Operation Anthropoid Tours & Lidice Village in Detail

This Operation Anthropoid Tours & Lidice Village in Detail offers a compelling look into Prague’s WWII resistance history. Priced at $116.95 per person, this 4-hour private tour is designed for those interested in a deeply personal and educational journey through historic sites connected to the assassination of Reinhard Heydrich and the courageous actions of Czechoslovak patriots. The tour features private transportation, a licensed and enthusiastic guide, and a chance to explore lesser-known yet significant locations that shaped the resistance movement.

What sets this experience apart is the unique transportation: tours are conducted in classic socialist vehicles, such as Trabant cars and Skoda vehicles, adding an authentic touch to the historical storytelling. This tour is particularly suitable for history enthusiasts and those interested in WWII or Czech history, with reviews praising the guide’s passion and knowledge. However, travelers should be prepared for a moderate walking pace and some sites without specific amenities.

Key Points

• Private, guided tour focused on WWII resistance, including the assassination of Heydrich
• Includes visits to major sites like the Heydrich Memorial, crypts, mass graves, and Nazi shooting ranges
• Transport in vintage socialist vehicles like Trabant 601 and Skoda cars, adding an authentic flavor
• Tour duration of approximately 4 hours, with flexible stops and insightful commentary
• Free coffee, tea, wine, beer, or soft drinks included during the tour
• Most bookings are made 2-3 months in advance, emphasizing its popularity

Starting at the Clarion Hotel Prague Old Town

The tour begins at Clarion Hotel Prague Old Town, located at Hradební 768/9, Prague 1. From this central location, the tour departs with private transportation that provides a comfortable and intimate experience. Travelers are picked up in vintage Trabant cars or new Skoda vehicles, depending on the group size, ensuring an authentic and memorable journey from the very start.

The guide offers a personalized experience, emphasizing storytelling and local knowledge. The tour ends back at the same meeting point, making it easy for guests to continue exploring Prague afterward.

Visiting the National Memorial to the Heroes of the Heydrich Terror

The first major stop is at the National Memorial to the Heroes of the Heydrich Terror, located at St. Cyril and Methodius Cathedral. Here, the guide takes visitors through the crypt and museum, which displays artefacts and photographs from the June 18, 1942, attack and subsequent events.

At this site, visitors learn about the battle and aftermath, including where the bodies were identified and the significance of the crypt’s hidden artifacts. Admission is free, and the 30-minute visit provides a powerful introduction to the resistance’s brutal reality.

Exploring the Last Battle at St Cyril and Methodius Cathedral

Next, the tour continues at the St Cyril and Methodius Cathedral, where the final battle against the Nazis took place. The guide points out the secret crypt entry and demonstrates how the Nazi soldiers accessed the crypt during the last moments of the resistance.

This site offers a closer look at the tactics used in the fight against fascism. After the historical explanation, visitors can enjoy a traditional Czech shot of Becherovka liquor at the nearby pub “At the Paratroopers”, adding a local flavor to the experience.

Paying Respects at Dablice Cemetery

The third stop is at Dablice Cemetery, where the mass grave of Czechoslovak patriots murdered by Nazis is located. The 15-minute visit allows for a moment of reflection at one of the most somber sites, commemorating those who fought and fell during the resistance.

The guide shares stories of bravery linked to these sacrifices, emphasizing their importance in Czech history. This stop underscores the personal cost of resistance and the enduring memory of the heroes.

The Kobylisy Shooting Range and Memorial

The Kobylisy shooting range is a crucial site, as many resistance members were executed here. The 15-minute stop features a memorial and a compelling narrative from the guide about the lesser-known acts of resistance and the absolute bravery of those who faced the firing squad.

Visitors gain insight into different resistance groups and hear stories of committed individuals, making it a deeply moving experience.

The Operation Anthropoid Memorial and Reinhard Heydrich’s Assassination Site

The tour’s highlight is the Operation Anthropoid Memorial, located near the site of Heydrich’s assassination on May 27, 1942. The guide shows historical photographs and discusses Heydrich’s role as a Nazi leader before taking guests to a local pub for a traditional Czech beer.

After the refreshment break, visitors pass by Bulovka hospital, where Heydrich was taken after the attack and where he died on June 4, 1942. This site connects the historical event to the physical location, providing a tangible link to the past.

Scenic Views of Charles Bridge and Prague Castle

During transit to key sites, the tour offers stunning views of Prague, including Charles Bridge and Prague Castle. These viewpoints, seen from the car, provide breathtaking panoramas while giving context to the city’s historic landscape.

This approach allows guests to appreciate Prague’s beauty without extensive walking, making it accessible for a wide range of visitors.

The Authentic Vehicles and Their Role in the Tour

A defining feature of this tour is the use of vintage socialist vehicles, such as the Trabant 601 and new Skoda cars. These vehicles are not only fun to ride but also serve as historical symbols, connecting guests directly to the era of resistance and propaganda.

In some cases, groups of 2-3 can enjoy the Trabant 601, while larger groups are transported in minibuses or buses. Several reviews highlight the joy of test-driving the Trabant, adding a hands-on element to the experience.

Food, Drink, and Hospitality

Throughout the tour, complimentary drinks such as coffee, tea, wine, beer, or soft drinks are available, adding a relaxed touch to the historical exploration. After visiting the Operation Anthropoid Memorial, guests are invited to enjoy a local Czech beer in a cozy pub, making the experience both educational and convivial.

This hospitality helps create a warm atmosphere, encouraging conversation and reflection on the heavy topics covered.

Flexibility, Booking, and Group Size

Most bookings are made approximately 64 days in advance, reflecting the tour’s popularity. With a maximum group size of 19, the experience maintains an intimate feel without feeling crowded. The tour is most suitable for most travelers, with confirmation provided upon booking, and free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand.

This flexibility makes it easy to plan a visit, especially for those interested in private and personalized experiences.

The Operation Anthropoid Tour stands out for its combination of powerful history, engaging storytelling, and authentic transportation. By visiting key sites related to the resistance movement and Nazi repression, the tour offers a comprehensive understanding of this pivotal chapter in Czech history.

The passionate guides and well-chosen locations make this experience resonate long after the 4 hours end. It suits history buffs, WWII enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to see a different side of Prague beyond its typical tourist spots.

While the vintage vehicles and personalized approach are major attractions, travelers should be prepared for some sites without extensive amenities. This tour provides a respectful, insightful, and lively exploration of Czech bravery and resistance during WWII.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, the tour involves some walking at each site, but the overall pace is manageable. It’s best suited for most travelers with moderate mobility.

What can I expect from the vintage vehicle experience?
The tour uses classic Trabant 601 cars and new Skoda vehicles. Guests often enjoy test-driving the Trabant, which adds a fun, authentic element to the day.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, coffee, tea, wine, beer, or soft drinks are offered during the tour. Guests also visit a local pub for a traditional Czech beer after the Operation Anthropoid Memorial.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Changes less than 24 hours before are not accepted.

What makes this tour different from other Prague WWII tours?
This experience emphasizes personalized storytelling, vintage transportation, and visits to lesser-known resistance sites, providing a deeper and more authentic perspective.