France is home to some of the world's most important and best-preserved World War II historic sites. From the German occupation and the French Resistance to the Allied invasion of Normandy and the liberation of France, the country played a central role in the history of the war in Western Europe.
Today, visitors can explore hundreds of places connected to World War II, including D-Day landing beaches, battlefields, coastal batteries, bunkers, museums, memorials, military cemeteries, and historic towns and villages. Normandy is particularly significant, with places such as Omaha Beach, Pointe du Hoc, Pegasus Bridge, and the numerous museums and memorials spread across the former D-Day battlefields.
Beyond Normandy, World War II history can be found throughout France. Historic sites connected to the French Resistance, the German occupation, the liberation of Paris, the Vichy regime, and the Free French Forces provide a broader perspective on France during the war. Sites such as Oradour-sur-Glane preserve the memory of civilians who suffered and died during the conflict.
France also contains numerous surviving elements of the Atlantic Wall, including bunkers, gun batteries, observation posts, and other coastal fortifications. Together with museums, cemeteries, memorials, and battlefields, these places offer visitors the opportunity to explore the events that shaped France and Western Europe during World War II.
Plan your World War II trip with guides to museums, battlefields, memorials and historic sites worldwide. Discover the best WWII locations for your next tour.
