Remembering WWII: Must-See Destinations Across Europe
June 6th, 2024 marks the 80th anniversary of the D-Day Landings in Normandy, a pivotal event etched in the annals of history.
To commemorate this moment, we want to share several destinations known for their breathtaking beauty, as well as their historical significance during World War II. At these locations we offer a range of thoughtfully crafted tours that provide an expedition to the past, unveiling the untold stories of World War II. Both awe-inspiring and somber, these sites bear witness to humanity’s indomitable spirit amidst adversity.
Normandy, France
Normandy, France is regarded as one of the top European destinations for travelers to steep themselves in World War II history.
One of the first major French towns liberated by Allied forces after the success of Operation Overlord was Bayeux, and we can arrange full- and half-day guided private tours in an authentic WWII Willy’s Jeep or in a Ural motorbike from this medieval town to the historic sites of the D-Day Landings.
Other tours of note include those of the beaches of Omaha, Gold, Juno, and Sword, known for their role as Allied landing points in the D-Day invasion.
Beyond these highlighted tours, if your clients are looking for something specific or special in the region, we can arrange that for you!
“Keep Calm and Carry On” is a famous phrase derived from World War II-era England to encourage Britain’s citizens to persist during a time of unrest and fear.
Sometimes wrongly attributed to England’s legendary Prime Minister, Winston Churchill, it is now enduringly associated with his spirit and leadership of the British people.
Of the many leaders of WWII Europe, Churchill is one of the most well-known and beloved, and any history buff visiting ‘The Big Smoke’ cannot miss our tour of the Churchill War Rooms.
For those who have time to spare, a day trip from London to Bletchley Park, an estate known for its role in codebreaking during the Second World War, can be arranged as a bespoke request.
If Winston Churchill was one of the most admired and beloved figures of WWII, it goes without saying that the leader of the Nazi party, Adolf Hitler, was one of the most reviled and hated.
Munich, which is much more fondly known today for its annual Oktoberfest festival, has a decidedly less festive past as the former seat of power for the Nazi party.
To fully understand how such a political party came to power is an important study of history, and travelers can appreciate, if not respect, the impact Nazi Germany had on Europe, and the rest of the world, during a Third Reich walking tour.
Another experience of note from this era is a shared tour of the Eagle’s Nest, a former tea house and gift to Adolf Hitler for his 50th birthday.
Poland has a rich history as one of the most significant centers of Jewish life and culture in Europe, which spans over a millennium.
Travelers can fully immerse themselves in this legacy by partaking in either a full- or half-day private Jewish heritage tour.
Poland’s legacy as a hub of Jewish culture is juxtaposed with its grim role as home to Nazi concentration camps during World War II. We offer a shared guided tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum and Memorial, where over 1.1 million people, primarily Jews, perished during WWII.
Amsterdam boasts numerous attractions, yet one of the most popular and poignant is our private Anne Frank walking tour through the city’s Jewish Quarter.
During World War II, Dutch citizens displayed remarkable resistance by sheltering Jewish friends and neighbors, defying the oppressive regime. The tour not only honors Anne Frank’s legacy but also commemorates the resilience of those who bravely resisted the dark forces of hatred and tyranny during one of history’s darkest chapters.
Known for its notoriously long queues, if travelers want to visit this museum, ranked as the third most popular museum in Amsterdam, it is advised they arrange a tour in advance.
Our Europe Specialists have lived, studied, and/or traveled extensively throughout Europe to gain first-hand knowledge of the products, destinations, and services we offer. Our team has the expertise to assist you in crafting a fully curated vacation that solidifies your rock star status in the eyes of your clients!