Le Havre is a surprisingly rich starting point for exploring Normandy’s highlights. Its port location makes it easy to combine history, art, and scenery without spending half your cruise on a bus. Among the many options, the D-Day Beaches Shore Excursion stands out for history lovers wanting a meaningful and well-organized day. Meanwhile, those seeking a private, tailored experience will appreciate the Giverny and Honfleur Private Tour, and visitors eager for an iconic Paris experience may opt for the Paris Shore Excursion — even if it’s a long day, it’s a taste of the City of Light delivered straight to your cruise schedule. Each of these offers a unique way to make the most of your time ashore, whether by diving into WWII history, enjoying impressionist art, or marveling at Parisian landmarks.
Quick Overview
This list covers three of the best shore excursions from Le Havre, each catering to different interests: a full-day WWII history tour to Normandy’s D-Day beaches (see more), a private trip exploring Monet’s Giverny and the charming town of Honfleur (see more), and a longer day in Paris for those who want to see the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, and more (see more). Read on for details that will help you pick the right experience.
1. D-Day Beaches Shore Excursion from Le Havre with Packed Lunch
At number one, the D-Day Beaches Shore Excursion from Le Havre is an excellent choice for history enthusiasts who want a full day of exploring Normandy’s most significant WWII sites. Priced at about $114.70 per person, it offers a comprehensive 10-hour experience that hits all the highlights, including Omaha Beach, the American Cemetery, and the German Cemetery at La Cambe. One of the tour’s strong points is the packed lunch, which includes a traditional French baguette — no cardboard sandwiches here. This makes it easy to stay energized without wasting time hunting for food.
What makes this tour stand out is its deep focus on history, paired with clear, engaging commentary from guides with years of experience. The reviews are glowing — with a perfect 5.0 rating from 259 travelers, many mention how well-organized and informative it is. “Our guide Ash did a fantastic job,” one review states, emphasizing the personal touch and storytelling. The tour coincides nicely with port times, so you won’t miss your ship. It’s best suited for those with an interest in WWII, as it covers the German and American cemeteries, the landing sites, and explains the significance of each stop.
Bottom line: If you want a meaningful, educational, full-day trip that respects your schedule, this tour delivers a poignant Normandy experience at a reasonable price.
2. Le Havre: Giverny and Honfleur Private Shore Excursion
Second on our list is the Giverny and Honfleur Private Shore Excursion, costing $2,025 for up to 8 people. This tour is ideal for art lovers and travelers who prefer a personalized experience. The highlight is visiting Claude Monet’s home and garden in Giverny, including the famous lily ponds and the water lily bridge — places that inspired countless Impressionist masterpieces. The tour also explores Honfleur, a picturesque port town known for its colorful harbor, medieval architecture, and art galleries.
The day begins with a 1.5-hour drive to Giverny, where you’ll spend about four hours enjoying Monet’s world, including a visit to the Fondation Monet. The visit is carefully curated, giving you ample time to explore the gardens and museum at your own pace. Afterward, a scenic drive takes you to Honfleur, where a guided tour reveals its historic charm and artistic heritage. Since this is a private tour, your guide can customize the experience or slow down at your preferred spots, making it perfect for photographers or those craving a relaxed pace.
Reviewers mention that the guide is knowledgeable and attentive, making for a memorable day. At around $225 per person, the value depends on how much you love art and private tours. It’s best suited for those who want a flexible, intimate experience with a focus on Impressionism and Normandy’s coastal beauty.
Bottom line: This tour offers a serene and personalized day exploring Monet’s inspiration and Honfleur’s streets, perfect for art lovers and small groups seeking comfort and flexibility.
3. Paris Shore Excursion from Le Havre Cruise port
Third on the list is the Paris Shore Excursion from Le Havre, priced at $216 per person. It’s a long, 10-hour day, but for those eager to experience the City of Light without an overnight stay, it’s a solid option. The tour includes visits to famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe, with a guided walk that covers the highlights of central Paris.
This tour is well-coordinated with your cruise schedule, with about four hours of guided sightseeing and three hours of travel each way. You’ll enjoy a comfortable bus ride and a photo stop in Paris, with a guide providing context and history along the way. While the reviews are mixed — with a 2/5 rating from only five reviews — most travelers find it a worthwhile day trip, especially if they want a broad overview of Paris in a limited time.
Be aware that this tour is best for those who are comfortable with long bus rides and walking. It’s ideal for first-time visitors who want a taste of Paris’s most iconic sights without the hassle of navigating public transportation. The tour’s length means it’s not suited for those with mobility issues or limited time ashore.
Bottom line: If you’re craving a quick, guided glimpse of Paris’s top landmarks and don’t mind a long day, this tour offers a convenient way to tick Paris off your list from Le Havre.
How to Choose
When deciding between these excursions, consider your interests, budget, and physical comfort. History buffs will find the Normandy D-Day Beaches tour offers a deeply moving experience at a reasonable price, especially given the reviews and comprehensive itinerary. Art lovers who prefer a private, relaxed day exploring Monet’s gardens and Honfleur should consider the Giverny and Honfleur tour — it’s pricier but personalized. Meanwhile, if you’re eager to see Paris’s iconic sights, the Paris Shore Excursion provides a quick and guided overview, ideal for those with limited time or first-time visitors.
Think about your budget, physical ability, and what you want to get out of the day. For example, if history is your passion, the Normandy tour’s detailed sites and moving cemeteries will resonate. If art and scenery are more your style, the private Monet experience will be more rewarding. And if Paris is calling, even for a day, the guided tour covers the essentials but requires a willingness for a long day on the bus.
Booking early is always wise, especially for private tours or popular excursions during peak cruise seasons. Check your cruise schedule carefully to ensure the day trip fits smoothly into your plans.
Final Thoughts
Le Havre offers a range of shore excursions that cater to different interests and energy levels. For a profound historical experience, the Normandy D-Day Beaches tour is a standout, praised for its organization and storytelling. Art lovers will enjoy the private Giverny and Honfleur trip, a peaceful retreat into Impressionist inspiration and Norman charm. And for those wanting a taste of Paris, the comprehensive guided tour hits the highlights despite its longer day.
Whether you’re passionate about WWII history, art, or city sights, these tours provide structured, memorable ways to explore Normandy and beyond. Booking early and choosing the excursion that aligns with your passions will help ensure a smooth, rewarding shore day.