Bastogne War Museum: A Window into the Battle of the Bulge
Explore the pivotal Battle of the Bulge through immersive exhibits and personal stories at the Bastogne War Museum.
The Bastogne War Museum, located a few kilometers northeast of Bastogne city center, is a leading memorial center dedicated to the Second World War and the Battle of the Bulge. Opened in 2014, the museum provides a modern and interactive understanding of the war through the lens of the Ardennes. The museum showcases a vast collection of artifacts and utilizes multimedia installations to recreate the atmosphere of the war. Visitors follow the stories of four fictional characters—an American corporal, a German lieutenant, a young teacher, and one of her pupils—whose lives were intertwined with the battle. These personal narratives, based on real events, add a human dimension to the historical context. The experience includes immersive reconstructions and three multi-sensory presentations that allow visitors to relive critical moments of the conflict. Exhibits cover the period before, during, and after the offensive, detailing the lives of civilians and soldiers alike. The museum also features experiences such as 'Generations45,' which explores the post-war era, and the Bois Jacques battlefield, where visitors can explore the remnants of the fighting. A visit to the Bastogne War Museum typically lasts at least two hours, offering a comprehensive and moving exploration of this crucial period in history.
Local tips
- Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid potential queues, especially during peak season.
- Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully experience the museum and its exhibits.
- Combine your visit with a stop at the nearby Mardasson Memorial for a complete understanding of the Battle of the Bulge.
- Download the augmented reality app to enhance your visit to the Bois Jacques battlefield.
A brief summary to Bastogne War Museum
- Colline du Mardasson 5, Bastogne, Arrondissement of Bastogne, 6600, BE
- +3261210220
- Visit website
- Monday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-6 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
From the Bastogne train station in Libramont, take the TEC bus line 6 directly to the Bastogne War Museum. The bus stop is located a short walk from the museum entrance. Bus tickets cost approximately €3-€5.
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Car
The Bastogne War Museum is located on Colline du Mardasson 5, 6600 Bastogne. From the E25, take the N85 towards Bastogne. Follow signs for the Mardasson Memorial, which is adjacent to the museum. Parking is available at the museum for €5 per vehicle per day. The first 20 minutes are free.
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Walking
From the center of Bastogne, the museum is approximately a 30-minute walk. Follow the N85 out of town, and then follow signs for the Mardasson Memorial. The museum is located next to the memorial. Note that the walk involves a gradual uphill climb.
