From Bruges or Lille Christmas Truce to Passchendaele private WW1 Ypres tour

Bruges , Belgium

From Bruges or Lille Christmas Truce to Passchendaele private WW1 Ypres tour

Active

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 ex Bruges, Ghent, Kortijk, Dunkirk, Lille, Arras

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

Last Post Ceremony at 20.00 hrs then return to Brugse hotel

Minimum x2 guests Max x5 Not a private tour but small group size max 5

Available options

From Bruges or Lille Christmas Truce to Passchendaele private WW1 Ypres tour

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Detailed itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

Driving through following the line of the Australian advance

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

Here we will see the hospital site where Lt Col John McCrae composed the iconic poem 'In Flanders Fields'

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

Driving through Zonnebeke in the line of the Australian advance

unique original trenches from the Great War

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Wheelchair accessible

About Bruges

Bruges is a picturesque medieval city in the Flemish Region of Belgium, known for its well-preserved historic center, charming canals, and cobblestone streets. With its fairy-tale architecture and rich cultural heritage, Bruges offers a unique glimpse into Europe's medieval past.

Top Attractions

Markt (Market Square)

The heart of Bruges, surrounded by medieval buildings, the Belfry, and the Provincial Court. A bustling square with cafes, shops, and often markets and events.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Belfry of Bruges

A 13th-century bell tower offering a climb of 366 steps to the top for stunning views of the city.

Historical 1 hour €14

Burg Square

A charming square with a mix of historic buildings, including the Basilica of the Holy Blood and the City Hall.

Historical 1 hour Free (Basilica entry is €3)

Grote Markt

A large square surrounded by historic buildings, including the City Hall and the Belfry. A hub of activity with cafes, shops, and events.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Basilica of the Holy Blood

A historic church that houses a relic of the Holy Blood, believed to have been collected by Joseph of Arimathea at the crucifixion of Jesus.

Religious 30 minutes €3

Bruges Beer Museum

A museum dedicated to the history and culture of Belgian beer, with a tasting room offering a variety of local brews.

Museum 1-2 hours €10

Must-Try Local Dishes

Moules-frites

Mussels cooked in a variety of sauces, typically served with French fries. A classic Belgian dish.

Main Course Contains seafood, can be made with gluten-free bread if requested.

Carbonnade flamande

A traditional Flemish beef and beer stew, slow-cooked with onions, brown sugar, and spices.

Main Course Contains beef and beer, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Waffles

Belgian waffles are a popular sweet treat, often topped with whipped cream, chocolate, or fruit.

Dessert Can be made vegetarian or vegan with plant-based toppings.

Flemish stew

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

Main Course Contains beef and beer, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Popular Activities

Bike tours Boat tours Walking tours Spas and wellness centers Cafes and restaurants Parks and gardens Museum visits Historical tours

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the busiest time of year with warm weather, festivals, and long daylight hours. However, it's also the most crowded and expensive.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

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

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

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

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Bruges is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching is the main concern for visitors. Common sense precautions and awareness of your surroundings can help ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Use common sense and trust your instincts

Getting there

By air

Brussels Airport • 110 km
Ostend-Bruges International Airport • 30 km

By train

Bruges Station

By bus

Bruges Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and covers most of the city and surrounding areas. Buses are frequent and reliable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Taxis Bruges, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Zand St. Giles Quarter Dijver

Day trips

Ghent

50 km • Full day

A vibrant and historic city with a mix of medieval and modern architecture, museums, and cultural attractions.

Ypres

40 km • Full day

A historic city with a rich history and cultural heritage, known for its role in World War I and its well-preserved medieval architecture.

Ostend

30 km • Full day

A coastal city with a long sandy beach, a lively promenade, and a variety of attractions and activities.

Festivals

Bruges Christmas Market • Late November to early January Bruges Beer Festival • Early September Bruges Historic Festival • Mid-May

Pro tips

Visit the Belfry of Bruges for panoramic views of the city, but be prepared for a steep and narrow climb of 366 steps.
Try a variety of Belgian beers at the Bruges Beer Museum, and don't miss the chance to sample a local brew at one of the many beer bars and cafes.
Sample a variety of Belgian chocolates at the Choco-Story Bruges museum, and don't miss the chance to purchase some as souvenirs.
Take a boat tour of the canals for a unique and picturesque perspective of the city, and be sure to visit the historic Begijnhof complex.
Visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood to see the relic of the Holy Blood, and check for special events and exhibitions.