I am a student currently studying abroad in Europe organizing a trip with several other students to see the World War 2 sights in Normandy, France. I was planning find a good hostel in Caen or Bayeux and visit the various sights/museums located throughout the area. However, I have recently realized that they are all located in small towns that aren't accessible by train. What is the best way to get to places like Omaha Beach, the American Normandy Cemetery, and the German Gun Battery in Longues sur Mer? (on the cheap if possible, we are college students after all)
Posted by
Portlandia
3313 posts
E-mail your hostel and ask if they sponsor/offer tours. Try the HI hostel in Bayeux. I take it you and your friends can't scrape the cash together for a rental car? Or are too young?
Posted by
San Diego, CA
638 posts
This is a tough one, what makes it tough is the "making it cheap" aspect, nothing wrong with that, we've all been there, along with the size of area and the way the sights are spread out, it's massive, and though you could probably do it with the public transport, it would be difficult. Tours are probably out of the question they are not cheap, but worth what is paid for. Is there anyway to rent a car? Bayeux is the best place to stay in my opinion. How much time do you have?
Posted by
Texan in CA
4407 posts
Yeah...I don't have any Rainbows and Unicorns for you... I'd stay in Bayeux, and IF POSSIBLE, rent a car (if you're old enough - many agencies require you to be 26, etc.). If that's possible, GET A GOOD MAP! A tour would be great, but they are pricey...but really good. Don't even waste a minute of your studying time ;-) on researching public transportation in that region; for your needs, it's non-existant. Seriously. Just a thought - perhaps there's a student-led tour of the region that you might discover in your trip research?!? A grad or doctorate student? Just a thought... Good luck with the transportation...that's your main problem. And if you get that squared away, make sleeping arrangements ASAP - that's a popular region.