The World Wars, particularly World War II, were highly significant periods. They cost millions of people (both military and civilian) their lives. They changed the way we interact on the battleground and the political arena. These turbulent times were marked by great rage and even greater sadness.
But more importantly, they represent the enduring spirit of hope for independence, freedom from tyranny, and peace among the nations. Visiting wartime sites provides a way to understand and honor the past. Retrace the footsteps of heroes with these 7 unforgettable WWII Journeys for military history enthusiasts.
1. Normandy Beach Tours, France
The D-day landings on the beaches of Normandy on 6 June 1944 marked a significant turn of events in World War 2. Here, the Allied forces launched a move against the occupying Nazi forces. Many brave soldiers died that day. But their sacrifices have never been forgotten.
There are many points of interest for keen history enthusiasts to explore, including the beach landing sites themselves, memorials, and museums. Key sites to visit include the Omaha Beach and Utah Beach landing sites and the American Cemetery where fallen US soldiers lay buried.
If you want to retrace the footsteps of heroes on the sands of Normandy’s beaches, take a Band of Brothers Tour. It offers an immersive tour experience including all the points of interest and insightful commentary on the events of D-day.
2. Battle of the Bulge Sites, Belgium
The Battle of the Bulge in the Ardennes region of Belgium was Nazi leader Adolf Hitler’s last major military offensive against the Western Front. But it was unsuccessful. The Allies were victorious and dealt an irreparable blow to the German forces.
Remember this key moment in World War II history by visiting the historic town of Bastogne, the Bastogne War Museum, and the Mardasson Memorial. You’ll find various tours centered around the Battle of the Bulge online. Some of these include guest house accommodation.
3. Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, USA
The attack on Pearl Harbor heralded America’s entry into the events of World War II. The American spirit proved too strong to buckle under this stealthy attack on the U.S. fleet by Japanese air forces. Instead, it united the nation and rallied them into action.
Would you like to know more about the attack that prompted US involvement in the Second World War? Take one of the available tours, with key sites at the USS Arizona Memorial, Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, and the Battleship Missouri.
If you’re visiting from outside the region, check our guide to essential packing and travel tips for a Hawaiian vacation, before you go.
4. London Blitz Experience, UK
The London Blitz was an intense bombing campaign undertaken by Nazi Germany against the United Kingdom from September 1940 to May 1941.
As the Luftwaffe dropped bombs on the English capital, residents took cover in air raid shelters and subway stations. Despite the constant onslaught, they remained resilient and continued with their daily lives. A testament to courage under fire.
Get a glimpse of the events of this time at the Churchill War Rooms and Imperial War Museum. While in London, take a whirl on the Millennium Wheel known as the London Eye. You’ll have fantastic panoramic views and end your trip, quite literally, on a high note.
5. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, Japan
In August 1945, in a bid to end the war and reduce Japanese military might, atomic bombs were dropped by the US on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombs dropped on the city.
There are monuments, memorials and museums you can visit here. But before you embark on your journey to the land of the rising sun, read our guide on what to pack and know for your Japan trip.
6. Berlin Wall and WWII Sites, Germany
Although erected in the aftermath of WW2, the Berlin Wall was the inevitable result of the Soviet legacy and the Cold War. It was erected in and stood until 1989, when along with the fall of communism, the wall was torn down.
It was built to cut off East Germany from West Germany and ran through the city of Berlin. The wall separated families and friends for years, and those who dared to cross over it were targeted by snipers at strategic guard posts.
This symbol of division, although gone today, still has traces that can be seen in the East Side Gallery and Mauerpark. Visit the Berlin Wall Memorial, Brandenburg Gate, and the Reichstag Building to learn why the Berlin Wall was built and why it fell.
