i 🕊️ Remembrance & the Great War
Verdun Underground Citadel
An immersive ride by small railcar through 7 km of tunnels where the soldiers of 1914-18 lived.
Overview
Beneath Verdun’s upper town lies a network of tunnels dug at the end of the 19th century, between 1886 and 1893. In 1916, during the battle, these underground galleries served as a rear base for soldiers heading up to the front or returning from it: they slept, ate and received medical care here. They could shelter up to 2,000 men, safe from the shelling.
You tour the galleries seated in a wire-guided pod, wearing augmented-reality glasses. For about 35 minutes, reconstructed scenes show daily life in the fortress: the bakery, the dormitories, the wait before heading back to the lines, and the episode of the choosing of the Unknown Soldier. A section on foot completes the experience, and you should allow about 1 hour 30 minutes in all. It is cool in the galleries all year round, around 7 to 9 °C. The site is right in the centre of Verdun, so you can easily combine it with the town and the battlefield sites, such as the Verdun Memorial or the forts.
Where to do it
In Verdun (Meuse (55)), in Lorraine. Best season: 🗓️ All year round.
Good to know
An immersive ride in a self-guided car recreates the life of the poilus (French First World War soldiers) inside the citadel.
Tips
Book online in summer; the site gets very busy.
Location
Frequently asked questions
What are the opening hours of Verdun’s Underground Citadel in 2026?
According to the Grand Verdun tourist office, the Citadel is open every day from April to October. Hours are 9:00–18:00, extended to 19:00 in July and August. In November and December, it opens from 9:30 to 17:30 or 17:00, with a closure around Christmas. The site closes every year in January.
How long does the Underground Citadel visit take?
The pod ride lasts about 35 minutes. With the section on foot, allow about 1 hour 30 minutes in total. The galleries stay cool all year round, around 7 to 9 °C, so bring something warm, even in midsummer.
Is the Underground Citadel suitable for young children?
According to one travel guide, the visit is not recommended for children under 8. The tour takes place in semi-darkness, with war scenes and augmented-reality glasses. For younger children, check with the site before booking.
How much does the Underground Citadel cost?
The Grand Verdun tourist office listing for 2026 gives a full adult price of €16, €8 for a child and a reduced rate of €13. Different prices may apply during special events. Check prices on the official website when booking.
Information checked in October 2026. Opening hours, prices and conditions may change: check the official website before you travel.
Nearby (within 20 km)
Weekend idea around Verdun
- 1Verdun Underground CitadelStarting point · Verdun
- 2VerdunMust-see place · on site
- 3Verdun MemorialMust-see place · 6 km away
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