Companion programme
Normandy is rich on cultural and historical sites. IPAC’26 is collaborating with the local expertise NORMANDY DMC to propose visits & activities before, during or after the conference.
They collaborate with the hotels listed on the hotel reservation page to simplify the organization of your stay!
If you wish to have an early morning tour or evening tour during the conference week this can be organized upon request. They have a rich program representing this exceptional region of Western France. For propositions you find some examples here below.
Full day programs
Mont-Saint-Michel
Rising from a rocky islet in the heart of a breathtaking bay, Mont-Saint-Michel is one of France’s most iconic landmarks. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it captivates visitors with its stunning abbey, winding medieval streets, and the extraordinary tides that transform it from island to mainland. This is a destination where history, nature, and spirituality converge in an unforgettable setting. Whether bathed in sunlight or illuminated at night, its silhouette against the horizon is a truly magical sight that leaves a lasting impression.
Visitors can explore centuries of history within the abbey walls, enjoy panoramic views of the bay, and discover charming local shops and cafés. A journey to Mont-Saint-Michel feels like stepping into a fairytale — timeless, majestic, and deeply moving.
- May 2026 : Monday 18
- Full day program
- Departure from Deauville Convention Center at 9 a.m
- Return to Deauville Convention Center around 7:30 p.m
- Coach journey : 5 hours total
- Included: Accompaniment by a guide throughout the day + Abbey entrances
- Lunch not included
- Outfit : comfortable for walking (several stairs to reach the Abbey)
- In case of cancellation, More than 60 days : 10% of the canceled amount / From 60 days to 31 days : 40% of the canceled amount / From 30 days to 16 days : 60% of the canceled amount / From 15 days to the day : 100% of the canceled amount / No-show: 100% of the reservation
Pedestrian guided tour of Rouen and Giverny Monet Fondation
Rouen
Rouen is a historic city steeped in medieval charm, known for its stunning Gothic cathedral that once inspired Monet’s masterpieces. Its narrow cobblestone streets reveal half-timbered houses, bustling markets, and rich cultural heritage. The city holds a poignant place in history as the site where Joan of Arc was tried and executed, with museums and monuments dedicated to her memory. Today, Rouen combines history with vibrant modern life, offering excellent dining, shopping, and festivals that celebrate Normandy’s traditions.
Monet House
Outdoor artist and colour virtuoso Claude Monet was the charismatic leader of the impressionist movement. The artist was also passionate about botany and an inventive gardener who arranged his garden like an artwork.
Brimming with history, the pink house retains its owner’s spirit. It tells the story of Monet’s daily life, as a person and an artist, using period furniture and items, souvenirs, and accurate replicas of rooms.
From the Clos Normand’s flower beds to the water garden’s water lilies, Claude Monet created an outdoor palette during his life at Giverny. Towards the end of his life, this impressionist setting became his sole source of inspiration.
- May 2026 : Tuesday 19
- Departure from Deauville Convention Center at 9 a.m.
- Return to Deauville Convention Center around 5 p.m.
- Coach journey: transfer from Deauville to Rouen and Giverny Monet house + return 4,5 hours total
- Accompaniment by a guide throughout the day (Guided tour of Rouen, visit to Joan of Arc Historical Museum, Visit of Monet house & gardens)
- Lunch not included
- Outfit : comfortable for walking
- In case of cancellation: More than 60 days : 10% of the canceled amount / From 60 days to 31 days : 40% of the canceled amount / From 30 days to 16 days : 60% of the canceled amount / From 15 days to the day : 100% of the canceled amount No-show: 100% of the reservation
Honfleur and Etretat
Honfleur
Honfleur enchants visitors with its picturesque old harbor, surrounded by narrow streets and colorful timber-framed houses. This charming town has long attracted artists like Monet and Boudin, who captured its shimmering waters and lively quay. Visitors can explore art galleries, enjoy fresh seafood in cozy restaurants, and visit historic landmarks such as Sainte-Catherine Church, the largest wooden church in France. Honfleur perfectly blends artistic heritage with authentic coastal charm.
Etretat
Étretat is world-famous for its striking white chalk cliffs, natural arches, and needle-like rock formations that rise majestically from the sea. This picturesque village has inspired many artists and writers, including Monet and Maupassant, captivated by its extraordinary beauty and shifting light. Visitors can enjoy spectacular hiking trails along the cliffs, explore quaint streets filled with cafés and shops, or simply relax and take in the peaceful charm of this unique coastal gem. Étretat is truly where nature and art come together.
- May 2026 : Sunday 17
- Departure from Deauville Convention Center at 9 a.m.
- Return to Deauville Convention Center around 6 p.m.
- Coach journey: 3 hours total
- Accompaniment by a guide throughout the day
- Lunch not included
- Outfit : comfortable for walking (the streets of Honfleur are cobbled)
- In case of cancellation: More than 60 days : 10% of the canceled amount / From 60 days to 31 days : 40% of the canceled amount / From 30 days to 16 days : 60% of the canceled amount / From 15 days to the day : 100% of the canceled amount / No-show: 100% of the reservation
You can also find a list of activities, have a look on To do in Deauville and the surroundings page.
To organize your visits and activities, please contact Normandy DMC.
+33 2 31 14 53 40