Bastogne, Belgium: the complete guide for American visitors
In December 1944, the 101st Airborne held this small Belgian town against German forces that had surrounded it. Eighty years on, Bastogne still flies the Stars and Stripes, and many American families come here to see where their fathers and grandfathers fought.
Updated September 27, 2026 · By the info-lux newsroom, Bastogne
Plan one full day for Bastogne itself: the Bastogne War Museum and the Mardasson Memorial (same hilltop), then downtown for McAuliffe Square, the 101st Airborne Museum and the "NUTS!" cellar at Bastogne Barracks. Add a second day for the Easy Company foxholes in the Bois Jacques and General Patton's grave in Luxembourg. Bastogne is about 1 hr 10 min from Luxembourg Airport and 2 hours from Brussels.
Why Bastogne matters to Americans
On December 16, 1944, Germany launched its last major offensive in the West through the forests of the Ardennes. Americans remember it as the Battle of the Bulge. Seven main roads met at Bastogne, and the Germans needed them. The 101st Airborne Division was rushed in by truck from France. With armored and artillery units attached, it was surrounded from December 20.
On December 22, a German demand for surrender got a one-word reply from Brig. Gen. Anthony McAuliffe: "NUTS!" Four days later, tanks of General Patton's Third Army broke through. Read the full story in The Siege of Bastogne, day by day.
The memorial sites, at a glance
Plan your trip
When to go
May to September brings long days and dry forest paths for the foxholes. Mid-December is the emotional peak: the whole town commemorates the siege during the Nuts Weekend. That is also when you get a sense of the cold the soldiers endured. Book lodging months ahead for that weekend. The Bastogne War Museum closes for a few weeks in January and February.
Good to know
- Bastogne is in the French-speaking part of Belgium. English is widely spoken at museums and hotels.
- The currency is the euro. Cards are accepted almost everywhere; carry a few coins for parking.
- A car is the easiest way to link the sites. The foxholes and cemeteries are outside town.
- Belgium is 6 hours ahead of New York (Eastern Time). Emergency number: 112.
Practical information
| Location | Bastogne, province of Luxembourg, Wallonia, Belgium (postal code 6600) |
|---|---|
| Population | About 16,000 (city and surrounding villages) |
| Nickname | "Nuts City" |
| Time needed | 1 day for Bastogne; 2 days with the foxholes and Patton's grave |
| Nearest airport | Luxembourg (LUX), about 60 miles / 95 km |
Frequently asked questions
Is Bastogne worth visiting for Americans?
Yes. Bastogne is one of the most important American battle sites in Europe: the 101st Airborne held the town during the Battle of the Bulge in December 1944. Museums, memorials, foxholes and a strong local tradition of gratitude toward the United States make it a moving visit.
How many days do you need in Bastogne?
One full day covers the Bastogne War Museum, the Mardasson Memorial, the Barracks, the 101st Airborne Museum and McAuliffe Square. A second day lets you walk the Easy Company foxholes and visit General Patton's grave at the Luxembourg American Cemetery, about an hour away.
Where should I start my visit?
Start at the Bastogne War Museum. It explains the whole battle before you see the real places. The Mardasson Memorial is right next door.
Do people speak English in Bastogne?
The local language is French, but English is spoken at the museums, hotels and most restaurants. Most sites also have English signage.
What is the closest airport to Bastogne?
Luxembourg Airport (LUX), about 60 miles (95 km) or 1 hr 10 min by car. Brussels Airport is about 2 hours away.
Sources: Bastogne War Museum, Bastogne Barracks (War Heritage Institute), 101st Airborne Museum, American Battle Monuments Commission, VISITWallonia, Maison du Tourisme du Pays de Bastogne, info-lux reporting in Bastogne. Opening hours and prices change: check the official website before your visit. Written in English by the info-lux newsroom, independent regional news media based in the Belgian province of Luxembourg.