wwii battlefield tours

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Second World War Expert Led Battlefield Tours

Each of our expert led Second World War tours are distinctive and will resonate at different levels as we explore the locations, stories and significance of a war that defined a generation. We combine the battlefields with important cultural sites and monuments, offering a comprehensive tour led by our expert guides , all of whom are either authors, historians or ex-military personnel.

Many of those participating will have relatives who fought or died in the locations we visit – which makes these battlefield tours all the more realistic and poignant. We encourage those with family connections to bring the stories with them and share them with other participants – thus ensuring a ‘living history’ experience.

All of our forthcoming Scheduled Second World War Tours are listed below.

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Second World War Tours - Future Planning

We intend to run all of the following tours in the near future. Final dates and prices are yet to be confirmed. Register your interest and we will contact you as soon as these tours become available.

We will stay at 3, 4 and 5 star accommodation, allowing you to relax in comfort after a day of discovery and learning. Alongside our expert guide there will be a dedicated tour manager who will take care of all of the headaches of travel, freeing you to fully enjoy your holiday.

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WWII Battlefields

Join our WWII Veterans in celebration of the 80th anniversary of D-Day on the Normandy Beaches. Witness how, to this day, Normandy’s citizens honor and cherish our Veterans’ sacrifices. Retrace the steps our brave soldiers traveled during the twelve weeks of desperate fighting following June 6 th , 1944. See all the landing beaches, walk on Omaha and Utah Beach, and visit museums, memorials and cemeteries. Continue to Reims, France and see the very place where General Eisenhower received the unconditional surrender of German Wehrmacht on May 8, 1945. Hear the bell Carillion play our National Anthem at General Patton’s gravesite in Luxembourg, and visit Belgium’s battlefields so prominently known as the Battle of the Bulge. Walk among the “Dragon’s Teeth,” the anti-tank defense of the Siegfried Line and jump into one of the foxholes in the Ardennes Forest. See the remains of the Remagen Bridge on the banks of the Rhine River and tour the former Nazi Party Rally Grounds outside of Nuremberg, Germany. Walk up the “Path of Arrival” and visit the rebuilt barracks and the crematory at the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial site. Ride up to the lofty Eagle’s Nest for beautiful mountain views of the Austrian Alps and conclude the tour with a visit to Munich’s city center. Enjoy other famous sites in Paris such as the Eiffel Tower, a relaxing Seine River cruise, and Les Invalides, a wonderful museum which contains many artifacts, including Napoleon’s Tomb. A truly great way to honor our brave Veterans and a wonderful experience for all ages and all walks of life. 

See an interview of one of our tour participants while in Normandy: Fox News WWII Veteran Interview - Rupiper Tours

• June 1 - 13, 2024 (1 Room Remaining)

What's Included

Special events and sights, testimonials.

Day 1:  Saturday, June 1        Depart the USA Meet your Rupiper Tour Manager and your fellow travelers at the International Airport in Newark, NJ for your transatlantic flight to Paris, France. Meals: In-flight Meal Service

Day 2:  Sunday, June 2           Arrive in Paris, France Welcome to the City of Lights!  Transfer into the heart of Paris where you begin a unique sightseeing experience onboard a luxurious glass encased boat.  Cruise along the Seine River and appreciate sights of Paris’ world-famous monuments through unobstructed floor-to-ceiling windows while savoring delicious French cuisine.  By midafternoon we are checking into our hotel, located near the Arc de Triomphe.  The balance of the day is yours to spend as you wish, but if you desire to explore the city on your own and need help with your plans, our European our guide will gladly assist you. Meals: In-flight Meal Service, Welcome Luncheon Cruise incl. Beverages

Day 3:  Monday, June 3         Paris / Normandy This morning’s excursion includes a drive along Champs-Élysée and past famous sights, such as the Place du Trocadéro, the Eiffel Tower, the Place de la Concorde, the Opera House, the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Palais du Louvre, and the Pont Alexandre III, which is considered the most beautiful bridge in Paris.  We also walk under the prominent Arc de Triomphe and visit the Basilique du Sacré Coeur on top of Montmartre.  Along the way to Normandy, we briefly stop outside the Chateau de la Roche-Guyon, which was German Field Marshal Rommel’s headquarters during the Normandy Invasion.  Late afternoon we arrive in Deauville-Touques, our home for the next four nights. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner incl. Beverages

Day 4-6:  Tuesday, June 4 through Thursday, June 6           Normandy

This week, everyone in Normandy will be out celebrating the Anniversary of June 6th 1944, which was the beginning of the end of the Nazi regime eighty years ago!  The schedule of events is not published at this time but we strive to include as many of the popular activities as possible.  The following description is a guideline for guaranteed included sites and visits.

The Caen-Normandy Memorial Centre for History and Peace dedicated to the Battle of Normandy. The exhibitions at the museum chronicle the twelve weeks of desperate fighting following June 6th of 1944.  This exposé helps you to better understand the important role the Battle of Normandy played in Europe’s liberation. Conclude with a delicious buffet lunch at the restaurant on site. 

The Pegasus Bridge Memorial , which is dedicated to the British 6th Airborne Division.  The original Bénouville Bridge, renamed Pegasus Bridge after the liberation, is on display in the park of the museum along with a Bailey bridge and a full-size replica of a wartime Horsa glider .

We see the shoreline of Sword, Juno, and Gold Beaches and from above the town of Arromanches-les-Bains we overlook the bay with the remaining Phoenixes of the Mulberry “B” Harbour , a portable temporary harbor developed by the British to facilitate rapid offloading of cargo onto the beaches.

View a film, shown at the Arromanche 360° Circular Cinema, which vividly recounts the story of the landings on Normandy . Exceptional archive footages collected from around the world tells the story of the 100 days of the Battle of Normandy as a tribute to the men of all nations who fell and to the 20,000 civilians killed during the liberation of Western Europe.

Near Longues-sur-Mer you see the only German battery in Normandy with the guns still in place .

Enjoy a guided tour of the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial near Colleville-sur-Mer, situated on a cliff overlooking Omaha Beach and the English Channel.  The cemetery contains the graves of 9,387 of our military dead, and on the Wall of the Missing, in a semicircular garden on the east side of the memorial, are inscribed the 1,557 names of our missing soldiers.

Walk on Omaha Beach , the spot where many of our troops first stepped foot on Normandy. Stop at the Signal Monument and enjoy a hot lunch in a café in Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer .

Visit Pointe-du-Hoc where Col. James Rudder’s 2nd Ranger Battalion climbed the treacherous cliffs that infamous day of June 6th 1944.  The area has remained unchanged for 76 years – you still see the huge craters and the bombed out bunkers where the German gun positions were placed.  This site really tells a story!

On Utah Beach , the westernmost of the landing beaches, we visit the Utah Beach Landing Museum .

Sainte-Mère-Église, the first village liberated by the 82nd Airborne on June 6, 1944 . Step into the church where the famous paratrooper John Steele’s parachute was hung-up on the steeple, and visit the Airborne Museum , which is dedicated to American paratroopers of the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions.  For the 70th anniversary of D-Day a new museum wing named “Operation Neptune” was inaugurated in the presence of 19 of our participating WWII veterans. Meals: Daily Breakfast, 2 Hot Luncheons and 1 Dinner including Beverages

Day 7:  Friday, June 7             Normandy / Reims We say farewell to Normandy and journey to Reims, which was greatly damaged by German bombardment and a subsequent fire in 1914 during World War I.  Visit the magnificently restored cathedral, Notre-Dame de Reims, where the kings of France were once crowned, and also visit the school building which acted as Eisenhower’s Headquarters during the latter part of WWII.  See the map room still furnished as it was on May 8, 1945, when General Eisenhower and the Allies received the unconditional surrender of the German Wehrmacht.  Tonight you are free to explore the beautiful city of Reims. Meals: Breakfast

Day 8:  Saturday, June 8        Reims, France / Luxembourg The Battle of the Bulge is commonly associated with Bastogne and Belgium, but much of the action also took place in Luxembourg.  Luxembourg City was Omar Bradley’s 21st Army Group Headquarters, as well as General Patton’s 3rd Army Headquarters.  During our visit at the Luxembourg American Military you hear the bell carillon playing our National Anthem as we gather at General Patton’s grave who is buried there along with over 5,000 of his fallen troops. This afternoon we visit a museum which features countless pieces of war memorabilia and life-size dioramas, staging the field life and harsh conditions the soldiers faced during the Battle of the Bulge in winter 1944.  The displays let you vividly imagine the chill and fatigue our men endured.  We overnight in Luxembourg City. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner incl. Beverage

Day 9:  Sunday, June 9           Luxembourg / Battle of the Bulge Sites / Aachen, Germany Our special step-on guide will lead us along the roads and through the villages, showing us the battlefields so prominently known as the Battle of the Bulge .  Included sites are McAuliffe Square in Bastogne with its M4 Sherman tank that belonged to the 11 th Armored “Thunderbolt” Division, the star-shaped Mardasson Monument , and the monument erected by Tom Hanks, Producer of the epic mini-series “Band of Brothers,” in tribute to “Easy Company” of the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment assigned to the 101st Airborne Division.  We will walk among the “Dragon’s Teeth,” the anti-tank defense on the Siegfried Line and see the remnants of the foxholes dug by the “Band of Brothers . ” Near Malmedy we visit the sites of the massacres on Belgian civilians and 84 American POW’s committed by members of Peiper’s Kampfgruppe.  Also on the agenda is Hoffalize with its German Panther tank , La Gleize and the spot where a bridge was blasted by the United States Army Corps of Engineers on December 18, 1944, trapping Peiper and his men in the deep valley of the Amblève , and Stavelot with the only King Tiger tank left in Belgium. Our day ends in Aachen, Germany. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner incl. Beverages

Day 10:  Monday, June 10     Aachen / Remagen Bridge / Nuremberg, Germany This morning, we visit the site of the Ludendorf Bridge, frequently called the Bridge at Remagen during World War II.  The U.S. 9 th Armored Division seized the bridge on March 7-8, 1945, establishing a bridgehead on the Rhine River.  In an ensuing battle, the bridge was severely damaged and collapsed into the Rhine on March 17, 1945.  See the remaining bridge abutments and walk around the back of the abutment and on the remaining portion of the original railroad track that traversed the Rhine.  Sit back and enjoy the scenic drive along the Rhine River via Koblenz and Bacharach to Nuremberg. Meals:  Breakfast, Dinner incl. Beverage

Day 11:  Tuesday, June 11      Nuremberg / Dachau / Munich, Germany A local guide joins us this morning for a short city orientation tour including a stop at the Palace of Justice where the Nuremberg Trials, a series of military tribunals, were held by the Allied forces after World War II.  Just outside Nuremberg our guide will show us the unfinished Congress Hall, the Great Road, and the Zeppelin Field, all while explaining the functions and intended effect of National Socialist architecture and the stage-management of the Party Rally events.  We continue on to Dachau for a visit of the Concentration Camp Memorial.  The Dachau concentration camp was opened in 1933 and was liberated by American Forces on April 29, 1945.  We walk up the “Path of Arrival”, and visit the rebuilt barracks and the remains of the crematory.  After this sobering visit we make our way to our hotel just a few miles south of Munich. Meals:  Breakfast, Dinner incl. Beverages

Day 12:  Wednesday, June 12            Eagle’s Nest / Munich, Germany Today’s journey takes us to Berchtesgaden, located in the southern-most part of Germany, where we ascend to the Eagle’s Nest .  The chalet type building, which sits literally on top of the Kehlstein Mountain, was part of the sprawling Obersalzberg complex built by the Nazis.  The premises, except for the Kehlsteinhaus on the summit, were heavily damaged by an Allied air raid in April 1945.  The remains were set on fire by retreating SS troops and later eradicated by the Bavarian government.  There is time to walk up to the mountain top or relax on the restaurant’s terrace, relishing the spectacular view.  Late afternoon we make our way into Munich.  During WWII the city suffered heavy damage from 71 air raids, and almost half of its residents evacuated into the countryside.  Munich’s city center was completely rebuilt preserving its pre-war appearance and its population grew to almost 1.5 million.  We conclude our day with a typical Bavarian dinner at the famous Hofbräuhaus. Meals:  Breakfast, Dinner incl. Beverage

Day 13:  Thursday, June 13    Munich, Germany /Return to the USA A local guide joins us this morning for a short city orientation tour with a stop at the Palace of Justice where the Nuremberg Trials, a series of military tribunals, were held by the Allied forces after World War II.  Just outside Nuremberg our guide will show us the unfinished Congress Hall, the Great Road, and the Zeppelin Field, all while explaining the functions and intended effect of National Socialist architecture and the stage-management of the Party Rally events.  We continue on to Dachau for a visit of the Concentration Camp Memorial.  The Dachau concentration camp was opened in 1933 and was liberated by American Forces on April 29, 1945.  We walk up the “Path of Arrival”, and visit the rebuilt barracks and the remains of the crematory.  After this sobering visit we make our way to our hotel just a few miles south of Munich. Meals:  Breakfast, Dinner, Beverages

Day 12:                              Eagle’s Nest / Munich, Germany Today’s journey takes us to Berchtesgaden, located in the southern-most part of Germany, where we ascend to the Eagle’s Nest .  The chalet type building, which sits literally on top of the Kehlstein Mountain, was part of the sprawling Obersalzberg complex built by the Nazis.  The premises, except for the Kehlsteinhaus on the summit, were heavily damaged by an Allied air raid in April 1945.  The remains were set on fire by retreating SS troops and later eradicated by the Bavarian government.  There is time to walk up to the mountain top or relax on the restaurant’s terrace, relishing the spectacular view.  Late afternoon we make our way into Munich.  During WWII the city suffered heavy damage from 71 air raids, and almost half of its residents evacuated into the countryside.  Munich’s city center was completely rebuilt preserving its pre-war appearance and its population grew to almost 1.5 million.  We conclude our day with a typical Bavarian dinner at the famous Hofbräuhaus. Meals:  Breakfast, Dinner, Beverage

Day 13:                          Munich, Germany /Return to the USA Early morning transfer to the Munich Franz-Josef-Strauss International Airport for our direct flight back to the U.S.  Our early afternoon arrival time in Newark, NJ gives you ample time to connect to your flight home. Meals:  Breakfast, In-flight Meal Service 

Rupiper Tours reserves the right to make minor adjustments to the itinerary if necessary.

International round-trip airfare from Newark, NJ Airline Taxes and Fees Ground transportation by deluxe motorcoach Superior 3-star hotel on Normandy with private bath All other accommodations are 4-star hotels with private bath Most Meals Included: as indicated (some include wine) All Daily Tours & Admissions One piece of baggage handling per person Experienced Rupiper Tours manager throughout Professional English speaking international tour director/historian Local step-on guides

Testimonials from Previous WWII Battlefield Tour Participants

"I'm a college graduate, a former teacher....I never, in all my studies, learned anything like we learned on this trip about American history and participation in WWII!!!  I just cannot say enough about our Tour Guide Hans...he has patience, knowledge, kindness, organization...so many skills!! I took extensive notes on what I learned and heard from the various tour guides and Hans' running commentary and was able to transcribe them into 23 typewritten pages of memories!!!   Every time I read them, it reminds me of what an interesting trip it was and how much I learned.  So much so, that some of us from that trip are meeting this winter down in New Orleans to go to the big WWII Museum there...a real testament to your excellent skills in sharing the history of that memorable time." - Sarah N. (Kansas)

"Everyone seemed very knowledgeable about their part of the trip.  I was always kept up to date about what was happening. I appreciated the acceptance of my grandson and his age difference." - Bruce S. (Minnesota)

"We were well pleased with everything and have received some letters from folks we met in Normandy. They were so appreciative of the Allies coming to help save their country. They'd like to meet us again. We appreciate all the honors the WWII Veterans received, and we were proud of all of our Veterans. We enjoy history and war stories, so pleased to see everything we could. We feel this was the best trip we've taken, and we've traveled quite a lot since Vern retired. Thanks!" - Vern & Helen S. (Kansas)

“We were very pleased with the quality of our tour in every way. We felt everyone was very knowledgeable and friendly and accommodating. The rooms and food were all excellent. Great Tour. - Ron & Ann S. (Iowa)

“The tour manager was great! So caring to each person! She was very knowledgeable and so fun to be around. If she didn’t know the answer, she found it out! Loved her! So kind & big heart! The driver and guide were full of information. The staff were always great to work with!” - Chuck & Sherri S. (Iowa)

“THE BEST VACATION I EVER HAD!  Annie did a great job. Everything was excellent. I plan on taking your tour again on the 75 th anniversary.” - Captain Carl P. (Florida)

“Having five WWII Veterans on the trip really enhanced the tour. It was heartwarming to witness the appreciation of the French and Belgium people for the Veterans who liberated them. “ - Bob & Marilyn O. (Illinois)

“Expert tour guide & wonderful driver. Tour guide was very knowledgeable. Everyone at Rupipers was excellent to work with.” - Rob M. (South Dakota)

“Had a great time with great people and great staff. Keep up the good work. High on the list of multiple tours/cruises. Thank you for the tour list and DVD.” -Bill H. (California)

“This was by far the most meaningful trip of any tour I have taken. I have visited all 50 states and travel overseas. My hope and plans are to visit this area again! We owe a debt of gratitude to our brave Veterans. Annie was wonderful from the moment she met me at the Newark airport until we said goodbye at the Newark airport. She was so nice and thoughtful to everyone. She is now my dear friend and I hope to go on other tours with her.” - Mary C. (Alabama)

“Each tour guide answered all questions with a smile and added more information. Everything went very well. Even when I got lost from the group once, the tour manager kept me in her eye sight. This made my children very, very happy. I had originally planned to go with another company, but your itinerary visited more places that were of interest to me.  Thank you.” - Benjamin B. (Pennsylvania)

“Very excellent service! Annie was most helpful!  This was my third WWII Battlefield tour with Rupipers, and they have all met and exceeded my expectations.  I am very thankful for their help in bringing me back to Europe, and I still can’t believe the attention we Vets receive while overseas.  This will unfortunately be my last trip, but I thank you for all your help through the years and making my journeys possible.” - WWII Veteran, Hartley B. (Pennsylvania)

“It exceeded our expectation – overall outstanding information, exceptional experience due to the presence of WWII Veterans and the interesting environments they were put in. Preparation for our experience was outstanding. So many special inclusions made this trip unlike any other – being at the chateau cookout, lunch with the mayor of Collville, reception at Normandy Cemetery & Patton’s grave, and Luxembourg Museum owner’s comments and discussion was exceptionally interesting and meaningful.” - Robert & Barbara H. (Minnesota)

