For history enthusiasts and those interested in World War II, a battlefield tour around Arnhem offers a poignant and educational experience. This Dutch city and its surroundings were the site of Operation Market Garden in September 1944, one of the most ambitious yet ultimately unsuccessful Allied operations of the war.
The tour provides visitors with a deep dive into the events that unfolded during those fateful days and the lasting impact on the region.
Operation Market Garden included the 1944 Battle for Arnhem, which took place along the Rhine. It became the official name for a huge offensive aimed at escaping liberated Belgium and marching right through the center of the Netherlands before turning back and heading in the direction of Germany. Once Market Garden collapsed, the historic town center of Arnhem was largely demolished.
Exploring History: A Battlefield tour of Arnhem
During the tour, you will explore all the remains of the battle. Right away in the landing areas, the journey begins following the troops of the Recce Squadron on their disastrous operation to take control of the bridge using their Jeeps. Along the route, there will be a halt at the tunnel beneath the tracks close to Wolfheze. After that, the tour proceeds to the Ginkel Heath, the landing place of the 4th Brigade.
After that, you'll inspect the region where a German defensive barrier prevented the remainder of the 1st Airborne Division from accessing the bridge. Further, you will be stopping at Westerbouwing Heights, a hill that commands an excellent view of the Rhine River.
The tour comes along the Airborne Museum 'Hartenstein' in Oosterbeek, just west of Arnhem. Housed in the former hotel that served as the British headquarters during the battle, the museum provides an excellent overview of the operation and its aftermath.
The last stop of the tour is Oosterbeek War Cemetery. You will have an opportunity to tribute to the fallen of the war and roam around the graves of the sacrificers’.
Planning your visit
At ZOYO Travel, we value personalized travel experiences as we want to create a real and local experience, just for you. Therefore you are able to personalize this tour to your own wishes by adding on the experiences below .
The vicinity of Renkum for drops and landings
Ginkel Heath
Battles within the division to reach the bridge
The War museum at Oosterbeek
The Westerbouwing heights
US War Cemetery at Oosterbeek
Do you have other suggestions or preferences? Just ask our ZOYO travel advisors.
Want to share some thoughts? Let me (or my team) help you directly
Your personal travel advisor:
Thomas van den Brink
Owner ZOYO Travel, local signature travel specialist
E-mail: info@zoyotravel.com
Phone: +31 20 700 83 00 or easily schedule a ZOOM call!