The historic city of Arras serves as the perfect base for exploring World War I battlefields in northern France. From here, you can visit the most significant sites, including Vimy Ridge, the Somme battlefields, and nearby Ypres in Belgium. The best tours combine expert storytelling with efficient transportation and logistical support.
Two standout options deserve special mention. The full-day battlefield tour is ideal for first-time visitors, offering an excellent overview with stops at key memorial sites and preserved trenches. For those seeking deeper context, the specialized Australian and Canadian forces tours provide focused, meaningful experiences at sites specifically connected to these nations’ contributions.
Check out our recommended tours below for the most meaningful WWI battlefield experiences from Arras.
Key Points
- For a personalized World War I battlefield experience, consider private tours from Paris to the Vimy battlefields or the Somme battlefields with expert guides.
- Comprehensive full-day group tours from Arras cover key sites like Pozieres Ridge, Beaumont-Hamel, and the Thiepval Memorial, providing in-depth historical context.
- Specialized tours focus on the contributions of Australian and New Zealand troops, with visits to memorials and museums to honor their sacrifices.
- Extended two-day tours offer a deeper dive into the Australian experience on the Western Front, including accommodations and meals.
- Overviews of the Battle of Arras and Somme provide a high-level perspective on Canada’s role, with visits to significant cemeteries and memorials.
The Battle of the Somme Guided Day Tour From Arras
Though the Battle of the Somme remains one of the bloodiest battles in human history, this guided day tour from Arras allows visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the campaign’s planning, execution, and immense human cost.
Over the course of the full-day excursion, travelers explore key sites such as Pozieres Ridge, Beaumont Hamel trenches, and the Thiepval Memorial, accompanied by a small group limited to eight people for a more personalized experience.
Highlights include visits to the Sir John Monash Centre, the Franco-Australian Museum, and the Australian Corps Memorial, which provide insights into the crucial role of Australian forces on the Western Front.
The tour also features stops at poignant locations like the Lochnagar Crater and the 1st Australian Division Memorial, allowing participants to honor the sacrifices made during this pivotal campaign.
With an air-conditioned vehicle, knowledgeable guides, and rave reviews from past travelers, this Somme battlefield tour offers an emotionally resonant and historically enriching experience.
Read our full review: The Battle of the Somme Guided Day Tour From Arras Review
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From Paris : WWI Vimy Battlefields – Private Tour
For those seeking a deeper exploration of Canada’s pivotal role in World War I, this private tour from Paris to the Vimy battlefields offers an immersive and historically rich experience.
Priced at Kč 13,132 per person, the 10-hour tour departs from Paris and transports visitors via Jeep/SUV to a series of significant sites, including the Notre Dame de Lorette Memorial, the Canadian National Vimy Memorial, and the Neuville-St. Vaast German Military Cemetery.
Along the way, a knowledgeable guide provides historical context, shedding light on the Battle of Vimy Ridge and the human impact of the conflict.
Highlights include exploring the underground tunnels at the Vimy Memorial and reflecting on the sacrifices made by soldiers.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour caters to history enthusiasts and travelers eager to gain a deeper understanding of World War I’s legacy in the Vimy region.
Read our full review: From Paris : WWI Vimy Battlefields – Private Tour Review
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Fromelles and Ypres Day Tour From Arras
This comprehensive 12-hour Fromelles and Ypres day tour from Arras invites travelers to explore the pivotal World War I battlegrounds of Northern France.
With high traveler recommendation, the tour includes transport, guide, lunch, and hotel or train station pickup in Arras.
Visitors can expect to visit key sites such as command posts, bunkers, and the Fromelles Museum, as well as pay respects at memorials like the Cobbers Memorial, Tyne Cot, and V.C. Corner Memorial.
The tour also includes lunch in Ploegsteert Wood and the stirring Last Post ceremony at the Menin Gate in Ypres.
Guided by experts praised for their extensive knowledge and personal anecdotes, the tour provides an emotional and educational experience, especially for those with relatives who fought in the area.
Accommodating up to 8 travelers, the tour operates in all weather conditions, offering a comfortable and thoughtfully organized day filled with reflection and photography opportunities.
Read our full review: Fromelles and Ypres Day Tour From Arras Review
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Private Tour of the WW1 Somme Battlefields From ARRAS
Travelers seeking an immersive exploration of the World War I Somme Battlefields can embark on a private tour from Arras. This tour boasts a 100% recommendation rate from 23 reviews, taking visitors to key sites such as the Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial, Somme 1916 museum, Australian War Memorial, and Thiepval memorial.