“This was my first experience with a trip overseas. It was very excellent.  The guide and tour manager were all very good. They were very helping in every way.” - Anonymous

  "We have traveled in Europe before, but this was our first time at the WW2 sites. The tour was everything we expected . For the first time in Normandy, your tour was the way to go. The tour manager was professional, gave good information and friendly. The guide was a fountain of knowledge. Dates, figures, specific info! He was quick to point out important things for us and give us additional facts. The driver was great - personable and safe!" - Tony & Anne H. (Minnesota)

"Enjoyed it all. Normandy Beaches, cemeteries, and Saint Lo were our favorite sites. Hotels and food were excellent!" - George & Jeannine B. (North Carolina)

"The tour guide and our driver were excellent. He was so knowledgeable and humorous and patient. Told us so much history concerning our destinations and about past history of people and places. We liked the hearing devices while outside the coach. Your staff were always very pleasant on the phone when we called in with questions before the trip." - Maralyn & Dale R. (Nebraska)

"Loved the walk into the woods at Hollrath and the Dragon's Teeth. The food and motels were good, and we were filled by the tour." - Lloyd & Jan S. (South Dakota)

"The tour guide provided a vast amount of info with us. Having a WWII Veteran and two "children" who saw their father's graves for the first time was a humbling experience." - Al & Mary K. (Wisconsin)

"We couldn't have asked for a better tour guide! He made the tour light up with his knowledge of the history of WWII. As far as our bus driver, well, you could have made a tour just on watching him drive that bus! Truly awesome! The highlight for us was when the tour manager went out of their way to take one of the travelers to a town to visit his dad's grave site. Just driving through the countryside was wonderful! It really was a wonderful and great experience to see those places. Never thought we would get to see these sites." - Stephen & Annette C. (Hawaii)

"The tour guide was excellent! Extremely knowledgeable! The driver was very helpful, courteous, and friendly. The tour covered everything that we wanted to see and all time was sufficient. It was well planned." - JoAnn & Ken A. (Wisconsin)

“Just a few lines to thank you very much for all you did to help me be part of this great tour to Normandy.  I thoroughly enjoyed it… and the others that were part of the group.  Thanks Annie, and thanks Brent… I hope to be a part of one of your groups again in the future!” - Frank V. (California)

“We remembered the tour with all of you and the great memories we had from that trip.  We knew at the time we were fortunate to be on the tour together (three generations) but in retrospect, it was the best thing we could have done and a wonderful experience filled with so many great memories.  To be in Normandy on D-Day and witness, first hand, the gratitude of the French people was a blessing for my dad and the other vets, and a priceless memory for Drew (my son) and me.  I think the Normandy experience was truly a surprise for my father and added new meaning and depth to his memories of the war. And, he was thrilled to see the aircraft he flew in restored and on display at Utah Beach, another honest surprise.” - Bill T. (California)

“Now that we have returned to our routines, Mike and I wanted to let you know how much we enjoyed the trip!  It was even more than expected, and the fact that we were there on D-Day was priceless.  The people on the trip made it that much more enjoyable.  We had the time of our lives, seeing so many historical places in the time we had while making new friends along the way.  You showed such patience and knowledge and did a wonderful job with all the coordination you had to do.  The guides and driver were great to have with us.  You all work well together. Rupiper Tours did a very thorough job also with all the information sent before the trip, along with all the travel plans.  We appreciate all you did and know you will have another successful tour in August." – Mike & Susan W. (Florida)

“Thank you so much for the slides of our WWII Battlefields Tour. You made me feel special when I saw my picture and my hometown. It was truly my pleasure to meet you and travel with you. I enjoyed our chats when we were having a dark German Beer. The tour was an experience that I shall not forget. Thank you Brent.” - Wayne L. (Pennsylvania)

“We spent this evening watching the videos that Brent sent to us.  They brought tears to my eyes at the wonderful memories that we have of our trip. We will never forget the time we spent with our father.  You will always have a place in my heart.  We hope that our paths will cross again in the future.” - Sincerely, The Kentucky girls: Patty, Carla & Belinda

“Hi Brent, Just received and reviewed the DVD's you sent.  Great job!  First class all the way.  Thanks so much.” - Pete & Marlene V (Delaware)

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16-day World War II Memorial Tour of Europe

NORMANDY, FRANCE

The Higgins boat monument at Utah Beach

Colleville-sur-mer, france.

The American Cemetery near Omaha Beach honors over 9000 fallen soldiers

Paris, france.

The Arc de Triomphe stands at the end of the famous Champs-Élysées Avenue

Amsterdam, the netherlands.

Quaint row houses line the canals of this influential city

Antwerp, belgium.

The main city square is lined with 16th-century Flemish Guildhouses

Dachau, germany.

The memorial at Dachau Concentration Camp was designed by Holocaust survivor Nandor Glid

Munich, germany.

Get a taste of Oktoberfest all year round at the Hofbräuhaus beer hall

Caen, france.

The Caen Peace Memorial & Museum

Nuremberg, germany.

The colossal Congress Hall was built to seat the Nazi Party congress

Rhine river, germany.

This legendary waterway is lined with castle ruins, vineyards, and romantic villages

Pricing disclaimer.

  16-day tour featuring Germany, Austria, Luxembourg, Belgium, Holland and France. Revisit the dramatic history of World War II at famous battle sites, war museums and memorials. Many scenic and cultural highlights are also included, providing an enjoyable combination of learning and leisure.

Tour Year 2024

Tour itinerary.

DAY 1 - Overnight flight to Europe.

The Trip Documents will provide guidance for airport check-in and for your arrival in Europe. Relax on your transatlantic flight with the assurance that Image Tours has taken care of all the details.

DAY 2 - GERMANY . . Arrival at Frankfurt Airport – Bavaria.

Upon arrival, clear passport control and collect your luggage. Refer to the “Arrival Instructions” in the Trip Documents for directions on where and when to meet your tour manager. Settle into your comfortable motor coach on the way to your hotel in the scenic and festive state of Bavaria. Get acquainted with your fellow tour members during the “Welcome to Europe” dinner. (Dinner)

DAY 3 - GERMANY . . Nuremberg - Bavaria.

Your bus transfer into the city center introduces you to the history of Nuremberg. Hitler staged his propaganda rallies here and, after his fall, it was chosen as the location for the War Trials. You will have an opportunity to see the Nazi Party Rally Grounds, Congress Hall, and Palace of Justice where the War Trials were held. Consider the causes and consequences of Nazi Germany during a visit to the Documentation Center (visit the temporary exhibit during the 2023 renovations).  Discover the Old Town’s half-timbered buildings and gingerbread shops before returning to your Bavaria hotel for dinner. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 4 - GERMANY . . Dachau - Munich - Tyrolean Village.

Travel to Dachau for a somber visit to the Concentration Camp Memorial. At the entrance, you are prompted to reflect on the incomprehensible as your tour manager translates the German phrase on the iron gate: ARBEIT MACHT FREI (Work Makes One Free). Study the exhibit recounting the “path of the prisoners” and see the site of the former barracks. Your tour continues to Munich, the elegant capital of Bavaria. Pass points of interest, such as the Hitler Building, on your way to the Marienplatz, a pedestrian-only zone where historic buildings are cleverly interspersed with modern store fronts. The centerpiece of the square is the Rathaus (Town Hall) with its captivating Glockenspiel (clock tower). Following your visit to Munich, head south into the mountain range along the German/Austrian border, where you will spend the next two nights in a Tyrolean Village. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 5 - GERMANY/AUSTRIA . . Tyrolean Village.

Enjoy a relaxing day in the surroundings of your hotel. Your Alpine Village offers a variety of options for leisure activities amid the spectacular mountain scenery. Another choice is to join the full day optional Salzburg & Eagle’s Nest with Dinner  excursion (see Optional Excursions), which includes a guided visit to the Kehlsteinhaus, Hitler’s mountain hideaway, followed by an afternoon in Salzburg, known as Mozart’s birthplace and the setting for “The Sound of Music.” Spend a second night at your peaceful Tyrolean Village hotel. (Breakfast)

DAY 6 - GERMANY . . Ulm – Bad Herrenalb.

After breakfast, travel to Ulm to view the imposing Ulm Minster with the tallest church steeple in the world. This afternoon, make a stop at the grave of Erwin Rommel, the German general who was forced to commit suicide when Hitler suspected him of treason. End the day with a buffet dinner at your hotel in Bad Herrenalb, on the northern edge of Germany’s Black Forest. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 7 - FRANCE . . St. Avold – Fort Hackenberg & GERMANY . . Trier.

Follow a scenic route through the Alsace Region and the Vosges Mountains. This area was the site of heavy fighting in the fall of 1944. You will make a stop at Lorraine’s American Cemetery in St. Avold, the largest American World War II cemetery in Europe. The afternoon is reserved for a tour of Fort Hackenberg, part of the Maginot Line, which was constructed between the world wars as a defense against any future German invasions. Your hotel for the next two nights will be in Trier, the oldest city in Germany, located near the three-country border of France, Luxembourg and Germany. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 8 - LUXEMBOURG . . American Cemetery - Diekirch, BELGIUM . . Ardennes – Bastogne & GERMANY . . Trier.

The morning stop is at the American Cemetery in Luxembourg where General George Patton is buried. Continue into the Belgian Ardennes Region and arrive in Bastogne to view the star-shaped Mardasson Monument, a tribute to the soldiers who died in the Battle of Ardennes. You will also see the fox holes used by Easy Company, whose stories inspired the TV mini-series “Band of Brothers.” Your travels this afternoon take you to the Luxembourg National Museum of Military History in Diekirch. Trier's famous Porta Nigra provides an intriguing backdrop for your independent dinner before returning to your hotel. (Breakfast)

DAY 9 - GERMANY . . Rhine River – Remagen – Rhine-Ruhr Region.

Motor to one of the most beautiful stretches of the Rhine River where you will board a river steamer for a boat ride past endearing villages, medieval fortresses, and hillside vineyards known for producing the distinctive Rhine wines. Continue through the Rhine River Valley to Remagen to view the remains of the Ludendorff Bridge, the last standing bridge on the Rhine, which was captured by U.S. soldiers on March 7, 1945. By mid-afternoon, continue to your Rhine-Ruhr region hotel. Dinner will be served at the hotel this evening. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 10 - HOLLAND . . Groesbeek – Nijmegen – South Holland.

Crossing the border, focus on sites significant to World War II liberation efforts in The Netherlands (Holland), including locations associated with Operation Market Garden. The bridge over the Waal River at Nijmegen was a strategic asset reclaimed after the historical crossing of American paratroopers. Travel Hell’s Highway and stop at the memorial in Overasselt, commemorating the site of the largest airborne operation of all time. This day will also feature a visit to one of the local museums documenting the World War II resistance in The Netherlands. Continue to your South Holland hotel for check-in and dinner. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 11 - HOLLAND . . Amsterdam – South Holland.

Travel through Holland's countryside, characterized by canals, dikes and windmills, as you make your way to the dynamic city of Amsterdam. Your visit begins with a ride aboard a glass-topped boat through Amsterdam’s harbor and canals where you will see numerous bridges, boathouses and bicycles while gliding past 17th-century gabled houses. During an independent lunch, try a pannekoek (Dutch pancake) or other local specialties. This afternoon, walk to the main square, an ideal focal point for your individual exploration. Return to your South Holland hotel for dinner. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 12 - BELGIUM . . Antwerp & FRANCE . . Caen.

Today consists of a full day of travel from Holland to Caen, France, with a stop in the port city of Antwerp, Belgium. Explore the central market square with its irresistible chocolate shops and convivial outdoor cafés serving Belgian Waffles. Continue the drive into France for an early evening check-in at your Caen hotel where dinner is served shortly after your arrival. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 13 - FRANCE . . Normandy Landing Beaches – Caen.

The entire day is spent touring the famous Normandy Landing Beaches. From Caen, drive to the coast and stop at Pointe du Hoc to view the German fortifications. You’ll also travel to Utah Beach and Sainte-Mère-Église, the site where paratroopers landed during World War II as portrayed in the movie “The Longest Day.” Visit Sainte-Mère-Église Airborne Museum before continuing to Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery. Proceed to the artillery battery at Longues-sur-Mer. At today’s final stop in the village of Arromanches, view remnants of the artificial harbor and reflect on the sights of the day over an independent dinner. (Breakfast)

DAY 14 - FRANCE . . Caen – Paris.

Spend the morning touring the Caen Peace Memorial and Museum, established to honor the liberators, victims, and all those who continue to fight for peace. As you depart Caen, pause at the Pegasus Bridge to understand how its capture by the British 6th Airborne division was instrumental in deterring a German counterattack. Arrive in Paris by early evening and join your travel companions for a festive “Farewell Dinner” of enticing French dishes at an authentic Parisian bistro with roving musicians. The return transfer provides additional impressions of the city at dusk. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 15 - FRANCE . . Paris.

The day is devoted to Paris, La Ville Lumìere ("City of Light"). On your way into the center, see the Arc de Triomphe which has been the staging area for victory parades throughout history including those following World War II. Your tour manager will also direct you to the location of other principal sights, such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, Eiffel Tower, and Louvre Museum (open every day except Tuesday). Before beginning your free time, we suggest joining the optional Seine River Cruise excursion (see Optional Excursions). Spend the evening exploring the Montmartre District, where Paris looks as it does in old paintings and artists still display their works. An uphill walk to the Sacré-Coeur Basilica rewards you with expansive views of the cityscape. Montmartre boasts excellent restaurants and characteristic sidewalk cafés perfect for an independent dinner in the French capital. (Breakfast)

DAY 16 - Daytime flight back to U.S.A.

Transfer to the Paris Airport for your return flight home. (Breakfast)

Travel Time

Overnight flight from the U.S.A. to Frankfurt.

Arrival at Frankfurt Airport . Meet your tour manager, board your deluxe motor coach and travel (1¾ hrs) through the Franconian Wine Region . After a rest stop, continue (1½ hrs) to your hotel located in the festive state of Bavaria for a "Welcome to Europe" dinner. ( Dinner )

During an introductory sightseeing (1 hr), experience the history of Nuremberg and view the site of the Nazi Party Rally Grounds, the Congress Hall, and the Palace of Justice where the War Trials were held. Return (½ hr) to your hotel in Bavaria  for dinner. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 4 - GERMANY . . Dachau - Munich - Alpine Village.

Depart Nuremburg (1¼ hrs) and after a morning stop travel (1¼ hrs) to Dachau Concentration Camp . In the afternoon continue (½ hr) to the elegant Bavarian capital of Munich . Depart Munich in the late afternoon and head south (2 hrs) to an Alpine Village hotel for dinner. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 5 - GERMANY/AUSTRIA . . Alpine Village.

Enjoy a day of leisure or join your tour manager for the full day optional Salzburg & Eagle's Nest with Dinner  excursion, including a guided visit to Hitler's mountain hide-a-way (1 hr), sightseeing in Salzburg (½ hr) and an authentic Austrian dinner (1 hr) before returning (1 hr) to your Alpine Village hotel. (Breakfast)

Return to Germany (2 hrs) and after a morning stop proceed (1½ hrs) to Ulm for an independent lunch and views of the imposing Ulm Minster. Next, travel (1 hr) to the Rommel Memorial. Continue (2¼ hrs) to Bad Herrenalb , on the northern edge of Germany's Black Forest. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 7 - FRANCE . . St. Avold – Fort Hackenberg & GERMANY . . Igel.

Follow a scenic route (1¾ hrs) through the Alsace Region and Vosges Mountains. On to (1 hr) Lorraine's American Cemetery, the largest American World War II cemetery in Europe. From here continue (1 hr) to Fort Hackenberg , part of the Maginot Line. After a visit, continue (1½ hrs) to your hotel in Igel . (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 8 - LUXEMBOURG . . American Cemetery - Diekirch, BELGIUM . . Ardennes – Bastogne & GERMANY . . Trier – Igel.

It's a short ride (¾ hr) to the American Cemetery in Luxembourg . Drive (1½ hrs) through the Belgian Ardennes Region and arrive in Bastogne . In the afternoon travel (¾ hr) to the Luxembourg National Museum of Military History in Diekirch . Transfer (1 hr) to Trier , the oldest city in Germany, for an independent dinner before returning (¼ hr) to your hotel in Igel . (Breakfast)

In the morning, travel (2 hrs) to the legendary Rhine for a boat ride along one of the most beautiful stretches of the river. After disembarkation, proceed to Remagen (1 hr) to view the Ludendorff Bridge. Continue (1¼ hrs) to your hotel in the Rhine-Ruhr Region . (Breakfast, Dinner)

Cross the border (2¼ hrs) on the way to Nijmegen to focus on the sites significant to WWII liberation efforts in the Netherlands. Visit (½ hr) one of the local museums before traveling (1½ hrs) through the Dutch countryside to your South Holland hotel. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Transfer (1½ hrs) to Amsterdam where a boat ride through the canals is followed by ample free time. In the evening, return (1½ hrs) to your South Holland hotel for dinner. (Breakfast, Dinner)

A full day of travel. Head south (1¾ hrs) into Belgium to visit the historic town of Antwerp . After free time in Antwerp, drive (2 hrs) to a lunch break near the French/Belgian border. Continue (2¼ hrs) to an afternoon stop in northwestern France. Just before dinner time, arrive (2 hrs) at your hotel in Caen . (Breakfast, Dinner)

The entire day is spent touring the famous Normandy Landing Beaches , including a visit to Pointe du Hoc, Utah Beach, Sainte-Mère-Église Airborne Museum and stops at Omaha Beach, the artillery battery at Longues-sur-Mer and Arromanches (travel time between stops varies from ¼ hr to ¾ hr). Short transfer (½ hr) back to Caen . (Breakfast)

Transfer (¼ hr) to the Caen Peace Memorial and Museum for a visit and then continue (½ hr) onto the Pegasus Bridge. Stop for lunch (1¾ hrs) in the French countryside on the way (1¾ hrs) to Paris . Spend the evening in the Montmartre District, an ideal place for your independent dinner (¼ hr). (Breakfast)

A full day for individual exploration (¾ hr transfer in each direction) of Paris , during which you may wish to join the optional Seine River Cruise excursion. This evening, join your travel companions for a festive “Farewell Dinner” at an authentic Parisian bistro. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Transfer (1 hr) to Paris Charles de Gualle Airport for your flight home. (Breakfast)

Favorite Traveler Experiences

•   View Hitler’s Nuremberg Rally Grounds with solemn contemplation
•   Examine the eye-opening exhibits at Dachau Concentration Camp
•   Listen to the chiming of the Glockenspiel on Munich’s main square
•   Tour part of the Maginot Line defense structure at Fort Hackenberg
•   Explore Bastogne, synonymous with the “Battle of the Bulge”
•   Glide past castles and vineyards on a scenic Rhine River boat ride
•   See first hand the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe in Paris
•   Take a serene boat tour through the famed canals of Amsterdam
•   Tour the Normandy Landing Beaches and Military Cemetery
•   Accommodations in Superior Tourist Class or First Class hotels
•   14 Breakfasts and 10 Dinners in addition to any in-flight meals
•   Tour Manager for the full European duration of the tour
•   Land Transportation in Europe by deluxe, air-conditioned motor coach
•   Image Tours Touroclopedia® trip preparation tips
•   Trip Documents with luggage tags, final details and travel guidance

Traveler Reviews

Kenneth & tammie j., andrew & jean b., paul & tammy k..

