Jeep Tours in Bayeux
Bayeux has a long and rich history that stretches back to the 1st century when it was founded as a Gallo-Roman settlement. More recent history locates the city centrally in the region of Normandy that saw fierce fighting between Allied and German forces during World War II. During the Battle of Normandy, General Charles de Gaulle gave a historic speech in this city, where the buildings remained virtually untouched by the surrounding war. It's therefore apt that a jeep tour from Bayeux of these historic battlefields begins in the first French city liberated by the Allies in June 1944.
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Bayeux has a long and rich history that stretches back to the 1st century when it was founded as a Gallo-Roman settlement. More recent history locates the city centrally in the region of Normandy that saw fierce fighting between Allied and German forces during World War II.
During the Battle of Normandy, General Charles de Gaulle gave a historic speech in this city, where the buildings remained virtually untouched by the surrounding war. It's therefore apt that a jeep tour from Bayeux of these historic battlefields begins in the first French city liberated by the Allies in June 1944.
Here's all you need to know about jeep tours, one of the most exhilarating outdoor activities in Bayeux.
What are the best jeep tours in Bayeux?
Jeep tours from Bayeux provide an authentic Normandy battlefields experience. You are able to choose between a half-day and a full-day excursion. As Willys Jeeps are typically four-seater vehicles, tours are conducted on a private basis with room for up to three passengers per vehicle.
Private half-day Normandy World War II jeep tour
The itinerary of a half-day jeep tour in Bayeux can vary depending on the operator, but tours typically begin with collection from your hotel or the meeting point in an authentic Willys Jeep.
Sites visited can include, among others, the well preserved German Gun Battery at Longues-sur-Mer and the remains of the deep-water port engineered by the British at Mulberry Harbor. Gold Beach at Ver sur Mer, the Commonwealth War Cemetery at Ryes-Bazenville and American Cemetery at Colleville sur Mer provide opportunities for reflection.
Finally, before returning to Bayeux, a stop at WN 60 on Omaha Beach gives a moment to pause at the site of some of D-Day’s heaviest losses.
Private full-day Normandy World War II jeep tour
For a tour that concisely covers all the significant events of 6 June 1944 as they unfolded, consider a full-day jeep tour from Bayeux. This tour includes the personal stories of men who fought on Normandy’s WWII battlefields on that day and the days thereafter, shared by your guide.
Your knowledgeable and experienced guide will share the history of the landing at Pointe du Hoc and explain why it was so pivotal to the Allied victory. On Omaha Beach, you will learn about the young men who bravely sacrificed their lives in the pursuit of freedom before visiting the American Cemetery to pay your respects to the fallen soldiers who lie there.
Passing by Port en Bessin Huppain, the tour continues onward to the well-preserved German fortifications at Longues-sur-Mer. Before your return to Bayeux, your tour pays a visit to the remains of the artificially engineered deep-water harbor known as Mulberry. This site is noted as being one of the keys to the Allied victory and provides a suitable ending to a memorable tour.
How much do jeep tours in Bayeux cost?
A private half-day Normandy World War II jeep tour for up to three people lasts around 4 hours and costs from €500 per group.
Private full-day Normandy World War II jeep tours are priced from €850 for groups of up to three people and last approximately eight hours.
There are no discounts offered for children participating in this type of tour as the price is based on a per vehicle rate.
What is included?
Some jeep tours offer the option of a hotel pickup, otherwise you will meet your driver at the meeting point. Hotel pickups may only be included from selected hotels in Bayeux.
The exclusive use of an authentic classic Willys Jeep for the duration of your tour, together with the services of a guide are included.
Lunch or snacks and refreshments are not typically included in the tour price.
Where does it start?
Tours start with collection from selected hotels or at a specified meeting point on Place de Quebec in central Bayeux. The central meeting point is close to the museum containing the Bayeux Tapestry and the Bayeux Cathedral and is easy to locate or reach by car or public transport.
How long does it last?
Half-day tours typically last around four hours, while you can expect a full day excursion to last roughly eight hours. Full-day tours do provide an opportunity for lunch.
As jeep tours take place on a private basis, you are able to determine the pace of your sightseeing to some extent.
When is the best time for a jeep tour in Bayeux?
Jeep tours take place regardless of the weather, and so booking during the drier and milder summer months is best. If you are not bothered by rain or cooler weather conditions, you can visit throughout the year and take advantage of the low season.
If your primary interest is the events of D-Day and the Allied landings on French soil, then taking a jeep tour at the beginning of your stay can provide a good foundation for the rest of your time in Normandy. Your guide will be able to offer good advice about further places of interest that you might like to explore further in your own time.
Which other outdoor activities can be done in Bayeux?
Travel tips
- Jeep tours take place in open topped vehicles, so bring a rain jacket.
- Pack bottled water and light snacks.
- Book your tour online in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes for this tour.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen.