Arras is a small city with a big story, especially when it comes to WWI history. Known for its beautiful squares, well-preserved battlefield sites, and proximity to key memorials, Arras is a perfect base for exploring the region’s profound past. We love how easy it is to combine private transport with immersive visits — like the Private Round Trip Transfer to Vimy Ridge, which makes a day trip to the Canadian National Vimy Memorial straightforward and personal. Traveling with a local driver means you get insights along the way and avoid confusing public transit. Plus, Arras’s compact size makes it ideal for small-group tours and private explorations.
The list below covers a wide range of options, from private battlefield tours to full-day adventures that follow the footsteps of soldiers. Whether you want to focus on Canadian WWI sites, Australian memorials, or explore the entire Somme region in detail, there’s a tour suited for your interests. Many tours feature personalized experiences, detailed histories, and the comfort of private transportation, making each trip both educational and comfortable.
Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll find: private transfers to Vimy Ridge, half- and full-day WWI battlefield tours, specialized Canadian, Australian, and New Zealand experiences, and even cultural breaks like afternoon tea in Arras. Keep reading as we walk through each of these options so you can pick the perfect one for your trip.
1. Private Round Trip Transfer to Vimy Ridge from Arras
At number 1, this private transfer service simplifies a visit to Vimy Ridge. For around $114 per group (up to 4 people), your personal driver handles the logistics, letting you focus on the experience. The journey takes about 4 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore the Canadian National Vimy Memorial and its surrounding trenches. What makes this transfer stand out is the personalized touch — you can set your own return time and enjoy direct door-to-door service. Reviewers highlight the driver’s knowledge and flexibility, with Michel sharing local history and stopping at extra sites en route. It’s perfect if you prefer to manage your day at your own pace without a guided tour, especially if you’re traveling in a small group or family.
Bottom Line: This is a smart choice for travelers who want a hassle-free, flexible trip to Vimy Ridge with local insights, without the cost of a guided tour.
2. 1 day Canadian WW1 private tour including Vimy Ridge
Number 2 on our list is a personalized, full-day tour that covers essential Canadian WWI sites from Arras. For about $368 per person, you get a 7-hour journey through key battlefields, memorials, and cemeteries like Vimy Ridge, the Givenchy Road Canadian Cemetery, and the Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial. This tour features walking and driving, with stops at hidden sites like the Grange Tunnel, which enhances the experience beyond just the main memorials. The guide’s historical knowledge, especially about Canadian involvement, makes this tour both educational and emotionally impactful. One reviewer calls the guide “extremely knowledgeable,” emphasizing how personalized attention enriches the day.
Bottom Line: This is ideal for those wanting a deep dive into Canadian WWI history in a flexible, private setting, with plenty of meaningful stops.
3. Private Full Day Tour of the Somme Battlefields
Number 3 offers a comprehensive full-day private tour exploring the Battle of the Somme. For about $427, you’ll visit trenches, memorials, and cemeteries like the Memorial Terre-neuvien de Beaumont-Hamel, Thiepval, and the Lochnagar Crater. The tour includes a visit to out-of-the-way sites and a flexible itinerary tailored to your interests, even accommodating family history if desired. Guests mention guide Olivier’s exceptional knowledge, especially his ability to connect battles to their emotional stories. The day covers all the major sites with a balance of walking and driving, making it suitable for those with a moderate level of mobility.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history enthusiasts eager for a full, private immersion into the Somme, with a guide who makes the battles come alive.
4. Private Tour of the WW1 Somme Battlefields from ARRAS
Number 4 is a customizable private tour focusing on major WWI sites around the Somme, costing about $324 per person. The itinerary includes Beaumont-Hamel, Thiepval, Lochnagar Crater, and the Australian War Memorial at Villers-Bretonneux. The highlight is the ability to tailor your stops — ask to visit sites related to specific relatives or particular battles. Visitors note the guide’s extensive knowledge and how the well-organized day provides a thorough overview of the region’s tragic history. The inclusion of admission tickets saves time and adds to the value.
Bottom Line: A flexible, private experience best suited for those wanting to focus on specific battles or memorials with a knowledgeable guide.
5. Afternoon tea in the Shabby Caravan
Our number 5 pick offers a charming cultural break — afternoon tea in a vintage caravan setting. For just $11, this 45-minute experience is perfect for a relaxing pause amid your busy sightseeing. The caravan’s bohemian style creates a cozy atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a quiet moment with a drink and a snack. While not a historical tour, it complements battlefield visits by providing a taste of local hospitality. Reviewers love the intimate, private setting, making it a unique way to unwind and recharge.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a gentle, social pause during a busy day of touring, especially if you appreciate quirky local spots.
6. WW1 Canadian focused Tour including Vimy Ridge
Number 6 is a dedicated Canadian WWI tour, with a 9-hour itinerary costing around $427. It covers Vimy Ridge, the Cemetery du Cabaret Rouge, and the Beaumont-Hamel trenches. This tour emphasizes Canadian sacrifice and military history, with detailed visits to trenches and memorials. The guide is praised for their depth of knowledge, making the story resonate emotionally. The tour includes stops at key sites, with enough flexibility for special interests or personal stories. It’s well suited for anyone wanting an in-depth, Canadian-specific WWI experience.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for Canadians or anyone interested in Canada’s WWI role, with rich, personalized narration.
7. Australian – Out in the Somme Day Tour – from Arras
Number 7 is a distinctly Australian perspective on WWI, led by an Australian guide. For $314, it covers sites like Villers-Bretonneux, Pozieres, and the Sir John Monash Centre. The tour features authentic trenches and memorials like Windmill Memorial, highlighting Australian soldiers’ sacrifice. Guests appreciate the guide’s local knowledge and the personal stories shared, making history more tangible. It’s perfect for Australians or anyone interested in the Western Front from an Australian point of view.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a specialized focus on Australian WWI efforts, ideal for those wanting a personal, national narrative.
