2 Day Australian Tour – from Arras

Discover the Western Front: A 2-Day Tour from Arras

If you’re a history enthusiast looking to connect with the stories of brave Australians who fought on the Western Front during World War I, this 2-day Australian tour from Arras could be just what you need. While I haven’t taken this tour personally, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a pretty compelling picture of a meaningful, well-organized experience. It’s especially appealing if you want to see the key battlefields and memorials in a manageable timeframe with a knowledgeable guide.

What we really like about this tour is its focus on authentic sites — walking through actual trenches and visiting the largest Commonwealth cemetery in the world, Tyne Cot. Plus, the small group size (max seven participants) makes it feel intimate and more personalized. Another highlight is the inclusion of the Sir John Monash Centre, a modern museum that adds context to the stories told on the battlefield.

One possible consideration is the cost — at around $705 per person, this isn’t a casual day trip, especially if you’re traveling on a budget. But given the depth of the experience, access to private transport, and the chance to see multiple significant sites, many might find it a worthwhile investment.

This tour suits anyone passionate about WWI history, particularly those interested in Australian military contributions, who value guided insights, and prefer a small-group vibe for a more relaxed experience.

Key Points

• In-depth access to WWI battlefields and memorials in France and Belgium.
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and comfort.
• Expert guides (like Phil) are praised for their knowledge and storytelling.
• Comfortable transportation via air-conditioned vehicle makes covering multiple sites easier.
• Includes entry to major sites like the Sir John Monash Centre and Tyne Cot Cemetery.
• Emotional, memorable moments such as laying wreaths and walking authentic trenches.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

This 2-day tour is designed to take you through some of the most poignant sites of the Western Front, focusing heavily on Australian soldiers’ sacrifices and stories. It’s clear that the experience is crafted to be respectful, educational, and emotionally moving, with plenty of opportunities to reflect at each stop.

Day 1: Exploring the Somme and Villers-Bretonneux

The day kicks off at Serre Road Cemetery No.2, the largest Commonwealth cemetery in the Somme. It’s a striking place, with rows of white crosses and a quiet atmosphere that immediately sets the tone. The guide will likely share details about the soldiers buried there, making the scene more personal.

Next, you’ll walk through the Memorial Terre-neuvien de Beaumont-Hamel, where authentic trenches remain untouched to give you a real sense of what soldiers endured. It’s especially meaningful that you’re walking on the same ground where many Australians fought on the first day of the Battle of the Somme, as noted by one reviewer who appreciated the opportunity to see these historic trenches.

The Thiepval Memorial follows, a powerful tribute to over 73,000 missing British soldiers. It’s a sobering sight, and many find the scale of the memorial and the stories behind it deeply impactful. According to reviews, guides are well-informed and help visitors understand the significance of these monuments.

From there, the tour visits the Tank Corps Memorial at Windmill Site, a site of sacred ground where Australian soldiers fought. This site combines history with a sense of reverence. Then, you’ll explore the Australian village in the Somme and the 1st Australian Division Memorial, which commemorates Australia’s heavy losses at Pozieres.

One of the most visually striking sites is the Lochnagar Crater, created by an underground mine detonated to start the Battle of the Somme. Standing at this site, you can see the enormous crater that remains, offering a visceral connection to the scale of destruction.

The day wraps up with visits to the Australian National Memorial in Villers-Bretonneux and the Sir John Monash Centre, where multimedia displays and exhibits deepen your understanding of Australian efforts on the Western Front. The Franco-Australian Museum at Victoria School offers a more personal story, remembering the Australians who fought there.

Day 2: From Fromelles to Ypres and Passchendaele

The second day dives into the more recent discoveries at Pheasant Wood Military Cemetery, where recently uncovered Australians are buried. It’s a poignant reminder of how much history is still being uncovered and remembered.

The tour continues with Australian Memorial Park and VC Corner Australian Cemetery at Fromelles, where the scale of the disaster becomes clear. The Christmas Truce Memorial provides a rare moment of peace amid war, marking the 1914 Christmas truce, a touching symbol of humanity.

