Private WWI Day Trip from Paris: Aisne-Marne Battlefields, Belleau Wood & Museum of the Great War

You’ll be picked-up by your guide at your central Paris Hotel in the morning and get taken on a 1.5-hour drive north to Belleau, a village in France’s Picardy area that, together with Marne, made up one of the major (and now most famous) parts of the western front during World War I. Many important battles took place in this region, including the First Battle of the Marne and the Second Battle of the Marne, which developed into a significant Allied victory.

Start with a visit to the 42-acre (17-hectare) Aisne-Marne American Cemetery to pay tribute to the American troops who fought in the Aisne and Marne area. Wander around the cemetery and visit the Memorial Chapel – built on top of front-line battle trenches, here you can see the names of 1,060 missing American soldiers.

Continue up the hill to Belleau Wood (Bois Belleau), where one of the deadliest battles for the US Marines took place in 1918. This important battlefield is where American soldiers fought valiantly to stop German soldiers from reaching Paris. Take time to walk through the woods to see the traces of the battle, like the trenches, shell holes and ruined buildings that resulted from the heavy fighting.

Your next stop is the Cote 204 Monument at Château-Thierry, which represents the friendship between France and the US and commemorates the achievements of US forces in this region during WWI. This monument stands high above the beautiful Marne Valley and Champagne vineyards, offering beautiful views for you to enjoy.

Take a break for lunch on your own before continuing to Meaux to learn more about WWI history. Your guide will take you to the Museum of the Great War to show you fascinating remnants from the war. See 50,000 war-related objects from many of the countries involved in WWI, giving you a deeper understanding of the worldwide dimensions of the conflict.

After your time in the Museum of the Great War, board your private (minibus or car) for a calm, reflective ride back to Paris, arriving at your hotel around 5:30pm.