Private Tour of the Meuse-Argonne 1918 Battlefields from Reims

Discover the Meuse-Argonne 1918 Battlefields with a Private Guide

If you’re passionate about history or simply want a meaningful way to experience the World War I sites in France, this Private Tour of the Meuse-Argonne Battlefields from Reims offers an intimate, expert-led journey through one of the most significant WWI campaigns. We haven’t done it ourselves (yet!), but from what we gather, this tour combines in-depth storytelling with carefully chosen stops that truly bring history to life.

What really draws us in are two aspects: first, the personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide with 16 years of battlefield experience, and second, the flexibility to customize the itinerary if you have specific sites or relatives’ stories you’d like to follow. The only thing to keep in mind is that the price, at around $540 per person, is on the higher side—though this includes private transportation and all entry fees. This tour best suits history buffs, those interested in military history, or travelers who want a deep, personalized look at WWI sites without dealing with large groups.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience led by an expert guide
• Comprehensive 9-hour itinerary covering major WWI sites in the Argonne region
• Flexible stops that can be tailored to your interests or family history
• All-inclusive price with transportation and entrance fees covered
• Ideal for history enthusiasts seeking a detailed, immersive tour
• Moderate physical activity required; suitable for most travelers comfortable walking or standing

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This private battlefield tour begins early in the morning, with pickup from your hotel in Reims around 8:30am. From there, you’re quickly immersed in the story of WWI, starting with one of the most preserved battlefields—Butte de Vauquois. This site is particularly prized for its well-preserved trenches and fortifications, giving visitors a vivid picture of trench warfare. The guide’s expertise shines here, as he shares stories about the American troops who fought there in September 1918, filling the silence with insightful commentary.

It’s easy to imagine the scale of the conflict here, and you’ll appreciate the free admission to this historic site. The two-hour stop allows plenty of time to walk the trenches, explore the bunkers, and absorb the atmosphere—an experience many find deeply moving. A good guide can make all the difference in contextualizing what you’re seeing, and from the reviews, it’s clear that this tour delivers on that front.

Next, you’ll visit Varennes-en-Argonne for about an hour to see the impressive Pennsylvania Monument. This monument is a focal point of remembrance, honoring those who lost their lives in WWI. The guide typically shares stories about the sacrifices made here, which helps put the monument into perspective. It’s a poignant stop that’s both visually striking and emotionally resonant.

From there, the tour continues to Montfaucon for about 45 minutes, where remnants of bunkers and fortifications still tell the story of a village once heavily contested. The ruins of the abbey add a contemplative element, and you’ll learn how the village was stormed by the American 79th Division. The combination of ruins and history paints a clear picture of the fierce fighting that took place.

The Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery is next—by far, one of the most significant sites on this tour. Covering a sacred 14,246 American dead, the cemetery is a solemn reminder of the human cost of war. It’s a quiet, powerful setting where visitors often find themselves reflecting on the sacrifices made. It’s also a place where the guide’s insights help put the scale and meaning of this loss into context.

After a somber visit, you’ll stop in Chatel-Chehery, where Sgt. Alvin York earned his Medal of Honor. This small, picturesque village offers a chance to learn about heroism in the midst of war, with the guide sharing stories that bring the history to life.

A peaceful contrast follows with a visit to the German WWI cemetery in Apremont. This is a less-visited spot but equally important, offering a moment of quiet reflection away from the more frequented sites.

The Lost Battalion Memorial near Binarville is another highlight, telling the story of the 77th Division’s extraordinary six-day fight to hold a ravine against German forces. The site, scarred with shell holes and craters, vividly illustrates the brutal nature of trench warfare.

Finally, the tour concludes with the Ravin du Genie, a monument set amidst shell craters and mine craters, standing as a tangible reminder of the battlefield’s violence. After this, you’ll head back to Reims, completing your roughly 9-hour journey through history.

What We Love About This Tour

One of the standout features is the expert guidance. The guide’s 16 years of experience shine through, and reviews praise his ability to customize the experience for US visitors, especially those with family ties to the war. KathyAnn_M, who took the tour in July 2025, called the guide “very knowledgeable” and appreciated how he tailored the stories to her Pennsylvania roots. That level of personal connection can significantly enhance your understanding and appreciation of the sites.

Another aspect we admire is the balance of sights—from well-preserved trenches and bunkers to commemorative monuments and peaceful cemeteries. It’s a full spectrum of what made WWI so devastating and historic. The stops are thoughtfully spaced out, giving enough time to absorb each site without feeling rushed.

The flexibility to create a personalized itinerary is a real plus. If you have a particular relative’s story or site you want to focus on, this can be arranged, making the experience more meaningful. And, with all fees and transportation included, you won’t have to worry about extra costs sneaking up on you.

Things to Keep in Mind

While the experience is generally well-received, the price point might be a consideration for some travelers. At over $500 per person, this is a premium experience aimed at those who value expert-guided, private access rather than a larger group tour. The price reflects the quality of the guide, the private transportation, and the comprehensive itinerary.

The tour requires moderate physical activity—be prepared for walking and standing at various sites. Most visitors in reasonable health should be fine, but if you have mobility issues, it might be worth checking if accommodations can be made.

Plus, the tour’s timing, starting at 8:30 am and lasting around 9 hours, makes it a full day. It’s ideal for travelers who want an immersive experience and aren’t bothered by a long day on the road.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is perfect for those who want a deep dive into WWI history with a knowledgeable guide to fill in the details. It’s suited for history buffs, military enthusiasts, and anyone interested in understanding the human stories behind the battles. The personalized nature makes it especially appealing for visitors with a specific connection to the war, such as family members or local history researchers.

It’s less suitable if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a quick overview, as the full experience takes a good chunk of your day. Also, if you’re traveling with children or need a very flexible schedule, keep in mind the physical and time commitments.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
The tour involves some walking and standing at various sites, so moderate physical fitness is recommended. If mobility is an issue, you might want to check with the provider for possible accommodations.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers private transportation, all entry fees, and taxes. It’s a comprehensive package, so you won’t need to worry about additional costs for site admissions.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the tour is flexible and can be tailored to your interests or specific sites you’d like to visit, including following in the footsteps of relatives.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 9 hours, starting from 8:30 am and returning to Reims afterward.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch and snacks are not included, so plan to bring a meal or prepare for a stop where you can purchase food.

What is the tour rating?
It has a perfect rating of 5.0 based on one review, praising the guide’s knowledge and the personalized attention.

Final Thoughts

If you’re visiting Reims and want an in-depth, thoughtfully curated look at the WWI battles in the Argonne region, this private tour offers a meaningful way to connect with history. It’s especially valuable if you appreciate expert guidance and a flexible, personalized approach. While it does come at a premium, the combination of private transportation, expert narration, and well-chosen sites makes it a worthwhile investment for serious history enthusiasts.

This experience isn’t just about ticking off sites; it’s about understanding the sacrifices, seeing the scars of war, and gaining a deeper appreciation for this pivotal moment in history. It’s a day for reflection, education, and remembrance—perfect if you’re ready to step beyond the typical sightseeing and truly engage with the past.