World War 2 in Europe wasn’t just a battle of nations; it was a clash of ideologies, a test of human resilience, and a stark reminder of our capacity for both darkness and heroism. Today, the continent is peppered with poignant reminders of this turbulent period, offering history buffs and somber souls alike a chance to walk through battlefields, stand in hallowed halls of resilience, and grapple with the complexities of the past. In this article, we take you on a powerful journey through 7 must-visit destinations for your next World War 2 historical tour of Europe.
1. Normandy D-Day Beaches, France
On June 6th, 1944, the fate of the war hung in the balance as over 150,000 Allied troops stormed the windswept sands of Normandy. Omaha, Utah, Gold, Juno, and Sword beaches transformed from peaceful stretches of coastline into the stage for a defining historical moment. Today, the sands whisper tales of heroism and sacrifice, inviting you to walk in the footsteps of these brave soldiers and immerse yourself in the echoes of history.
Activities:
Stand on hallowed ground
Walk the five landing beaches, each bearing the scars of battle and monuments to the fallen. Pay your respects at the American Cemetery overlooking Omaha Beach, its white crosses standing sentinel against the vast ocean.
Dive into history
Visit the Eisenhower Museum in Caen for a tactical overview of the D-Day operation. Explore the Juno Beach Centre in Courseulles-sur-Mer to delve deeper into the Canadian landing story. Take a guided tour for rich historical insights and personal accounts.
Beyond the beaches
Arromanches-les-Bains unveils the remains of the Mulberry harbor, a temporary Allied port vital for D-Day supplies. Follow the D-Day Overlord Route for a deeper understanding of the battle’s broader context.
Nearby:
Discover Caen’s vibrant city center, rebuilt after wartime destruction. Visit the Mémorial pour la Paix for a poignant reflection on the cost of war.
Bayeux: Immerse yourself in the Bayeux Tapestry, a remarkable embroidery telling the story of the Norman Conquest, offering a fascinating historical parallel.
Mont Saint-Michel: Marvel at this iconic tidal island monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site steeped in history and natural beauty.
2. Anne Frank House, Amsterdam, Netherlands:
Tucked away amidst Amsterdam’s serene canals, an ordinary facade conceals the extraordinary Anne Frank House. Here, within the cramped confines of the Secret Annex, Anne penned her diary, a beacon of hope and defiance amidst unimaginable darkness. Today, her story endures, inviting us to step into her world and reflect on the human spirit’s resilience.
Activities:
Navigate the Secret Annex
Guided tours reveal the hidden entrance and limited space that shielded Anne and seven others for two years. Climb the steep stairs, peek into Anne’s room, and feel the weight of history.
Immerse yourself in her world: Exhibits and multimedia displays bring Anne’s life, family, and wartime context to life. Audio recordings and projections breathe life into her diary excerpts, deepening your understanding.
Reflect on hope and resistance
Stand where Anne wrote, “In spite of everything, I still believe that people are good at heart.” Witness the enduring power of her message, one that transcends tragedy and inspires hope for a more just world.
Nearby:
Dutch Resistance Museum: Deepen your understanding of Dutch resistance efforts against Nazi oppression.
Westerbork transit camp memorial: Reflect on the stories of Jews who passed through this camp, including Anne and her family.
Canal cruise: Immerse yourself in Amsterdam’s beauty and history while glimpsing landmarks like the Westerkerk church and the Royal Palace.
3. Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial, Poland
On the outskirts of the Polish town of Oświęcim, the chilling expanse of Auschwitz-Birkenau stretches out, a once-thriving city of death transformed into a stark monument to humanity’s darkest hour. Here, amidst the preserved gas chambers, crematoria, and skeletal remains of barracks, silence speaks volumes. This still echoes with the cries of millions whose lives were brutally extinguished. Visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau is not just a historical expedition; it’s a profound confrontation with the depths of human cruelty and a testament to the enduring power of memory.
Activities:
Guided tours
Navigate the vast camp complex with knowledgeable guides, gaining deep insights into the camp’s operation, daily life, and the systematic eradication of millions.
Auschwitz Jewish Center
Delve into the rich history and culture of Polish Jewry before the Holocaust. Pay a solemn tribute to their vibrant communities and tragic losses.