The Availability, Departure Dates, and Rates are for illustration and planning purposes only. Since final pricing and single availability can only be confirmed with a travel agent, steps 4 & 5 of this on-line booking module is reserved for your travel agent only. (Please Call) indicates that we still have some tour availability; however, you should have your travel agent call our office to confirm air availability.

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Upcoming departures, may 08, 2024, may 23, 2024, $4,940 p.p.d.o., jun 12, 2024, jun 27, 2024, sep 04, 2024, sep 19, 2024, almost sold out, sep 11, 2024, sep 26, 2024, may 07, 2025, may 22, 2025, $4,990 p.p.d.o., jun 11, 2025, jun 26, 2025, sep 03, 2025, sep 18, 2025, oct 01, 2025, oct 16, 2025, tour hotels.

NH Collection Nürnberg City

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Seminaris Hotel Nuremberg

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Landhotel Kirchenwirt

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Parkhotel Luise Bad Herrenalb

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Vienna House Easy Trier

NH Hotel Capelle

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Van der Valk hotel Ridderkerk

Mercure Caen Côte de Nacre

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Holiday Inn Express - Canal de la Villette

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Optional Excursions

OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS DETAILS

Our tours are carefully planned to offer a comfortable balance of sightseeing, entertainment and leisure time. Optional Excursions provide the flexibility to choose between leisure time or additional guided sightseeing activities. Unless otherwise noted, optional excursions must be booked with and paid to your tour manager during the tour. Prices are in U.S. Dollars. MASTERCARD®, VISA®, or DISCOVER® (no other credit cards are accepted) are recommended to avoid carrying excessive cash and exchange rate fluctuations. You must be able to present the actual card to your tour manager. If you bring a DISCOVER® card, also bring a VISA® or MASTERCARD®, as DISCOVER® is not widely accepted in Europe. Cash payments during the tour must be in Euros. Personal checks and traveler’s checks are not accepted. The operation of all excursions is subject to sufficient participation, and some excursions are subject to favorable weather conditions. Your tour manager reserves the right to make changes or cancel excursions at their sole discretion.

SALZBURG & EAGLE'S NEST WITH DINNER

Upon arrival in Berchtesgaden, Germany, you will take a bus and elevator up to the Eagle’s Nest, Hitler’s mountain hide-away. In the case of halted bus operation, we will substitute a visit to the Obersalzburg Documentation Center. After an independent lunch, become acquainted with nearby Salzburg, famous home of the “Sound of Music” and Mozart. This excursion includes a traditional Austrian dinner at an alpine village restaurant.

SEINE RIVER CRUISE

Glide along the Seine River by boat, while viewing the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the Notre Dame Cathedral, and several other impressive sights in Paris. This excursion provides for excellent photo opportunities.

Tour Extensions

Paris post-tour extension, paris and london post-tour 3-night extension, tour year 2025.

Today begins your World War II Memorial Tour of Europe adventure. The Image Tours "Departure Instructions" will provide guidance for airport check-in. Relax on your transatlantic flight with the assurance that Image Tours has taken care of all the details.

Refer to the “Arrival Instructions” for directions on where and when to meet your Tour Manager. Settle into your comfortable motor coach on the way to your hotel in the scenic and festive state of Bavaria. Get acquainted with your fellow tour members during the “Welcome to Europe” dinner. (Dinner)

Your bus transfer into the city center introduces you to the history of Nuremberg. Hitler staged his propaganda rallies here and, after his fall, it was chosen as the location for the War Trials. You will have an opportunity to see the Nazi Party Rally Grounds, Congress Hall, and Palace of Justice where the War Trials were held. Consider the causes and consequences of Nazi Germany during a visit to the Documentation Center.  Discover the Old Town’s half-timbered buildings and gingerbread shops before returning to your Bavaria hotel for dinner. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Enjoy a relaxing day in the surroundings of your Tyrolean Village hotel, which offers a variety of options for leisure activities amid the spectacular alpine scenery. Another choice is to join the full day optional Salzburg & Eagle’s Nest with Dinner  excursion (see Optional Excursions), which includes a guided visit to the Kehlsteinhaus, Hitler’s mountain hideaway, followed by an afternoon in Salzburg, known as Mozart’s birthplace and the setting for “The Sound of Music.” Spend a second night at your peaceful Tyrolean Village hotel. (Breakfast)

DAY 10 - THE NETHERLANDS. . Groesbeek – Nijmegen – South Holland.

Crossing the border, focus on sites significant to World War II liberation efforts in The Netherlands (Holland), including locations associated with Operation Market Garden. The bridge over the Waal River at Nijmegen was a strategic asset reclaimed after the historical crossing of American paratroopers. Travel Hell’s Highway and stop at the memorial in Overasselt, commemorating the site of the largest airborne operation of all time. This day will also feature a visit to one of the local museums documenting the World War II resistance in The Netherlands. Continue to your, in the region of South Holland, for check-in and dinner. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 11 - THE NETHERLANDS. . Amsterdam – South Holland.

Travel through Holland's countryside, characterized by canals, dikes and windmills, as you make your way to the dynamic city of Amsterdam. Your visit includes a ride aboard a glass-topped boat through Amsterdam’s harbor and canals where you will see numerous bridges, boathouses and bicycles while gliding past 17th-century gabled houses. During an independent lunch, try a pannekoek (Dutch pancake) or other local specialties. This afternoon, walk to the main square, an ideal focal point for your individual exploration. Return to your South Holland hotel for dinner. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Today consists of a full day of travel from The Netherlands to Caen, France, with a stop in the port city of Antwerp, Belgium. Explore the central market square with its irresistible chocolate shops and convivial outdoor cafés serving Belgian Waffles. Continue the drive into France for an early evening check-in at your Caen hotel where dinner is served shortly after your arrival. (Breakfast, Dinner)

The entire day is spent touring the famous Normandy Landing Beaches. From Caen, drive to the coast and stop at Pointe du Hoc to view the German fortifications. You’ll also travel to Utah Beach and Sainte-Mère-Église: the site where paratroopers landed during World War II as portrayed in the movie “The Longest Day.” Continue to Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery. Proceed to the artillery battery at Longues-sur-Mer. At today’s final stop in the village of Arromanches, view remnants of the artificial harbor and reflect on the sights of the day over an independent dinner. (Breakfast)

Spend the morning touring the Caen Peace Memorial and Museum, established to honor the liberators, victims, and all those who continue to fight for peace. As you depart Caen, pause at the Pegasus Bridge to understand how its capture by the British 6th Airborne division was instrumental in deterring a German counterattack. Arrive in Paris by early evening and join your travel companions for a festive “Farewell Dinner” of enticing French dishes at an authentic Parisian bistro with roving musicians. The return transfer provides impressions of the city at dusk. (Breakfast, Dinner)

The day is devoted to Paris, La Ville Lumìere ("City of Light"). On your way into the center, see the Arc de Triomphe which has been the staging area for victory parades throughout history, including those following World War II. Your tour manager will also direct you to the location of other principal sights, such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, Eiffel Tower, and Louvre Museum (open every day except Tuesday). Before beginning your free time, we suggest joining the optional Seine River Cruise excursion (see Optional Excursions). Spend the evening exploring the Montmartre District, where Paris looks as it does in old paintings and artists still display their works. An uphill walk to the Sacré-Coeur Basilica rewards you with expansive views of the cityscape. Montmartre boasts excellent restaurants and characteristic sidewalk cafés perfect for an independent dinner in the French capital. (Breakfast)

16-day World War II Memorial Tour of Europe Map

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11 Day Tour of UK, France, Belgium

England, Belgium, France

London, Brussels, Dunkirk, Lens, Ypres, Amiens, Rouen, Caen, Arromanches-les-Bains, Normandy Beaches, Paris

4 Dinners, 10 Breakfasts

Faster paces with mix of 1–2-night stays in each location. Typically features 4+ miles of walking on some days and may involve steep hills and uneven surfaces, such as cobblestones.

If you like hassle free travel with everything handled for you – looking to meet great people, eat great food, enjoy great sightseeing, and have immersive experiences, Trafalgar is for you.  From the iconic not-to-be-missed to one-of-a-kind local experiences, including Be-my-Guest dining and stays with stories, you’ll connect deeper to your destination, and every tour has at least one MAKE TRAVEL MATTER immersive impact experience included advancing one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), offering you the chance to take a deep dive into culture and community. As the world’s leading tour company and trusted by more than 5 million guests, Trafalgar tours are simply the best value for your vacation dollar.

WWI & WWII Battlefields Tours

Embark on a journey to pay respects at revered World War I and II battlegrounds. Encounter the weighty significance of legendary places while uncovering the compelling chronicles and enduring impacts of war. Discover insights into these monumental and historical moments exploring the sites with an expert Travel Director.

A Multi-Country tour is an excellent way to experience several top European destinations in just one trip. Visit famous sites, wander the city streets with locals, indulge in delicious meals in family homes, and fully immerse yourself in the highlights and history of each place. The perfect sampler, Multi-Country tours are an excellent choice for first-time travelers to Europe.

Travel to the front lines of Europe, where brave soldiers once fought for freedom. On this epic battlefield tour through the countryside of Britain, Belgium and France, you’ll explore the tragedy and triumph of two World Wars.

Flexible booking 30-day deposit refund guarantee + no change fees See flexible booking terms >

Best Value Why touring is the easiest way to travel Learn more >

Current Entry Requirements Check your destination View Entry Guide >

Day-by-day itinerary

From tragic battles to tales of triumph, this special-interest exploration of two World Wars kicks off in the vibrant British capital of London. Meet your Travel Director and fellow companions this evening for a traditional English pub Welcome Dinner.

Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey feature on this half-day introductory sightseeing tour with a Local Specialist, which includes views of Buckingham Palace. This afternoon, we visit the Imperial War Museum, which tells the story of those whose lives were shaped by war from World War I to today. See extensive archives and recordings, as well as a Spitfire that saw action in the Battle of Britain. Maybe enjoy London after dark, spending your evening at leisure meandering along the Thames, riding the London Eye or discover Covent Garden.

See London's iconic sites with a Local Specialist. 

Iconic Experience

London City Tour with a Local Specialist

We journey by Eurostar to Brussels today. Your Travel Director will show you the city's highlights. See the Atomium, designed for the 1958 Brussels World's Fair, Mannekin Pis and the exquisite Grand Place with its opulent and ornate guildhalls. 

In 1815 Napoleon fought his famous last battle here against the Duke of Wellington. You’ll visit the battlefields and monuments and discover how th ...

Optional Experiences

Waterloo Explored

In 1815 Napoleon fought his famous last battle here against the Duke of Wellington. You’ll visit the battlefields and monuments and discover how the face of Europe was changed forever. You’ll also see the famous iron lion monument on top of the hill, which you can climb if you wish. The monument was built by the widows of veterans and you'll hear their story as you gaze at the spectacular panoramic view.

Pricing Info

How to book.

Optional experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked by your Travel Director while on tour.

Why not try some traditional Belgian fare in a traditional Belgian restaurant and wash it down with some famous Belgian beer? Enjoy an evening stro ...

Brussels by Night & Dinner

Why not try some traditional Belgian fare in a traditional Belgian restaurant and wash it down with some famous Belgian beer? Enjoy an evening stroll to admire the Grand Place of Brussels in the evening; bustling with life as the center of activity of town.

Today we journey to Dunkirk, where Operation Dynamo miraculously saw over 330,000 Allied troops evacuated to Britain. We stop in Fromelles, where there was a combined operation between British troops and the Australian Imperial Force, described as the "worst 24 hours in Australia's military history". After we visit the memorial at Vimy Ridge dedicated to the Canadian soldiers, who fought a battle here in 1917. This horrific battle, and the bravery of the men who fought in it, came to symbolise Canada's coming of age as a nation.

Visit Vimy Ridge Memorial and see the place that is dedicated to the Canadian soldiers who fought in battle during 1917. 

Vimy Ridge Memorial Visit

Explore Operation Dynamo, the place that saw 330,000 Allied troops evacuated to Britain when you visit Dunkirk. 

Dunkirk Visit

Discover the rich history of the British troops and the Australian Imperial Force when you visit Fromelles.

Fromelles Visit

Some of the biggest battles of World War I are explored at Ypres Salient in Belgium, where we will see such sites as Tyne Cot, Langemark and Vancouver Corner. Stop in Zonnebeke for an included visit to the Memorial Museum Passchendaele 1917, where you can see a replica trench. See Essex Farm Cemetery where over 1,200 brave servicemen are buried and where Lt. Col. John McCrae wrote his immortal poem, ‘In Flanders Fields'.

Spend the rest of the afternoon on your own and later sample one of the excellent local beers. After, make your way to the Menin Gate and witness the moving Last Post Ceremony to pay tribute to over 100,000 soldiers who laid down their lives more than a century ago.

The bloody battlefields of the Somme take center stage today. Stop at the Villers-Bretonneux memorial to the Australian soldiers who lost their lives in WWI. Carry on to Thiepval to see the poignant memorial which honours the 72,337 missing British and South African men who died with no known graves. We journey to Amiens for an evening at leisure.

See the site of the Australian soldiers who lost their lives in WWI when you visit Villers-Bretonneux Memorial.

Villers-Bretonneux Memorial Visit

Visit the memorial that honours the 72,337 unknown graves of the British and South African men who fought valiantly.

Thiepval Memorial Visit

Travel south through Normandy today. Taste the delights of the region during your MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience where sweet treats await you. Stop in the City of Rouen for an orientation tour of this city which was captured by the French in 1204 from English possession. Next stop is Caen where you will visit the Memorial de Caen to learn about the significance of Normandy and the day that changed World War II.

Visit a confectionary factory, where you will taste sweets originally invented in the 16th century. The old industrial factory is full of life and ...

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

Visit a confectionary factory - Les Confiseurs

Visit a confectionary factory, where you will taste sweets originally invented in the 16th century. The old industrial factory is full of life and works especially to employ people with disabilities. Let the sweet smell of caramelised sugar welcome you in on to your guided tour!

Discover the significance of Normandy and how it changed World War II when you visit Memorial de Caen. 

Memorial de Caen Visit

The guests are treated to a dinner of traditional Norman delicacies from a region famous for its cheese and cider.An ethereal dining experience, pu ...

A Taste of Normandy

The guests are treated to a dinner of traditional Norman delicacies from a region famous for its cheese and cider. An ethereal dining experience, pure Norman fantasy. A true feast for the imagination.

Take yourself back to June 6, 1944. Imagine the terror and bravery of thousands of soldiers who landed on the beaches of Normandy to free Europe from the Nazis. This morning, journey to the historic D-Day Normandy Landing Beaches, including Juno Beach, Pointe du Hoc and Omaha Beach. Visit the American Cemetery and Memorial to learn about the Canadian, American, and Commonwealth involvement in this unbelievable battle for supremacy. This evening Connect With Locals on a Be My Guest Experience with the Ferrut family.

Join an emotive journey tracing the story of the D-Day landings and visit Omaha Beach. 

Visit the Normandy D-Day Beaches

Set in glorious Normandy countryside a stone’s throw from the town of Bayeux, the Ferrut family welcome you to their equestrian center.

Be My Guest

Meet the Ferrut Family at their Equestrian Center

Journey inland through Normandy today, bound for the grand boulevards of Paris. Perhaps join us for an optional visit to the glittering Palace of Versailles before arriving in the French capital.

Built for the Sun King, Louis XIV, the Palace of Versailles was the envy of every European ruler, but loathed by the French commoners, which lead t ...

Versailles Palace and Gardens

Built for the Sun King, Louis XIV, the Palace of Versailles was the envy of every European ruler, but loathed by the French commoners, which lead to the French Revolution. Step inside the opulent world of Versailles and our Local Specialist will take you through the palace’s Hall of Mirrors and State apartments. Then, enjoy free time to wander the symmetrical, tree-lined gardens.**

To truly see Paris in all its glory, you need to see it from the Seine. Enjoy a cruise along this famous river and take in unmatched views of the N ...

Seine Cruise and Paris Illuminations

To truly see Paris in all its glory, you need to see it from the Seine. Enjoy a cruise along this famous river and take in unmatched views of the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower. Afterwards, we’ll drive through the City of Lights to see some of the fascinating sights this beautiful city has to offer.

Nestled in the heart of Montmartre, Nouvelle Eve has been spotlighted by ‘Emily in Paris’ and has hosted events for high-fashion icons like Dolce & ...

La Nouvelle Eve Cabaret and Dinner

Nestled in the heart of Montmartre, Nouvelle Eve has been spotlighted by ‘Emily in Paris’ and has hosted events for high-fashion icons like Dolce & Gabbana, Christian Louboutin and Vivienne Westwood. An icon of Parisian elegance for 125 years, this chic revue theater is your ticket to an unforgettable night. An a la carte meal and dazzling cabaret will bring the French Cancan to life before your eyes. Performances run from April 20 to October 26. 

Join your Local Specialist to view the remarkable church of Saint-Sulpice, then delve into the lives of Parisians, wandering through the enchanting hidden squares of one of Paris's oldest neighborhoods. Our walking tour concludes in one of the city's loveliest squares which is a real favorite among the locals. Spend the rest of the day on your own to see the sights. On our last evening together in Paris, we join our travel companions and Travel Director for a Farewell Dinner in the city.

