Le Havre is a surprisingly good base for full-day excursions. Its location along France’s northern coast provides easy access to iconic sites like Mont Saint-Michel, historic WWII landing beaches, and charming Norman towns. Whether you’re after a private adventure, a deep dive into history, or a taste of Paris’ grandeur, Le Havre’s strategic position makes these day trips both feasible and memorable. One favorite we like is the Private Tour of Mont Saint-Michel—perfect for those who want a personalized experience of this UNESCO site without the typical crowds. The private guide, combined with ample time to explore the abbey and enjoy local specialties like the famous omelette of Mere Poulard, ensures a richly rewarding day.
If history is your thing, the D-Day Landing Beaches tour offers a deeply moving look into WWII events, with guided visits to Omaha Beach, Pointe du Hoc, and the American Cemetery. For a more culturally rich day, the Exclusive Full-Day Tour to Paris (yes, just a day trip!) provides an elegant glimpse of the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and top Parisian sights, all with seamless transport from Le Havre. And for those looking for Norman coastal charm, the Honfleur & Deauville tour combines scenic harbors, boutique shopping, and lovely beaches, perfect for a relaxed exploration of this quintessential region. Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour to help you choose the best fit.
1. Private Tour: Full Day Tour of Mont Saint-Michel from Le Havre
At number 1, this private full-day tour of Mont Saint-Michel stands out for its flexibility and personalized touch. Starting with a pickup from your Le Havre accommodation, the tour includes a light breakfast of coffee and croissants—perfect for fueling up before a 10-hour adventure. The journey begins with scenic views of the Emerald Coast, with the guide sharing insights into the island’s well-guarded secrets. Once on Mont Saint-Michel, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the abbey, monastery, and charming village at your own pace, as this tour is designed to avoid the typical rush.
What makes this experience unique is the private guide, who provides tailored commentary on the history and legends of the site. The itinerary includes visits to the Abbey, the church, and the monastery, with optional stops at the famous Mere Poulard omelette shop. After exploring Mont Saint-Michel, the tour continues to Avranches, where you’ll see medieval manuscripts and relics related to the site’s founder, Aubert. The combination of flexible timing, in-depth guiding, and exclusive attention makes this tour ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed experience of one of France’s most iconic landmarks.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want an intimate, full-day experience with expert insights and plenty of time to soak in the atmosphere of Mont Saint-Michel.
$1,396.28 per group (up to 6)
2. Private Full-Day Excursion to the D-Day Landing Beaches
Number 2 on our list is the Private D-Day Beaches tour, offering a deeply moving journey through WWII history. This 10-hour trip covers key sites such as Utah Beach, Omaha Beach, Pointe du Hoc, and the American Cemetery. The tour begins with a pick-up from Le Havre or other nearby locations, with private, air-conditioned transportation that includes onboard WiFi—so you can check your email or share photos as you go.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on historical accuracy and personal reflection. Each site offers guided tours—Omaha Beach, for example, is where you can stand on the sands that saw intense fighting, while the American Cemetery provides a powerful moment of remembrance. The tour also includes visits to the Overlord Museum and Airborne Museum, adding layers of context to the invasion. The guide’s knowledge, combined with the customizable nature of the trip, makes this a meaningful experience for WWII enthusiasts or anyone wanting a deep understanding of this pivotal moment in history.
Bottom Line: An emotional, informative day perfect for history buffs or families wanting to understand the sacrifices made during WWII.
3. Exclusive Full-Day Tour to Paris from Le Havre or Honfleur
For around $1,510, the Full-Day Tour to Paris delivers a luxury experience with seamless transportation and a carefully curated itinerary. Starting early in the morning, you’ll be picked up in a private van for a 2.5-hour ride into France’s capital. Once there, a professional guide takes you on a whirlwind visit to top sights: the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Champs-Élysées. The tour includes a gourmet French lunch, and you can customize stops—whether it’s snapping photos at the Arc de Triomphe or strolling through the Trocadéro gardens.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of comfort, flexibility, and expert-guided commentary. The itinerary also features stops at the Louvre Pyramid, Sacré-Cœur, and the historic cathedral, with plenty of free time to explore. This experience is best suited for travelers who want a curated taste of Paris without the hassle of train schedules or large groups. The reviews note the convenience of the pickup and the quality of the guide, making it a practical choice for first-time visitors with a packed schedule.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a well-organized, private day trip to Paris, with all the highlights and some tailored experiences thrown in.
4. Private Full-Day Tour to Honfleur & Deauville from Le Havre
Rounding out our list is the Honfleur & Deauville day trip, designed for travelers eager to enjoy Norman seaside charm. Starting with a 35-minute drive from Le Havre, this private tour offers 3 hours in Honfleur, famous for its historic harbor and art galleries, and another 3 hours in Deauville, renowned for its elegant beaches and casinos. The itinerary includes stops for photos, guided visits, and free time to wander local shops and cafes.
What makes this tour distinctive is its focus on scenic beauty and quaint towns. You’ll enjoy a picturesque lunch near Monet’s house, with time to relax by the harbors or walk along Deauville’s boardwalk. The private vehicle ensures comfort and flexibility, so you can linger longer in places you love or skip spots that don’t interest you. This option is perfect for those who want to combine cultural sightseeing with leisure, especially if they’re fans of Norman coastal scenery.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers seeking a relaxed, picturesque day exploring Norman towns with personalized service and no rushing.
$1,510 per group up to 8
How to Choose the Right Full-Day Tour in Le Havre
Picking the best tour depends largely on your interests, budget, and schedule. If history and architecture fascinate you, the private Mont Saint-Michel trip offers an intimate exploration. For WWII enthusiasts or those wanting a poignant experience, the D-Day beaches tour is unmatched. Want to see Paris but avoid the hassle? The full-day Paris experience combines comfort with a curated sightseeing list. If Norman coastal charm appeals more to you, the Honfleur & Deauville trip delivers scenic beauty and cultural richness.
Consider how much time you have—most tours are around 10 hours—and what kind of pace suits you. For example, the Mont Saint-Michel tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive, private experience, while the D-Day beaches tour is better for history lovers wanting an emotional connection. Remember to book early, especially for the private options, as they tend to fill quickly.
Final Thoughts
Le Havre’s proximity to some of France’s most iconic sites makes it an excellent base for full-day adventures. Whether you’re drawn to the awe-inspiring Mont Saint-Michel, the historic D-Day landing beaches, or the scenic Norman coast, there’s a tour to match your interests. If you’re visiting for the first time, the private tours—like Mont Saint-Michel or Paris—offer the most flexibility and comfort. For those with a passion for history or coastal charm, the carefully curated group options provide rich insights and memorable experiences.
To make the most of your trip, consider your priorities—culture, historical significance, or scenic relaxation—and choose the tour that best fits your style. Booking a tour early ensures you don’t miss out on these fantastic day trips from Le Havre.