D-Day Key Locations in Normandy: Maps, Memorials & History
Home · Availability · Book Now · Contact Us · Location · Reviews
First published: October 2025
Explore more about local customs, traditional festivals, and the heart of Normandy countryside life.
Normandy offers some of the most powerful WWII sites in Europe — places where history was written on beaches, in small towns, and across the skies. Whether you're planning family holidays in Normandy, a self-catering break in Manche, or a full-on WWII history itinerary, this guide highlights the must-see D-Day locations near our gîte.
The D-Day landings on 6 June 1944 marked the start of Operation Overlord, the Allied campaign to liberate Western Europe from Nazi occupation. This massive military operation included airborne landings, amphibious assaults, and coordinated attacks across five key beaches and dozens of strategic inland targets.
🕊️ Pegasus Bridge – Heroism in the Night
Pegasus Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks of the D-Day landings. Located in Bénouville, it was captured by British airborne troops in the early hours of 6 June 1944. The glider landings, executed under moonlight, allowed troops to secure a vital crossing over the Caen Canal.
If you’re wondering where is Pegasus Bridge? — it's in the Calvados region, about 15 minutes from Ouistreham and Sword Beach. Today, the Pegasus Memorial Museum displays one of the original gliders, personal artefacts, and a replica of the bridge itself.
📍 Pegasus Bridge location: Bénouville, Normandy – approx. 1 hr 20 from our gîte
🇺🇸 Pointe du Hoc – Courage Against the Cliffs
Pointe du Hoc is a dramatic clifftop site between Omaha and Utah Beach, where U.S. Army Rangers scaled 30-metre cliffs under enemy fire to neutralise German artillery. The cratered landscape, bunkers, and memorials remain untouched, giving visitors an authentic view of the battle's intensity.
The site is now part of the American Battle Monuments Commission. If you’re planning a road trip through Normandy’s WWII sites, Pointe du Hoc is an essential stop.
📍 Location: Near Cricqueville-en-Bessin – approx. 1 hr from our gîte
🇫🇷 Sainte-Mère-Église – First to Land, First to Fight
Sainte-Mère-Église was one of the first towns liberated on D-Day. American paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne Division dropped here before dawn, with some famously landing on rooftops and in trees. One paratrooper, John Steele, got caught on the church tower — a mannequin hangs there today in tribute.
The Airborne Museum is among the best in Normandy, with immersive exhibits and flight simulators.
📍 Location: Sainte-Mère-Église, Manche – approx. 1 hr from our gîte
⚓ Arromanches-les-Bains – Mulberry Harbour Remains
Arromanches was the site of the British-constructed Mulberry Harbour, an artificial port that allowed the Allies to unload vehicles and supplies after D-Day. Large concrete pontoons are still visible offshore at low tide, and the D-Day Museum and 360° cinema bring the story to life.
This is also home to the British Normandy Memorial in nearby Ver-sur-Mer, commemorating over 22,000 UK servicemen and women who died during the Normandy campaign.
📍 Location: Arromanches, Calvados – approx. 1 hr 20 from our gîte
🇩🇪 La Cambe German War Cemetery – A Place of Reflection
For those seeking a balanced view of the Normandy battlefields, the La Cambe German War Cemetery offers a solemn and powerful experience. Over 21,000 German soldiers are buried here, in contrast to the white crosses of Allied cemeteries. A centrepiece tumulus marks the memorial space.
Located between Bayeux and Carentan, it is a moving stop for those tracing WW2 Normandy history and seeking context around both sides of the conflict.
📍 Location: La Cambe, Calvados – approx. 1 hr 15 from our gîte
🪖 Carentan – Strategic Town Between the Beaches
Carentan was a key objective linking Utah and Omaha Beach, captured after fierce fighting by the 101st Airborne. It was later made famous by the Band of Brothers series. The town features restored buildings, war memorials, and a canal-side walk ideal for thoughtful reflection.
📍 Location: Carentan, Manche – approx. 55 mins from our gîte
🇬🇧 Ranville – First Village Liberated
Ranville, near Pegasus Bridge, was the first village liberated by Allied forces on D-Day. Captured by the 6th Airborne Division, it remains a poignant spot for British visitors. The village cemetery includes graves of many paratroopers and glider pilots who landed nearby.
📍 Location: Ranville, Calvados – approx. 1 hr 20 from our gîte
🪖 Dead Man’s Corner Museum – 101st Airborne in Focus
Dead Man’s Corner Museum in Saint-Côme-du-Mont focuses on the elite 101st Airborne Division. With original uniforms, vehicles and exhibits, it’s a must-see stop between Carentan and Sainte-Mère-Église. Great for those planning Normandy short breaks centred on WW2 sites.
🗺️ Mapping the Past – Plan Your Visit
For those asking where is Pegasus Bridge or looking for a map of Normandy WWII sites, the Normandy tourism map and regional visitor centres offer excellent printed and digital resources.
Popular search terms like tourist map of Normandy or Normandy battle sites will bring up route suggestions that pair well with your self-catering Normandy holiday based at our gîte.
🇫🇷 Base Yourself in La Manche
All these sites are reachable as day trips from our gîte near Coutances in La Manche, Normandy. Our holiday rental offers a peaceful base for Normandy short breaks, family holidays and exploring the best of WW2 heritage.
We're close to the beaches, 15 mins from the sea, and within 90 minutes of all the major memorials and museums. You can easily travel to Normandy from the UK via ferry to Cherbourg, Ouistreham or Saint-Malo — perfect for those seeking a Normandy holiday rental with comfort and history combined.
🌟 Suggested Itinerary Idea
- Day 1: Pointe du Hoc + Omaha Beach + La Cambe Cemetery
- Day 2: Sainte-Mère-Église + Utah Beach + Dead Man's Corner
- Day 3: Arromanches + Pegasus Bridge + Ranville
Mix and match depending on interest and weather. Great for family holidays in Normandy or history-focused short breaks.