Join a Local Specialist to discover the hidden squares and secret lanes of Paris.

Paris City Tour

Take the fastest elevator in Europe to the Panoramic Observation Deck for unbeatable views of the Eiffel Tower and all of the city’s iconic monumen ...

Montparnasse and Napoleon's Tomb

Take the fastest elevator in Europe to the Panoramic Observation Deck for unbeatable views of the Eiffel Tower and all of the city’s iconic monuments. We’ll also visit the Dôme des Invalides with our Local Specialist to see Napoleon’s final resting place.

After breakfast, we bid our newfound friends a fond farewell as our memorable holiday comes to a close.

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Frequently Asked Questions

• Official Language(s) across England, France, Belgium, Netherlands: English is the dominant language in England; French is the official language of France; Dutch, French, and German are the official languages in Belgium; Dutch is the official language of the Netherlands.
• Currency used in England, France, Belgium, Netherlands: British Pound Sterling (£) is used in England and the Euro (€) is used in France, Belgium, Netherlands.
• Capital Cities: London (England), Paris (France), Brussels (Belgium), and Amsterdam (Netherlands).
• Time Zone(s) in Great Britain, France, Switzerland, Italy: England uses Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and Greenwich Mean Time +1 (GMT+1) during daylight saving time and France, Belgium and the Netherlands use Central European Time Zone (CET), Central European Summer Time (CEST)

Passport, visa, and entry requirements for England, France, Belgium, Netherlands for US citizens.

• Passport: Your passport should have at least two blank pages for entry stamps. Your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of your trip
• Visa Requirement: A visa is not required to enter England, France, Belgium, Netherlands
• Entry Requirements: You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to getours.com/travel-requirements-restrictions .

The climate in England is generally classified as temperate maritime, characterized by mild winters and cool summers. The weather is known for its variability and can change frequently throughout the day. Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, with showers being common. The western parts of the UK, particularly areas like Wales and Scotland, tend to experience higher rainfall compared to the eastern regions. The UK is influenced by the warm Gulf Stream, which helps to moderate temperatures and prevent extreme heat or cold.

France has a varied climate due to its size and geographical diversity. The northern regions, including Paris, have a temperate climate with mild summers and cool winters. Coastal areas along the Mediterranean, such as Nice and Marseille, have a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The mountainous regions, like the French Alps, experience alpine climate conditions with cold winters and heavy snowfall, making them popular for winter sports. Western France, including cities like Bordeaux and Nantes, has an oceanic climate with mild, damp winters and mild summers. Overall, France experiences regional variations in temperature, precipitation, and sunshine hours throughout the year.

Belgium has a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild temperatures, moderate rainfall, and relatively high humidity. Winters are typically cool with average temperatures ranging from 0°C to 6°C (32°F to 43°F), while summers are mild with average temperatures between 12°C and 23°C (54°F to 73°F). Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly drier months in spring and early autumn. The country is influenced by the North Sea, which helps moderate temperature extremes. Cloud cover is common, and fog can occur, particularly in the colder months.

The weather in the Netherlands is influenced by its maritime location and prevailing westerly winds. It experiences mild, wet winters with temperatures averaging around 2-6°C (36-43°F) and cool summers with temperatures averaging around 17-20°C (63-68°F). Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly drier months in spring and early autumn. The coastal areas are often slightly milder than inland regions due to the moderating effect of the North Sea. The country occasionally experiences strong winds and storms during the winter months, with the possibility of snowfall, particularly in the eastern regions.

Luggage on Tour

Traveling with GET entitles each guest to travel with one suitcase not exceeding 50 lbs in weight, and no larger than 30” x 18” x 10.” Carry-on/hand luggage is restricted to one piece per person, not exceeding 12”x11”x6” to fit under your coach seat or in the small overhead compartment.

For safety reasons, small rolling suitcases are not permitted inside the coach. As our coaches have large windows, there is minimal space to store them securely overhead or under the seat. The suggested carry-on is a soft-sided bag similar to a backpack, tote bag, etc.

So your driver and the hotel porters can safely lift and transport your suitcase throughout your vacation, we strongly recommend that you test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances.

Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline, and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.

Packing Tips for Your Tour

When packing for a guided tour, it's essential to consider the local climate, cultural norms, and the activities you'll be engaging in. Here's a suggested packing list:

• Comfortable walking shoes: The UK and Europe’s cobblestone streets and uneven terrain require comfortable footwear.
• Lightweight, breathable clothing: Pack clothes suitable for the season. Bring a mix of short-sleeved tops, lightweight pants or skirts, and a few long-sleeved options for cooler evenings for the summer months, and long-sleeved and heavier layers for early Spring, Fall, and Winter.
• Layers: It's advisable to bring a light jacket or sweater and a scarf for layering, especially in Spring or Fall. We also suggest packing a portable umbrella or light rain jacket to prepare you for unexpected rain showers.
• Modest attire: In some religious sites, modest clothing is required, so we suggest carrying a shawl or scarf to cover your shoulders or legs when necessary.
• Nice evening wear: You may wish to wear a dressier outfit if you plan on dining in an elegant restaurant, for example. Smart-casual clothes are usually acceptable attire for all included daytime and evening activities throughout your tour.

Accessories

• Sun protection: It’s always recommended to carry sun protection, including a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
• Daypack or tote bag: A small backpack or tote bag will be handy for carrying essentials during your explorations.
• Travel adapter, voltage converter, and charger: Ensure you have the appropriate adapters for power outlets and a charger for your electronic devices. (See Electricity, Adapters & Air Conditioning

Miscellaneous Items

• A camera: There is an abundance of stunning scenery and historic sites you’ll want to capture. To ensure that you don't miss a single moment, it's important to have a trustworthy camera at your disposal. You can also use the camera on your phone , but you might want to zoom in or capture moving objects. A camera is your best bet for this.
• A new, blank journal to document your trip. Don't know your travel journal style? Find out here !
• A small travel alarm
• A travel iron if you like your clothes to be pressed
• A washcloth and carry bag
• A travel pillow

Electricity

• American appliances run on 110 volts, while European, UK, and Ireland appliances run on 220-230 volts.
• All of Europe operates on the same two round-pronged outlets (Type C) except for the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland , which operate three flat rectangle-pronged outlets (Type G).
• Adapters allow American-style plugs with two flat prongs to fit into British or Irish outlets, which take three rectangular prongs, or continental European outlets, which take two round prongs.
• If your devices use a different voltage or plug type, you will need a plug adapter and/or voltage converter to use them in Europe. You will need a plug adapter and voltage converter to use your appliances in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland.
• We recommend purchasing an adapter with a voltage converter so you can pack less. Also, pick up any necessary adapters or converters for your electronic devices before departing on your guided tour and bringing them with you.

Hair Dryers in Your Hotel

Hair dryers are common accessories in hotels. Should you want to bring your own, though, you will need to bring an adapter and voltage converter or make sure it is dual voltage by checking the label for INPUT AC 120V - 240V or a switch that can be set to 125V or 250V. Many devices have this feature, so it's worth checking before you travel. If you specifically need a hair dryer during your trip, but can't find one in your hotel room, you can inquire with the hotel staff. Many hotels will be able to provide a hair dryer upon request, either at the front desk or through housekeeping.

Air Conditioning

• Air conditioning is commonly available in European and UK hotels, restaurants, and public spaces, especially in major cities and tourist areas, but it is worth noting that the settings will differ from what you are used to in the USA.
• However, it's important to note that not all accommodations or historic buildings may have air conditioning, particularly in more traditional or rural settings.
• Most hotels in Europe can provide a portable fan for additional room cooling if requested. Your Travel Director will be on hand to assist you throughout your trip.

Traveling by coach

Our modern air-conditioned coaches have been selected with your comfort in mind. Your Travel Director will familiarize you with all the onboard features, including a washroom fitted for your convenience and comfort. Regular stops are made to stretch your legs, take refreshments, fill up your water bottles, and use the facilities.

Airport transfers

Airport Transfers for Europe flights not arriving to or departing from London Airport transfers to and from the airport on the first and last days of your tour are complimentary only if:

• You are traveling on a tour operated by Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, or Luxury Gold
• Your flight times coincide with the shuttle-coach transfer timings

Airport Transfers for Europe flights arriving to or departing from London Airport transfers to and from the airport on the first and last days are complimentary only if:

• You booked your land tour and flights as a land/air package through GET. If you book your flights independently via London Heathrow, you can *purchase a transfer through us.

To enable you to personalize your tour experience, you will find a number of Optional Experiences designed to complement the itinerary. These are designed to offer a deeper insight into the culture and character of the areas to be visited and provide some wonderful highlights for your travels. The optional program is designed to let you experience more of what interests you and to get the most from your vacation without replacing or overlapping with anything included in an itinerary.

The majority of Optional Experiences will be offered to you by your Travel Director at the beginning of your trip. Some may be subject to change, depending on the time you are traveling or local circumstances, including weather and days of the week. Your Travel Director will provide further information.

Usually, most Optional Experiences will be priced in the local currency, but please read through the details of individual optional experiences for specific information. Exact payment options will be advised locally by your Travel Director/Local Representative for each Optional Experience, but in many cases, cash, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are all accepted.

It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad.

In order to ensure a healthy and enjoyable trip, we strongly suggest that you pack a plentiful supply of any medication you may need while on vacation. Here’s what you need to know about traveling with medications .

Prior to traveling, please notify GET of any disability requiring special assistance or any specific dietary needs that you may have, and we will strive to accommodate these.

When traveling with GET, baggage handling at hotels, service charges, and tips for hotel wait staff (for included meals) will all be taken care of by your Travel Director. There are, however, a few instances where individual tipping is welcome.

Local Specialists

It is customary to show appreciation for the insights, stories, and know-how shared with you by the Local Specialists, and we suggest a gratuity of €1-2 (Euro) or £1-2 (Pounds) per person per half day.

Your Coach Driver and Travel Director

The trip cost does not include gratuities for your Travel Director and Driver. At the end of your trip, you may express appreciation to your Travel Director and Driver for their excellent service and the personal attention you received. Gratuities are given at the discretion of each guest, and a suggested amount per person/per day is listed in your travel documents.

For your convenience and ease, there is an option to pre-pay gratuities for the Travel Director and Driver at the time of booking.

Hotel services

Tipping hotel staff for room service delivery is customary if a charge needs to be added to the bill.

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Email Sign-up Travel Credit: Receive a $150 per person ($300 per couple) discount toward your first tour (operated by Trafalgar or Insight Vacations) when you sign up for GET emails; valid for each full-paying adult who signs up with a unique email address. Valid for new bookings only made from 01 January to December 31 2024 for travel from 01 January 2024 to 31 December 2025. Discount is not combinable with any other discount or offer, including GETAWAY Deals, Limited Time Offers, AARP member discount, Past Traveler Global Tour Rewards discount, Groups or Multiple Trip discounts. Offer cannot be booked online. GET reserves the right to validate bookings and will remove any additional offers added online that are not combinable. Other conditions may apply.

During the Second World War, the Germans took four years to build the Atlantic Wall. On four beaches it held up the Allies for about an hour; at Omaha it held up the U.S. for less than one day.

– STEPHEN E. AMBROSE

Founded by the late Stephen E. Ambrose, our company was developed from his research and work. He combined his input, passion and knowledge to create WWII tours that celebrate the American spirit.

Today, Stephen Ambrose Historical Tours continues to preserve his legacy with our WWII tours and expand the carefully conceived and executed heritage itineraries inspired by his life’s work.

Our historians are experts in their field and world-renowned authors. Their years of extensive research and interviews with hundreds of WWII, Band of Brothers and D-Day veterans on the battlefields on which they fought add a personal dimension to our tours that no other company can offer. It is a highlight to hear them tell these stories of America’s heroes at the very places where they occurred. These harrowing tales of bravery and courage capture a moment in time.

We invite you to travel with us through the battlefields of Europe and the Pacific. Here our historians will share these remarkable narratives that have changed the course of history. It is their passion and enthusiasm that leave our fellow travelers with memories of a lifetime.

World War II Tours

D-day to the rhine tour.

Our D-Day Tour was designed by Stephen E. Ambrose, who first led this WWII tour in the late 1970s, and further developed by our historians. The itinerary is based on thousands of hours of interviews with D-Day veterans, studying of the battlefields, and other World War II research. Thanks to their experience with the terrain and its history, we are able to present a D-Day Tour that is unmatched in its authenticity.

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Operation Overlord

The Operation Overlord Tour covers the planning and launch of the D-Day Invasion. It is a great choice for people who want to visit England and the Normandy beaches on a shorter tour than D-Day to the Rhine.

Ghost Army of WWII: Secret War Tour

Follow along the path of the 23rd Headquarters Special Troops, the extraordinary deception soldiers better known as the Ghost Army. Led by the producer of the award-winning PBS documentary, The Ghost Army , you will visit many World War II sites on a route that closely follows our D-Day to the Rhine Tour (two tours in one!), to offer a wider context for the story of these heroes.

In Patton’s Footsteps Tour

Led by the author of Patton’s Photographs: War as He Saw It , we visit the sites and battlefields significant to Patton’s Third Army, including Normandy, Brittany, Mont-St-Michel, the battlegrounds of Falaise Pocket, the German border, and the Battle of the Bulge, to understand how this maverick general helped win the war in Europe.

Italian Campaign Tour: Sicily to Rome

Sometimes referred to as “the Forgotten Campaign,” the Allied effort in Italy was actually of terrific significance. The campaign became a proving ground for Allied capabilities on sea, land, and in the air. Amphibious landings with Higgins crafts on the beaches of Italy provided crucial training for the Normandy invasion. Proceeding to fight and push the Germans north, the Allied forces in Italy created another front for Hitler, dividing his defense of the Reich. Bonus? The food and scenery are bellissimo!

Iwo Jima: War in the Pacific Tour

Our Iwo Jima: War in the Pacific Tour is a transformative experience! Travel with our historians to the islands where the battles raged during the War in the Pacific, where “Uncommon valor was a common virtue.”

WWII: Poland & Germany Tour

We begin in Gdansk, Poland, where the first shots of WWII rang out. We then wind our way on to Ketrzyn, Warsaw, Krakow, Oswiecim, and Zagan, where some of the fiercest battles of the war were fought, before finishing at the site of the war’s end, Berlin, Germany. Guests who have traveled on this tour rave about the charm of these historic cities and towns, the warmth of the people, and the many outstanding restaurants.

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Historic battlefield tours

On our world war history tours, you’ll step into the past and look forward into the future. Each tour is a unique chance to learn about an important part of the past.

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We offer 200+ immersive, guided tours around the world. Wherever you choose to go, you’ll enjoy lots of advantages that make traveling with us different.

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While you’re deciding what to take, we’ll be busy arranging your hotels, meals, tickets, and more tour essentials. That’s what going guided is all about .

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What our travelers say about their historic battlefield tours

Frequently asked questions about our battlefield tours.

World War II solidiers fought along countless battlefields around the globe. We visit quite a few, including:

• Operation Torch in Morocco and Algeria
• The Battle of the Atlantic on the Atlantic Ocean
• The Battle of Normandy in France
• The Battle of the Bulge in The Ardennes, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Germany
• The Battle of Nuremberg in Germany
• The Attack on Pearl Harbor in Hawaii, U.S.
• The Battle of Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands
• The Battle of Okinawa in Japan

Here are the memorials you can visit on our World War II tours:

• Mémorial des Martyrs de la Déportation on tour in France
• The Hollandsche Schouwburg War Memorial on tour in the Netherlands
• The Vimy Ridge Memorial on tour in France
• The Kazerne Dossin on tour in Belgium
• The Canadian Hill 62 Memorial in Belgium
• The Memorial Museum Passchendaele in Belgium
• The Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial in Newfoundland
• Caen Memorial Museum in France

The majority of our battlefield tours visit destinations in Europe, where many world war battles took place. That includes:

• Juno Beach in France , where the invasion took place during World War II
• The town of Remagen in Germany , which played a vital role in helping Allied forces cross the Rhine River and defeat the German forces
• The Vimy battlefields in France , which was significant to Canada’s development as a country

If you’re from the United States and interested in American history, we’d recommend  American WWII History: London to Berlin .

If you're from Canada, you might enjoy any of these war history tours:

• Canadian WWII History: The Netherlands & Germany
• Canadian World War History: Vimy to Juno Beach
• Vimy Ridge 105th Anniversary: London to Brussels
• Vimy Ridge 105th Anniversary: Amsterdam to Paris

Check out this photographer’s look at Canadian military history on one of our World War II tours.

4 reasons to take a historic battlefield tour with us

1. you’re always with an expert, 2. learn about history where it happened, 3. feel closer to your ancestors, 4. see the powerful impact these battles had, more types of tours, see the latest from our travelers @goaheadtours.

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WWI and WWII Battlefields

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11 Day Battlefield Tour of UK, Belgium and France

11 days, 3 countries and 11 cities

Accommodation

10 Breakfasts, 4 Dinners

View day-by-day trip itinerary

Travel to the front lines of Europe, where brave soldiers once fought for freedom. On this epic battlefield tour through the countryside of Britain, Belgium and France, you’ll explore the tragedy and triumph of two World Wars.

Looking to book in a group of 9 or more?

Deals, savings and exclusive private touring options available plus if you need a different date or itinerary change we can create a custom trip. Contact us for more details

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Trip map & itinerary

Day by day itinerary

11 days itinerary trip from London to Paris visiting 3 countries and 11 cities

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About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Explore London and Paris with a Local Specialist

Discover Normandy, Amiens, the Somme Region, Ypres, Brussels and Rouen

Visit the Imperial War Museum in London, the D-Day Landing Beaches, Saint-Sulpice church in Paris, Amiens Cathedral, military cemeteries throughout northern France and Belgium, the Australian National Memorial, the Caen Memorial, WWI & WWII Battlefields, the Dunkirk War Museum and evacuation beaches, and the Memorial Museum Passchendaele

View Buckingham Palace in London, the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe in Paris and the Menin Gate

Travel highlights

Specific transfer information can be found here:

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

All porterage and restaurant gratuities

All hotel tips, charges and local taxes

Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

Optional Experiences and free time

Eurostar high-speed train from London to Brussels

On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences

Every one of our tours includes at least one conscious travel experience that supports one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Look out for yours within the day-by-day trip itinerary.

