Are you a history buff looking to explore the iconic World War II sites in Normandy, France? If you’re based in London, you might be wondering if it’s possible to visit this historic destination without breaking the bank or spending too much time on travel.
The good news is that it’s entirely possible to take a day trip or a weekend getaway from London to Normandy. Let’s explore your options in this guide.
By Train
One of the easiest and most convenient ways to get from London to Normandy is by train. You can take the Eurostar train from St Pancras International station in London to Paris Gare du Nord station in about 2 hours and 15 minutes.
From there, you can transfer to a regional train that will take you directly to Normandy. Depending on where you want to go in Normandy, the journey can take anywhere from 1-3 hours.
Pro tip: Book your Eurostar tickets well in advance to get the best deals and prices.
By Car
If you prefer driving, you can rent a car in London and drive all the way to Normandy. The distance between London and Normandy is about 240 miles and takes roughly 4-5 hours depending on traffic and weather conditions.
Keep in mind that driving in France requires following different rules compared to driving in the UK. For instance, driving is done on the right-hand side of the road, so make sure you’re comfortable with this before embarking on your journey.
Pro tip: Make sure your rental car has GPS or Google Maps so that you don’t get lost along the way.
By Bus
If budget travel is your thing, then taking a bus might be a good option for you. There are several coach companies that operate daily bus services from London to Normandy. The journey can take anywhere from 7-10 hours depending on traffic and the number of stops along the way.
Pro tip: Look out for discounts and deals on bus tickets, especially if you book in advance.
By Air
If you’re short on time and have some extra cash to spare, taking a flight from London to Normandy might be your best bet. There are several airlines that operate direct flights from London to Caen or Rouen, two popular destinations in Normandy. The flight takes about 1 hour and is the fastest way to get to Normandy.
Pro tip: Book your flight tickets well in advance to get the best deals and prices.
The Bottom Line
Whether you choose to travel by train, car, bus or plane, visiting Normandy from London is entirely possible. Plan your trip well in advance, do your research on transport options and book everything ahead of time to save money and avoid last-minute stress. With its rich history, stunning landscapes and delicious food, Normandy is a destination that should be on everyone’s travel bucket list.