2 Day Guided Battlefield Tour Nijmegen Arnhem
Discover the Battlefields of WWII: A Two-Day Nijmegen and Arnhem Experience
Step into history with a curated battlefield tour that brings the events of Operation Market Garden to life. This two day guided journey covers the iconic battlegrounds of Nijmegen and Arnhem, immersing you in one of the most significant Allied campaigns of World War II. Relive the heroism, strategic brilliance, and challenges of this daring yet ill-fated mission.
Connecting Nijmegen and Arnhem: The Full Story of Operation Market Garden
This tour not only uncovers individual battles but also provides a cohesive narrative that links the efforts in Nijmegen to those in Arnhem. You’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of:
● The strategic importance of each city.
● The cooperation and challenges faced by the Allied forces.
● The human cost of war, as seen through the eyes of soldiers and civilians.
● Special requests for additional sites can be accommodated if arranged in advance.
Day 1: Exploring Nijmegen – The Crucial Bridges and The Crossing
Day 1 starts with an in-depth exploration of Nijmegen, where American troops played an important role in securing the bridges over the Waal River and liberating the city.
Highlights of Day 1 include:
● Easy Company: Visit Schoonderlogt, one of the important headquarters of the 101 st Airborne Division during Market Garden. Also be seen in the famous television series ‘Band of Brothers’. (Note: Only possible when the tour is booked by car, van or coach).
● Historic Sites of Operation Market Garden in Nijmegen: Visit key locations where American forces faced tremendous resistance while fighting to liberate the city.
● The Crossing of the Waal River: Learn about the audacious Crossing by regiment 504 headed by General James M. Gavin.
● Cultural Insights: Discover the stories of local resistance and civilian impact during the battle at the interactive Freedom Museum.
● Landing zones in Groesbeek: Visit so called ‘Little America’, where the landing zones of the 82 nd Airborne Division are located. (Note: Only possible when the tour is booked by car, van or coach).
● Canadian War Cemetery: an impressive war cemetery of mostly Canadian Allied soldiers who fought at Rhineland Offensive.
Tour Customization and Details for the Nijmegen Day:
● Start / end location: ‘Van der Valk’ hotel in Lent.
● Lunch stop is possible and not included in the price.
Transport Options:
● Bicycles or e-bicycles. Note: by (e-)bicycle we are not able to visit the headquarter Schoonderlogt. Minimum group size of 12.
● Solar train: Relax sitting in the solar train, the guide will tell you about WWII in the city centre of Nijmegen. This tour is more focused on stories happened in the city centre of Nijmegen. Note: by Solar train we are not able to visit the headquarter Schoonderlogt / Freedom Museum / Landing zones. Maximum group size of 16.
● Ford Jeep 1942: special WWII military vehicle Maximum group of 4.
● Car: Use your own or opt for a car rental. Maximum group size of 4.
● Minivan: Ideal for families or small groups. Maximum group size of 8.
● Coach: For larger groups. Minimum group size of 9.
Day 2: Arnhem and Oosterbeek – The Tragedy and Triumph of British Airborne Forces
Day 2 takes you to the heart of the British operation in Arnhem and the surrounding areas. This was the stage for the dramatic Battle of Arnhem, famously chronicled in the 1977 movie ‘A Bridge Too Far’.
Highlights of Day 2 include:
● John Frost Bridge: Visit the site named after the British commander who held the bridge in an epic defense against German forces.
● Landing and Drop Zones: Explore where British paratroopers made their daring landings, often under intense fire.
● The Old Church in Oosterbeek: Witness a key defensive stronghold during the battle.
● St. Elizabeth Hospital: Reflect on the medical efforts and sacrifices made during the fierce fighting.
● Personal Narratives: Through guide-led storytelling, gain a personal connection to the soldiers and civilians who lived through these harrowing events.
Tour Customization and Details for the Arnhem Day:
● Start: Ede–Wageningen Railway Station or Arnhem Central Railway Station (Sonsbeekzijde exit).
● End: Near John Frost Bridge.
● Lunch stop is possible and not included in the price.
Transport Options:
● Bicycles or e-bicycles. Minimum group size of 12.
● Cars (Up to 4 people): Use your own or opt for a car rental.
● Minivans (Up to 8 people): Ideal for families or small groups.
● Coaches (9+ people): For larger groups.
Why Choose Our WWII Battlefield Tour?
● Expert Guides: Local historians with deep knowledge and passion for the Battles in Nijmegen and Arnhem.
● Immersive Experience: Eyewitness stories, rare photos, and engaging narratives.
● Client Satisfaction: Glowing reviews highlight the depth and quality of our tours.
How to Book a 2 Day Guided Battlefield Tour Nijmegen Arnhem?
Fill out our contact form below to check for availability on your preferred date and pricing based on your group size and transport wishes.
Flexible options and quick responses ensure a seamless booking experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How physically demanding is the tour?
The tour includes some walking and optional cycling if that is your preferred way of transport. It is manageable for most participants. We do a lot of tours for senior citizens, and it never is a problem.
2. Are meals included in the tour price?
Lunch stops are planned but meals are not included in the price. Local dining reservations will be included.
3. Do you offer tours in languages other than English?
Yes, tours are available in English, German and Dutch. Please indicate your preference during booking.
5. Can I add specific locations to the itinerary?
Certainly! Customization is possible if requests are made in advance.
6. Is transportation included in the tour price?
Transportation options vary. You can use your own vehicle or choose from the available transport options mentioned above.
Walk in the footsteps of heroes. Experience history like never before with our Nijmegen and Arnhem WWII Battlefield Tour.
