Private Tour of Vimy Ridge & Arras battlefields from ARRAS

Arras , France

Private Tour of Vimy Ridge & Arras battlefields from ARRAS

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(12 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

A Private Tour is the best way to experience the battlefields with a knowledgeable and certified guide. We have 16 years of experience in organizing battlefield tours in France.
Discover the Arras and Vimy Battlefields for a Day Trip in northern France, easy accessible coming from Paris or Lille by train for the day.
Starting from ARRAS (other location possible on demand) this tour will allow you to discover the sites of the WW1 battles in northern France: the trenches at Vimy ridge, the monuments, memorials and bunkers... each tour is unique, if you want to follow in the footsteps of a relative or visit any specific site of interest to you we can build up a personalized tour and itinerary for you.

Available options

Arras tour L-V

Mercedes<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Private Guide, WW1 expert

All Fees and Taxes

Access to all the sites and museum fees

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

We will start the tour visiting Vimy ridge, the largest Canadian Memorial on the Western Front which commemorates nearly 11.000 Canadian soldiers who died in France and have no known grave.
The capture of Vimy ridge was a great victory for the Canadian Corps and today it's one of the best preserved World War One battlefields with its preserved trenches, shell holes, mine craters and tunnels.
The new visitors centre will be visited as well as the tunnels (open to the public during the season).

The largest war cemetery in France is located at Neuville Saint Vaast, it is the resting place for 44.000 German soldiers who lost their lives in the region during the various battles of Artois.

Free time for lunch on this very nice place.

Visit to this unique new visitor attraction that shines a light on the work of the remarkable organisation at the heart of remembrance of the war dead.
The CWGC Experience was awarded the Best Tourism Project in Europe at the 2019 British Guild of Travel Writers’ International Tourism Awards.

We will pass the abbey of Mont Saint-Eloi, used as an observation post in the battles of Artois.

The new memorial, called "The Ring of Remembrance" commemorates the 600.000 soldiers from all nations who lost their lives in Northern France during the First World War.

Stop 7

After the First World War, the hill of Notre-Dame-de-Lorette was chosen by the French Government to receive the remains of French soldiers from over 150 cemeteries on the fronts of Artois, Flanders, Yser and the Belgian coast.
This site contains 20,000 graves and the remains of 22,000 unknown soldiers.
Notre-Dame-de-Lorette is France’s biggest national necropolis.

What's not included

Lunch

Snacks

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

8 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Arras

Arras is a charming city in northern France known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and the famous Arras Carnival. The city's historic center features beautiful Flemish-style buildings and grand squares, making it a delight for visitors interested in history and culture.

Top Attractions

Grand Place and Place des Héros

These two grand squares are the heart of Arras, surrounded by stunning Flemish-style buildings with ornate facades. They are a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-see for any visitor.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Belfry of Arras

This 15th-century belfry is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside from its top.

Historical/Architecture 30-45 minutes €5

Citadel of Arras

Built by Vauban in the 17th century, this star-shaped fortress is a testament to the city's military history and offers beautiful gardens and walking paths.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

WW1 Battlefields and Memorials

Arras is surrounded by significant WW1 battlefields and memorials, including the Canadian National Vimy Memorial and the Arras Memorial.

Historical Half-day to full-day Variable, some sites are free while others may charge an entrance fee

Must-Try Local Dishes

Flemish Carbonnade

A traditional Flemish beef and beer stew, slow-cooked with onions and spices, often served with fries or bread.

Main dish Contains beef and beer, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Arras Ham

A local delicacy made from pork, salt, and spices, often served as a charcuterie board or in sandwiches.

Snack/Deli Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Waffles

Belgian-style waffles, often served with whipped cream, fruit, or chocolate, are a popular treat in the region.

Dessert Can be made vegetarian or vegan with the right toppings

Popular Activities

Hiking in the surrounding countryside Cycling through the region's bike-friendly paths Picnicking in the Citadel gardens Enjoying a coffee or meal at a local cafe or restaurant Visiting museums and galleries Exploring the historic center and architecture Attending local festivals and events Visiting the Christmas markets in December

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, outdoor festivals, and the famous Arras Carnival. The city is bustling with activities and events.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: French
Widely spoken: English, Dutch
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Arras is a generally safe city with a low crime rate, but it's always important to take basic precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services, and always agree on a fare before starting your journey
• Be cautious when using ATMs, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash

Getting there

By air

Lille Airport • 50 km from Arras

By train

Arras Railway Station

By bus

Arras Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The local bus network covers the city and surrounding areas, making it easy to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

City Center Saint-Nicolas Saint-Pierre

Day trips

Lille

50 km from Arras • Full day

Lille is a vibrant city with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and a thriving cultural scene. It's a great destination for a day trip from Arras.

Béthune

25 km from Arras • Half day

Béthune is a charming medieval town with a rich history and beautiful architecture. It's a great destination for a half-day trip from Arras.

Vimy Ridge

15 km from Arras • Half day

Vimy Ridge is a significant WW1 battle site and memorial, offering a poignant and moving experience for visitors.

Festivals

Arras Carnival • The weeks leading up to Lent Arras Film Festival • November Arras Christmas Market • December

Pro tips

Visit the city's historic center and grand squares in the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds
Try the local specialties, such as Flemish Carbonnade and Arras Ham, for a true taste of the region's cuisine
Consider hiring a guide or joining a tour for a more informative and in-depth experience, especially when visiting the WW1 battlefields and memorials
Explore the surrounding countryside and villages for a unique and authentic experience, and to see a different side of the region
Attend local festivals and events, such as the Arras Carnival or the Arras Film Festival, for a memorable and immersive cultural experience