From LIlle or Bruges, Christmas Truce to Passchendaele Ypres 1 day WW1 private
Active
9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This tour is for guests that want to start their battlefield tour of Ypres from towns and cities further afield, for example Bruges & Zeebruges , Ghent, Kortijk, in Belgium & Dunkirk, Lille, Arras in France
A unique 1 to 1 private tour, With all the stops added together we cover 53 miles / 90 KM's of battlefield sites and memorials
This tour covers the Ypres Salient from Messines to Passchendaele spanning 1914 to 1918, we follow the Australian/Canadian/New Zealand/ South African/ British soldiers as they attacked towards Passchendaele in 1917, if you have ancestors that fell in the battle I will tailor the tour where possible to include them
Minimum x2 guests Max x5 ( This is a bespoke tour )
Available options
From LIlle or Bruges, Christmas Truce to Passchendaele Ypres 1 day WW1 private
Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Detailed itinerary
1
here we will here the story of the Battle of Messines & visit mine craters, visit the scene of the Christmas Truce, the crypt where Adolf Hitler was treated for his wounds
2
Here we will visit Pat Bugden VC the 20 year old recipient of the Victoria Cross also you'll be standing on the iconic Menin Road directly alongside where the Australian gun pits were for the assault on Passchendaele
3
This site is where the Australian HQ was in September 1917, you'll also learn about earlier actions on the very same ground in Nov 1914
4
Here will walk through the woods and visit concrete bunkers that were here when the Australian soldiers captured during the battle, we will visit the cemetery and the Australian 5th Division monument
5
Stop 5
Here you will here the story of Captain Woodward and the 1st Australian Tunnelling Coy place a massive mine here that was blown at 3.10am on the 7th June 1917, we will see that crater
6
Driving through following the line of the Australian advance
7
Stop 7
Here we will visit the worlds largest Commonwealth War Graves Commission Cemetery 12,000 soldiers are buried here, only 3,000 have names, two Australian VC recipients are buried here
8
Here we will see the hospital site where Lt Col John McCrae composed the iconic poem 'In Flanders Fields'
9
Stop 9
Here you'll hear the story of the Menin Gate, how it came about and some of the stories behind the 55,000 names listed a missing here
10
Driving through Zonnebeke in the line of the Australian advance
11
Unique original First World War trenches
What's not included
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
