Arras Guide

Arras Underground Tours: Explore the Boves & Tunnels

Discover the hidden subterranean world of Arras, a network of ancient tunnels and shelters with incredible history waiting to be explored.

12+ tours
From $$28
1.5-2.5 hours

Beneath the elegant plazas and charming facades of Arras lies a vast, often unseen world. This is the realm of the Boves and the network of tunnels that honeycomb the earth beneath this historic Pas-de-Calais city. For centuries, these subterranean spaces have served Arras and its people, from medieval quarries to crucial wartime shelters. Today, specialized tours offer a unique opportunity to descend into this hidden history, providing a profound connection to the city's layered past. Arras's underground story is deeply intertwined with its dramatic history. During World War I, the existing Boves, originally created by extracting chalk, were significantly expanded by the Australian Corps to house troops and serve as safe transit routes beneath the front lines. These efforts were vital in the lead-up to the Battle of Arras in 1917, allowing soldiers to move unseen and unheard towards the enemy. Exploring these passages offers a visceral sense of the scale of these operations and the conditions faced by those who served. Beyond the Great War, the Boves also played a role in earlier conflicts and even served as storage and shelter during other periods, demonstrating their long-standing importance to Arras's survival and resilience. These Underground Arras Exploration tours are not just about history; they are an immersion into a different dimension of the city. Visitors can expect to walk in the footsteps of soldiers, witness the ingenuity of past inhabitants, and gain a new appreciation for Arras's strategic significance. It's a chance to connect with the past in a tangible, atmospheric way, revealing a side of Arras that few experience. For anyone interested in military history, urban exploration, or simply uncovering the less-traveled paths of a remarkable city, these underground adventures are a compelling choice.

Featured Underground Arras Exploration Tours

Discover our top picks for underground arras exploration in Arras

Private Round Trip Transfer to Vimy Ridge from Arras
From $116.22
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

We pick you up at the train station or at your hotel and we drive you in a comfortable vehicle for a visit to the Vimy Canadian Memorial. We deposit you on the site where you will find English and french speaking guides. We set together the time of return, we pick you up at Vimy and we drop you off at the train station or at your hotel. Remember that this is more of a transportation service than a tourist guide service. However, Michel is native to the region and know perfectly the sites on which they take you. You are traveling in Suzuki. Please note that price is for car up to 4 passengers.

4.9(164)
4h
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Entrance Ticket Nausicaa, the biggest aquarium in Europe
From $35.58

Nausicaá, located in Boulogne-sur-Mer on the seafront, is more than just a mere aquarium: it is the largest exhibit in Europe dedicated to the discovery and protection of the marine world. Nausicaá is an incredible destination for families: marvel at the majestic pelagic rays and sharks, explore the beauties of the tropical lagoon, attend the medical training of the sea lions and many more experiences! New Experience 2022 : GRAND LARGE – THE GIANTS OF THE HIGH SEAS Set out to discover the high seas, so little-known and inaccessible, and meet the majestic animals that inhabit it, thanks to an augmented reality system - unique in the world - in one of Nausicaá’s most fascinating spaces: The Great Bay with its 100 sq.m window! Good news ! it is included in your entrance ticket : you just have to book it when you arrive. dont forget to be sure not to miss it ! please remember to print your ticket upon arrival

3.7(1,133)
4h
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Private Tour of Vimy Ridge & Arras battlefields from ARRAS
From $332.07
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

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.

5.0(12)
8h
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Private Tour of the WW1 Somme Battlefields from ARRAS
From $332.07
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

This tour covers the major sites of the Battles of the Somme in 1916 and 1918, it's an easy day trip coming from PARIS for the day (1h by train). Our tours start and finish just outside the ARRAS train station. we will cover the sites of the major 1916 battle: the impressive "Lochnagar" mine crater, Pozieres, the Thiepval memorial to the missing and the preserved battlefields of Beaumont-Hamel. After a lunch stop at Albert and a visit to the Somme 1916 underground museum we will head to the 1918 battlefields: Villers-Bretonneux Australian memorial and the new John Monash centre (if open on that day) and the sites of the famous August 1918 allied counter-offensive. After this moving day we will drive back to ARRAS.

4.9(24)
8h
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 WW1 Canadian focused Tour including Vimy Ridge
From $533.68
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

From the towns of Arras or Albert we head out to the war scarred landscape of this region. The morning will be spent exploring the Battle of the Somme. After lunch we head to Vimy Ridge and the ground over which Canadian troops demonstrated their tenacity and courage during the capture of this strategically important feature. Your experienced guide will tell you the history and how the war unfolded over these sections of the Western Front. We only operate private tours, this will be your tour and adapted as necessary to meet your needs during the time. If you have any special sites, such as areas that involved your relatives, please ask as we are keen to adapt the tour specifically for you. With our years of living and working on these iconic sites we aim to ensure you leave with memories of the sacrifice of a generation. Given suitable notice time and the availability of records we are able to research and prepare a bespoke tour to cover an individual soldier or unit.