8. 2 Day Australian Tour – from Arras
Number 8 is a two-day adventure for those wanting a deep dive into Australian WWI history. It includes visits to Villers-Bretonneux, Pozières, Fromelles, and Ypres for a full immersion. For about $705, it’s suited for serious history enthusiasts, with comfortable transportation and personalized attention. Guests rave about guide Phil’s knowledge and the chance to see less-visited sites, as well as the opportunity to walk on actual battlefields and trenches.
Bottom Line: Best for visitors with at least two days to spare, seeking a comprehensive tour with personalized storytelling.
9. Private Tour of Vimy Ridge & Arras battlefields from ARRAS
Number 9 combines Vimy and Arras battlefields in a private 8-hour tour. For $321, you visit Vimy Ridge, Neuville-St Vaast Cemetery, and Beaumont-Hamel, with expert insights. The guide’s focus on the region’s WWI significance makes this a moving experience, especially the visit to the Canadian Memorial. Reviewers mention the guide’s friendly approach and detailed explanations, which help bring the stories to life more vividly than just reading plaques.
Bottom Line: A strong choice for those wanting a detailed, personal exploration of Canadian and regional WWI sites.
10. Australian and New Zealand Battlefield Day Tour in the Somme from Lille or Arras
Number 10 offers a 9-hour tour focusing on Australian and New Zealand soldiers, at about $446 per person. It includes visits to Le Hamel, the Jean and Denise Letaille Museum, and the Thiepval Memorial. The tour is great for those interested in the broader Commonwealth story, with options for lunch and entrance fees included. The guide’s local knowledge adds depth, and the small group size makes it intimate.
Bottom Line: Ideal for visitors wanting to explore WWI from the Australian and New Zealand perspective, with convenience and cultural insights.
11. Full-Day Canadian WW1 Vimy and Somme Battlefield Tour from Arras
Number 11 combines key Canadian WWI sites in a 9-hour private tour. For $470, visit Vimy Ridge, Cimetiere du Cabaret Rouge, and the Lochnagar Crater. The guide’s thorough knowledge makes this a deeply moving experience, with plenty of time at each stop. Reviewers mention the guide’s personable approach and the opportunity to learn about the soldiers’ stories.
Bottom Line: For travelers seeking an in-depth, personalized Canadian WWI experience, this tour offers a comprehensive, emotionally resonant day.
12. Full Day Private Canadian Battlefields Tour from Arras
Number 12 is a privately guided day focusing on Canadian WWI history. At about $486 for up to 3 people, it hits all the major battlefields and cemeteries, including Vimy, Thiepval, and Ypres. Guests value the detailed storytelling and the chance to walk through actual trenches. It’s a flexible, personalized experience perfect for those wanting to combine history with comfort.
Bottom Line: Tailored for Canadians or serious WWI buffs, this tour offers a detailed, behind-the-scenes look at Canadian sacrifice on the front lines.
13. Australian – Fromelles-Ypres Day Tour – from Arras
Number 13 is a long 12-hour day for Australian history lovers, costing around $405 per person. It visits Pheasant Wood, Australian Memorial Park, and Ypres, focusing on Australian engagements in WWI. The guide is praised for storytelling and personal touches, making the stories resonate deeply. It’s best suited for those with stamina and a keen interest in Australian military history.
Bottom Line: A full, immersive Australian WWI experience, ideal for those wanting a comprehensive, emotionally powerful day.
14. New Zealand focused WW1 Somme Private Tour
Number 14 is a small-group, private tour for New Zealanders or enthusiasts, costing about $432 for up to three people. It visits sites like Beaumont-Hamel and Lochnagar Crater, emphasizing New Zealand’s role in the Somme. Guests praise the guide’s friendly demeanor and detailed stories, making it a meaningful and intimate experience.
Bottom Line: Best for New Zealanders or those interested in New Zealand’s WWI history, offering a personal, focused narrative.
15. From Paris : WWI Vimy Battlefields – Private Tour
The final entry is a luxury full-day tour from Paris, priced at $702. It includes visits to Notre Dame de Lorette, Vimy, and Arras in a private vehicle. This is ideal for travelers based in Paris who want an expert-led experience with all logistics handled, and it’s perfect if you’re tight on time but want a comprehensive WWI tour.
Bottom Line: For those coming from Paris, this private day combines comfort with a rich itinerary, ideal for history lovers with limited time.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting a tour in Arras, consider your budget, interest focus, and time availability. If you’re after a flexible, low-cost option, the Private Transfer to Vimy Ridge might fit best. For a deeply personal, Canadian-focused experience, the Full-Day Canadian WWI Tour is excellent. If you want to explore multiple battlefields over two days, the 2-Day Australian Tour offers a thorough immersion.
For those interested in a cultural break, the Afternoon Tea provides a relaxing pause. And if you prefer a Paris-based trip, the WWI Vimy Battlefields Private Tour from Paris combines comfort and convenience.
Booking early is advised, especially for private or small-group tours, to secure your preferred dates and ensure personalized service.
Final Thoughts
Arras offers a variety of ways to connect with WWI history, from private battlefield explorations to cultural experiences. If you want to walk in the footsteps of soldiers or simply learn more about the region’s significant past, there’s a tour that fits your style and interests. For a focused Canadian experience, the Canadian WWI Tours and Vimy Ridge tours stand out. For Australians, the Out in the Somme offers an authentic, dedicated perspective.
Whatever your choice, Arras’s battlefield sites will leave you with a powerful impression of sacrifice and resilience. Book early, plan your interests, and enjoy exploring one of France’s most historically significant regions.
