Hello--I will be staying in Paris for 11 days starting next week. I would like to do a day trip visiting the Bayeux tapistry and doing a 1/2 day Normandy beach tour, travelling to and from Paris via train.
Am I crazy, or is this possible?
Thanks!
Posted by
Minneapolis, MN, USA
8700 posts
It's possible. The center housing the tapestry opens at 09:00. Leave Paris at 07:12, change trains in Caen, and arrive in Bayeux at 09:23. Book the Omaha Beach afternoon tour (13:30-17:30) in advance at www.overlordtour.com. Take a train directly to Paris, leaving at either 18:21 or 19:36.
Posted by
US Pacific Northwest
10344 posts
Anne: Tim has done terrific research to answer your question (that's why he's the best researcher on the Helpline). (Now, just because it's possible doesn't mean you have to do it that way or that what's possible is always advisable. Since you have 11 days, two separate day trips would make for a less tiring day and might give you more enjoyment at both places--just an idea.)
Posted by
Anaheim, CA, USA
1455 posts
Anne, it is do-able but if you do have the time, I'd agree with Kent and spend a night. Its less stressful and you'll get to see more.
If you take the train, I'd rent a car.
I was there last week and we rented a car in Paris and drove to Omaha Beach first. We spent the night at a chateau near Mt. Saint Michel and the next day drove to Bayeux.
We were going to do the quick 1 day trip but am glad we opted to slow down and make it overnight.
Posted by
OP
riverside, california, usa
3 posts
Thank you for all of your great replies. Not sure yet what I will do--my goal on this trip is to take it easy and not wear myself out as I usually do.
Good to know that it is possible to do both, though. Tim, you said to take a train directly back to Paris--is that from Caen or Bayeux?
Posted by
Minneapolis, MN, USA
8700 posts
anne, the two return times I gave you are Bayeux departures. Both of those trains stop in Caen, but you don't have to change trains.