With private transportation and an expert guide, the tour provides a personalized experience, including admission tickets, lunch, and snacks.
The tour starts at 9:00 am from Pl. du Maréchal Foch in Arras, with hotel pickup available upon request. It’s not wheelchair accessible, but stroller and infant seats are offered, and service animals are allowed.
The tour ends back at the meeting point, and it’s conveniently located near public transportation. Priced from $293.07 per person, the tour offers a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Reviewers highlight the guide’s extensive knowledge and tailored experiences, ensuring an immersive journey through the historic Somme Battlefields.
Read our full review: Private Tour of the WW1 Somme Battlefields From ARRAS Review
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WW1 Canadian Focused Tour Including Vimy Ridge
Visitors seeking a deeper exploration of Canada’s pivotal role in World War I can embark on a private tour from Arras or Albert, focusing on the iconic Vimy Ridge and surrounding areas.
The tour includes visits to the Canadian Memorial, Commonwealth cemeteries, preserved trenches, and the Lochnagar Crater, a massive 330-foot-wide crater. Tours can be customized to highlight specific soldiers or units with prior notice.
The tour, which includes transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and lunch, is priced at $340.17 per group of up to 3 people.
Travelers praise the expertise of guides like Alison and Jon, who provide personalized experiences that emphasize the emotional significance of the sites.
With a 100% recommendation rate and 5-star reviews, this tour offers excellent value for visitors interested in the Canadian contribution to the Great War.
Read our full review: WW1 Canadian Focused Tour Including Vimy Ridge Review
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2 Day Australian Tour – From Arras
For travelers seeking to enjoy the Australian experience on the Western Front, the 2-Day Australian Tour from Arras, France, offers a comprehensive exploration of the key sites where Australians fought during World War I.
Ideal for history buffs, the tour visits poignant locations such as Villers-Bretonneux, Pozieres, and Passchendaele, providing a personalized experience for a maximum of seven participants.
Comfortable transportation, entry fees, meals, and accommodation are all included, ensuring a seamless journey.
With a start time of 9:00 AM and pickup available at the Arras Train Station or local accommodations, the tour caters to the needs of participants.
While not wheelchair-accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers.
Priced at $643.70 per person with a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers exceptional value.
Reviewers consistently praise the tour’s memorable experiences, emotional moments, and knowledgeable guides, making it a must-consider option for exploring Australia’s Western Front legacy.
Read our full review: 2 Day Australian Tour – From Arras Review
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Australian – Fromelles-Ypres Day Tour – From Arras
This comprehensive Australian – Fromelles-Ypres Day Tour from Arras provides an in-depth exploration of the significant battles and memorials associated with the Australian forces during World War I.
Operated by the acclaimed Sacred Ground Tours, this day-long excursion takes visitors on a journey through the historic battlefields and cemeteries of Fromelles and Ypres.
Priced at a reasonable $366.33 per person, the tour offers exceptional value, with an air-conditioned vehicle, English-speaking guide, and all entry fees and meals included.
The small group size, capped at 7 travelers, ensures a personalized experience. Pickup is available from the Arras Train Station or your accommodation, with the tour starting promptly at 9:00 am.
Boasting a perfect 5.0 rating based on 2 reviews, this tour is a must for anyone interested in exploring the Australian military history of the region.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, booking this tour is a hassle-free experience.
Read our full review: Australian – Fromelles-Ypres Day Tour – From Arras Review
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1 Day Canadian WW1 Private Tour Including Vimy Ridge
Enjoy the profound history of Canada’s contributions during World War I with this private day tour from Arras.
Explore significant sites like the Canadian National Vimy Memorial and gain insights into the Battle of Arras and the Battle of the Somme. Pay respects to the fallen Canadians at Givenchy Road Canadian Cemetery and Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial.
This 1-day tour has a 100% recommendation rate from travelers, thanks to the expert driver/guide and professional licensed local guide. They’ll provide live commentary and historical context throughout the day, using maps and photos to enhance your understanding.
The personalized experience in a small group setting, along with the provided lunch and transportation, ensures a comfortable and enriching journey.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking to honor the sacrifices of Canadian soldiers, this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the country’s pivotal role in World War I.
With free cancellation and convenient pickup options, it’s the ideal way to explore the Arras region’s WWI heritage.
