Remembrance tour. The fairytale city of Bruges & the poppies of Flanders Fields

Highlights

Travel with ease between dispersed sites in an air-conditioned vehicle
Special opportunity to watch the Last Post Ceremony in Ypres
Learn about WWI facts and stories from your expert guide

Summary

Greet your guide at the central Brussels meeting point. Climb aboard a comfortable, air-conditioned coach and admire the scenic surroundings as your travel towards the town of Vladslo. Disembark and explore the German Military Cemetery of Vladslo, a poignantly peaceful area that features the famous sculpture by Käthe Kollwitz, 'Grieving Parents.' Next, venture to the small city of Diksmuide and see a stretch of the Western Front that symbolizes Belgium’s courage and heroism during the conflict. See impressive monuments such as the monument of the "Brooding Soldier" dedicated to the sacrifice of 2,000 Canadian soldiers during the first German gas attack. Head to the Flanders' Field Museum and hear fascinating tales of violent warfare and the dank conditions soldiers lived in then enrich your knowledge with the comprehensive exhibitions. Stop at the somnolent town of Passchendaele and discover how a bloody battlefield underwent a radical transformation into this quaint place. Then head to the Tyne Cot Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery to reflect upon the 35,000 graves that immortalize the memory of fallen soldiers. Next, travel to Essex Farm Field Hospital and see the bunkers that inspired John McCrae to write his influential poem, 'In Flanders’ Field.' Venture to Hill 60 to see some strategic tunnels then disembark at the picturesque town of Ypres to enjoy some independent exploration and dinner (own expense). Reconvene with your guide at a pre-arranged time to witness to soul-stirring Last Post Ceremony at Ypres’ Menin Gate. Absorb the saddening simplicity of the service then return to your vehicle for the drive back to Brussels.

Tour info

Duration

13 hours

Why take this tour?

This tour is perfect for history buffs. Save the research time, and benefit from having a guide to provide commentary and take you to a shortlist of World War I locations in Flanders. Go to memorial sights that pay respect to fallen soldiers, such as the Tyne Cot Commonwealth War Graves, and visit former battlefields including Hill 60. End the day by watching the Last Post Ceremony at Ypres’ Menin Gate.

What’s included?

Air-conditioned vehicle
Breadmeal
Professional multilingual guide
Entry/Admission - In Flanders Fields Museum
Hotel pick up & drop-off
Gratuities
Food and drinks, unless specified
Poppy (1 euro) at In Flanders' Fields Museum

Things to know

Before you book

Duration: 13h
Mobile tickets accepted
Instant confirmation

Covid Policy

Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Guides required to regularly wash hands
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Operator Website

Operated by:

Brussels City Tours

About operator:

Brussels City Tours offers well organized excursion to the most beautiful and important landmarks of Belgium and its surroundings. Our luxury coaches and their professional drivers will take you comfortably and safely to the destination of your choice, where our professional and multilingual (English, French and Spanish) guides will accompany you on a varied and interesting journey. Children under the age of 4 travel for free and for the ages 4-12 we offer a 50% discount. Student rates apply for children of 12 years old and older. Entrance fees, meals and drinks are not included, unless explicitly specified. Brussels City Tours cannot be held responsible for any personal injury, loss or theft of personal belongings, delays due to strikes, blocked roads or traffic irregularities.