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Net-zero by 2050

Travel knowing our 4-point climate action plan will ensure net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Support Local

Your tour directly supports local communities by visiting family-run businesses, UNESCO sites and places of cultural significance.

Sustainable Practices

Every part of our business, from trip design to how we run our offices, aligns to our 5-year sustainability strategy which ensures a positive impact on people, the planet and wildlife.

Philanthropic Efforts

Our not-for-profit, the TreadRight Foundation, invests in nature-based solutions to address climate change.

You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour

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Proudly the longest running Battlefield Tour operations in Canada - having escorted Canadian Veterans & their families for over 30 years

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"It was unlike any experience I've had as a Canadian. Walking on the ground our forefathers fought and died on was by far the most invigorating opportunity in my life."   - Daniel Thompson, Battlefield Traveller, 2006

Small group tours with big stories to tell..

Explore a wide range of intriguing tour programs, driven by the important history that we share on battlefields around the world. 

Learn more about  The Battlefield Tours of Canada  team, the organisations that support us, our beginnings, and our values today

Upcoming Battlefield Tours

RE-INTRODUCING

THE VIETNAM TOUR

JAN 3 -14 2024

DIEPPE, WWII SOMME, VIMY, YPRES 

THE UK D-DAY 80th TOUR

D-DAY 80 TOUR

NORMANDY to HOLLAND

JUN 1 - 12 2024

JUNE 5 - 14, 2024

ORIGINAL BATTLEFIELD TOUR

SEPT 13 - 22, 2024

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Proudly Serving Those Who Have Served for Us

Since 1986, the Battlefield Tours have been providing Canadian war veterans and their families with the opportunity to return to battlefields around the world.

We were fortunately wrong to think that visitors to the battlefields of Europe would dwindle after the memories of the war veterans and their presence on tour had faded. Today, the battlefields are being experienced by participants of all ages from many different walks of life.  All with one thing in common – the desire to understand and pay tribute to the men and women who fought and paid the final sacrifice. 

The focus today is to continue to honour the men and women that we had the honour of meeting over the past 30 years - by retracing their footsteps and sharing our priceless knowledge, resource and history with travellers like you, keen on understanding the battlefields that scar Europe, Great Britain, and beyond. 

Canadian Battlefield Travel since 1986...

Safety & Security

The Battlefield Tours works directly with trusted suppliers. Our host agency is Tico certified, meaning you can count on consumer protection.

A ll prices are listed as with option for air & single supplement. Pricing all includes all entrances, accommodation, and more (as listed in inclusions) 

Custom Guides & Resource

Enjoy exploring information before your trip, with a custom 30+ pg. PDF info kit related to your journey explore some samples

Travel Assistance  

Special services and arrangements can be offered for any and all travellers who require mobile assistance. Special services can also be provided for Canadian Student & Military groups.

Expert Design  

All itineraries are designed by our experienced team with the help host destinations and local communities

Flexibility  

Our direct partnerships means you have the flexibility to add on an extension to your travels and more

Custom Programs   

For private groups, & special request extensions, or add-ons

Complimentary Consultations

From the Maritimes to the West Coast, we encourage organizations, and schools, to delve into our history across the Battlefields. Let us show you what we can offer.

Find out what travel opportunities exist for historians, Cadet groups, members of the Legion, and Canadian students  

Learn more about our team, our methods, and the story behind our decades of advocacy

THE BATTLEFIELD TOURS BLOG   LEST WE FORGET   

Subscribe to our Youtube Channel to watch behind-the-scenes interviews and experiences from tour. 

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A call out to all Canadians. Like & follow us on Facebook , or forward this information to a friend. Tell your Local legion , tell your Local Travel Agent , and tell your Local Schools About Us . Help us grow our incredible community and help us educate and inspire travellers to discover their own incredible history in inspiring destinations around the World.   

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Travellers past and present always help our team stay up to date on the latest news, events, & resources. Recieve our Battlefield E-Mail the way you want: select your interest & how frequently you wish to recieve your e-mail.   

Check our Battlefield Blog

Any recent news, updates, helpful resources, stories of past tours & travellers, helpful reading material, guides, map kists and more can be found on out blog. Read up on our latest highlights and features, or explore posts as categorized by your interest.  Anything you want to know about the Battlefield Tours can be found on the Battlefield Tour Blog.   

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Battlefield Tours

2024 Battlefield Tour

In the footsteps of titans: salonika and the great war, friday, sept. 13 – wednesday, sept. 18, 2024.

Venture into the crossroads of mythology and modernity with the National WWI Museum and Memorial as we explore the cultural and historical significance of the Salonika Front. From the dense forests and mountain landscapes of beautiful Greece, we will trace the forgotten trench lines of some of the war’s most remote battlefields and discover the global stories of this lesser-known theater rich in geopolitical importance as the “cradle of democracy.” The tour begins and ends in Thessaloniki (SKG) with five nights of lodging in the scenic Grecian countryside.

Please note:

This tour traverses rugged terrain and includes locations with steep and unpaved grounds. Unlike previous battlefield tours, much of this battlefield is inaccessible by vehicle. Participants MUST be able to walk a minimum of 6 miles without assistance and be able to carry their own equipment needed for hiking.

Planned Itinerary

Tour pricing, frequently asked questions.

Previous Tours

(May be subject to change)

Day 1: sept. 13.

Starting in Thessaloniki, the group’s first introduction to the campaign will be the Salonika (Lembet Road) Military Cemetery, containing personnel from all nations. The group will travel north to study Birdcage Line, constructed by the British Army in 1916, and end the day at the Doiran Memorial.

Overnight Doiran – Dinner included

Day 2: Sept. 14

Northbound from Doiran, the group will explore the furthest extent of the French Army’s advance in 1915, passing through Gradsko and Krivolak. Stopping at the Demir Kapija tunnel on the way back to Doiran, the group will study the Dec. 1915 retreat before finishing the day at Lake Doiran.

Overnight Doiran – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included

Day 3: Sept. 15

Most of the day’s travels will be on flat ground and near the group’s hotel in Doiran, examining key points of action in the Battles of Doiran like La Tortue, Hill 340, the Hilt and the Petit Couronné.

Day 4: Sept. 16

A full day’s hike to Devil’s Eye and its views over Pip Ridge, the scene of the final decisive battle of Salonika in Sept. 1918. En route to the site, the group will pass through the Bulgarian reserve positions, artillery and command bunkers, as well as the T Line bunkers and an isolated British Divisional Memorial.

Day 5: Sept. 17

Trekking through the Struma Valley, the group will explore the various actions at Tumbitza Farm, specifically the 27th Division attacks, as well as the British battery positions at Triada (Dragos) and the Bulgarian positions at Palio Castro. For the final evening, the group will return to Thessaloniki.

Overnight Thessaloniki – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included

Day 6: Sept. 18

Transfer to Thessaloniki Airport for departures.

Questions?   Frequently Asked Questions

$500 deposit (per person) due by April 30, 2024

Account in full due by june 30, 2024, costs include:.

• Pick-up and drop-off at Thessaloniki Airport (SKG)
• Bus, driver and guides throughout tour
• 5 nights accommodation (includes all meals)
• Small group size

It does not include:

• Flights to and from Greece
• Incidentals

Travel Insurance

Traveler is responsible for securing their own optional travel insurance.

We encourage scheduling your arrival the day before the tour begins to avoid any risk of a delayed flight.

Ready to register?      Registration   

The British Memorial to the Missing near Lake Doiran.

Bulgarian artillery position between Grand Couronné and Pip Ridge.

Please note: Modifications may occur due to current global travel restrictions.

When and where will we meet the group?

All participants should meet at the designated meeting place and time, provided with your tour information. It is recommended to arrive in the destination city the day before the tour, giving you ample time to meet at the gathering place. Once you receive the green light to purchase your airfare, please forward your arrival time and flight number to the Museum and Memorial's Learning Coordinator at [email protected] . This will assist guides in roll call before starting the tour.

What sites will we be visiting?

Please see the itinerary sent by the guides. The itinerary is loose, allowing flexibility in visiting additional sites.

What hotels will we be staying in? What amenities are included?

Please see the itinerary sent by the guides. Breakfast, WiFi and laundry services are generally available.

How many meals are included with my registration?

Breakfasts and at least one group dinner are covered under your registration. Lunches and other dinners are not included, unless otherwise specified. Please notify us immediately if you have any special dietary requirements. For most destinations, lunches will be approximately €15-€20 and dinners approximately €35.

How will we travel between different sites/cities?

Participants will travel by coach (bus) between cities and will walk around most sites.

What amenities are included with the bus?

The bus will have A/C and heating, a refrigerator, a restroom and complimentary water.

What should I wear?

• Comfortable outdoor wear (e.g. T-shirts, jeans, shorts.) Avoid wearing clothing with large, loud logos.
• Sweater or lightweight fleece
• Appropriate footwear (e.g. walking shoes). A change of footwear is also advised.
• Waterproof outer layers (light jacket)
• Hat and sunscreen

What are essential items I need to pack?

• Medicine (in your carry on!)*
• Camera or phone
• Night clothes
• Socks and underwear
• Satchel/day pack
• Electricity adapters for destination countries
• Portable power bank (if you have one)
• Waterproof jacket (and trousers if you have them)
• Sturdy shoes
• Large plastic bag for worn clothes

* Note on medicine: should be kept in its original packing, and kept in your carry-on along with a copy of any doctor's prescription. Please consult with State Department travel information to ensure that your prescriptions are not prohibited in the destination countries. Most over-the-counter medicines can be obtained abroad, though they may have different names than those in the U.S. One of the guides, where possible, will accompany you to a pharmacy (widely available) to assist with replacements, if needed.

I am staying in Europe after the tour. Can I be dropped off at my hotel after the tour?

Unfortunately, due to the size and schedule of the coach, you will not be able to be dropped off at your hotel by bus. If you need assistance returning to your hotel:

• See if your hotel has a shuttle service—communicate when and where you’ll need to be picked up.
• If a shuttle is unavailable, the guides can assist you in finding a taxi.
• If you’d prefer to use public transportation, the guides can assist you in getting the correct ticket/line.

How safe will I be touring in the Battlefield Tour regions?

Battle Honours hosts nearly 60 tours yearly and has been in the battlefield touring business for 15 years—many of the guides are former military or police. They have thoroughly assessed any potential risks that may occur during the tour—you will not be visiting any areas that may compromise your safety. Security is both their specialty and priority—you will be in very capable hands. To secure your money and passport, we recommend investing in a wearable money belt/pouch.

How much spending money should I bring with me?

We recommend bringing at least €200 in local currency, but how much you bring is truly a personal preference. Please make sure to notify your banks that you will be out of the country if you plan on taking your debit/credit/bank cards.

• VISA is most readily accepted; American Express/Discover are not accepted at most places.
• Cards issued by a smaller, regional bank that don’t have backing from larger institutions will not likely be accepted.
• ATMs are accessible everywhere for cash withdrawal—withdrawal fees/exchange rates may apply.

How can I use my cellphone while abroad?

You will need to contact your service provider to arrange an international plan (plans vary by provider.) To avoid roaming charges, we recommend turning off apps needing WiFi data before departure. Set your phone to “Airplane Mode” before boarding your overseas flight.

I have an ancestor who fought in World War I in this particular region. Can I see the sites pertinent to their involvement?

Yes! The guides cater the tour itinerary to these requests. Send the name, rank, and any key military/occupational identification of your WWI ancestor to Clive Harris and Mike Sheil approximately two months before departure, to give ample time for research.

Can I bring my ancestor’s personal items (a diary, photographs or other memorabilia)?

Yes, please do! These really help bring your ancestor’s story come to life on the battlefield. Please let the guides know what items you’ll be bringing before packing them.

How much can I expect to walk during the tour?

Participants can expect to walk multiple miles each day across uneven, unpaved terrain. Please make sure you have comfortable, sturdy walking shoes. Battlefield maps will be provided by guides on-site and via email to the participants.

What is the climate of the region we’ll be visiting?

Generally, weather will be warm to mild, and potentially rainy. Feel free to pack a light jacket for the evening and a day pack that includes snacks as you travel off the beaten path.

Questions about mobility and accessibility, or any other questions? Contact [email protected] or 816.888.8153.

Serbian Mausoleum in Lembet Road Allied Military Cemetery.

British artillery position on La Tortue.

Considering taking your first tour? View journals from our past tours:

2023: The War in Champagne (Instagram stories)

2022: Verdun and Saint-Mihiel (YouTube playlist)

2019: Gallipoli

2018: Harry S. Truman and the A.E.F.

2018: A.E.F. Centennial Tour of France

2017: The Doughboys in France

2016: British, Italian and American sectors of the Italian battlefields

2015: Imperial German Army on the Western Front

About Clive Harris

Raised in Hertfordshire, Clive developed a lifelong fascination with history. He spent seven years with the Royal Corps of Signals, serving operationally overseas with the 1st Armoured Division in BAOR — an Infantry attachment with the Royal Green Jackets, in Cyprus, Germany and France — and finally taking an instructor’s post in the Signals Wing of the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. On leaving the army he joined his local Constabulary, serving 11 years in their Force Operations Room as a specialist communications officer and control room manager. In 1998, he began working as a speaker, writer, researcher and battlefield guide and since then has guided groups to the Somme, Ypres, Arras, Mons, Cambrai, The Hindenburg Line, Verdun, and Gallipoli for the Great War, as well as Normandy, Arnhem, The Italian Campaign, and of course the London Blitz for the Second World War. Clive is a Badged Member of the Guild of Battlefield Guides (No33) and also a member of the British Commission for Military History.

About Mike St Maur Sheil

Mike is the award-winning curator of Fields of Battle, Lands of Peace 1914-1918. After studying Geography at Oxford, in the early 1970s Mike began his career as a photojournalist covering “the Troubles” in Northern Ireland. Here he became associated with the New York picture agency, Black Star, and over thirty years later he is still in the fortunate position of being paid to do what he loves doing — taking photographs. Mike has visited over 60 countries around the world, working for a wide range of clients such as ABC-TV, BBC, Anti-Slavery International, British Red Cross, European Commission, National Geographic , The New York Times , Shell, Time and Time Life .

Images courtesy of Mike St Maur Sheil / Fields of Battle 1418

2025 D-Day: The Invasion of Normandy and Liberation of France

The National WWII Museum’s most popular tour provides an in-depth itinerary exploring America’s most famous WWII battle. Offering a full week of touring in Normandy at an incredible price, this unforgettable journey offers great value and features top guides, superior accommodations in prime locations, comprehensive dining and exclusive access to sites unseen on other programs. With stops at the Musée Airborne, Mémorial de Caen, the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer, and more, this tour is for both the advanced and amateur historian in search of the most authentic experience of Normandy as it was.

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Pulse of Pride

Historical Battlefields Tour – Visiting 10 Hauntingly Significant Sites of World History

Posted: May 6, 2024 | Last updated: May 6, 2024

Embarking on a historical battlefield tour is like stepping into the pages of history. These hallowed grounds, where pivotal moments unfolded, offer profound insights into our past. From the ancient fields of Europe to the significant sites of American history, each destination tells a story of bravery, strategy, and the course of human events. The Green Voyage guide takes you through ten of the world’s most significant battlefields, where history was written in the trenches and on the front lines.

Gettysburg, USA

The Battle of Gettysburg, fought from July 1 to July 3, 1863, is one of American history’s most significant and defining moments. This battle, marking the turning point of the American Civil War, witnessed the Union Army’s decisive victory over Confederate forces. Fought in and around the town of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, it involved the largest number of casualties in the entire war. It concluded with the famous Gettysburg Address by President Abraham Lincoln. The battle’s strategic outcome halted the northward advance of General Robert E. Lee’s army and set the stage for the Union’s ultimate victory. Today, Gettysburg is a symbol of national unity and reconciliation, its fields and monuments serving as solemn reminders of the cost of war and the value of peace.

Normandy, France

The D-Day landings on June 6, 1944, in Normandy, represent one of the most monumental military operations in history and a pivotal moment in World War II. Known as Operation Overlord, this massive amphibious assault marked the beginning of the liberation of Western Europe from Nazi occupation. Over 156,000 Allied troops, comprising American, British, Canadian, and other nationalities, stormed the beaches of Normandy in a coordinated effort involving sea, air, and land attacks. Despite heavy resistance and significant casualties, the bravery and determination of these forces led to the successful establishment of a vital foothold in France. This event, which involved meticulous planning and unprecedented cooperation among Allied nations, not only changed the course of the war but also demonstrated the power of unity and collective resolve in the face of tyranny.

Waterloo, Belgium

The Battle of Waterloo, fought on June 18, 1815, near Brussels in present-day Belgium, is one of Europe’s most famous battles. This decisive conflict marked the end of Napoleon Bonaparte’s rule as the French Emperor and the termination of his Hundred Days return from exile. The battle pitted Napoleon’s French army against the Seventh Coalition forces, led by the Duke of Wellington and Prussian Field Marshal Gebhard Leberecht von Blücher. The intense and bloody battle concluded with a catastrophic defeat for the French, effectively ending Napoleon’s military career and leading to his second exile to Saint Helena. Waterloo is often cited for its tactical and strategic lessons and remains a key reference point in military history. Its outcome reshaped the political landscape of Europe, leading to a period of relative peace and the redrawing of the continent’s boundaries at the Congress of Vienna.

Gallipoli, Turkey

The Gallipoli Campaign, fought between April 25, 1915, and January 9, 1916, in the Gallipoli peninsula in Turkey, was a significant episode of World War I. This ambitious operation, led by the Allies – primarily British, French, Australian, and New Zealand forces – aimed to secure the Dardanelles Strait and capture Constantinople (now Istanbul), the capital of the Ottoman Empire, an ally of the Central Powers. The campaign is particularly notable for its grueling and costly nature, with both sides enduring heavy casualties and harsh conditions. It became a defining moment in the national consciousness of Australia and New Zealand, marking the birth of their national identities and commemorating it annually on ANZAC Day. Despite the bravery and endurance of the troops, the campaign ended in a victory for the Ottoman Empire and a strategic failure for the Allies, with lasting military and political ramifications. The Gallipoli campaign is remembered for its tactical miscalculations, the endurance of soldiers in the face of adversity, and its impact on the course of the First World War.

