World War II has sculpted the history of Europe.

World War II has sculpted the history of Europe and left a scar, that took decades to heal. France, like many other European countries, suffered a great deal during World War II. Paris, often referred to as the city of Love and Light, not only offers romantic tours but also educational and interesting tours, to commemorate events like World War II. You might ask: “Why visit a sad and depressing War memorial site if you could climb the Eiffel Tower or dine in a fine French restaurant?”

The answer is simple. We have a duty to educate the younger generation and in the hopes that history will not repeat itself.

Talking from personal experience – a visit to a World War II site.

Many years ago, I visited the Dachau concentration camp in Germany. It was an unforgettable and emotional experience – one that I will never forget. Maybe I do not remember all the details of the exhibitions but to this day, I still remember the effect it had on me. An indescribable sadness that lingered at my doorstep for many days afterward. Since then, I have visited other War memorials around the world. It always leaves me humble and grateful.

World War II sites and heritage tours in Paris.

My visit to Dachau came up in a conversation with a friend the other day. She told me about their upcoming trip to Paris and that they are looking for a historical tour that delves into the history of World War II. With two teenagers in the house, they thought it would be interesting to learn more about German invasion in France and the effect it had on the French people. I forgot to add, her grandfather was French and only a young boy of 13 when World War II broke out. Luckily, he was still too young to fight in the war. The children were often mesmerized by his stories.

She asked if I could help her find a suitable and interesting tour, that would not bore the children and at the same time, educate them. She specifically wanted a walking tour. Walking tours can be tricky. Big groups are not ideal and personally I like to stick to a group not bigger than 10 people. My ideal tour is a private tour. I would rather pay more and enjoy all the attention of the guide. It is also easier to move around in smaller groups.

Finding an educational World War II walking tour in Paris.

I found a great tour called the Paris WW2 tour. This walking tour starts from the historic Marais district and events leading up to the German invasion of France is explained in detail. This is important because you get a glimpse into the lives of the Parisians as you walk past key buildings. Imagine food rationing, the famous black markets, curfews, soldiers and the struggle to get hold of daily provisions.

The Jewish quarter is a special place of interest. This is where Jews lived and rounded up to be transported to concentration camps. Sadly, many ended up at Auschwitz. The Jewish quarter is not all gloom and doom. Many unnamed heroes played a big part during this period and the guide will tell more about them.

Next on the agenda is the Holocaust Museum and the Wall of the Righteous. Then cross the river towards Ile de la Cité. This is a very interesting part of the tour where you can actually see the bullet holes and artillery impacts. They are hidden and the guide will point them out. Key battles were won here and sadly many battles lost as well. A visit to the Deportation Memorial is also included in this tour.

The French Resistance and the anonymous heroes during World War II.

This tour is filled with stories about many heroes during the war. Ordinary people who played a major role during the French Resistance. Imagine people taking over a police station, the famed story of the Monuments of Men and stolen artworks. No doubt the final days of the occupation were the worst. Hitler knew he was losing the war as the Allied Forces were closing in on him. Then came the order to destroy Paris and everything in sight. Not only Paris but all cities and towns where German troops were stationed. The guide will tell horrific stories as the war was drawing to a close.

Walking through the streets of Paris and listening to the many stories, will give a glimpse into the lives of the Parisians during the occupation. You will get a better understanding of the challenges that faced people and how they managed to survive.

My friend was very impressed with the content of the tour. Last week I received a message that she booked it and the kids were excited to be able to learn more about their heritage, the devastation of World War II and the survival of Paris.