5.0(21)
9h
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Calais City Self Guided Walking Tour with an App
From $9.99
Free Cancellation👤Private TourNew

Step into the soul of Calais with a self-guided walking tour that blends history, beauty, and adventure. Start at the stunning Grand Théâtre and wander past Belle Époque boulevards into the heart of the city. Marvel at the Hôtel de Ville and its soaring UNESCO Belfry, then explore the majestic Église Notre-Dame and its peaceful Tudor garden. Climb the ancient Tour du Guet, stroll through serene parks like Saint-Pierre and Richelieu, and uncover stories of bravery at the Monument aux Sauveteurs. From sweeping sea views to a fire-breathing dragon on the beach, Calais is full of surprises. Don’t let someone else discover it before you unlock the secrets of Calais, one step at a time.

2h
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Guided eBike Tour in Garrykennedy and Arra Hills at Lough Derg
From $106.74
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Maximum group size is 6, so you will get a personalised experience. You will get to explore some of the lesser travelled (and therefore quiet!) roads in the Lough Derg area, seeing great views of the lake and the surrounding hills. You will also hear of some of the history of the area, along with information about the historic buildings and the places around the lake shore. Please note that I am open to variations in the route if there is something in particular a group wants to see.

3h
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1 day Canadian WW1 private tour including Vimy Ridge
From $367.65
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

On this tour, your group will be the sole and exclusive participant. You will receive your guide's undivided attention. This is a strictly private tour: I never combine bookings. You will only travel with the people you choose. Following the footsteps of the Canadians at Vimy Ridge and the Somme from Arras with a local experienced guide. I am conducting battlefield tours of the Western Front since over 16 years to provide you a unique experience. To ensure a truly personalized experience, please let me know in advance if you have any special interests or specific sites you wish to visit, including any locations connected to family members who served during the war. I'm happy to tailor the tour to your preferences.

5.0(30)
7h
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Full-Day Canadian WW1 Vimy and Somme Battlefield Tour from Arras
From $604.84
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Explore Canada’s role in World War I on this full-day Somme battlefield tour from Arras. Explore tunnels and trenches used by Canadian forces during the Battle of Vimy Ridge in 1917 with a guide. Visit the Courcelette Canadian Memorial, Neuville St. Vaast Canadian N°2 Cemetery, and Thiepval Memorial to the Missing of the Somme, and learn of the many lives laid down in battle. After lunch, visit WWI battle trenches at the Beaumont Hamel New Foundland Memorial Park. Tour includes round-trip travel from your Arras hotel.

5.0(7)
9h
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2day Australian WW1 battlefield tour in Flanders the Somme from Lille and Arras
From $1,414.84
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

The first day you will stand in Fromelles, visit the museum and the Pheasant Wood cemetery, go to VC Corner Cemetery and the Australian Memorial Park. You will see one of the mine craters of Messines, Hill 60, Polygoon Wood and Tyne Cot Cy. in Passendale. That night you will attend the Last Post at the Menin Gate in Ypres. The second day will put the focus on the Somme, Villers Bretonneux, the Memorial, Le Hamel where General Monash will use new tactics and Pozières and its Windmill and Moo Cow Farm.

4.8(5)
48h
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Canadian Somme and Flanders battlefield tour 2 days starting from Lille or Arras
From $1,337.6
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Stand on the places where Canadians made History ! The first day you will stand at Tyne Cot Military Cemetery, Passendale, Crest Farm, Essex Farm and at the Menin Gate. The second day you will stand in the Tunnel at Vimy Ridge, near the Memorial, in Courcelette and Thiepval, at Lochnagar Crater and you will visit the battlefield at Beaumont Hamel.

5.0(2)
48h
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Australian Battlefields Private Tour in Flanders and Fromelles from Arras
From $676
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Explore Australia’s World War I history in Flanders and Fromelles on this 9-hour small-group battlefield tour from Arras. Travel through Flanders and Fromelles with a guide, and take in key sites of interest including the Cobbers’ Memorial, the Tyne Cot Cemetery in Passchendaele, and the VC Corner Cemetery — France’s only exclusively Australian WWI cemetery. Learn of the thousands of Australian soldiers who laid down their lives, and see the many ways in which the Commonwealth War Graves Commission mark their sacrifice. This tour includes round-trip travel from your Arras hotel.