Stalingrad (now Volgograd), Russia

The Battle of Stalingrad, lasting from August 23, 1942, to February 2, 1943, stands as one of World War II’s most significant and brutal confrontations. Fought in the city of Stalingrad (now Volgograd), Soviet Union, this battle marked a turning point in the war against Nazi Germany. The ferocity of the fighting was unparalleled, with both sides engaged in close-quarters combat and enduring extreme conditions, including the harsh Russian winter. The Soviet Red Army, under General Zhukov, eventually encircled and defeated the German 6th Army, led by General Paulus, in a decisive victory. This battle not only shattered the myth of invincibility surrounding the German Wehrmacht but also led to a significant shift in the momentum of the war, with the Soviets taking the offensive. The battle’s scale, intensity, high human cost, and strategic significance have made it one of the most studied military engagements in history.

Interesting Fact: The Battle of Stalingrad was among the deadliest in history and a turning point in WWII.

The Somme, France

The Battle of the Somme, fought from July 1 to November 18, 1916, remains one of the most harrowing and bloodiest battles in military history, emblematic of the brutal trench warfare that defined World War I. Initiated by the Allies to break through German lines and relieve pressure on the French at Verdun, it took place along the Somme River in France. The first day of battle saw the British Army suffer the most casualties in its history, reflecting the immense human cost of the conflict. Despite months of fighting and significant losses on both sides, the battle resulted in minimal territorial gain, exemplifying the futility and devastation of trench warfare. The Somme also saw the first use of tanks in warfare, signaling a shift in military tactics and technology. This battle, with its staggering loss of life and limited strategic success, has come to symbolize the immense human cost of war and the tragedy of a lost generation.

Hastings, England

The Battle of Hastings, fought on October 14, 1066, is one of the most defining events in English history. It saw the Norman forces under William, the Duke of Normandy, defeat King Harold II of England, leading to the Norman conquest of England. The battle was fought near the town of Hastings, in East Sussex, and was a pivotal moment that changed the course of English history. It brought significant cultural and political changes, including introducing Norman culture and the French language to England’s ruling class. The battle is famously depicted in the Bayeux Tapestry, which provides a visual record of the events leading up to and including the battle. The victory of William the Conqueror at Hastings led to his coronation as King of England. It marked the beginning of a new era in English history, profoundly influencing the country’s language, governance, and societal structures.

Antietam, USA

The Battle of Antietam, also known as the Battle of Sharpsburg, fought on September 17, 1862, during the American Civil War, is noted for being the bloodiest single-day battle in American history. It took place near Sharpsburg, Maryland, and Antietam Creek and saw Union forces under General George McClellan engage Confederate troops led by General Robert E. Lee. This battle was particularly significant as it halted Lee’s invasion of the North. The intense combat led to heavy casualties on both sides, concluding with no decisive victory. However, the battle’s outcome gave President Abraham Lincoln the opportunity he needed to announce his preliminary Emancipation Proclamation, which changed the character of the war. The Battle of Antietam is remembered for its staggering human cost and as a pivotal moment in the Civil War, marking a turning point in the Union’s favor.

Little Bighorn, USA

The Battle of Little Bighorn, famously known as Custer’s Last Stand, was a significant engagement between the combined forces of the Lakota, Northern Cheyenne, and Arapaho tribes against the 7th Cavalry Regiment of the United States Army. Fought on June 25-26, 1876, near the Little Bighorn River in Montana Territory, this battle became emblematic of the conflict between Native American tribes and the U.S. government over territorial rights and cultural autonomy. Led by Lieutenant Colonel George Armstrong Custer, the U.S. cavalry forces were decisively defeated by the Native American warriors, under the leadership of Sitting Bull, Crazy Horse, and other tribal leaders. The battle was a substantial victory for the Native American forces but also marked a turning point that led to increased military efforts by the U.S. government against indigenous tribes. The Battle of Little Bighorn remains a symbol of Native American resistance and a subject of extensive analysis and historical significance.

Ypres, Belgium

Ypres, a town in Belgium, became the focal point of several major battles during World War I, known collectively as the Battles of Ypres. These battles, particularly notable for the first large-scale use of chemical warfare, were characterized by their unprecedented brutality and the extensive use of trench warfare. The town and its surrounding areas saw some of the most prolonged and bloodiest fighting of the war, resulting in significant casualties on both sides. Ypres came to symbolize the horrors of World War I, with the landscape around the town being completely devastated by the constant shelling and warfare. Today, Ypres serves as a powerful reminder of the cost of war, with numerous memorials and cemeteries that pay tribute to the fallen. Among these, the Menin Gate Memorial bears the names of over 54,000 soldiers who died in the Ypres Salient and whose graves are unknown, making it a poignant site of remembrance and reflection.

The post Historical Battlefields Tour – Visiting 10 Hauntingly Significant Sites of World History first appeared on Pulse of Pride .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Nejdet Duzen.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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Our American-owned, family-operated company was founded by American’s premier historian, the late Stephen E. Ambrose.  Dr. Ambrose combined his input, passion and knowledge to create historical, WWII and D-Day tours that celebrate the American spirit.

Stephen Ambrose Historical Tours continues to preserve his legacy with our historical and WWII tours and expand the carefully conceived and executed heritage itineraries inspired by his life’s work. We invite you to travel with us through the battlefields of Europe and the Pacific on on our WWII, WWI and military history tours, and explore America on our Lewis and Clark, Apache Wars, Crazy Horse & Custer, Revolutionary War and Civil War tours. 

As it was when Dr. Ambrose was leading the D-Day to the Rhine Tour, we have only the most qualified historians lead our historical and WWII tours. They are experts in their field and world-renowned authors. Their years of extensive research and interviews with hundreds of WWII and D-Day veterans on the battlefields on which they fought add a personal dimension to our tours that no other WWII or D-Day tour company can offer. 

Our historians also travel with the tour 24/7. You will enjoy spending evenings with them as you discuss the days events over dinner and drinks.

• 80th Anniversary of D-Day Tours :
• Apache Wars of the Southwest : Follow a cast of remarkable historical characters through the scenic Southwest
• Band of Brothers® Tours : The Original!
• Battle of Britain and Dunkirk : Their Finest Hour
• Battle of the Bulge : Travel from Brussels to the Ardennes, Malmedy, Bastogne, Diekirch
• Boston Tea Party Symposium: Celebrate the 250th Anniversary : Celebrate the 250th Anniversary!
• Civil War Tour: Mississippi River Campaign : Memphis, Shiloh, Vicksburg, Port Hudson, New Orleans
• Civil War Tour: This Hallowed Ground : First Manassas, Gettysburg and Appomattox
• Civil War Tour: War on the Rivers, Rails, and Mountains : Atlanta, Chickamauga, Stone’s River, Nashville
• Crazy Horse & Custer Tour: War on the Great Plains : Experience the Old West through the eyes of Crazy Horse & Custer
• D-Day to the Rhine : The Best!
• Ghost Army of WWII : Secret War Tour
• In Patton’s Footsteps : The Maverick General
• Italian Campaign Tour: Sicily to Rome : Allied Front
• Lewis and Clark Tour : Undaunted Courage
• Manhattan Project : A journey through the new Manhattan Project National Historic Park System
• Mighty Eighth Air Force :
• The Normandy Campaign: Beaches and Beyond : New tour!
• Operation Overlord Tour : Planning and Launch of D-Day Invasion
• Revolutionary War : Boston to Quebec
• Revolutionary War : Road to Yorktown
• Scotland Tour : Jacobite Rising of 1745
• 6888th Legacy Tour : The Only African American WAC Unit of WWII
• 250th Anniversary of the Battle of Lexington :
• Victory in Europe : Market Garden, the Bulge, Nuremberg, Eagle’s Nest
• War in the Pacific with Iwo Jima Reunion of Honor :
• WWII Poland and Germany Tour : The Beginning and End of the World War II
• WWI Tour : War to End All Wars

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Soviet Tour in Moscow

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Description

Highlights:.

• Explore a massive Soviet Park VDNKh (or VVC);
• Experience this special feeling of the good old Soviet times & dark and gloomy Cold War era;
• Get to the highest spot in Moscow city and one of the deepest metro in the world;
• Find out the rough truth about the insane 900-day siege of Leningrad (present St Petersburg);
• Take in the Triumphal Arch;
• Capture an extraordinary sculpture-memorial to the Holocaust;
• Join a guided Bunker-42, Cold War Museum tour (optional, not included in the price).
• See a harmony trio: an orthodox church, a synagogue and a mosque all in one park.

Tour Itinerary

With the 1000-year history, Russia has had a rich portfolio of conflicts, battles, wars. On this Soviet tour, we'll talk about various wars that happened in Russia, focusing on WWII.

Mother Russia has undergone a lot in its long life. Since ancient times, Russian rulers have taken nearly all political power into their own hands. By the beginning of the 20th century, the Russian oppositional movement was deadly set for the total destruction of the ever-lasting tsarist regime. All of Russia got involved in the bloody revolution of 1917 in an effort to abolish the current state of the government and gain freedom for the ordinary people.

You will learn about the every-day life of the Soviet people during the bloody Second World War with the Nazis, including the legendary Battle for Moscow, the 900-day siege of Leningrad, the hardships that local citizens went through, the consequences of the war and the scars it left on the Soviet people, as well as why the Cold War happened and what was the fundamental reason.

Our mission on the Soviet Russia tour is to find out

• - How much this 1917 revolution cost the people;
• - Whether they actually got the freedom they wanted and was it worth it;
• - What happened over the next 74 years;
• - Who were the main political communist leaders of the Soviet Union;
• - Were Russians happy and satisfied with the Soviet Union?

Our tour itinerary will lie in most Soviet areas of Moscow, which are quite spread throughout the city, as very few of them are left. You can choose how much you are ready to live this Soviet life on a 5, 7 or 10-hour tour. Depending on the duration of the tour, you will see part or all of the places below:

If you want to extend the tour, you are welcome to do so by paying $20/extra hour in cash on the tour.

Time stands still in Red Square. The Red Square is the heart of Moscow (and whole Russia). Saint Basil's Cathedral will make your mouth drop. If it is from May-October, have a cocktail on the outside terrace and simply people watch! The massive square offers so much to enjoy.

Lenin's Mausoleum

The burial place of one of the most influential communist leaders in the world.

Revolution Square Metro Station

Rub the Soviet dog's nose for good luck and admire the 76 bronze sculptures, devoted to the passionate, strong-willed and patriotic Soviet people.

Poklonnaya Hill

The highest point in Moscow, where Napoleon waited for keys of the city.

All-Russian Exhibition Center (VVC)

With its giant arch, amazing fountain, and huge pavilions of different Soviet Republics.

Victory Park Metro Station

The deepest undeground station in Moscow and one of the deepest in the world.

Victory Park

For an open-air museum as big as 135 ha (1 350 000 square meters), Victory park sure doens't lack diversity. The park is dedicated to the Russian victory in WWII, and was laid out in 1995 in commemoration of 50-year anniversary of victory.

Stalin had planned for its construction already in 1941, being sure of victory from the very start of the war.

Greeting Hill

The highest points in Moscow (172 meters), where Napoleon waited for keys of Moscow in vain.

Triumphal Arch

Stunning monument consisting of 12 cast-iron columns, each 12 meters high, and weighing 16 tons. Built to mark Russia's victory over Napoleon in 1812.

Museum of the Great Patriotic War

In the city that is as much about wars as it is about victories, there is one essential stopover - the Museum of the Great Patriotic War (that's what WWII is called in Russia). Must-do for those wishing to understand Russia's past and look at the whole war from the different perspective - Russian.

The museum is not for the faint-hearted. Here you can see films about the partisan experience, the scenes that will haunt you forever (no subtitles, but they are not necessary).

Museum of Contemporary History (from outside only)

We'll have a glance at Russian life of the XX century in the  Museum of Contemporary History , which houses bits of everything from Russian history of XXth century: from English club to a storage of Stalin's presents.

Memorial to the Holocaust,

devastating and breath-taking!

Unleash your inner spy. Highly recommended  Bunker-42 ,  Cold War Museum , explore the place where Khrushchev lived during the Cuban Crisis. Go down 18 floors to a gigantic bunker under Moscow that was designed to withstand a nuclear attack. Watch a short film about the severity of the Cold War. If you lived through the Cold War, you will hardly believe it is possible that you are in Bunker 42!

Wander through  Sparrow Hills  and climb up to the highest observation deck of Moscow with stunning views of all seven Stalin’s skyscrapers, including  Moscow State University . After that, experience the excitement of taking a  river cruise  on the Moscow river and catch the views of the Kremlin and Soviet times.​

What you get:

• + A friend in Moscow.
• + Private & customized Moscow tour.
• + An exciting tour, not just boring history lessons.
• + An authentic experience of local life.
• + Flexibility during the tour: changes can be made at any time to suit individual preferences.
• + Amazing deals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the very best cafes & restaurants. Discounts on weekdays (Mon-Fri).
• + A photo session amongst spectacular Moscow scenery that can be treasured for a lifetime.
• + Good value for souvenirs, taxis, and hotels.
• + Expert advice on what to do, where to go, and how to make the most of your time in Moscow.

*This WW2 and Cold War tour can be modified to meet your preferences.

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The Battle of Moscow: WWII’s First Critical Turning Point

When German armies invaded the USSR in 1941, Hitler thought victory would be quick and easy. It was neither.

This article appears in: Spring 2019

By Jeff Chrisman

Many consider the Battle of Moscow in late 1941 to be the first turning point of World War II on the Eastern Front . Some even consider the battle for Moscow as the only opportunity for the Germans to prevail in the East. By the middle of 1942, the Soviets had organized enough troops under arms that the Germans could not hope for anything better than a negotiated peace.

Even if the Soviet recapture of Stalingrad in 1942 had never happened and the Battle of Kursk in 1943 had been a German victory, Hitler still could not have won a total victory against the Soviets’ overwhelming numbers.

But, had the Germans been able to take Moscow, or isolated it very early, they might have dropped the Soviets to their knees and forced them to negotiate a cease-fire or perhaps even concede defeat.

After the war, German Field Marshal Albert Kesselring , commander of the Luftwaffe units assigned to Army Group Center, wrote: “The capture of Moscow would have been decisive in that the whole of European Russia would have been cut off from its Asiatic potential and the seizure of the vital economic centers of Leningrad, the Donets Basin, and the Maykop oil fields in 1942 would have been no insoluble task.” (Get a full view of the most ambitious military operation in the history of warfare inside our Operation Barbarossa special issue.) 

Why Moscow Was So Important—To Everyone Except for Hitler

Moscow was the center of the Soviet empire. All government offices were there, and it was the main logistics hub and heart of communication and command for all the armed forces. Moscow was at the center of everything, and the Soviets would have been hard pressed without it. Fortunately for them, it never came to that, but it was close—very close.

On June 22, 1941, the German Army attacked the Soviet Union with three army groups on a Continent-wide front from the Baltic coast in northern Lithuania south some 900 miles to the Black Sea coast in southern Romania. German Army Group Center was situated between Army Group North and Army Group South and, at that time, was the strongest of the three. In the first four weeks of the war, Army Group Center surged eastward some 400 miles through Belorussia and then captured Smolensk, a regional administrative city in western Russia only 234 miles from Moscow.

At that point Hitler wasn’t really sure what to do next, but General Franz Halder, chief of staff of the Army High Command (OKH), and Field Marshal Walter von Brauchitsch, commander of the German Army, knew just what to do: take Moscow! However, Hitler, calling Moscow “merely a mark on a map,” demurred. Instead, he ordered Army Group Center (AGC) to send half of its armored forces, Panzer Group 2, south to help Army Group South (AGS) capture the Ukraine, and the other half of its armored forces, Panzer Group 3, north to help Army Group North (AGN) take Leningrad.

The leaders of AGC were aghast. Army Group commander Field Marshal Fedor von Bock and his armored commanders, General Heinz Guderian of Panzer Group 2 and General Hermann Hoth of Panzer Group 3, protested loudly.

All had envisioned Moscow as their ultimate goal from the beginning and were stunned to find that Hitler didn’t agree. They all lobbied Hitler at every chance, individually and in groups, but to no avail. Once Hitler had made up his mind about something, he seldom, if ever, changed it, and so it was this time as the panzer groups were sent on their divergent ways on August 23.

On September 6, Hitler released Directive #35 for the continuation of the war in the East: “In the sector of Army Group Center. Prepare an operation against Army Group Timoshenko (Soviet West Theater) as quickly as possible so that we can go on the offensive in the general direction of Vyazma and destroy the enemy located in the region east of Smolensk by a double envelopment by powerful panzer forces concentrated on the flanks.”

Still no mention of an attack on Moscow but at least it wasn’t precluded. AGC commander Bock and Army Chief of Staff Halder agreed that even though Moscow had not been mentioned, it was, in fact, the objective. 

Ten days later, having received news of 2nd Panzer Army’s successful operations in Ukraine, Bock enlarged his army group’s mission. In addition to the encirclement east of Smolensk, Bock added another encirclement, this one in the area of Bryansk, to the south.

By the fourth week of September, all the operations on the flanks had run their course, and the armored units were returned to AGC command to begin realigning for the continuation of the attack eastward. Panzer Group 3’s attack to the north had been only marginally successful, and AGN never did capture Leningrad. But Panzer Group 2 became an integral part of the AGS’s swift capture of the Ukraine, destroying six Soviet armies and eliminating 665,000 enemy troops.

The 3rd and 4th Panzer Armies Mobilize

Up to this point, the Germans had been dominant; they had overrun or encircled nearly all the enemy they engaged. But the troops were becoming exhausted, and the equipment was badly in need of repair or replacement. Some of the panzer divisions did receive a few replacement tanks, but most other equipment was nearly worn out.

For the continuation of the attack, Army Group Center deployed a total of six armies—9th, 4th, and 2nd, as well as Panzer Groups 2, 3, and 4. All three panzer groups were the size of an army and would be renamed as panzer armies over the next three months, so for clarity here they will all be referred to as panzer armies. AGC had a total of 1,929,406 men in 49 infantry divisions, 14 panzer divisions, eight motorized divisions, and one cavalry division, with more than 1,000 tanks, 14,000 artillery pieces, and 1,390 combat aircraft.

AGC held a 450-mile-long north-south front about 200 miles west of Moscow. The 9th Army was deployed on the northern flank of the army group from Andreapol on the Daugava River northeast of Toropets, south to Berezhok on the Dnieper River 23 miles east of Smolensk.

The 3rd Panzer Army was deployed near the center of 9th Army, east of Velizh.  South of 9th Army and in the center of the AGC front was 4th Army; its front ran south from Berezhok to Yekimovichi on the Desna River northeast of Roslavl. 

