5 Remarkable Places to Visit in Honour of VE Day
Yesterday marked the 80th anniversary of VE Day (Victory in Europe Day), a day to reflect on the end of the Second World War in Europe and the sacrifices made by so many. While commemorations took place across the UK, it’s also a time to consider how travel can connect us to the past in a meaningful way.
For those who enjoy combining history with holiday inspiration, here are five unforgettable destinations where you can walk in the footsteps of heroes and explore the legacy of World War II
🇫🇷 Normandy, France
No list would be complete without the historic beaches of Normandy. Visit Omaha and Utah Beach, the poignant American Cemetery, and the Caen Memorial Museum. This region offers an immersive experience for anyone looking to understand the scale and significance of the D-Day landings.
Add-on: Why not pair it with a few days in Paris or a wine tour through the Loire Valley?
🇪🇸 Berlin, Germany
A city steeped in history, Berlin played a key role in the final days of the war. Explore the Topography of Terror, the remnants of the Berlin Wall, the Reichstag building, and take a guided tour through underground bunkers for a chilling insight into wartime Berlin.
Add-on: Extend your break with a river cruise along the Elbe or a visit to nearby Potsdam.
🇵🇱 Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, USA
For those wanting a more far-flung option, Pearl Harbor is a powerful site where history truly comes to life. Explore the USS Arizona Memorial, USS Missouri, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum to gain a deeper understanding of the Pacific theatre of WWII.
Add-on: Combine with a relaxing island-hopping itinerary across Hawaii.
🇵🇱 Kraków & Auschwitz, Poland
A deeply moving destination, Kraków is the gateway to Auschwitz-Birkenau, one of the most sobering and educational sites from the Holocaust. The Oskar Schindler Factory and Jewish Quarter in Kraków are also must-visits for a well-rounded trip.
Add-on: Include time in Warsaw for a broader view of Poland’s wartime resilience.
🇳🇱 Amsterdam, Netherlands
Home to the Anne Frank House and the Resistance Museum, Amsterdam offers an emotional and inspiring look into life during Nazi occupation. Its walkable city centre makes it easy to explore its historical highlights at a leisurely pace.
Add-on: Add on a tulip tour in spring or a river cruise through the Netherlands and Belgium.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a meaningful travel experience, these destinations offer a powerful reminder of the importance of peace, remembrance, and the stories that shaped our world.
🌏 Ready to plan a memorable journey through history?
We can help you build the perfect itinerary – combining cultural insight with relaxing stays, expert guides, and everything taken care of from start to finish. Get in touch today and let’s plan something truly unforgettable.
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