provided. If you experience a flight schedule change or cancellation within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival, please contact our emergency number immediately with your updated details. Prompt notification ensures we can adjust your transfer; otherwise, you will need to arrange your own transportation to the starting property. Upon arrival, if your transfer representative does not connect with you within 30 minutes of exiting the arrivals area, please take a local taxi directly to the starting property.


Are there any additional packing suggestions I should consider?  

When deciding what to pack, considerations will vary based on your specific itinerary, the regions you are visiting, and the season in which you are travelling. Generally speaking, we recommend packing thoughtfully and keeping your luggage to one checked bag at a manageable weight to facilitate seamless transitions throughout your expedition.

In addition to your primary luggage, you will also require a small day pack or shoulder bag. This smaller bag is essential for keeping your camera, water, and personal items close at hand during day walks, excursions, and daily explorations.


What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money while on this tour?  

Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances. Visa cards are the most widely accepted cards. While ATMs are commonly available, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work. Check with your bank. You should be aware when purchasing products or services on a credit card, that a fee usually applies. Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of Euros, Pounds, and cards is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.

As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com


Should I be tipping on my trip?  

To ensure a seamless and elevated experience throughout your National Geographic Signature departure, gratuities have been fully taken care of for all included meals, activities, and luggage porterage.

On our National Geographic Signature tours, tipping is included for all included activities and meals, and porterage. Tipping is not included for the Expedition Leader. Should you want some basic guidelines on tipping for the activities you do on your own, please see below. At the end of each trip if you felt your National Geographic Signature Expedition Leader did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline would be $10-$15 per person per day. Tipping is neither required nor expected for your National Geographic Expedition Expert.

For the independent moments on your itinerary, tipping is generally expected across Europe. Should you wish to reward exceptional service during independent dining or activities, a gratuity of 10% is appropriate.


What should be on my packing list?  

Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
• Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)

Essentials:
• Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• 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)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Swimwear
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket

Health & Safety:
• Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
• Hand sanitizer
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)

Smart Dress:
• Smart outfit (For evenings out)

Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sturdy water shoes/sandals
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear


What should I consider when planning my personal expenses and discretionary spending for this itinerary?  

While personal spending habits naturally vary, we recommend factoring in your individual preferences for shopping, tipping, and beverages to ensure a seamless experience. In addition to these day-to-day comforts, we kindly ask that you maintain access to a minimum of USD $200 (or its equivalent) as a dedicated emergency fund; though exceptionally rare, unpredictable circumstances such as changing weather patterns or natural events may occasionally necessitate a shift from our planned route, and this reserve ensures we can navigate any path ahead with peace of mind.


What activities are optional on this trip?  

No optional activities


What information should I be aware of as the itinerary draws to a close?  

You will be met at your hotel property and transferred to the airport for your onward travels at the end of your expedition. Please refer to your individual itinerary for more details.

TRAVEL AWARE - STAYING SAFE AND HEALTHY ABROAD

The Department of Foreign Affairs has up-to-date advice for Irish citizens on staying safe and healthy abroad. For more security, local laws, health, passport and visa information see https://www.ireland.ie/en/dfa/overseas-travel/ and follow dfatravelwise