The Normandy coast, an emblematic site of the Allied landings on 6 June 1944, offers a unique opportunity to dive into the past and pay tribute to the bravery of the soldiers. How can you create a visit that suits you and helps younger visitors better understand the significance of the historic events that shaped Normandy? We’ll take you on a family tour of the D-Day Landing Beaches.
Before you leave: raising awareness
For kids under 10, the subject is not necessarily familiar, as the Second World War is often covered in year 6 at school, and the D-Day Landings are not always mentioned by teachers. To introduce them to the subject, there are many books for young people that take place during the Second World War: from documentaries to novels and comics, there’s something for everyone.
Young people already have the knowledge and maturity to understand the historical context in greater depth. The study of military tactics, political strategies and the long-term consequences of D-Day can be approached in more detail. When watching films or series set in this period, remind everyone that although these fictions are often based on historical reality, they are still partly fiction.
It’s impossible to be exhaustive on a family holiday, but the richness of the region means there’s a wide range of activities to suit all generations.
Bear in mind that the D-Day Landing zone stretches over 80 kilometres, and a little more by road, so don’t underestimate the time it will take to get from one site to the next.
Museums for learning
Many museums in Normandy offer immersive exhibitions with authentic artefacts, detailed reconstructions and poignant testimonies. Children can make history come alive. The recently renovated D-Day Museum in Arromanches offers a stimulating visit combining objects and digital technology. For thrill-seekers, the D-Day Experience in Saint-Côme-du-Mont simulates a flight in a real D-Day aircraft for a more immersive experience. If you have more time, explore the Caen Memorial, which recounts all the key events of the Second World War. In the area liberated by the Canadians, the Juno Beach Centre also offers an educational, moving and unforgettable experience.
Visiting the Caen Memorial
Since its opening on 6 June 1988, the Caen Memorial has consistently captivated visitors with the exceptional quality of its exhibitions and events. While it meticulously explores the Second World War—its causes, aftermath, and the world that arose from it—the memorial has a remarkable ability to resonate with its audience, leaving them deeply moved by…
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Musée du Débarquement
The various phases of the Allied landing operation are presented. Explanation on how the Winston artificial harbour was built and operated from its design to its final use (3D animation, animated scale models, slide show, archive footage, etc.). Unaccompanied or guided tour in French: 1h15. Visitor aids in 19 languages. Film in 9 languages, slide…
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Juno Beach Centre
Situated on the beach at Courseulles-sur-Mer, the Juno Beach Centre is the only Canadian museum on the D-Day beaches. Founded by Canadian veterans in 2003, this memorial pays tribute to the 45,000 Canadians who lost their lives during the Second World War, including 5,500 during the Battle of Normandy and 381 on D-Day. Visitors are…
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D-Day Experience
It was at Carentan/Saint-Côme-du Mont where so much was at stake after 6th June 1944 for the success of the Landings. It was imperative to link the Landing Beaches of Utah and Omaha. For ten days the American parachutists launched a concerted attack on the German paratroopers who had been ordered to defend the town…
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Exploring the D-Day Landing Beaches
Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno and Sword – each of these beaches has its own special character. Walking on the sands where thousands of soldiers landed decades ago is a unique link to the past. Choose quality over quantity by hiring a professional guide who will adapt to the make-up of your family, providing historical details, anecdotes and, of course, answers to everyone’s questions. If you’re feeling sporty, you can book a walking or cycling tour.
Moving cemeteries and memorials
Normandy is home to two American cemeteries, eighteen Commonwealth cemeteries, six German cemeteries and one Polish cemetery. Each one has its own identity and atmosphere. The Normandy American Cemetery, overlooking Omaha Beach, is a place of solemnity and respect. The perfect line of white crosses is a powerful image that leaves a lasting impression. Less visited, but equally moving, are the Commonwealth cemeteries, which bring together in one place the graves of soldiers from the Commonwealth nations, mainly the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, but also their adversaries. The largest of these, at Bayeux, offers an incredible variety of nationalities. Make this visit an opportunity to teach children respect for those who sacrificed their lives for freedom. The recently-opened British Normandy Memorial, overlooking Gold Beach at Ver-sur-Mer, is also a must-see.
An emotional visit to the American Cemetery of Colleville-sur-Mer
Among the many military cemeteries scattered across Normandy, one stands out as particularly iconic and is among the most frequently visited. The sense of emotion here is almost palpable. Perched above the sea, amidst fragrant pine trees, lie the soldiers who bravely gave their lives for the cause of freedom. Before us stretches a heart-wrenching…
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German Military Cemetery
Between Evreux and Dreux, visit the war cemetery where are buried 19,794 German soldiers who were killed in Normandy during the Second World War. The cemetery was mainly built when the Allied troops moved towards Paris and the river Seine. The American Graves Registration Service had its soldiers buried there as well as German soldiers.…
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British Normandy Memorial: ensuring the memory lives on
Perched on the heights of Mont Fleury, overlooking the Gold Beach sector, the British Normandy Memorial at Ver-sur-Mer is a place for reflection and remembrance of the thousands of young British soldiers who fell during the Battle of Normandy. A Significant Chapter in History On June 6, 1944, as he and his men advanced from…
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Visiting the D-Day Landing sites with your family is a lot more than a historical visit, it is about creating links between generations. By approaching history in a lively and interactive way, you can create an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
Written by Vassiliki Cyrille-Lytras, tour guide in Normandy.
A different way to discover D-Day
Our selection of Normandy Experiences
Normandy Experiences are local gems that add meaning to your trip. You’ll meet Normandy people who are truly passionate about what they do.
Courseulles-sur-Mer
Behind-the-Scenes Tour at the Airborne Museum
Sainte-Mère-Église
Sea Kayaking amid iconic D-Day landmarks
Arromanches-les-Bains
Thematics