8 day itinerary for Normandia

Itinerary

Normandy is a treasure trove of history, stunning landscapes, and, of course, delicious gastronomy. Let’s dive into an 8-day itinerary that weaves together your interests in Saint-Malo, Mont Saint-Michel, D-## Day sites, and Étretat, all while indulging in the region's culinary delights. Ready? Let’s go!

## Day 1: Arrival in Saint-Malo

Morning: Arrive in Saint-Malo, a fortified city with a rich maritime history. Check into your hotel and freshen up.

Afternoon: Stroll through the cobbled streets of the old town (Intra-Muros). Don’t miss the impressive ramparts! Grab a galette (savory buckwheat crepe) for lunch at a local crêperie.

Evening: Enjoy a seafood dinner at a restaurant overlooking the harbor. Try the local specialty, “coquilles Saint-Jacques” (scallops), paired with a glass of cider.

## Day 2: Explore Saint-Malo and Dinard

Morning: Visit the Château de Saint-Malo and the tomb of the famous explorer Jacques Cartier.

Afternoon: Take a short ferry ride to Dinard, a charming seaside town. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café with a view of the beach. Afterward, take a walk along the coastal path, admiring the stunning views.

Evening: Return to Saint-Malo for dinner. Consider trying a traditional “moules-frites” (mussels and fries) dish at a local bistro.

## Day 3: Mont Saint-Michel

Morning: Depart early for Mont Saint-Michel (about a 1.5-hour drive). Arrive before the crowds and explore the abbey. The views from the top are breathtaking!

Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants on the island. Don’t miss trying the famous omelette de la Mère Poulard. After lunch, wander through the quaint streets and shops.

Evening: Head back to Saint-Malo. If you’re up for it, enjoy a casual dinner at a local brasserie, sampling some regional cheeses.

## Day 4: D-Day Beaches

Morning: Drive to the D-## Day beaches, starting with Omaha Beach. Visit the American Cemetery and Memorial, which is a poignant tribute to those who fought here.

Afternoon: Continue to Pointe du Hoc, where you can see the dramatic cliffs and learn about the heroic efforts of the Rangers. Have lunch at a nearby café.

Evening: Visit Arromanches to see the remnants of the Mulberry Harbour. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps trying some “teurgoule,” a rice pudding flavored with cinnamon, for dessert.

## Day 5: Bayeux and Caen

Morning: Head to Bayeux to see the famous Bayeux Tapestry, which tells the story of the Norman Conquest.

Afternoon: After lunch, drive to Caen to visit the Caen Memorial Museum, which focuses on World War II and the Battle of Normandy.

Evening: Enjoy dinner in Caen, sampling local dishes like “poulet Vallée d’Auge” (chicken in a creamy cider sauce).

## Day 6: Étretat

Morning: Depart for Étretat (about a 2-hour drive). Upon arrival, take a walk along the stunning cliffs and admire the famous rock formations, including the “Arch” and “Needle.”

Afternoon: Have lunch at a seaside café, enjoying fresh fish or seafood. Afterward, explore the charming town and perhaps visit the gardens of Étretat.

Evening: Dine at a local restaurant, trying the “cider” and “camembert” cheese, both of which are local specialties.

## Day 7: Rouen

Morning: Drive to Rouen (about 1.5 hours). Explore the historic center, including the stunning Rouen Cathedral and the Gros Horloge.

Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at a bistro in the old town. Don’t forget to try “teurgoule” if you haven’t yet! After lunch, visit the Joan of Arc Museum.

Evening: Have dinner in Rouen, perhaps trying “canard aux cerises” (duck with cherries) for a taste of local cuisine.

## Day 8: Return to Saint-Malo

Morning: Head back to Saint-Malo for some last-minute exploration or shopping.

Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café, soaking in the views one last time.

Evening: Depending on your departure time, you might have a final dinner in Saint-Malo, savoring a last taste of Normandy before you head home.

Tips:

• Make sure to try local specialties like Camembert cheese, cider, and Calvados (apple brandy).
• Consider booking some of your dinners in advance, especially in popular tourist areas.
• Don’t forget your camera; Normandy is incredibly picturesque!

I hope this itinerary helps you have an unforgettable trip to Normandy! Bon voyage! 🌍✨