Memorials and Markets of Normandy

Ferry to Calais and on to our hotel in Lisieux, where we stay on a bed and breakfast basis.

Our day starts with a visit to Honfleur, one of the most picturesque fishing ports in France and a favourite haunt for artists. The quaint harbour is lined with narrow, slate-fronted houses while the Old Town boasts narrow cobbled streets and half-timbered buildings with art galleries, boutiques and traditional craft shops.

We continue to Rouen, the capital of Normandy. Known as ‘The Gothic City’, Rouen boasts some of the finest medieval architecture in the world including the jewel in the crown – the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen. Explore the wooden chalets of the Rouen Christmas Market, located in the heart of the city, set against the stunning backdrop of the Rouen Cathedral. The market each offers a unique selection of holiday goods. Visitors can browse through handcrafted ornaments, festive decorations, and a variety of artisan products perfect for holiday gifts.

We begin our day with a visit to the British Normandy Memorial, which lists the names of over 20,000 British servicemen and women who passed in the Normandy campaign that year. The site also offers panoramic views of Gold Beach, one of the primary landing sites for British forces. The memorial is designed to provide a place for reflection and remembrance, honouring the legacy of those who fought for freedom.

In the afternoon we make our way to Caen Christmas Market, a festive highlight of the season, the city transforms itself into a winter wonderland. There are a variety of stalls offering handmade crafts and delicious local treats.

After breakfast we travel back to Calais, stopping en-route in La Touquet, a charming seaside town located on the northern coast of France, in the Hauts-de-France region. We have free time to explore and have lunch (not included) before continuing our journey to catch the return ferry home.