Remembrance Tour: The Battle of the Bulge in the Ardennes

Discover the Battle of the Bulge in the Ardennes with this comprehensive day trip from Brussels. For around $104, you’ll spend roughly 11 hours exploring historic WWII sites, museums, and cemeteries, guided by knowledgeable experts. Starting early at 8 am, the tour takes you to crucial locations like the Ardennes American Cemetery, McAuliffe Square, and the Bastogne War Museum, with a side trip into Luxembourg City—making it ideal for history buffs and those eager to understand this pivotal WWII battle.

What we love most about this experience is how intimate and detailed it feels, thanks to passionate guides like Martin or Stephan, who bring the history vividly to life through stories, charts, and personal insights. Plus, the balance of museum visits and outdoor exploration — walking through foxholes and visiting cemeteries — makes the history tangible and emotionally compelling.

A possible consideration is the length and pace of the day; it’s a full 13-hour adventure, so it requires good physical stamina and a willingness to keep moving. Some guests have noted that the bus could be cleaner, or that navigating Brussels afterward might be tricky without a map, so plan accordingly.

This tour suits history lovers, WWII enthusiasts, or anyone interested in a meaningful, guided journey through significant battle sites. If you appreciate expert narration and authentic sites, this trip delivers on both.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, passionate guides like Martin and Stephan enhance the experience with detailed stories and insights.
• Authentic Sites: Visits to cemeteries, foxholes, and memorials make history real and personal.
• Museum Inclusion: The Bastogne War Museum’s comprehensive exhibits are included, offering immersive storytelling.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: The day flows smoothly, covering key locations efficiently, with plenty of time at each stop.
• Side Trip to Luxembourg: A bonus visit adding cultural depth outside the battlefield.
• Full-Day Experience: A longer, meaningful tour suited for those ready for a deep dive into WWII history.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The tour begins bright and early at 8:00 am from Brussels, meeting at Bd de Berlaimont 18. Traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll settle in for the roughly 11-hour journey that includes multiple stops and guided commentary. The tour concludes at Brussel-Centraal, giving you a central point for exploring further or heading back to your accommodation.

This is not a quick peek. It’s a full day packed with visits, storytelling, and walking, so plan for a long day. The price—$104.35 per person—includes a professional multilingual guide and the admission ticket to the Bastogne War Museum, making it a solid value for such an all-encompassing experience.

First Stop: Ardennes American Cemetery and Memorial

Your journey begins with a poignant visit to this cemetery where thousands of US soldiers rest. It’s a sobering but important reminder of the human cost of war. Guests have described it as “incredible,” and many appreciate how it sets a respectful tone for the day. Spend about 40 minutes here, taking in the neatly arranged crosses and reflecting on the sacrifice.

Second Stop: McAuliffe Square

In Bastogne’s town center, McAuliffe Square offers a lively atmosphere with various dining options and shops, making it a convenient spot for a quick visit. It’s a great place to soak in the local vibe and perhaps grab a snack before heading into more immersive sites. The stop is brief—about 15 minutes—but provides a taste of local life amid historic surroundings.

Third Stop: The Mardasson Memorial

Next, you’ll visit this striking monument shaped like a five-pointed American star, dedicated to those wounded or killed in the Battle of the Bulge. The views from here are striking, overlooking the Ardennes forest, and the symbolism resonates deeply. Many visitors note how powerful it is to see the memorial up close, and you’re encouraged to take your time during this 40-minute stop.

Fourth Stop: Bastogne War Museum

The highlight for many, this museum is included in your ticket and offers a comprehensive, immersive experience. It’s often described as “incredible,” with detailed exhibits that wrap visitors in the reality of WWII. Guided by hosts like Martin, you’ll learn about the battle’s strategic importance, personal stories, and the resilience of soldiers. Expect around 2 hours here, enough to explore at a relaxed pace and absorb the narratives.

Fifth Stop: Bois Jacques Foxholes

Walking through the foxholes and trenches in the woods, you’ll get a palpable sense of what soldiers endured. Many reviews mention how moving and authentic this part of the tour is. You don’t need to be a seasoned hiker, but some walking is involved, and it’s a chance to see the terrain where fighting took place. Keep in mind, admission isn’t included here.

Sixth Stop: Foy Village

Made famous by “Band of Brothers,” Foy is a small but historically significant village. It’s a brief stop—about 15 minutes—but one that many find meaningful. It’s a reminder of the local landscapes where the battle unfolded, and the quiet village today contrasts sharply with the fierce fighting that occurred during WWII.

Seventh Stop: German War Cemetery

Finally, you’ll visit this cemetery holding the remains of over 6,800 German soldiers. It’s a powerful, somber site, offering a different perspective on the conflict. Many describe it as “emotional,” with many visitors taking time to reflect on the shared human cost of war.

The Luxembourg Side Trip

Adding a visit to Luxembourg City is a delightful surprise, offering a brief but enriching taste of another European country. Many reviews comment on how well-paced and enjoyable this part of the tour is, with some guests noting the history and charm of Luxembourg complement the battlefield visits perfectly.

Practical Aspects and Value

Transportation and Group Size

Travel is in an air-conditioned vehicle, which makes a long day more comfortable. The tour is limited to a maximum of 200 travelers, but most reviews suggest a manageable group size, allowing for better interaction and less feeling lost in the crowd.

Food and Additional Costs

Note that food and drinks are not included, so bring snacks or plan to eat during your free time in Bastogne. The guide is knowledgeable about local dining options, making it easy to find a good meal or quick bite.

Price and Overall Value

At around $104, this tour offers excellent value considering the included museum entry, expert guides, and the depth of sites visited. Many reviewers say it’s worth every penny, especially for WWII enthusiasts or history buffs eager to see authentic sites and learn from passionate guides.

Considerations

While the experience is immersive, do prepare for a long day with substantial walking and standing. Some guests have mentioned that the bus could be a bit cleaner, and navigating Brussels afterward might be tricky without a plan or map. It’s a full schedule, but most find the experience deeply rewarding.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for history lovers, WWII veterans, or family members of veterans wanting to connect with the past. If you’re looking for a well-organized, in-depth day with expert narration and authentic sites, you’ll walk away with a better understanding of this pivotal battle and its enduring significance. It’s especially ideal if you value guided storytelling over self-planned visits and want to see the key sites with a knowledgeable guide.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, starting at 8:00 am and ending around 7 pm in Brussels.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers a professional guide, round-trip transportation from Brussels, and entry to the Bastogne War Museum.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or plan to eat during your free time in Bastogne.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
The tour requires moderate physical activity, including walking and standing, so it’s best suited for travelers with a reasonable level of fitness.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What if I want to visit additional sites?
Some sites, like the foxholes and German cemetery, are not included in the ticket and may require extra planning or arrangements.

In the end, this tour offers a well-rounded, emotionally impactful journey through one of WWII’s most critical battles. With passionate guides, authentic sites, and a thoughtful itinerary, it’s perfect for those who want to sit in history’s front row—whether you’re a WWII veteran, a history buff, or just curious about this turning point in world history. It’s a long day, but many find it deeply meaningful and worth every cent.