Next, you’ll see the Hill 60 crater, a site that played a significant role in battles of 1917 and is famously depicted in the film “Beneath Hill 60.” Walking through this massive crater, you’ll get a real sense of the underground warfare that defined much of the conflict.

The tour also visits Polygon Wood, home to the Buttes New British Cemetery and the Australian Division Memorial, reinforcing the Australian contribution. The Passchendaele Museum is highlighted as one of the best on the Western Front, though entrance fees are not included.

The day culminates at Tyne Cot Cemetery, the largest Commonwealth Cemetery in the world, where countless soldiers are remembered. The Menin Gate Memorial in Ypres wraps up the journey, with the Last Post ceremony—a tradition since 1928—that visitors consistently find deeply moving.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

The expert guides make all the difference. Many reviews praised guides like Phil for their knowledge and storytelling, which elevate the experience from just visiting sites to truly understanding their significance. The small group size (up to seven) ensures conversations feel personal, and you won’t be just another face in a crowd.

The transportation — an air-conditioned vehicle covering all sites efficiently — means you spend more time absorbing history and less time in transit. It’s a comfortable, stress-free way to see multiple locations without the hassle of navigating on your own.

The entry fees included to key sites like the Sir John Monash Centre and Tyne Cot Cemetery are a definite plus, ensuring no surprise costs. Plus, bottled water is provided, keeping you hydrated through long days of walking.

How does the cost compare?

At about $705, this tour isn’t cheap, but when you consider the number of sites visited, the quality of guiding, transportation, and entry fees included, it offers good value for those wanting an in-depth, emotional journey. Several reviewers remarked on how meaningful and comprehensive the experience was, justifying the price.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re a history buff or a relative of someone who served, this tour offers a deeply personal connection to the past. It’s perfect for small groups or couples seeking an immersive experience with expert narration. It’s also suitable for travelers comfortable with walking and spending a full day on-site, as the itinerary involves many stops and some emotional moments.

It’s less suitable if you’re looking for a casual sightseeing day or are on a tight budget, given the price. But for those who want a meaningful, guided exploration of the Western Front with a focus on Australian contributions, this tour hits the mark.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is available, making it easy to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How many people will be on the tour?
It’s a small-group experience, with a maximum of seven participants, ensuring personalized attention.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, entry fees to major sites, and bottled water throughout the tour.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, so plan to bring snacks or eat before/after the tour.

How long is the tour each day?
Each day’s itinerary is packed with site visits, typically lasting around a full day starting at 9:00 am, with the second day concluding in the late afternoon or early evening.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While it’s generally suitable for most travelers interested in history, it involves a good deal of walking and reflection, so check if your family members are comfortable with long days of sightseeing.

Can I trace a relative’s actions during the tour?
Yes, the tour offers the chance to trace a relative’s actions, which can make the experience even more meaningful for family history enthusiasts.

What’s the best time to book?
The tour is popular, booked on average 114 days in advance, so planning ahead is recommended to secure your spot.

How emotional is the experience?
Many reviews describe it as very emotional and poignant, especially at sites like Menin Gate and during wreath-laying ceremonies.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Australian tour from Arras provides an opportunity to walk through history with a knowledgeable guide, visiting some of the most important WWI sites in France and Belgium. You’ll gain context and emotional insight that makes the visit much more meaningful than simply sightseeing.

The combination of authentic trenches, comprehensive memorial visits, and a focus on Australian soldiers means this tour is particularly suited to those with a personal or academic interest in WWI. The small-group setup and expert guidance ensure an intimate, respectful, and deeply educational experience.

While it’s a significant expense, many reviewers feel the combination of sites, storytelling, and emotional moments justifies the price. If you’re ready for a profound historical journey, this tour offers a well-structured, memorable way to honor those who fought and fell on the Western Front.

Would I recommend it? If you’re serious about understanding Australia’s role in WWI and want a guided, respectful experience that goes beyond surface-level sightseeing, absolutely. Just be prepared for a full day of walking and reflecting — and bring tissues if you’re moved easily by history.