Amiens might not be the first place you think of for full-day tours, but this historic city offers some compelling options for those interested in World War I history and Australian military remembrance. Its proximity to key battlefield sites and war memorials makes Amiens a natural hub for immersive, meaningful day trips. I personally find the Full day Australian Battlefields Tour especially moving—combining heartfelt storytelling with visits to significant cemeteries and memorials, and even the chance to see where a relative might be buried. If you’re interested in exploring the Western Front with an Australian perspective, this tour is a standout.
While Amiens itself boasts stunning architecture like the 800-year-old Amiens Cathedral, these tours offer an entirely different experience: walking in the footsteps of soldiers and understanding the human stories behind history’s most pivotal battles. Whether you prefer guided group outings or private explorations, you’ll find options tailored to your interests. Below, I’ve outlined three of the best full-day tours in Amiens, each with its own appeal.
A quick overview of the types of tours included in this list
The list features guided group tours, private personalized experiences, and shorter but in-depth battlefield visits. From the comprehensive Australian WWI battlefield tours to private trips focusing on the Battle of the Somme, there’s something for different budgets and interests. Check out this full-day Australian Battlefields Tour for a detailed guided experience, or opt for the private WWI Australian Battlefield Day Tour from Amiens for a more intimate journey. Finally, for a shorter, focused experience, the Full Day Private Battle of the Somme Tour from Albert offers a concise yet impactful exploration. Now, let’s look more closely at each.
1. Full day Australian Battlefields Tour
Known for its deep storytelling and emotional resonance, this tour offers a rich narrative of Australia’s role in WWI, especially on the Western Front. It’s rated 5.0/5 from 70 reviews, which speaks volumes about its quality. For around $248.83 per person, you get about 8 hours of expertly guided sightseeing that takes you through key sites like the Amiens Cathedral, celebrating its 800th birthday, and the Villers-Bretonneux Military Cemetery. The guide’s warmth makes the experience feel personal, especially as they share stories of bravery and loss.
A highlight is the visit to the Sir John Monash Centre, where you can absorb interactive exhibits about the Australian troops’ contributions. The tour also includes a stop at Villers-Bretonneux, where you can pay respects at the Australian memorial and visit graves of fallen soldiers—an emotionally powerful moment. The flexibility to include visits to relatives’ graves buried in CWGC cemeteries adds a personal touch, if it fits into the itinerary.
This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts who want both context and emotion. It’s well-suited for those interested in WWI, Australian soldiers, and memorial visits—plus, the reviews rave about the knowledgeable guides and the respectful atmosphere. The value for money is clear given the depth and comfort of the experience.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal if you want a comprehensive, heartfelt introduction to Australian involvement on the Western Front, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.
2. Full-Day Private WW1 Australian Battlefield Day Tour from Amiens
For those seeking a tailored, more personal experience, this private tour offers an intimate look at the Australian battles across the Somme. Priced at $320.99 per person with a maximum of 7 guests, this 9-hour journey focuses on key sites like the Lochnagar Crater, Pozieres, the Thiepval Memorial, and the Beaumont-Hamel battlefield. The private format allows for more flexibility and personalized storytelling, which guides like Sylvester are known for.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on specific battle sites, such as the Gibraltar bunker and Mouquet Farm, along with an emotionally resonant visit to the German war graves. The Lochnagar Crater, created by an underground explosion in 1916, is a stunning reminder of the war’s destructive power. The tour also includes a stop in Albert for lunch and a visit to the Somme 1916 underground museum, which offers a tangible connection to soldiers’ lives.
Reviews highlight Sylvester’s deep battlefield knowledge and his ability to find relatives’ graves, adding a personal touch. If you want a flexible, in-depth private experience with clear focus on Australian and Commonwealth sites, this tour hits the mark.
Bottom line: Best suited for those wanting a personalized, emotionally impactful day with expert narration on Australian WWI history.
3. Full Day Private Battle of the Somme Tour from Albert
This shorter, 6-hour tour offers a focused look at the Battle of the Somme with an emphasis on strategic details and battlefield sites. Led by local guide Brigitte, it explores key locations like the Somme 1916 Museum, the Basilica Notre-Dame de Brebieres, and other significant spots in Albert.
What sets this tour apart is its concentrated approach—covering the main battlefield highlights in a compact timeframe. The visit to the museum with over 4,000 WWI artifacts provides a vivid sense of trench life and wartime conditions. The guide’s local knowledge shines through, making the experience both educational and personal. The price of $347.58 for up to 3 people makes this an affordable option for small groups seeking a meaningful history lesson without a long day’s commitment.
Guests appreciate Brigitte’s passion and her ability to share detailed stories, which helps bring the battles to life. This tour is well-suited for visitors with limited time or those who want a deep but concise battlefield overview.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting an efficient yet compelling battlefield experience, focusing on the Battle of the Somme’s key moments.
How to Choose Your Amiens Full-Day Tour
When selecting the right tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and specific interests. For a comprehensive, emotionally rich experience, the Full day Australian Battlefields Tour is hard to beat. If you prefer a more personalized or flexible experience, the private WWI Australian Battlefield Day Tour offers tailored visits and deeper engagement. And for a shorter, focused battlefield overview, the Full Day Private Battle of the Somme Tour from Albert delivers key sites in a compact format.
Think about your physical comfort—most tours involve walking around cemeteries and trenches—so good footwear and a respectful attitude about solemn sites are essential. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and guide.
To sum it up, Amiens offers a variety of full-day tours that can satisfy different types of travelers. History buffs interested in Australian WWI involvement will find the Australian Battlefields Tour particularly meaningful. Those seeking a personalized and in-depth experience should consider the private WWI Australian Battlefield Tour. If time is tight but you still want a solid overview, the Battle of the Somme tour from Albert hits the sweet spot.
Whatever you choose, these tours provide a powerful way to connect with history, honor sacrifice, and gain a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made on the Western Front. Booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these meaningful experiences.
