London, Paris & D-Day

Today, disembark your ship and head toward the Somme. This World War I battle site was one of the bloodiest in history. Visit nearby memorials and the Museum of the Great War, where you can pay homage to the soldiers and brave Somme civilians who supported the war effort. Later, continue toward the Belgian border to Lille. Check in to your hotel and enjoy dinner at your leisure. Your Viking Tour Director is available to help you plan your time in Lille so you can make the most of your visit.

This morning, enjoy a walking tour of Lille’s Old Town and learn about the childhood of General Charles de Gaulle, who was born in Lille in 1890. After lunch on your own in Ypres, travel to Flanders Fields. This World War I battlefield that inspired John McCrae’s famous poem is home to the Tyne Cot Cemetery. Pay your respects to those who gave their lives before returning to Ypres for dinner. Afterward, stop to view the Menin Gate and watch the Last Post Ceremony. (B, D)

After breakfast, head toward Dunkirk to gain insight into one of the most inspirational World War II events: Operation Dynamo. From the northern shores of France, more than 300,000 Allied troops were evacuated by naval vessels and civilian boats in the summer of 1940. This afternoon, arrive in Bruges and check in to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to spend at your leisure. (B)

Take a stroll through Bruges’s historic city center—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Pass the homes of prominent former residents and visit the Béguinage and its gardens. See the Church of Our Lady and view the Gruuthuse palace and gardens, once the medieval home of one of Bruges’s wealthiest families. Then, cruise along the picturesque canals, lined with gabled houses and floral-decorated bridges. This afternoon, you may choose to join an optional chocolate workshop or explore on your own. (B)

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B)