2 Day Canadian Somme and Flanders Fields Battlefield Tour From Ypres or Bruges

The 2-Day Canadian Somme and Flanders Fields Battlefield Tour from Ypres or Bruges is a poignant journey through the historic sites of World War I. Guided by experts, you will explore the largest WWI cemetery in Europe, uncover the sacrifices made by soldiers at Vimy Ridge, and walk the battlegrounds of the Somme. This immersive experience promises to shed light on the profound impact of the Great War, leaving travelers with a deeper understanding of the past and a renewed appreciation for the present. Discover the stories that shaped history and how they continue to resonate today.

Key Points

• A 2-day battlefield tour covering significant WWI sites in Belgium and France, including the largest cemetery in Europe and the Vimy Ridge tunnels and trenches.
• Explore the Battle of the Somme, pay respects at memorial sites, and learn about the region’s history and battles from an expert guide.
• Visit the Canadian National Vimy Memorial, walk through preserved trenches, and understand the conditions faced by soldiers during the Great War.
• Includes round-trip transportation, local taxes, bottled water, lunch, and professional guide services.
• Tour pricing starts from $928.95 per person, with a minimum of 2 people per booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

Tour Overview

This 2-day Canadian Somme and Flanders Fields battlefield tour whisks visitors away from Ypres or Bruges to explore significant World War I sites in Belgium and France.

Travelers will pay tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives by visiting the largest WWI cemetery in Europe, a local war museum, and various memorial sites.

On the second day, the tour takes them through the tunnels and trenches at Vimy Ridge and the Battle of the Somme site, plus additional landmarks.

The tour includes round-trip transit, local taxes, bottled water, lunch, driver/guide, and hotel pickup and drop-off, though alcoholic drinks aren’t included.

Day 1 Itinerary

The first day of the tour whisks visitors away to the largest World War I cemetery in Europe, where they can pay their respects to the fallen soldiers. After this somber visit, the group explores a local war museum, learning about the region’s history and the battles that took place. The day continues with a tour of various memorial sites, each offering a unique perspective on the sacrifices made during the conflict.

Site	Highlight	Duration
Largest WWI Cemetery	Paying tribute to the fallen	1 hour
Local War Museum	Learning about the region’s history	1.5 hours
Memorial Sites	Exploring the significance of each location	2 hours

Exploring Significant Sites

The second day of the battlefield tour takes visitors on a deep dive into the region’s most significant landmarks from the Great War.

Guests will explore the famous Vimy Ridge tunnels and trenches, where Canadian forces achieved a decisive victory over the Germans in 1917.

Next, they’ll visit the site of the Battle of the Somme, one of the bloodiest encounters of the war.

The day also includes:

1. A poignant stop at additional memorials honoring the fallen soldiers.
2. Opportunities to reflect on the sacrifices made by troops from around the world.
3. Insights from the expert guide on the historical significance of each location.

Day 2 Itinerary

What does the second day of the battlefield tour entail?

On the second day, travelers will explore the iconic Vimy Ridge, where they’ll tour the tunnels and trenches.

After this, the tour proceeds to the Battle of the Somme site, where some of the fiercest fighting of World War I took place.

Along the way, the guide will point out additional significant landmarks related to the war.

The day’s itinerary provides an in-depth look at these crucial battlegrounds, allowing visitors to better understand the sacrifices made by soldiers during this pivotal period of history.

Visiting Vimy Ridge

On the second day, travelers explore the iconic Vimy Ridge, where they tour the tunnels and trenches that bore witness to one of the most significant battles of World War I.

The visit to Vimy Ridge offers a chance to:

1. Walk through the preserved tunnels and trenches, gaining a deeper understanding of the conditions soldiers faced.
2. Visit the Canadian National Vimy Memorial, a stunning monument that pays tribute to the sacrifices of Canadian forces.
3. Explore Hill 145, the highest point of Vimy Ridge, which was the site of a pivotal battle that turned the tide of the war.

This poignant stop on the tour provides a powerful connection to the past and the courage of those who fought here.

Exploring the Somme Battlefields

After exploring the poignant Vimy Ridge, the tour moves on to the Somme battlefields, the site of one of the bloodiest and most prolonged battles of World War I.

Visitors will stand on the very ground where the 1916 Battle of the Somme took place, gaining a deeper understanding of the immense sacrifices made by soldiers on both sides.

The tour includes stops at significant landmarks, allowing participants to pay their respects and reflect on the immense human cost of the conflict.

Through this powerful experience, the tour aims to honor the memory of the fallen and deepen the participants’ appreciation for the sacrifices made during the Great War.

Inclusions and Amenities

The tour package includes round-trip transportation from accommodations in Ypres or Bruges, with hotel pickup and drop-off provided.

Local taxes, bottled water, and lunch are also included. The tour provides a driver/guide and a professional guide to accompany participants throughout the journey.

The tour’s inclusions are:

1. Round-trip transit from Ypres or Bruges accommodations
2. Local taxes, bottled water, and lunch
3. Driver/guide and professional guide services

Alcoholic drinks are available at an additional cost.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

The tour pricing starts from $928.95 per person, with the final cost varying based on the group size.

Travelers can opt for the tour with a minimum of 2 people per booking. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, allowing for flexibility in planning.

According to the reviews, the tour has an overall rating of 3.0 out of 5 stars, with no 5-star ratings. This suggests that the tour provides a decent experience, but there may be room for improvement in certain aspects.

The cancellation policy and pricing information give potential participants the necessary details to make an informed decision about booking the tour.

Since You Asked

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but visitors are advised to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes. Dressing in layers is recommended to accommodate the potential changes in weather conditions during the tour.

Can I Bring a Camera on the Tour?

Yes, visitors are encouraged to bring cameras on the tour to capture the historic sites and memorials. Photography is permitted throughout the excursion, allowing travelers to document their experiences and commemorate the visit.

What Is the Approximate Duration of the Tour?

The tour lasts 2 days, with the itinerary starting at 8:30 am each day. The total duration of the tour is approximately 16-18 hours, allowing ample time to visit the significant WWI sites in Belgium and France.

Are There Any Physical Fitness Requirements?

The tour does not have any specific physical fitness requirements, but some walking over uneven terrain is involved. Visitors should be able to navigate the sites comfortably to fully experience the tour’s historical significance.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the Tour Sites?

Yes, visitors can purchase souvenirs at various memorial sites and museums along the tour. Many offer a selection of items like postcards, pins, and other memorabilia to commemorate the battlefield visit.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Canadian Somme and Flanders Fields Battlefield Tour from Ypres or Bruges offers an immersive and reflective journey through the poignant history of World War I. Participants explore significant sites, guided by experts who provide insights into the sacrifices made by soldiers. With round-trip transportation, lunch, and local taxes included, this comprehensive package ensures a meaningful and educational experience for those interested in WWI history.