Read our full review: 1 Day Canadian WW1 Private Tour Including Vimy Ridge Review
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Australian and New Zealand Battlefield Day Tour in the Somme From Lille or Arras
Travelers seeking to explore the profound history of Australia and New Zealand’s contributions during World War I can embark on this comprehensive day tour from Lille or Arras.
The 9-hour tour highlights key sites along the Somme, including the Le Hamel Australian Memorial and the Thiepval Memorial, the largest WWI memorial with over 73,000 soldiers’ names.
The tour includes round-trip transportation from the hotel, a delicious lunch, and entrance fees to all sites. Guests will explore the Jean and Denise Letaille Museum, gaining exceptional insights into the conditions and history of the war fought by these two nations.
The knowledgeable guide, Claude, ensures flexibility, allowing for alternative site visits if desired.
With a moderate fitness level required, this private tour offers an immersive experience for those seeking a deeper understanding of the Australian and New Zealand’s role in WWI.
Highly recommended by past participants, this tour is an excellent choice for history enthusiasts.
Read our full review: Australian and New Zealand Battlefield Day Tour in the Somme From Lille or Arras Review
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Private Full Day Tour of the Somme Battlefields
For those seeking an immersive exploration of the Somme battlefields, the Private Full Day Tour offers a comprehensive and personalized experience. Rated 4.9/5 based on 11 reviews, this tour takes travelers on a journey through the historic sites of the region, led by knowledgeable guides like Alison who are praised for their expertise and passion.
The tour, which lasts the full day, includes travel time and a lunch stop, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the history. Starting at 9:00 am, the private tour ensures that only your group participates, providing a tailored experience.
Pickup is available from your hotel or the Arras train station, with alternate options outside Arras or Albert train stations also accessible.
Despite not being wheelchair accessible, the tour welcomes service animals, and the cancellation policy offers flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Consistently positive reviews highlight the tour’s ability to combine family history with major monuments, comprehensive storytelling, and memorable visits to significant World War I sites.
Read our full review: Private Full Day Tour of the Somme Battlefields Review
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Australian – Out in the Somme Day Tour – From Arras
The Australian – Out in the Somme Day Tour from Arras offers an engaging exploration of the region’s World War I history. Operated by Sacred Ground Tours, this full-day tour takes visitors to key Somme battlefields, providing an immersive experience.
The tour, lasting around 7-8 hours, includes pickup from Arras Train Station and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. Along the way, travelers will enjoy bottled water and a local French lunch, with the cost ranging from 15-20 euros per person.
The tour is limited to a maximum of 7 participants, ensuring a personalized experience. It’s not wheelchair accessible but is suitable for most travelers. The tour has received exceptional reviews, with 100% of past visitors recommending it.
Travelers praise the guide, Phil, for his deep knowledge and engaging presentation. The tour can be customized to individual interests, providing a tailored experience.
Booking the Australian – Out in the Somme Day Tour is straightforward, with confirmation received upon booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
With its comprehensive coverage of the Somme battlefields and excellent customer reviews, this tour is an excellent choice for those interested in World War I history in the Arras region.
Read our full review: Australian – Out in the Somme Day Tour – From Arras Review
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Full-Day Canadian WW1 Vimy and Somme Battlefield Tour From Arras
This full-day private tour from Arras, France, offers an immersive exploration of the Canadian World War I battles along the Somme.
Led by an expert guide, the tour provides in-depth commentary on the significance of these battles and memorials. Guests will experience Vimy’s tunnels and trenches, where the Canadian offensive took place in April 1917.
The itinerary highlights key sites like Canadian Cemetery No. 2, Courcelette Memorial, Thiepval Memorial, and Beaumont Hamel Newfoundland Memorial Park, which remains largely unchanged since 1918. Visitors can pay tribute at these important memorials and learn about the Newfoundland Regiment’s tragic advance in July 1916.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, entrance fees, and a light lunch with a drink. Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase.
With a starting price of $429.13 per person and a 5.0 overall rating based on reviews, this tour offers a personalized and emotionally impactful experience for those interested in Canadian involvement in the Somme battles.
Read our full review: Full-Day Canadian WW1 Vimy and Somme Battlefield Tour From Arras Review
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Sum Up
Arras offers a variety of guided tours that explore the battles and sites of World War I in the region. These tours provide visitors with the opportunity to learn about the sacrifices and experiences of the soldiers who fought in the Somme and Vimy Ridge campaigns. From day trips to private tours, there’s something to suit every interest and budget when it comes to discovering the history of Arras and its surrounding battlefields.