Birkenau Museum
Explore the barracks, gas chambers, and crematoria of Birkenau, the largest extermination camp within the Auschwitz complex.
Witness to History Exhibition
Engage with personal testimonies and artifacts, giving faces and voices to the victims and survivors of Auschwitz.
Nearby:
Krakow: Discover the vibrant city of Krakow, a cultural and historical gem. Visit the poignant Schindler’s Factory Museum, a former Nazi arms factory repurposed as a center for Jewish heritage and resistance.
Plaszow concentration camp memorial: Pay your respects at the site of this smaller camp, where thousands of Jews were imprisoned and murdered.
Wieliczka Salt Mine: Descend into a UNESCO World Heritage site, marveling at the intricate carvings and tunnels carved by miners over centuries.
4. Battle of Arnhem, Netherlands
Once upon a time, an iconic airborne descent was done over a bridge too far. Arnhem, nestled beside the Rhine River, played a pivotal role in Operation Market Garden. This was the daring Allied attempt to capture key bridges in Holland and swiftly end the war. Yet, fate intervened, transforming Arnhem into a battleground where bravery bled into tragedy. Today, the city whispers tales of valor and sacrifice, inviting you to explore the legacy of a mission etched in history.
Activities:
Hartenstein Airborne Museum
Immerse yourself in the story of the British 1st Airborne Division and their audacious attempt to secure the Oosterbeek Bridge. Exhibits, artifacts, and personal accounts bring the battle to life.
Oosterbeek Airborne Cemetery
Walk the solemn grounds of this resting place for over 1,700 Allied soldiers, reflecting on their sacrifice and the price of freedom.
Bicycle tour of the battlefields
Pedal through the picturesque Dutch countryside, retracing the footsteps of paratroopers and witnessing the scars of conflict.
John Frost Bridge walk
Stand on the iconic bridge at the heart of the battle. Imagine the fierce fighting and contemplating the “bridge too far” that symbolized unyielding determination.
Nearby:
Nijmegen: Explore this city heavily impacted by the battle, visiting the National Liberation Museum 1944-1945 for a broader understanding of the Dutch experience during the war.
Utrecht: Travel south to this charming city with a rich history, its canals and museums offering a peaceful contrast to the Battle of Arnhem’s legacy.
Kröller-Müller Museum: Escape the somber memories for a dose of art and nature, discovering a world-class collection of modern and contemporary art set amidst stunning parklands.
5. Mauthausen Concentration Camp, Austria
Carved into the granite slopes above the Danube River, Mauthausen concentration camp casts a long shadow over Austrian history. This brutal complex, infamous for its quarry and gas chambers, was a place of relentless suffering for over 190,000 prisoners. Today, amidst the ghostly remnants of barracks and crematoria, Mauthausen stands as a chilling reminder of the depths of human barbarity and a powerful call for vigilance against tyranny.
Activities:
Guided tours
Explore the preserved structures of the camp, including the quarry where prisoners endured forced labor, the gas chambers, and the chilling crematoria. Learn about the daily lives of inmates and the camp’s role in the Nazi system of repression.
Mauthausen Memorial Museum
Delve deeper into the historical context of the camp through exhibits showcasing photographs, documents, and personal artifacts. Witness the stories of victims and survivors, giving faces to the tragedy.
Quarry hike
Walk along the steep path where emaciated prisoners toiled under inhumane conditions, gaining a visceral understanding of their hardship. Reflect on the enduring human spirit in the face of unimaginable cruelty.
“We Will Never Forget” Wall
Pay your respects at this poignant memorial wall inscribed with the names of over 85,000 victims, ensuring their memory endures.
Nearby:
Salzburg: Escape the somber atmosphere for a contrasting experience in this UNESCO World Heritage city. Explore the Baroque architecture of the Mirabell Palace, soak in the stunning views from the Salzburg Fortress, and discover the musical legacy of Mozart.
Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site: Gain a wider perspective on the Nazi concentration camp system by visiting Dachau, the first camp established in Germany.
Hallstatt: Immerse yourself in the charm of this picturesque village nestled amidst Austrian mountains. Discover its traditional salt mines, marvel at the Hallstätter See, and enjoy the serenity of nature’s beauty.
