The Mémorial de Verdun is the indispensable first stop. Built on the site of the destroyed village of Fleury — itself one of the most fought-over points in the battle — the museum was completely reimagined for the 2016 centenary and is now one of the best WWI museums in Europe.
The ground floor recreates the battlefield: a full-size diorama of churned, body-strewn ground viewed from above through a glass walkway. Upper floors handle the soldiers' experience, the home front, the German perspective, and the long aftermath. Two hours minimum; many spend a half day here. Combined tickets with the Fort de Douaumont and the Ossuary are available.