Northern France’s Arras serves up excellent World War I history through its daily guided tours. The standout options focus on battlefield sites that shaped the Great War. We especially like the Vimy Ridge tour for its powerful look at Canadian forces’ sacrifice, and the highly-rated Somme Battlefields tour which hits all the crucial 1916-1918 locations. The Wellington Quarry tour offers fascinating underground perspectives of New Zealand troops’ war efforts. Most tours include expert guides, reasonable prices, and flexible cancellation policies. Check out these top WWI tours that bring history to life:
Good To Know
- The WW1 Tour from Arras offers an expert-guided exploration of Vimy Ridge and surrounding sites, highlighting the significant contributions of Canadian soldiers.
- The Canadian Battlefields Tour provides a personalized experience led by a knowledgeable expert, Brigitte, showcasing the Canadian Expeditionary Force’s role in WW1.
- The Somme Battlefields Tour covers the key battlefields of 1916 and 1918, offering a customizable experience with a focus on historical storytelling.
- The New Zealander Battlefields Tour explores New Zealand’s involvement in WW1, including a visit to the Wellington Quarry, an important shelter site.
- Most tours offer accessibility features, free cancellation, and personalized experiences tailored to the group’s interests and needs.
Full Day WW1 Tour to Vimy Ridge and Surrounding Sites From Arras
This full-day WW1 tour from Arras takes visitors on an immersive journey through the historic sites of Vimy Ridge and the surrounding area.
The tour, which includes expert-guided transportation and lunch, focuses on the significant role played by Canadian soldiers during the war.
Travelers will explore Vimy Ridge, a crucial battleground where Canadian troops achieved a historic victory in 1917.
Throughout the tour, the knowledgeable guide provides valuable historical context, tailoring the experience to the group’s interests.
Visits to Commonwealth cemeteries offer poignant moments of reflection on the sacrifices made by countless unknown soldiers.
With an impressive 100% recommendation rate from past travelers, this tour is praised for its emotional impact and educational value.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a meaningful exploration of WW1 sites, this full-day tour from Arras promises an unforgettable experience.
Read our full review: Full Day WW1 Tour to Vimy Ridge and Surrounding Sites From Arras Review
Book now: Check availability
Full Day Private Canadian Battlefields Tour
The full-day private Canadian Battlefields Tour from Arras immerses visitors in the historic sites and poignant narratives of the Canadian Expeditionary Force‘s pivotal role during World War I.
Guided by the knowledgeable Brigitte, the tour explores the iconic Vimy Ridge and other significant Canadian battlefields. Travelers will learn about the Canadian troops’ courageous efforts and pay respects at vast cemeteries honoring the fallen.
The flexible itinerary allows for a personalized experience, including a stop at a quirky museum displaying wartime artifacts. Lunch at a traditional French restaurant, with reservations made in advance, provides a cultural interlude.
At the culmination of the tour, visitors will stand before the solemn Canadian Memorial at Vimy Ridge, a monument to the country’s wartime sacrifices.
This immersive full-day experience, rated 5.0/5 from 5 reviews, offers a meaningful exploration of Canada’s contributions to the Great War.
Read our full review: Full Day Private Canadian Battlefields Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Full Day Tour of the Somme Battlefields of 1916 and 1918
A private full-day tour of the Somme Battlefields of 1916 and 1918 offers visitors an immersive exploration of this historic region. Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars by 10 reviewers, this tour is recommended by 100% of travelers.
Starting from $348.48 per group (up to 3 people), the tour includes pickup and drop-off, an air-conditioned vehicle, and a lunch stop.
Guides with extensive knowledge and experience lead the personalized tours, focusing on storytelling and historical context. Visitors can expect to visit the main monuments and unique locations related to World War I, with the flexibility to tailor the tour to their interests.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed.
Travelers have praised the guide’s passion and the memorable experiences, making this tour appealing for history enthusiasts and families alike.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, this private tour provides a comprehensive and customizable way to explore the Somme Battlefields.
Read our full review: Private Full Day Tour of the Somme Battlefields of 1916 and 1918 Review
Book now: Check availability
Full Day Private New Zealander Battlefields Tour
Delving into the highlights of the Somme region, the Full Day Private New Zealander Battlefields Tour from Arras offers an immersive exploration of the sites that played a pivotal role in New Zealand’s involvement during World War I.
Priced at $450.35 for a group of up to 3 participants, the 8-hour tour departs from the Pl. du Maréchal Foch in Arras at 9:00 am. Guests can opt for pickup at their hotel or the Arras train station, with the tour culminating back at the meeting point.
The tour includes entrance to the Wellington Quarry, an underground network that served as a vital shelter during the Battle of Arras. Equipped with a helmet for safety, visitors will have a private guide who shares insightful commentary on the New Zealand forces’ heroic actions.
Accessible to wheelchair users and stroller-friendly, the tour is suitable for most travelers, though not recommended for those with back problems.
With a perfect 5.0 rating based on a single review, this comprehensive battlefield tour promises an enriching and memorable experience.
Read our full review: Full Day Private New Zealander Battlefields Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Full Day Private New Zealander Battlefields Tour From Arras
Travelers seeking a comprehensive exploration of New Zealand’s role in World War I can embark on the Full Day Private New Zealander Battlefields Tour from Arras.
This 8-hour private tour, priced at $450.35 for up to 3 participants, departs from the meeting point at Pl. du Maréchal Foch in Arras at 9:00 am. The tour includes a helmet and entrance to the Wellington Quarry, an important site for the New Zealand forces during the Battle of Arras.
Pickup is available at hotels in Arras or the Arras station, with the guide meeting guests on the train platform or at their hotel. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, but not recommended for travelers with back problems.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience starts. With a 5-star rating based on a single review, this tour promises an engaging and informative exploration of the New Zealander battlefields in the Arras region.
Read our full review: Full Day Private New Zealander Battlefields Tour From Arras Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Group Size for These Tours?
The maximum group size for these tours can vary, but is typically kept small to provide a more personalized and intimate experience for guests. Tour operators often limit group sizes to ensure comfortable transportation and easy navigation through sites.
Are Children’s Tickets Available for These Tours?
Children’s tickets are typically available for these tours, allowing families to explore Arras’ attractions together. The tour operators often offer discounted rates for children, making it an affordable and engaging activity for all ages.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
Yes, most tour operators allow you to customize the itinerary to suit your preferences. This gives you the flexibility to focus on the sights and activities that interest you the most during the tour.
Are the Tour Guides Fluent in Multiple Languages?
The tour guides are typically fluent in multiple languages, often including English, French, and other common European languages. This allows them to provide engaging and informative tours catered to the diverse needs of visitors.
Do These Tours Include Transportation to and From Arras?
The tours typically include transportation to and from Arras, making it convenient for visitors. Many tour operators provide multilingual guides, ensuring a seamless experience for international travelers.
The Sum Up
Visitors to Arras have several excellent full-day tour options to explore the region’s World War I history. Tours cover the iconic Vimy Ridge, the Somme battlefields, and battlegrounds associated with New Zealand forces. These private and group tours provide in-depth insights into the area’s profound wartime significance and the chance to pay respects at key memorial sites.