The 4th Panzer Army was on the 4th Army’s southern flank; its front ran from Yekimovichi south along the Desna to near Zhukovka, while 2nd Army held the front south from Zhukovka to Pochep on the Sudost River southwest of Bryansk. The 2nd Panzer Army front ran south to the Army Group South front near Romny.

Facing the AGC attack and defending the western approaches to Moscow was the West Theater, commanded by Marshal Semen Timoshenko, composed of three Soviet fronts, a Soviet front being equivalent to a German army group. Combined, the three fronts had 1,250,000 men in 85 rifle divisions, eight cavalry divisions, four mechanized divisions, one tank division, and 14 tank brigades. Combined they had 7,600 artillery pieces, almost 1,000 tanks, and more than 360 aircraft. 

On the northern flank, facing 9th Army and 3rd Panzer Army was the Soviets’ Western Front with six armies: 22nd, 29th, 30th, 19th, 16th, and 20th. The Reserve Front had two Armies in the front line: 24th and 43rd south of the Western Front, facing the German 4th Army and 4th Panzer Army, and four Armies: 31st, 49th, 32nd, and 33rd lined up behind the Western Front in reserve. The southern end of the Soviet line was held by the Bryansk Front with three Armies (50th, 3rd, and 13th) facing the German 2nd Army and 2nd Panzer Army.

At the southern end of the attack front, 2nd Panzer Army was the farthest from Moscow at just over 300 miles, and it began the attack on the Soviet capital, Operation Typhoon, on September 30, two days earlier than the rest of the army group. In the center of the 2nd Panzer Army attack, XXIV Panzer Corps, at Glukhov, stepped off at first light on the 30th. All of the German panzer corps started the war as motorized corps, but all were eventually renamed as panzer corps, so for clarity here all will be referred to as panzer corps.

Exploding Dogs? 

The corps’ lead element, 3rd Panzer Division, quickly became the first unit to encounter two of the Soviets’ new weapons of war. The division’s tanks were maneuvering across an open field when several dogs were spotted running loose. Closer inspection through field glasses revealed something strange; all the dogs had small sticks sticking up from their backs. One of the nearby dogs was shot and exploded! Exploding dogs?

The Russians had strapped TNT to the dogs’ backs with triggers attached to the sticks and had trained the dogs to run underneath a tank to find their food. When they did, the sticks were pushed back and tripped the explosives. The tankers had no choice but to shoot all the dogs.

As the dogs were being dealt with, their Russian handlers fled and called in another new Russian innovation. Suddenly, an eerie howling sound filled the air and the entire field erupted in a series of explosions—Katyusha rockets. This was Russia’s first use of the multiple-launch rockets, which were launched from racks on the back of an ordinary truck. Each truck could launch as many as 16 rockets at a time, and each rocket delivered 11 pounds of high explosive.  

The “mine dogs” had little future as word of their dangerous mission quickly spread. The Katyusha rockets, on the other hand, became quite useful, and their numbers multiplied rapidly. The Germans even deployed their own multiple rocket system, the Panzerwerfer, a year and a half later. The first day of Operation Typhoon had demonstrated two innovative new ways for the Russians to kill an enemy. The Germans could only guess what surprises succeeding days might bring.

Prelude to the Battle of Moscow: the Germans Caught Sevsk Completely Unawares

The 3rd Panzer Division quickly recovered and captured Sevsk on October 1, while its running mate, 4th Panzer Division, surged 130 miles and got its own surprise as it reached Orel on October 3. The public transportation trams were still running—and full of commuters, as if it were peacetime! 

They also found great stocks of machinery on pallets along the roadside, waiting for relocation to the east and out of harm’s way. The division’s advance had been so rapid that it had outrun its own supply and had to wait in Orel for fuel to be airlifted in. 

Soviet Bryansk Front commander General Andrei Eremenko thought that this attack on his southern flank was nothing but a diversion by a single corps, that the German main attack would come farther north near Bryansk. Consequently, he sent no forces south to reinforce the failing defenses there. Unfortunately for Eremenko, Guderian’s XXXXVII Panzer Corps, following behind XXIV Panzer Corps, abruptly wheeled north at Sevsk and surged toward Bryansk from the south.

As 2nd Panzer Army units surged through the Bryansk Front lines, Soviet Premier Josef Stalin became alarmed. He summoned one of the few armored leaders available, Maj. Gen. Dmitri Leliushenko, and sent him to Mtsensk on the Orel-Tula-Moscow road with orders to stop Guderian and push 2nd Panzer Army back. He sent a motorcycle regiment, the only troops at hand, with Leliushenko and told him that more troops would meet him at Mtsensk. 

As he moved through the industrial city of Tula, Leliushenko commandeered all the guns at the artillery school there, but there were no tractors to tow the guns, so he also commandeered sufficient buses from the Tula Municipal Bus Line to tow them. 

Stalin dispatched the 1st Tank Brigade to Leliushenko in Mtsensk the next day, and on the evening of October 6 it smashed into XXIV Panzer Corps units still awaiting fuel in Orel and dealt them significant losses.

The rest of Army Group Center joined the attack on October 2 with the 3rd and 4th Panzer Armies leading the way. Late on October 3, 3rd Panzer Army’s LVI Panzer Corps captured Kholm-Zirkovski and two undamaged bridges over the Dnieper River. The next day, 4th Panzer Army’s XXXXVI Panzer Corps captured Spas-Demensk, and then on October 5 its XXXX Panzer Corps captured Yukhnov, just 110 miles from Moscow. The Soviets moved mostly by foot and simply couldn’t keep pace with the panzers. Then it started to rain.

On October 6, XXXXVII Panzer Corps’ 17th Panzer Division captured Bryansk and two undamaged bridges over the Desna River, as well as the headquarters of the Soviet Bryansk Front. Fortunately for the Soviets, most of the front’s command staff and its commander escaped.

Even greater satisfaction was gained that day by 3rd Panzer Army and 4th Panzer Army when their units converged on Vyazma and completed the encirclement of four Soviet Armies: 16th, 19th, 20th, and 32nd. 

Hitler’s War Machine Makes it Halfway to Moscow

The 3rd Panzer Army was now operating with a new commander. Col. Gen. Hermann Hoth was transferred to Poltava on October 5 to take over the 17th Army of Army Group South. General of Panzer Troops Georg-Hans Reinhardt replaced Hoth at 3rd Panzer Army and the commander of the 3rd Panzer Division, while General of Panzer Troops Walter Model replaced Reinhardt at XXXXI Panzer Corps.

Much of the southern half of the attack front had been suffering through intermittent rain for the past few days, but that changed to snow, the first snow the Germans experienced in Russia. But that didn’t mean an improvement in the ground conditions, where the mud grew deeper with each passing vehicle.

The 2nd Army infantry units began catching up with the armored advance by October 6, as its XXXXIII Corps captured Zhizdra on the Moscow highway northeast of Bryansk. Two days later units from 2nd Panzer Army’s XXXXVII Panzer Corps to the south contacted the 112th Infantry Division in Zhizdra, encircling the Soviet 50th Army. The remainder of the Soviet Bryansk Front, 3rd Army and 13th Army, were simultaneously being encircled at Trubchevsk, southwest of Bryansk.

Barely a week into their offensive the Germans were halfway to Moscow, having eliminated seven enemy armies in three great encirclements. Many Soviet troops were able to find their way out of the encirclements, but it is estimated that the Soviets lost close to a million men. 

Now the snow had turned back into rain and sometimes came down in sheets, producing torrents of mud. German wheeled vehicles had to be abandoned, horses sank up to their bellies in the muck. All units began building corduroy roads, laying cut-down tree trunks side by side in a laborious process. The movement of supplies, including gasoline and ammunition, became difficult.

The weather was not as bad on the northern flank, but the ground conditions there were more difficult. Dense forest surrounds primordial swamps for miles on end, constricting traffic to major chokepoints. On October 8, the 9th Army’s VI Corps and 3rd Panzer Army’s XXXXI Panzer Corps were directed to turn north to assist the infantry units trying to advance there. 

On the 10th they captured Sychevka, a railroad center on a main north-south line. One of the biggest problems they dealt with was abandoned Soviet cars and trucks blocking the few roads for miles; the rail line gave them a chance to work around that problem.

The BBC, on their October 10 evening newscast, announced the German victory at Vyazma, calling it Hitler’s most successful victory of the war and stating, “It had always been believed that the door to Moscow had been firmly barred. That obviously, is not the case!”

Leaders in Moscow had no clue what was happening on their Western Front; unlike the Bryansk Front, there had been no reports of the attack from either the Western Front or the Reserve Front. When stragglers from the Reserve Front reached Maloyaroslavets and reported on the situation, their information was discredited and they were jailed as panic mongers.

Unknown to Moscow, all long-distance telephone facilities in the West had been disrupted. The Soviet command relied heavily on telephone communication, and most higher headquarters had no long-range radios because of a widespread fear of German signal intercept capabilities. 

When the Soviet monitoring service reported on Hitler’s radio address to the German people about the attack, the Soviet leaders were incredulous. Aerial reconnaissance planes returned with word of massive German tank columns surging past Spa-Demensk and Yukhnov. Marshal Boris Shaposhnikov, chief of the general staff, still didn’t believe it, so more flights were sent to verify the reports. Finally, although he was still confused and doubtful, Shaposhnikov went to Stalin with the news.

Later that day, phone communications with the Reserve Front were temporarily restored, and Stalin got through to the front headquarters. General Semyon Budenny, the front commander, was missing in action, but his chief of staff confirmed Stalin’s worst fears. The next day Stalin ordered General Georgi Zhukov, who had been commander in chief of the Leningrad Front for less than a month, to Mozhaisk to get a clear picture of the situation. 

After reporting his findings to Stalin by phone, Zhukov learned that he had been made the new commander of the Western Front and that the surviving Reserve Front forces would be incorporated into the Western Front. Stalin ordered Zhukov to establish a defensive line at Volokolamsk-Mozhaisk-Maloyaroslavets and hold it. 

Stalin Prepares for the Battle of Moscow

Stalin started gathering forces from all over the USSR for the defense of Moscow and quickly ordered 14 new rifle divisions, 14 new tank brigades, and 40 new artillery regiments dispatched to hold the Mozhaisk defensive zone. He also mobilized the civilian population of Moscow; some quarter of a million civilians, most of them women, commenced digging trenches and antitank ditches for the Moscow Defensive Zone.

Fuel was still a problem for the Germans and became so bad that 3rd Panzer Army’s XXXXI Panzer Corps consolidated all of its fuel and formed a special motorized Kampfgruppe with infantry, tanks, and artillery. The Kampfgruppe’s mission was to capture Kalinin, 90 miles to the northeast, and its bridge over the Upper Volga River. Making excellent progress it approached the great bridge in the early morning darkness of the 13th. The dispirited Soviet guards unit didn’t even put up a fight, leaving guns, equipment, and supplies, as it fled. 

But now the poor weather spread over the northern flank, too. The rain changed to sleet, then snow, then back to rain, incessantly for days. The fall muddy season, or the “Rasputitsa,” as it is known in Russia, began in mid-October and quickly became more severe than any other in memory. Armored and motorized units couldn’t move; the infantry units slowly began to overtake the stranded mobile formations, but even walking was difficult. 

On the south flank, XXIV Panzer Corps’ 4th Panzer Division was still struggling against the same problems: mud and lack of fuel. A small amount of fuel had been flown to them in Orel, allowing them to push up the road toward Mtsensk, but the armored units that Stalin had sent to block their advance did just that. The Soviet 1st Tank Brigade’s T-34 tanks, with their wider tracks, were able to maneuver in the mud while the German tanks couldn’t, and they would hit the 4th hard from one direction, then move to another angle and hit them again. 

On October 12, XXIV Panzer Corps commander General Leo Geyr von Schweppenburg requested permission to pull his few remaining 4th Panzer Division tanks out of the Mtsensk battle, turn it over to his panzergrenadiers, and await reinforcements and supplies. With his units spread all over sealing pockets and held up by the mud and the lack of supplies, General Guderian agreed. 

In the center of the army group attack front, 4th Army continued struggling through the mud eastward. The XIII Army Corps captured a bridge over the Ugra River just west of Kaluga on the 10th, then captured Kaluga and its bridges over the Oka River two days later. On October 14, the LVII Panzer Corps’ 3rd Motorized Division captured Borovsk, barely 52 miles from Moscow. 

The German Advance Gets Stuck in the Mud

But the mud ground all operations to a halt. The only things still mobile were the small local “panje” carts, with their two big wooden wheels pulled by a small native pony. Robbed of their mobility, German units were strung out over hundreds of miles of sodden, soupy landscape with troops from different units mixed together. 

Mother Nature had accomplished what the Soviets couldn’t: bring the German advance to a halt. Only when the ground had frozen completely could the assault be resumed in earnest. Unfortunately for the Germans, the soggy ground was not their only problem as the weather grew colder. Not only were their uniforms in tatters, they were summer uniforms. There was no winter clothing. They resorted to stripping the enemy of their heavy coats and hats. Hitler had expected that Operation Barbarossa would be successfully wrapped up in just a few months, so no preparations for dealing with cold weather were made. 

Another growing problem was the flood of Soviet troops without organization or guidance across the landscape. Having individually escaped encirclement or just gotten separated from their units, they were still armed, and most knew the lay of the land better than the Germans. They struggled to reach their own lines that they only knew were somewhere to the east and were a constant threat, moving behind the Germans who faced their known enemy in the east.

After a bitter two-day battle, troops of the SS Division “Das Reich” of the 4th Panzer Army captured Borodino on October 15, just 66 miles west of Moscow. Borodino was famous as the site of Napoleon’s pyrrhic victory on the way to defeat at Moscow in 1812. The division commander, SS Obergruppenführer Paul Hausser, known as “Papa Hausser” as the founder of the Waffen SS, was badly wounded in the head and lost his left eye.

On October 17, panic spread through Moscow as the Soviet government offices begin to evacuate to Kuybyshev, widespread looting took place, party members were attacked in the street, and civilians begin to flee the city. The government quickly declared marshal law. 

Stalin Tries to Hold the Line Outside Moscow

Also on the 17th, Stalin created a new front, the Kalinin Front, intended to force the Germans out of its namesake city and hold the vital northwestern corner of the Moscow defense line. The front was to be made up of four of the Soviet armies that had escaped encirclement and were commanded by the former commander of the West Front, General Ivan Konev.

By the third week in October, many of the pockets of encircled Soviet troops behind German lines had surrendered, freeing German troops to move up to the front.  Of course, they still had to deal with their most vexing problems: the shortage of fuel, food, and ammunition, not to mention the Soviet defensive front, which was growing stronger by the day.  

The center of the German attack still advanced, but only slowly as the mud became deeper and enemy defenses stronger. On the 18th, the German 4th Army came up against the still-forming “Mozhaisk Defensive Zone” when they took Maloyaroslavets and the next day when 4th Panzer Army captured Mozhaisk. On the 22nd, the 4th Army captured a bridgehead over the Nara River at Tashirovo, only 38 miles from Moscow. These fierce battles decimated both sides. Regiments were reduced to the size of companies with fewer than 200 men each. But the Germans moved inexorably forward, closing in on Moscow from three sides.

It was a violent days-long struggle for each of these places, where the Germans managed to bring more forces to bear more quickly and ensure victory at that spot. But the Soviets were moving all the forces they could to the Volokolamsk, Mozhaisk, Maloyaroslavets, and Kaluga axes, as these were the main access points west of Moscow.

On the southern flank of the attack, units of 2nd Panzer Army were still able to advance slowly in fits and starts, but they still had the farthest to go.  General Guderian had taken all the tank forces of his XXIV Panzer Corps—panzer regiments from its 3rd and 4th Panzer Divisions, as well as a battalion of tanks from the 18th Panzer Division—and combined them with the elite Grossdeutschland Panzergrenadier Regiment and an artillery regiment into a single attack force, all under the command of Colonel Heinrich Eberbach, panzer brigade commander of the 4th Panzer Division. With Kampfgruppe Eberbach, they could pool the paltry supplies of the corps and remain in action.

Once the combat bridging equipment had finally slogged forward through the mud, the engineers were able to construct a bridge over the Susha River just north of Mtsensk; Kampfgruppe Eberbach was able to cross on the 23rd. This flanking movement prompted the Soviet 1st Tank Brigade to pull its heavy tanks out of Mtsensk. 

The next day Kampfgruppe Eberbach, bypassing Mtsensk, seized Chern, 159 miles from Moscow. This left the large blocking force that the Soviets had installed in Mtsensk with nothing to block.

Pushing up the Tula highway and pursuing the troops retreating from Mtsensk, Eberbach seized Yasnaya Polyana on the 28th—only 111 miles south of Moscow. The only reason that they were able to advance at all is that they could use the hard-surface Kharkov-Orel-Tula-Moscow highway as well as the railroad tracks, which paralleled the highway for much of its run. 

In the middle of the 20th century, parts of Russia were still fairly primitive. Most roads were nothing more than dirt pathways, the main roads between towns being hard, compacted earth. Hard-surface macadam roads were limited to those routes connecting Moscow to a handful of large cities. 

On October 28, the 9th Army was ordered to go on the defense along the northern flank of the advance. It was to tie in with 3rd Panzer Army at Kalinin and AGN to the west near Ostashkov and protect the army group’s advance from the north.

In the last week of October, the 2nd Army was transferred to the southern flank of the army group, taking command of the XXXIV and XXXV Army Corps and the XXXXVIII Panzer Corps that were already there. This allowed the 2nd Panzer Army to concentrate on the Moscow offensive while 2nd Army concentrated on clearing the southern flank of the army group and maintaining contact with Army Group South. 

Although the XXXIV and XXXV Army Corps, as well as the XXXXVIII Panzer, were mostly immobilized by the mud in the wide-open spaces between Orel and Kursk, they devised a plan to utilize a captured Soviet armored train to attack Kursk and secure the Orel-Kursk rail line. Colonel Carl Andre, with two reinforced battalions from his 521st Infantry Regiment, was placed in command of the captured train while other troops from the 296th Infantry Division manned the train’s guns.

The Germans Approach a Lightly Defended Kursk

On November 2, while the armored train successfully secured the rail line, XXXXVIII Panzer Corps troops approached Kursk slowly from the northwest. To everyone’s surprise, most of the Soviet troops in Kursk had already withdrawn, and the remaining troops did so as the Germans arrived. This was fully a year and a half before that name would be written near the top of the list of great battles in the war. 

