By walking through ancient lands, sites and battlefields, the contents of manuscripts, letters and other sources come alive for me.

Edward Lengel on a D-Day tour

Historian | Tour Development | Historical and Active Tours

Over the last 20 years, I have been developing and leading historical, leadership, and other private tours in the United States and overseas for families, educational organizations, historical institutes, and others.

These include VIP tours – a two-month Revolutionary War tour for a private family – and a two-week tour in France, Belgium and Germany for the family of a World War II veteran.

I am a seasoned explorer, participating almost yearly in solo and group thru hikes, bikes, and whitewater rafting adventures from Alaska to Peru, and throughout Europe, the Mediterranean and North Africa. I am expert in crafting and leading active hiking tours for solo travelers and small private groups, such as on the National Trails of England and Wales, the Great Trails of Scotland, in Ireland, and on Continental Europe.

I am currently developing a collaborative partnership to design and lead small group battlefield tours, from the Napoleonic Wars to World Wars I and II, in Europe.

Please email me at edwardglengel [at] yahoo [dot] com and let me know what you have in mind.

Tours

Join me on an upcoming tour.

Vietnam’s Hidden Gems: Past and Present

Join The Great Courses Journeys on an immersive journey exploring Vietnam’s rich culture, history, and hidden gems. From Hanoi’s ancient citadels and vibrant street markets to the serene landscapes of Ninh Binh and the historic temples of My Son, your Great Courses Journeys expert will share information about Vietnam’s layered history and diverse communities.

Cruise through the stunning karsts of Halong Bay on a chartered cruise, witness an exclusive water puppet performance and learn about the revival of this traditional art form, and delve into ancient Cham heritage in Hoi An and Da Nang. This thoughtfully curated itinerary blends scholarly insight with authentic local encounters, offering a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s past and present.

April 5-15, 2027

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Remembering D-Day: Churchill’s War Rooms to Omaha Beach, The Great Courses Journeys
Join a renowned Great Courses professor an extraordinary journey through the pivotal moments and places that shaped D-Day and the Allied victory in World War II. Beginning in London, trace the footsteps of the courageous men and women who fought for freedom with visits to Winston Churchill’s Cabinet War Rooms, the nerve center of Britian’s wartime leadership, and Bletchley Park, where codebreakers worked tirelessly to decipher enemy communications. Explore the HMS Belfast, a Royal Navy vessel that played a key role in the D-Day landings, and travel to Portsmouth where final preparations for the invasion were secured at Southwick House, otherwise known as D-Day headquarters.
 
Next, you’ll cross the English Channel into Normandy and watch history unfold as you follow the events of the historic liberation of France. From defensive fortifications won in hard-fought battles to bridges captured in daring airborne assaults, each visit is a poignant reminder of a time when the fate of Europe was determined by the success of the largest amphibious landing in history. Your experience culminates in a powerful walk along Omaha Beach, where the bloodiest battles of D-Day were fought, followed by a private wreath-laying ceremony at the Normandy American Cemetery to honor those who gave their lives. With fascinating insights into the circumstances surrounding that fateful day interspersed with human stories of bravery and determination, your professor will bring this monumental chapter of history to life as you explore the courage, conflict, and sacrifice that forever changed the course of the 20th century.


May 31 - June 7, 2027
October 3 - 10, 2027
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Timeless Ireland, The Great Courses Journeys
Step into the heart of Ireland’s storied past with a renowned Great Courses expert on a journey that blends breathtaking landscapes, ancient wonders, and fascinating cultural heritage. From the haunting beauty of the Cliffs of Moher to the mystical Dún Aonghasa ringfort on Inishmore, the Emerald Isle becomes a living classroom where history, myth, and memory converge. With astute commentary and compelling storytelling from your expert, you’ll explore medieval friaries, megalithic tombs, and monastic sites; marvel at the 9th-century Book of Kells; and reflect on Ireland’s resilient spirit at famine memorials and independence tributes. Whether savoring smoked salmon in the Burren or raising a glass of whiskey in Dublin, you’ll experience traditional Irish hospitality and deepen your understanding of the country’s history and enduring legacy.


May 1 - 9, 2027
October 16 - 24, 2027
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Edward Lengel hiking

“Dr. Edward Lengel developed, led and executed a memorable, packed, and sometimes emotional tour across Eastern France WWI American battlefields. Sites, both well known and forgotten, were included. American, French and German cemeteries, Belleau Wood, the Lost Battalion site, the Alvin York battle site, Medal of Honor sites, and the museum at Fismes all stand out. Thank you, Ed, for a wonderful experience.”

– William O’Donnell, Guest, The Doughboys: WWI Tour