Day 1 : Fly to England

Board an overnight flight to London to begin this journey of a lifetime.

Day 2 : London City Tour

Upon arrival in Europe, we meet our resident Blue Badge Guide whose passion for British history and traditions enhance our experience. Departing the airport, our first stop is the Tower of London. Founded by William the Conqueror in 1066, this enduring fortress houses both Britain’s Crown Jewels and a medieval collection of armory and weaponry. Its ancient stone walls hold some of the city’s darkest secrets, and we are privy to a few of them during our narrated tour. We then check in to our incredible accommodations for the next three evenings and get to know our fellow travelers over a delicious three-course Welcome Dinner.

Day 3 : Churchill War Rooms & Thames River Cruise

After an included full English breakfast, we visit the Churchill War Rooms, part of the underground nerve center of Britain’s war effort. Explore the secret corridors, discover life during World War II, and learn about Churchill’s leadership and legacy. Next, we relax on a delightful cruise with views of Tower Bridge as we travel down the Thames River to Westminster Pier. Later, we partake in a favorite pastime of locals, Afternoon Tea. It is truly the perfect end to our day’s scheduled activities as we dine on a delicious array of bite-size savories, sip expertly steeped tea, and enjoy the comfort of easy conversation with our new acquaintances.

Day 4 : Imperial War Museum & Windsor Castle

Our sightseeing this morning begins with a visit to the Imperial War Museum, which houses authentic examples of World War II weaponry and an exhibit of World War I trench warfare. We then tour Windsor Castle, private home of British royalty as well as the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. Marvel at the magnificent architecture and opulent interior, including the Grand Reception Room that’s adorned with real gold and sparkling chandeliers. Afterwards, the rest of the day is yours for individual exploration.

Day 5 : Portsmouth & Ferry to France

We say farewell to London and travel to England’s south coast. Upon arrival in Portsmouth we visit the award-winning D-Day Museum before boarding a ferry to cross the English Channel to France. Our comfortable accommodations for the next three nights are in Caen.

Day 6 : D-Day Sites

We are joined by a special World War II guide to learn about famous battle events. Spend the morning at Omaha Beach where Americans took the German fortifications. We study the battlefield, cross the beach, analyze maps, and pay tribute to the courage that guarded our freedom. The American Cemetery stretches along the bluff where we may offer our respects among the hundreds of Crosses and Stars of David for the deceased. Our next visit is Arromanches, the renowned site of Mulberry Harbor. This artificial port and dock carried thousands of Allied troops and cargo across the Channel during wartime. Portions of it remain today.

Day 7 : Normandy Sites

Joined by our World War II guide, we spend the morning at the Pointe-du-Hoc Ranger Monument located on a sheer cliff overlooking Omaha Beach. Americans seized the German artillery equipment here, preventing fire on American troops landing on the beach. This afternoon we visit St. Mére Église, seized by American paratroopers on D-Day. Hear the interesting story of American Private John Steele and visit the Airborne Museum. Next we visit Utah Beach, the westernmost beach during the Allied Landings. Later, we view the Bayeux Tapestry which tells the tale of William the Conqueror’s invasion of England.

Day 8 : Monet’s Garden

Today we begin our journey to Paris. En route we visit the charming village of Giverny and stroll the gardens and visit the home of famous Impressionist artist Claude Monet.

Day 9 : Paris City Tour

We discover the enchanting sights of romantic Paris, the City of Light. On a guided tour we see the Champs Elysees Avenue, Notre Dame Cathedral, Eiffel Tower, and Arc de Triomphe. The afternoon is ours to enjoy at leisure. Relax at a sidewalk cafe, do some shopping, or visit city sights. After dinner, a spectacular Seine River cruise creates a magical evening. Illuminated buildings, bridges, churches, and the Eiffel Tower create a dramatic backdrop in the night sky.

Day 10 : Iconic Louvre Museum

This morning enjoy a guided tour of the world-renowned Louvre Museum and discover its many masterpieces. We have the afternoon free for individual pursuits. Visit the Musee d’Orsay or stroll through The Tuileries Garden. We gather this evening for a special Holiday Vacations Farewell Dinner in Paris, the perfect ending to our fabulous vacation.

Day 11 : Memories to Cherish