The 4th Army attack, in the middle of the army group, slowed to positional warfare by the end of October. The combination of the mud, dwindling supplies, and stiffening enemy resistance left the commander, Field Marshal Gunther von Kluge, with no choice.

The 4th Panzer Army was similarly affected as its advance slowly ground to a halt. The slow but steady German advance against determined resistance was a war of attrition. The troops were just about spent. Just moving around in the knee-deep mud was exhausting.

Hitler’s “Continuation Plan” for the Encirclement of Moscow

During the second week of November, with most of their forces stuck in the mud, the German generals were making plans for the continuation of the attack once the ground froze. Halder, after a conference with principle staff officers of the army group, realized that it was weaker than he had thought and that it would not be able to take Moscow in 1941.

But now Hitler was adamant. Moscow must be taken! He saw that the morale of the German public was waning because earlier pronouncements had raised expectations that weren’t being met. Moscow must be taken or at least isolated to reassure the German public of Hitler’s strength and resolve. Hitler finally came around to the need of taking Moscow just as his leading generals were having second thoughts.

The Continuation Plan called for two mobile groups to strike at the Soviet flanks and encircle Moscow, 3rd Panzer Army on the north and 2nd Panzer Army on the south, meeting in the Orekhova-Zueva area east of Moscow. The 4th Army and 4th Panzer Army were to assault Moscow frontally from the west, drawing any enemy reinforcements away from the flanks while 9th Army and 2nd Army would cover the north and south flanks, respectively.

After a few days’ rest, the troops were refreshed. They had their first hot meal in days and had been resupplied with ammunition and other essentials. They were as ready as they could be.

The ground was beginning to firm up, thanks to continuing cold weather, making movement more possible by the day. But the Germans were also beginning to confront a new obstacle. Fresh Soviet troops from as far away as Siberia had begun manning the defenses around Moscow—well-trained, experienced troops that didn’t panic at the first sight of a German tank.

By the middle of November, the Soviets had an impressive array of 12 armies facing Bock’s troops. The Western Front had the 5th, 16th, 33rd, 43rd, 49th, and 50th Armies lined up from Volokolamsk south to Tula. The Kalinin Front had the 22nd, 29th, 30th, and 31st Armies on the north flank from Volokolamsk north to Kalinin then west to Ostashkov. The newly constituted Southwest Front held the southern approaches from Efremov and Yelets with the 3rd and 13th Armies. These don’t include the 59 rifle divisions, 13 cavalry divisions, 75 rifle brigades, and 20 tank brigades held in reserve, nor the 65,000-man Peoples Militia manning the complex series of barricades and strongpoints ringing Moscow.

The ground became frozen, but the temperature kept right on dropping; -15°C on November 12, -8°C on the 13th, and -13°C on the 14th, making the winter of 1941-1942 one of the most severe on record. The first week of December the low temperature in the western approaches to Moscow dropped 28°C, down to -33°C on December 7.

Engines of all types had to be left running lest they freeze, making gasoline all the more vital, and the mechanisms of guns of all calibers did freeze. Then there was the problem that replaced the mud more directly—snow, and lots of it.

In addition to their growing manpower pool, the Soviets had two major advantages: they fought from well-prepared defensive positions from Kalinin in the north all the way south to Tula while the Germans only dug holes in the snow. And they were supplied through short “inside” lines. They were backed right up to Moscow, from where their supplies came. The Germans were hundreds of miles from their main supply depots and were now depending on air dropped supplies to survive.

To disrupt German efforts to resume the attack, Stalin ordered Zhukov to launch a series of spoiling attacks at the major access points west of Moscow. Zhukov thought that it was too late for that, but he complied. He ordered the 16th Army to attack the north flank of the 4th Panzer Army above Volokolamsk, the 49th Army to attack 4th Army’s southern flank west of Serpukhov, and the 49th and 50th Armies to attack 2nd Panzer Army’s spearheads north and south of Tula.

The 16th Army’s spoiling attack on the 4th Panzer Army included the 3rd Cavalry Corps, which was made up of newly arrived forces from the Far East. On November 17, following up on the slightly successful initial attack, the Corps’ 44th Mongolian Cavalry Division was ordered to exploit that success with an attack on the German 106th Infantry Division near Musino. 

A Scene from Another Era: Mounted Soviets Charge the Germans with Extended Sabers

Bent low in the saddle, their sabers thrust high, the division’s 1st Mounted Regiment charged across the fields toward the German position—a scene from the 1800s. Suddenly, the field erupted with explosion after explosion. The 106th’s artillery regiment had the field completely zeroed in; it was only a matter of pulling the lanyards. Men, horses, and pieces of flesh flew through the air in sickening repetition, until there was no longer any movement. 

Then, incredibly, the Division’s 2nd Mounted Regiment formed up and charged across the very same field—with the very same result: 2,000 horsemen and their mounts obliterated in a little over a quarter of an hour. The Soviet attack collapsed. The defending 106th suffered no casualties.

The Soviet spoiling attack against 4th Army’s southern flank at Serpukhov fared somewhat better. The XIII Army Corps held the longest front in the 4th Army—nearly 50 miles from Dubrovka on the Nara River east of Maloyaroslavets south to Petrovka on the Oka River southwest of Aleksin—with only three divisions.

The initial attack on November 15 came as a complete surprise. The 5th Guards Division led the attack with its tank battalion and made several penetrations along the northern half of the corps front near Voronina.  

Field Marshal von Kluge dispatched parts of several units that had been set aside for the renewal of the offensive to shore up the XIII Corps defense. After three days of desperate combat, they began to push the enemy back. At that point Zhukov sent in a follow-up attack by newly arrived units that once again had the Germans struggling. Fortunately for them, the Soviet attack subsided on the 19th as Zhukov was forced to move units to face the renewed 4th Panzer Army attack against his right flank. 

Farther south, Zhukov’s spoiling attack on 2nd Panzer Army bore some fruit on the 17th when elements of the German 112th Infantry Division of the LIII Corps, which had no effective antitank weapons, broke and ran when attacked by T-34 tanks south of Uslovia. Guderian later pointed out that the division had already lost more than 1,000 men to frostbite and that its automatic weapons were inoperable due to the sub-zero temperatures. 

In spite of the spoiling attacks, Army Group Center resumed its attack toward Moscow on the morning of November 15. The XXVII Army Corps, on the right wing of 9th Army, surged southeast from Kalinin along the southern bank of the Volga River to its confluence with the Lama River near Redkino. 

The 3rd Panzer Army also attacked that day when the LVI Panzer Corps troops struck out from their positions north of Volokolamsk near Lotoshino, eastward toward the Kalinin-Moscow highway. The 6th Panzer Division pushed ahead of the others and crossed the Lama River the next day. On the 17th, the 6th Panzer contacted XXVII Army Corps units on the Kalinin-Moscow highway near Savidovo.  

The 4th Panzer Army was not able to resume the attack on the 15th as it was still busy trying to handle the Soviet spoiling attack on its northern flank. It was the same in the 4th Army sector, where they were trying to keep enemy attacks from overwhelming their southern flank.

In the panzer army zone, most of its units were unable to resume the assault on the 15th because they, too, were still under attack; XXXXIII Army Corps had been under intense attack just south of Aleksin by the Soviet 49th and 50th Armies since November 11, and LIII Army Corps was still dealing with the enemy spoiling attack. On the 18th, the XXIV Panzer Corps was finally able to resume its attack south of Tula toward Venev. In a surprise move, panzer corps units quickly captured Dedilovo and the only intact bridge over the Upa River. 

On the far southern flank of the army group, 2nd Army’s XXXIV Army Corps also resumed the advance on the 15th against light opposition, quickly occupying Ponyri in the afternoon. The XXXV Army Corps joined the attack on the 18th, pushing eastward from Novosil against only moderate resistance.

A Serious Supply Issue Hits the German Advance

Although the ground was frozen and motorized traffic was once again able to move, the supply situation was still critical, and units were stranded for lack of gasoline. Then there was the continuing problem of the weather. Fresh snow fell virtually every day, quite often in blizzard conditions, and snow depths of one to two feet were not uncommon.

The 4th Panzer Army was finally able to resume its attack on the 18th, at least with its three left flank corps—XXXX and XXXXVI Panzer Corps and V Army Corps—but ran into a very stubborn enemy entrenched in deep, fortified emplacements. After three days of slugging in brutal weather conditions, they had gained only four miles on average.  

Frustrated, General Hoepner threw in his last reserves, and in two days they surged 14 miles through the seam between 16th Army and 30th Army. When they could not be contained, Zhukov had no reserves on hand to throw at them because he had used them all in the Stalin-ordered spoiling attacks. 

General Halder called Bock on the 18th wanting to know why 4th Army had not resumed the attack. Bock told him that 4th Army was still fending off the strong Russian attacks on its southern flank and that von Kluge had sent his only reserves there. Bock counseled patience and told Halder that von Kluge would resume the offensive just as soon as he could. Bock and Halder agreed that both combatants were near the end of their strength and that victory would go to the side with the strongest will.

The 9th Army, on the AGC northern flank, went over to the defense on the 19th. The 9th was holding a northeast-facing front along the Volga River from Savidovo northwest to Kalinin then west about 100 miles and connecting with Army Group North near Ostashkov. There was little offensive action on that front; they were just guarding the back of the army group units attacking toward Moscow.

By November 20, the remainder of 3rd Panzer Army’s LVI Panzer Corps had closed up with the 6th Panzer Division on the Kalinin-Moscow highway and turned south. Two days later they captured Klin, 47 miles north of Moscow.

If LVI Panzer Corps could continue south, it could possibly slice in behind the Soviet 16th Army troops fighting 4th Panzer Army troops to the southwest. This wasn’t lost on the Soviets, who quietly began looking over their shoulder.

Not surprisingly, the 4th Panzer Army began pushing steadily forward. On the 18th, XXXX Panzer Corps units captured Mozhaisk, and on the 21st, XXXXVI Panzer Corps units captured Novopetrovskoye, only 42 miles from Moscow.

It was on the army’s northern flank, farthest from Moscow, where the V Army Corps was able to move forward the most quickly. It reached the Kalinin-Moscow highway about 10 miles south of Klin on the 21st, turned south, and on the 23rd captured Solnechnogorsk, just 32 miles from Moscow. That same unit, 2nd Panzer Division, captured Krasnaya Polyana two days later and stood only 15 miles north of Moscow.

With the 4th Panzer Army units moving south on the Kalinin-Moscow highway, Bock changed the orders for 3rd Panzer Army. Rather than continue south on the highway behind 4th Panzer Army, they were now to turn east and push as far as possible while still covering the 4th Panzer Army’s left flank. 

The southern half of the encirclement attack was also picking up speed. The 2nd Panzer Army’s XXIV Panzer Corps, after a vicious fight, captured Uslovia on the 20th, then Novomoskvosk on the 22nd and Venev on the 24th. Likewise with the XXXXVII Panzer Corps on their right, which captured Efremov on November 20 and Michailov on the 24th. But Guderian told Bock that fresh, well-armed Siberian troops “keen for battle” were flooding in on his eastern flank.

On November 27, Bock ordered Guderian to forget about striking northeast for the moment and concentrate on taking Tula, the long festering sore that was the anchor for the Soviets on the southern flank of Moscow. The Soviet 50th Army had been holding Tula since the beginning of the German attack and had launched almost daily attacks against the 2nd Panzer Army as it closed in.

Tula was not encircled, but the 2nd Panzer Army held three sides around it with a 30-mile-wide opening on the north. The current plan was for 2nd Panzer Army’s XXXXIII Corps to attack toward the east from Aleksin and meet XXIV Panzer Corps units attacking from the east, closing the encirclement.

The Luftwaffe’s Role in the Battle of Moscow

The Luftwaffe also played a significant part in German operations in Russia. Air Fleet 2, commanded by Field Marshal Albert Kesselring, was attached to Army Group Center from the beginning, and his Junkers Ju-87 Stuka ground attack aircraft led almost every large assault that the Germans undertook. In addition to leading the ground assault, by the end of November Air Fleet 2 had destroyed 6,670 Russian aircraft, 1,900 tanks, 26,000 motor vehicles, and 2,800 trains.

Surprisingly, at the end of November, Air Fleet 2 was transferred to Italy to help the flagging Axis effort in the Mediterranean. This, of course, left AGC drastically short of combat aircraft. Consequently, the Red Air Force immediately claimed air superiority and would hold it for the foreseeable future.

While 4th Panzer Army’s V Army Corps moved south on the Kalinin-Moscow highway, 3rd Panzer Army pushed east behind it. That was when something unusual happened, something that no one could recall ever happening during this campaign. As German units neared, the Soviets withdrew without putting up a fight, and they didn’t burn down the villages as they left. Some thought that they must be expecting to return soon; others thought they were becoming disillusioned and were just in a hurry to get out.  Units of the LVI Panzer Corps soon reached the Volga-Moscow canal near Dmitrov, 37 miles due north of Moscow.

With 4th Panzer Army having opened a gap between the Soviet 16th and 30th Armies and 3rd Panzer Army quickly moving eastward through the gap, a crisis erupted in Moscow. The 3rd Panzer Army’s move pushed the Soviet 30th Army into the corner between the Volga River on the north and the Volga-Moscow canal on the east—thus opening a 27-mile gap in Russian lines between 3rd Panzer Army at Dmitrov on the canal and 4th Panzer Army at Krasnaya Polyana.

It is not clear whether the Germans realized their opportunity, but LVI Panzer Corps’ 7th Panzer Division quickly grabbed a bridgehead over the canal at Jakhroma, four miles south of Dmitrov. Army Commander Reinhardt wanted to attack eastward, but Bock ordered him to continue south, west of the canal, covering 4th Panzer Army’s left flank. 

“Doubts of Success Are Beginning to Take Definite Form”

On the 28th, the 4th Panzer Army’s XXXX Panzer Corps, closing in from the northwest, captured Lenino, 18 miles from Moscow. Two days later, XXXXVI Panzer Corps’ 11th Panzer Division captured Kryukovo, just 16 miles from Moscow. 

That same day a combat group from V Army Corps’ 2nd Panzer Division, fighting its way south on the Kalinin-Moscow highway, reached Ozeretskoye, the terminus of the Moscow tram system, and Lobnja, where they blew up railroad tracks just 13 miles from Moscow. Late in the day a motorcycle patrol from the division reached Khimki, barely six miles from Moscow. If the troops could continue the pressure, Moscow could be theirs. 

Not only that, but 4th Army finally joined the attack on December 1, and on the 2nd XX Army Corps units captured Yushkovo, 23 miles southwest of Moscow. That prompted Bock to tell his army commanders that the enemy was close to breaking. With all his armies on the attack and closing in on Moscow, Bock had every reason to be optimistic.

Stalin then released two new armies: the 20th Army and the 1st Shock Army, to Zhukov to fill the gap between the 16th and 30th Armies north of Moscow. They would fill in along the entire front from north of Dmitrov south along the canal to the Lobnja area, then in an arc to the west and southwest to the Smolensk highway near Kubinka.

The 2nd Army, on the far south flank of the army group, went over to defense on December 1. The army was in only sporadic contact with the enemy and holding a front from Volovo south to Efremov then Yelets, then southwest to Tim, where it contacted Army Group South.

On the 2nd, the 1st Shock Army’s first action came against 3rd Panzer Army units on the Volga-Moscow canal. The area west of the canal was swampy, and the only parallel road was heavily mined. So, when the Soviets brought together enough strength, they were able to stop the advance cold.

That evening Bock told Halder, “Doubts of success are beginning to take definite form.” But, “an enemy attack is unlikely as the enemy does not have enough forces!”

That same day, 4th Panzer Army’s 78th Infantry Division reached Zvenigorod, just 24 miles from Moscow, but it could go no farther due to the cold, snow, the enemy, and exhaustion. It was the same story with the 252nd Infantry Division on its left, which reached Pokrovskoye, 26 miles from Moscow, but could go no farther. The next day, General Hoepner, on his own authority, called a halt and ordered his units over to the defensive. He later reported that his units’ offensive strength was completely exhausted. 

Ironically, on December 3, the 258th Infantry Division that had captured Yushkovo on the 2nd and brought momentary optimism to Bock was itself encircled and forced to break out westward.

That evening, in a call from Berlin, Bock told German Army Commander Brauchitsch that his troops were exhausted and that fighting over the last 14 days had shown that the notion that the enemy in front of AGC was about to collapse was fantasy.

The next day, with his XX Army Corps in danger of being cut off, von Kluge ordered the 4th Army attacking units, LVII Panzer Corps and XX Army Corps, to withdraw behind the Nara River and take up defensive positions.

Units of 2nd Panzer Army’s XXIV Panzer Corps, fighting through a blizzard, managed to claw their way across much of the 30-mile neck of the pocket around Tula and blocked the Tula-Moscow highway, but they could go no farther. 

XXXXIII Army Corps units had taken Aleksin in equally appalling conditions but were unable to meet the XXIV Panzer Corps. Consequently, on December 4 Guderian called off the attack and ordered his units over to the defense, too.

The 3rd Panzer Army units attacking at the Volga-Moscow canal north of Moscow were the only units still attacking. They had been in near constant action for a week against 1st Shock Army units that were being constantly reinforced. Obviously, they couldn’t last much longer either.

The German Attack on Moscow Stumbles to a Halt

Every German involved in the Battle of Moscow, from the highest field marshal to the lowest private, knew that their attack was stumbling to a halt. But few of them realized that they had just lost the Battle of Moscow. 

This was what the Soviets had been waiting for. They knew that the moment the Germans stopped advancing was the moment that they must take the offensive. They could not let the Germans prepare positions or bring forward units to hold the line—they must strike whether their assault units were in position or not.

That is exactly what they did; the order for the counteroffensive went out on the night of the 4th—attack!   

During Operation Typhoon, Army Group Center pushed the Soviets back some 200 miles, to the very gates of Moscow. During the offensive, AGC lost 305,338 men killed, wounded, and missing in action. On the other side, the Soviet West Theater lost 422,161 men killed and missing in action.

Since the beginning of Operation Barbarossa, the Soviet West Theater had received 75 divisions from the Stavka reserve. During that same time period, AGC received no units from the German high command reserve.

In little over two months, the Soviets would push Army Group Center back anywhere from 50 to 200 miles. They would not achieve their stated goal of encircling and destroying AGC, but the Germans would never again threaten Moscow.

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