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France

The Seine: D-Day Beaches to Paris

Program No. 12416RJ
Gain a deeper understanding of the significant events of WWII, learning about the beaches of Normandy and historic sites of occupied Paris on expert-led excursions.

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At a Glance

Trace the events of history’s largest invasion on June 6, 1944, from Normandy’s beaches to the liberation of Paris. At charming ports of call, local experts discuss life along the Seine River ranging from medieval history to Impressionist art.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Extensive walking along unpaved lanes and cobblestone streets; some stairs without railings and/or uneven ground. Participants should be able to stand for at least one hour.

What You'll Learn

  • Enjoy riverboat views of the Seine and surrounding countryside.
  • Delve into the events of D-Day with experts at Sainte-Mère-Église and at Utah and Omaha Beaches.
  • Explore the historic sites of Paris’ World War II occupation and learn about its final liberation in August 1944.

General Notes

Departures operate on different ships, so please see the daily schedule for specific details. Please note that during these programs, Road Scholar will operate smaller groups each with their own Group Leader for shore excursions. The small groups may occasionally come together for lectures. Current Events in Paris: Due to the fire at Notre Dame, the cathedral is closed to visitors. Road Scholar programs that visit Île de la Cité will be able to see the outside of the cathedral, but we will not be able to go inside.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Bill Snowden
Bill Snowden was a geography master at Harrow school, a boy's boarding school that counts Lord Byron and Winston Churchill among its former pupils. In 2014, he retired from teaching to devote more of his time to travel and leading travel adventurers. Since 1984, Bill has worked during spring and summer breaks as a group leader. He is fluent in French and Spanish, providing him the opportunity to lead educational travel programs across Europe, most notably in France and Spain.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Bill Snowden
Bill Snowden View biography
Bill Snowden was a geography master at Harrow school, a boy's boarding school that counts Lord Byron and Winston Churchill among its former pupils. In 2014, he retired from teaching to devote more of his time to travel and leading travel adventurers. Since 1984, Bill has worked during spring and summer breaks as a group leader. He is fluent in French and Spanish, providing him the opportunity to lead educational travel programs across Europe, most notably in France and Spain.
Profile Image of Olivier Horslaville
Olivier Horslaville View biography
Olivier Horslaville is a Normandy native and is dedicated to preserving the region's fascinating heritage. Surrounded by nature, history and culture, he was continuously inspired by his homeland and went on to study art and archaeology at the esteemed Ecole du Louvre in Paris. After receiving his degree, Olivier returned to Normandy and spends his time working with local heritage associations.
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Meals
35 Meals
13 Breakfasts
11 Lunches
11 Dinners
The following choices may be available when requested in advance: Vegetarian, Gluten Free, Low Salt, Low Fat
Lodging
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Display
Sep 22, 2025 - Oct 06, 2025
  • Sep 22, 2025 - Oct 06, 2025
  • Sep 17, 2024 - Oct 01, 2024
  • May 19, 2025 - Jun 02, 2025
  • Sep 22, 2025 - Oct 06, 2025
2 nights
Le Mesnil Amelot
Conveniently located a few minutes from the Charles de Gaulle airport, the Oceania Paris Roissy was opened in 2014 and its rooms feature contemporary furniture.
5 nights
Bayeux
The Churchill Hotel is located on a pedestrian street in the heart of old Bayeux, a charming medieval town, close to the D-Day landing beaches, the banks of the Aure River, and the Bayeux Cathedral. All of the rooms have their own unique decor, and offer a combination of comfort and style as you explore Normandy.
5 nights
Port en Bessin-Huppain
Located in the heart of Normandy near the D-Day beaches, the Mercure Omaha Beach Hotel is ideally situated for exploring the history of the area.
6 nights
Strasbourg
The MS Renoir is a deluxe two-deck river ship that was built in 1999 and completely renovated in 2018. It is 110 meters long and can accommodate 158 passengers in its 78 cabins, all of which have windows. The library, restaurant, lounge-bar and sun deck can be accessed by stairs. For more information on the ship and to see photographs of the interior and exterior, visit the ship's website:
1 night
Le Mesnil Amelot
Conveniently located a few minutes from the Charles de Gaulle airport, the Oceania Paris Roissy was opened in 2014 and its rooms feature contemporary furniture.
5 nights
Port en Bessin-Huppain
Located in the heart of Normandy near the D-Day beaches, the Mercure Omaha Beach Hotel is ideally situated for exploring the history of the area.
6 nights
Strasbourg
The MS Renoir is a deluxe two-deck river ship that was built in 1999 and completely renovated in 2018. It is 110 meters long and can accommodate 158 passengers in its 78 cabins, all of which have windows. The library, restaurant, lounge-bar and sun deck can be accessed by stairs. For more information on the ship and to see photographs of the interior and exterior, visit the ship's website:
Best Western Plus Paris Roissy - L'Esprit Libre
1 night
95700 Roissy-en-France
No description
1 night
Le Mesnil Amelot
Conveniently located a few minutes from the Charles de Gaulle airport, the Oceania Paris Roissy was opened in 2014 and its rooms feature contemporary furniture.
5 nights
Port en Bessin-Huppain
Located in the heart of Normandy near the D-Day beaches, the Mercure Omaha Beach Hotel is ideally situated for exploring the history of the area.
6 nights
Strasbourg
The MS Renoir is a deluxe two-deck river ship that was built in 1999 and completely renovated in 2018. It is 110 meters long and can accommodate 158 passengers in its 78 cabins, all of which have windows. The library, restaurant, lounge-bar and sun deck can be accessed by stairs. For more information on the ship and to see photographs of the interior and exterior, visit the ship's website:
Best Western Plus Paris Roissy - L'Esprit Libre
1 night
95700 Roissy-en-France
No description





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