6. Monte Cassino, Italy
Standing sentinel above the verdant Cassino valley, Monte Cassino whispers tales of sacrifice and resilience. For centuries, the Abbey atop this sacred peak served as a beacon of faith and scholarship. But during World War 2, its hallowed ground became a battleground, ravaged by Allied forces determined to breach the German Gustav Line. Today, amidst the scars of conflict, the restored Abbey and poignant war cemeteries stand as testaments to a human drama etched in blood and stone.
Activities:
Climb to the Abbey
Ascend the mountain path or ride the shuttle, then explore the restored Abbey of Monte Cassino, an architectural marvel rebuilt after suffering devastating bombardment. Marvel at the mosaics and cloisters, and stand humbled by the panoramic views that once witnessed brutal clashes.
Pay your respects
Visit the Polish War Cemetery, a poignant field of white crosses and star markers overlooking the battlefield. Reflect on the sacrifices made by the Polish 2nd Corps, who finally captured the Abbey after months of fierce fighting.
Cassino War Museum
Delve deeper into the battle’s complexities at the museum, examining maps, artifacts, and personal accounts to understand the strategies, losses, and lingering legacies of the conflict.
Hike the surrounding mountains: Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Lazio region, trekking through lush forests and witnessing the scars of war gradually heal alongside the resilient flora.
Nearby:
Naples: Escape the somber tones for a vibrant dose of Italian life in Naples. Explore the historical streets, savor Neapolitan pizza, and marvel at the archaeological treasures of Pompeii and Herculaneum.
San Carlo Theater: Witness the enduring power of art and culture at this historic theater, rebuilt after Nazi destruction. Enjoy an opera performance or simply admire the opulent interiors, reminding us of the beauty that persists even in the face of conflict.
Caserta Palace: Discover the grandeur of the Bourbon dynasty at this magnificent palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with lavish gardens, fountains, and royal apartments.
7. Battle of Crete, Greece
Beneath the azure skies of Crete, where myths mingle with olive groves and turquoise waters, lies a legacy of fierce resistance. In 1941, this idyllic island became the stage for the first large-scale airborne invasion in history, a dramatic clash between German paratroopers and the tenacious Cretan defenders. Today, amidst sun-drenched beaches and ancient ruins, whispers of war linger, inviting you to uncover a story of heroism and resilience etched in the island’s soul.
Activities:
War Museum of Crete
Immerse yourself in the Cretan resistance narrative at the Heraklion museum. See weapons, photographs, and personal accounts that bring the battle to life, understanding the strategies and sacrifices of Greek forces and local civilians.
German Military Cemetery
Walk among the rows of headstones in Maleme, a stark reminder of the human cost of the conflict. Reflect on the stories of both sides, acknowledging the tragedy that unfolded on this scenic island.
Explore historical sites
Blend history with leisure, tracing the footsteps of ancient Minoans at the Palace of Knossos, marveling at the Venetian harbor of Chania, or venturing into the Samaria Gorge, a stunning natural wonder.
Discover Cretan spirit
Sample traditional cuisine in quaint villages, hike picturesque trails, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of coastal towns. Witness the enduring spirit of the Cretan people, who continue to celebrate their resilience and rich history.
Nearby:
Elafonissi: Escape to paradise on this pink sand beach, its turquoise waters and lagoon offering a serene contrast to the battle’s echoes.
Santorini: Sail to this volcanic island, renowned for its whitewashed houses, caldera views, and captivating sunsets. Immerse yourself in its enchanting beauty and ancient history.
Balos Lagoon: Discover the hidden gem of Gramvousa peninsula, where turquoise waters lap against golden shores and ancient ruins stand guard. Relax on the beach or explore the Venetian fortress, enjoying the island’s tranquility.
Conclusion
Your odyssey through World War 2’s European battlefields isn’t just a historical tour; it’s a deeply personal conversation with the past. Each sand-worn beach, each scarred monument contains tales of sacrifice and resilience, echoing in your present.
Come 2025, the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) will be your key to unlocking these destinations. This quick online application ensures smooth borders and welcomes you to the Schengen Area. Prepare with both wonder and practicality – pack your walking shoes, check ETIAS requirements, and embark on a journey that resonates far beyond the battlefields. It’s a journey that honors the past and shapes a future steeped in connection and understanding.