Discover 7 Compelling Motives for Including Normandy, France, in Your Vacation Itinerary
Normandy, a region steeped in history and natural beauty, is a must-visit destination for any traveler. From the picturesque town of Rouen, famously depicted in a Monet painting, to the magical island of Mont St. Michel, there's no shortage of breathtaking sights to see.
For those looking to save on their trip, using points and miles can be a great way to book flights to Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG), the main gateway to Normandy. Transatlantic award availability varies by airline and season, so it's best to book early for the best value.
Once in Paris, there are several lodging options near Normandy that can be booked using points. Hilton Honors points can secure stays at the historic boutique hotel, Les Manoirs des Portes de Deauville, starting at around 65,000 points per night, or the more centrally located Hilton Garden Inn Le Havre Centre, close to Normandy’s coast, for about 32,000 points per night.
World of Hyatt points can be used at Hyatt Place Rouen, starting at 5,000 points per night, though it is not right at the beaches but accessible by train to Bayeux, near Normandy D-Day sites.
In addition to these options, affordable boutique hotels, bed and breakfasts, and casual lodging are prevalent in the villages and towns surrounding the Normandy beaches.
To explore D-Day beaches and Normandy’s highlights, consider private or group tours from Paris or Bayeux, some offering pickup/dropoff, or renting a car or using regional trains/buses after arriving.
When it comes to dining, Normandy is known for its fresh seafood, artisan cheeses, local beers, cider, hearty meat dishes, and stews. Don't forget to try the region's famous apple-based desserts and popular drink, Cidre de Normandie.
Caen, near the Normandy beaches and within driving distance to Bayeux, offers renovated town greenery, a bird sanctuary, and botanical gardens. Hilton Garden Inn Le Havre Centre is located on the marina in Le Havre.
For those seeking luxury accommodations, La Ferme Saint Simeon in Honfleur and Cures Marines Hotel & Spa Trouville in Trouville-sur-Mer are part of the Hotel Collection and can be booked with American Express Membership Rewards points.
By redeeming airline miles/points for your transatlantic flight to Paris and using hotel loyalty points for all or part of your lodging in Normandy or nearby cities like Rouen or Le Havre, you can minimize out-of-pocket expenses for your trip. Book tours or transport separately using cash or credit card rewards if possible.
With this approach, you'll be able to experience all that Normandy has to offer without breaking the bank. Bon voyage!
[1] Private or group tours from Paris or Bayeux: Tour Operator 1, Tour Operator 2, Tour Operator 3
[2] Hilton Garden Inn Le Havre Centre: Hotel Website
[3] Hyatt Place Rouen: Hotel Website
[4] La Ferme Saint Simeon: Hotel Website
[5] Cures Marines Hotel & Spa Trouville: Hotel Website
- Normandy's historical and scenic beauty extends to its entertainment scene, with several tour operators like [Tour Operator 1], [Tour Operator 2], and [Tour Operator 3], offering private or group tours for exploration of D-Day beaches and Normandy’s highlights.
- To book lodging, travelers may find the Hilton Garden Inn Le Havre Centre, located on the marina, appealing, as it can be secured using Hilton Honors points. [Hotel Website]
- For those staying in Rouen, the Hyatt Place Rouen offers comfortable accommodation that can be paid for with World of Hyatt points. [Hotel Website]
- For a luxurious experience in Normandy, travelers can opt for La Ferme Saint Simeon in Honfleur or Cures Marines Hotel & Spa Trouville in Trouville-sur-Mer, both part of the Hotel Collection and bookable with American Express Membership Rewards points. [Hotel Website]
