Normandy & Brittany - 4 Days Itinerary

Arrive at CDG & Car Pickup

Upon arrival at Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) airport, proceed to pick up your pre-booked rental car.

Allow time for formalities.

Ensure you have all necessary documents for car rental pickup (driver's license, credit card, booking confirmation).

Drive to Rouen

Enjoy the scenic drive from CDG Airport to Rouen, the historic capital of Normandy.

Toll roads may be encountered on this route. Have a navigation system ready.

Hotel Check-in & Lunch in Rouen

Check into your accommodation in Rouen and then find a local brasserie for a traditional Norman lunch.

Look for restaurants near the old town for easy access to afternoon activities.

Historic Center Guided Tour

Discover the secrets of Rouen's main monuments with a local guide, rich in anecdotes and historical insights.

This tour will cover major landmarks like the Rouen Cathedral, Gros-Horloge, and Saint-Maclou Church.

Highly rated tour with a focus on art history. Booking is required.

Rouen Cathedral & Gros Horloge

After your guided tour, take some time to explore the magnificent Rouen Cathedral at your own pace, famous for its Gothic architecture and Monet's series of paintings.

Then, admire the iconic Gros Horloge clock.

Entry to the cathedral is generally free. Climb the Gros Horloge belfry for panoramic views (small fee).

Dinner in Rouen

Enjoy a delicious dinner in one of Rouen's charming restaurants.

Consider trying local specialties like duck à la Rouennaise or fresh seafood.

Many restaurants can be found around Place du Vieux Marché or Rue du Gros Horloge.

Drive to Giverny

Depart from Rouen and drive to Giverny, home to Claude Monet's house and gardens.

The gardens can be quite popular; arriving early helps avoid crowds. Check opening times.

Explore Monet's Gardens

Immerse yourself in the colorful world of Claude Monet at his famous house and gardens, including the water garden with its iconic Japanese bridge and water lilies.

Book tickets online in advance to save time. The gardens are particularly beautiful in spring and summer.

Lunch in Giverny

Enjoy lunch in one of the charming cafes or restaurants in Giverny, offering pleasant settings near Monet's property.

Drive to Honfleur

Depart from Giverny and drive to the picturesque port town of Honfleur, a jewel on the Normandy coast.

The drive offers scenic countryside views.

Honfleur Hotel Check-in

Check into your accommodation in Honfleur, ideally close to the old port.

Explore Honfleur's Old Port

Wander through the 'Vieux Bassin' (Old Port) of Honfleur, admire the colorful slate-covered houses, and soak in the artistic atmosphere that inspired many painters.

The historic center is very walkable and offers numerous photo opportunities. Consider visiting Église Sainte Catherine, a unique wooden church.

Seafood Dinner in Honfleur

Savor fresh seafood at one of Honfleur's renowned restaurants overlooking the port.

This is a great opportunity to enjoy local specialties.

Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, providing a lovely ambiance.

Morning Stroll in Honfleur

Enjoy a final morning walk through Honfleur, perhaps visiting a local market or enjoying a coffee by the port.

The town comes alive in the morning, offering a different charm.

Drive to Mont Saint-Michel

Embark on a scenic drive to the magnificent Mont Saint-Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a truly unforgettable destination.

The causeway to Mont Saint-Michel can get busy. Arriving earlier in the day is advised. Parking is available on the mainland.

Lunch near Mont Saint-Michel

Have lunch at one of the restaurants near the Mont Saint-Michel parking area or on the Mont itself.

Expect traditional French cuisine.

Visit Abbaye du Mont Saint-Michel

Explore the Benedictine Abbey, a remarkable example of medieval religious and military architecture and a significant pilgrimage site.

The walk up to the abbey can be steep. Wear comfortable shoes. Booking advised, especially during peak season.

Walk the Fortifications

Stroll along the ancient Fortifications du Mont Saint-Michel, offering breathtaking views of the bay and the surrounding landscape.

Enjoy the panoramic views of the tidal bay. Be aware of the tides if venturing into the bay itself (only with a guide).

Check into Mont Saint-Michel Hotel

Check into your accommodation, ideally located close to Mont Saint-Michel for easy access to the site or views of it.

Dinner with a View

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with views of Mont Saint-Michel, or a quaint spot within the village itself, sampling local specialties.

Try the famous 'Omelette de la Mère Poulard' if you're feeling adventurous (and don't mind the price!).

Drive to Dinan

Start your day with a scenic drive from the Mont Saint-Michel area further into Brittany, heading towards the medieval town of Dinan.

Enjoy the picturesque countryside.

Explore Dinan Old Town

Wander through the cobbled streets of Dinan, admiring its half-timbered houses, artisan shops, and the impressive ramparts. Don't miss the Rue du Jerzual, leading down to the port.

Walk up to the Tour de l'Horloge for panoramic views of the town. Visit the Château de Dinan.

Lunch in Dinan

Enjoy traditional Breton cuisine in one of Dinan's charming restaurants.

Look for crêperies or seafood options near the port or in the old town.

Drive to Ploumanac'h

Embark on a beautiful drive to the Pink Granite Coast, heading towards Ploumanac'h in the Côtes-d'Armor region, known for its unique rock formations.

GR34 Coastal Walk

Discover the breathtaking Ploumanac'h Natural Site, part of the GR34 coastal path.

Marvel at the dramatic pink granite rock formations shaped by centuries of wind and sea. Walk around the lighthouse for stunning views.

Wear comfortable walking shoes. The path is well-marked and relatively easy. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g207340-d3531920-Reviews-Ploumanac_h_Natural_Site-Perros_Guirec_Cotes_d_Armor_Brittany.html?m=66827 | https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g7210092-d7238151-Reviews-Ploumanac_h_LIghthouse-Ploumanac_h_Cotes_d_Armor_Brittany.html?m=66827

Return Drive to CDG Airport

Begin your journey back to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport for your departure.

This is a significant drive, so plan for breaks and potential traffic.