Bayeux and D-Day Beaches.

Brendon, Will you be taking this trip tomorrow, Jan. 23rd? If so, that doesn't leave much time to work out touring details. You should have few problems seeing the sights around Bayeux, as it's a very walkable smaller city. You may also want to have a look at the famous Bayeux Tapestry, which depicts a much earlier battle. However the beaches are another matter. Unless you take one of the excellent day tours, using a rental car is about the only option. You'll probably find that travelling there on your own is rather "unspectacular", as there's really not much to see on the beaches. For that reason, I'd really suggest taking a tour, as the Guides are outstanding and they really provide great insight into the D-Day landings. If you need suggestions on tours, post another note. Happy travels!

I agree with Jeff on his suggested DDay stops: The only other stop I'd suggest is Pointe du Hoc (right between Omaha and Utah beaches), where the American Rangers had to scale a cliff to take the German positions. You'll have to do some walking, but the shell holes and exploded blockhouses really give you a sense of what it must've been like to try to endure such a thing. Also, if you educate yourself some in advance on the major events of the battle, it will help immensely. Don't miss the good little museum at the AMerican Cemetary; it gives a great overview of the battle. A lot of folks miss it.

Also, the WWII museum in Bayeux is excellent.

One point to make regarding the Pegasus Bridge visit. As I recall, the Museum closes for an hour or so in the afternoon, so the staff can have a "siesta". Be sure to include that in your planning. The original Pegasus Bridge is now re-located to the Museum site, and there's a new, larger bridge of the same design for the river crossing. Allow at least 1 - 2 hours to visit the Museum and the outside exhibits. Cheers!