Ypres , Belgium

Hidden Ypres: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Active

(1 reviews)

1h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

From the ashes of World War I, Ypres rose and became a city dedicated to peace.

On this walking tour, you’ll wander the rebuilt streets of the historic Flemish city that was almost totally destroyed in the war. You’ll find out how Churchill wanted to preserve the ruined city, as it was, and see historic photos of the city taken during war time. But this tour isn’t only about war and destruction. I’ll also show you some of the city’s best coffee spots, romantic restaurants, and authentic bars where you can try a local West Flanders beer.

Starting on the main square outside Ypres Museum and ending at Menin Gate, you'll hearing fascinating stories about the war years including the 1914 Truce, the creation of The Wipers Times trench newspaper, and one of the loudest explosions in human history. You'll also find out about the vanished school that once taught the cemetery gardeners’ children.

You‘ll finish this walk with a better understanding of this ancient city‘s fascinating history.

Available options

Hidden Ypres: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

App for Android and iOS

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

This self-guided audio tour starts on the main square outside Ypres Museum. From there, you’ll see ancient buildings that have been carefully reconstructed, including the vast medieval cloth hall.

You’ll see ancient buildings that have been carefully reconstructed, including the vast medieval cloth hall, the gothic St Martin’s Cathedral, and the picturesque Vismarkt (fish market).

On this tour, you’ll pass reminders of World War I including the In Flanders Fields Museum, the British St George’s Memorial Church, and the beautiful Ramparts Cemetery on the city’s edge.

Some of the highlights of this 90-minute Ypres tour include enjoying a hot or cold drink at Mimi’s Koffie en Theehuis, De Ruyffelaer Ieper, or Brasserie Kazematten.

On this tour, you'll walk past Saint Nicholas Church and hear its story.

On this tour, you'll stroll along parts of the ramparts, taking in various cemeteries including the Ramparts Cemetery.

On this tour, you'll see the Lille Gate and learn how the Flanders poppy became a universal symbol of remembrance.

Some of the highlights of this 90-minute Ypres tour include enjoying a hot or cold drink at Mimi’s Koffie en Theehuis, De Ruyffelaer Ieper, or Brasserie Kazematten.

You'll take in several prominent memorials including the Memorial for Indian Soldiers and you'll hear fascinating stories about the war years including the 1914 Truce, the creation of The Wipers Times trench newspaper, and one of the loudest explosions in human history.

Stop 10 Pass by

The walk ends at Menin Gate, a huge limestone arch carved with the names of 54,896 soldiers whose bodies vanished in the Ypres battlefields.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Personal expenses for attractions not included during the tour

Food and drink

Transportation

Available languages

Audio guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

This tour starts at Markt22, Grote Markt 22, Ypres. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

Create an account

Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Ypres

Ypres, known locally as Ieper, is a historic city in the Flemish province of West Flanders, Belgium. It is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and its significant role in World War I. The city's iconic Cloth Hall and Menin Gate, a memorial to the missing soldiers of the war, attract visitors from around the world.

Top Attractions

Cloth Hall (Lakenhalle)

The Cloth Hall is a magnificent medieval building that was once the center of the European cloth trade. It now houses the In Flanders Fields Museum, which focuses on the history of World War I.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours €10

Menin Gate

The Menin Gate is a war memorial dedicated to the British and Commonwealth soldiers who were killed in World War I and have no known grave. The Last Post ceremony is held here every evening at 8 PM.

Historical/Memorial 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

St. Martin's Cathedral

St. Martin's Cathedral is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture, with a rich history dating back to the 13th century. It is a significant religious and cultural landmark in Ypres.

Religious/Architecture 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (donations welcome)

Ramparts of Ypres

The Ramparts of Ypres are a series of fortifications that surround the city, offering scenic walking and cycling paths with views of the city and countryside.

Historical/Nature 1-2 hours Free

Tyne Cot Cemetery

Tyne Cot Cemetery is the largest Commonwealth war cemetery in the world, containing the graves of nearly 12,000 soldiers from World War I. It is a poignant and moving tribute to those who lost their lives.

Historical/Memorial 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Waterzooi

A traditional Flemish stew made with chicken, vegetables, and cream, often served with potatoes.

Dinner Contains dairy and gluten

Carbonnade Flamande

A beef and beer stew cooked with onions, brown sugar, and spices, typically served with bread or fries.

Dinner Contains gluten and dairy

Flemish Beef Stew

A rich stew made with beef, beer, and spices, often served with potatoes or bread.

Dinner Contains gluten and dairy

Belgian Waffles

Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and often topped with whipped cream, fruit, or chocolate.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy

Popular Activities

Hiking Cycling Walking along the Ramparts Dining at local restaurants Visiting museums and historical sites Attending local festivals and events Visiting historical sites in a quieter setting Enjoying cozy cafes and restaurants

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season in Ypres, with warm temperatures and numerous festivals and events. The city is lively, and all attractions are fully operational.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Dutch
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Ypres is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services.

Getting there

By air

Brussels Airport • 100 km
Lille Airport • 60 km

By train

Ypres Station

By bus

Ypres Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The local bus network operated by De Lijn covers the city and surrounding areas, making it easy to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Grote Markt Menin Gate Area Ramparts

Day trips

Bruges

50 km • Full day

Bruges is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its medieval architecture, canals, and charming streets. It's a perfect day trip from Ypres for those interested in history, culture, and scenic beauty.

Lille

60 km • Half day to full day

Lille is a vibrant French city with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and a lively cultural scene. It's an easy day trip from Ypres for those interested in art, history, and French cuisine.

Passchendaele Memorial Museum

10 km • Half day

The Passchendaele Memorial Museum is dedicated to the Battle of Passchendaele, a significant World War I battle. It offers a poignant and educational experience for those interested in the war's history.

Festivals

Ypres Film Festival • November Kerkroze Feesten • August

Pro tips

Visit the In Flanders Fields Museum for a comprehensive look at World War I history.
Attend the Last Post ceremony at the Menin Gate for a moving and memorable experience.
Explore the Ramparts for scenic views and a peaceful walk or bike ride.
Try local specialties like waterzooi and carbonnade flamande for an authentic taste of Flemish cuisine.
Stay in a bed and breakfast for a more personal and authentic experience.