6h
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Private transfer from Bruges to Le Havre, 2h Stop in Arras
From $575.19
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Experience an easy-going private tour that combines exceptional comfort with thrilling adventures, all in the company of your dedicated private driver for the day, an experienced long-distance driver. Our exclusive journey promises enriching exploration and cherished memories, making it a transformative travel experience.

6h
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Private transfer from Brussels to Le Havre, 2h Stop in Arras
From $602.47
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Experience an easy-going private tour that combines exceptional comfort with thrilling adventures, all in the company of your dedicated private driver for the day, an experienced long-distance driver. Our exclusive journey promises enriching exploration and cherished memories, making it a transformative travel experience.

7h
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Why Choose Underground Arras Exploration in Arras?

Uncover WWI History

These tours offer a direct connection to the strategic importance of Arras during World War I, particularly the vital role of the tunnels in troop movements.

Unique Atmosphere

Experience the profound and evocative atmosphere of the underground passages, a world away from the bustling streets above.

Expert Local Guides

Learn from knowledgeable guides who bring the history and stories of the Boves and tunnels to life with engaging narratives.

See a Hidden Side

Go beyond the usual tourist trails and discover a crucial, yet often overlooked, aspect of Arras's heritage.

Fascinating Origins

Understand the evolution of these underground spaces, from ancient chalk quarries to sophisticated wartime infrastructure.

Gain New Perspective

Seeing Arras from below provides a unique understanding of its defenses, its history, and the lives of its past inhabitants.

Types of Underground Arras Exploration in Arras

WWI Tunnel Expeditions

These tours focus on the World War I history of the tunnels, detailing their use by Australian troops and the operations surrounding the Battle of Arras. Expect to learn about troop movements, engineering feats, and the daily lives of soldiers underground.

WWI specific historical focusDetails on troop movements and strategiesInformation on tunnel constructionOften includes stories of soldiersFocus on the Australian Corps' role

General Boves Exploration

Broader tours that delve into the long history of Arras's Boves, which predate WWI. These often cover their origins as chalk quarries and their use as general shelters or storage throughout different historical periods.

Covers centuries of historyExplains quarrying techniquesHighlights various uses of the BovesLess military-specific focusBroader historical context

Combined City & Underground Tours

Some operators offer packages that include a guided exploration of the underground with a tour of Arras's surface landmarks. This provides a comprehensive overview of the city, linking the history above ground with the secrets below.

Surface and subterranean explorationHolistic city history perspectiveEfficient use of timeHighlights connections between above and belowIdeal for first-time visitors

What to Expect on Underground Arras Exploration Tours

Duration

Most underground tours last between 1.5 to 2.5 hours, allowing ample time to explore the network and absorb the historical information.

Weather

The temperature underground is consistently cool, typically around 12-14°C (54-57°F) year-round. Wearing layers is recommended, even in summer.

Group Size

Group sizes usually range from 8 to 20 participants, ensuring an intimate experience and the ability to hear the guide clearly.

What's Included

Tours typically include the services of a knowledgeable guide and access to the restricted underground areas. Some may offer audio guides or small booklets. What's not included is usually transport to the meeting point and personal expenses.

Meeting Point

Meeting points are generally in central Arras, often near the main squares (like Place des Héros or Place du Théâtre) or specific historical sites. Details are provided upon booking.

Costs

Prices can vary depending on the tour operator and duration, generally ranging from approximately $28 to $50 USD (or equivalent EUR) per person.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, as tours can sell out.

2

Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes with good grip; surfaces can be uneven or damp.

3

Dress in layers. The underground temperature is consistently cool, so a light jacket or jumper is advisable.

4

Bring a small, portable camera; while flash photography is often restricted, the atmosphere is perfect for atmospheric shots.

5

Listen attentively to your guide; they possess a wealth of knowledge and fascinating anecdotes.

6

Be prepared for a physical experience. While not overly strenuous, there are stairs and narrow passages involved.

7

Check the specific tour details for any age restrictions or mobility considerations before booking.

8

Consider the combined tours if you want a comprehensive understanding of Arras's history in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:Are the underground tunnels safe to visit?

A: Yes, the tours are conducted by professional guides who are well-versed in the safety protocols for these historical sites. The infrastructure is regularly checked, and guides ensure all participants follow safety instructions.

Q:Can children participate in these tours?

A: Many tours are suitable for families, but some may have age recommendations due to the historical context or physical nature of the exploration. Always check the specific tour operator's guidelines before booking for younger visitors.

Q:What if I'm claustrophobic?

A: The tunnels vary in width and height, but some sections can feel confined. If you have significant claustrophobia, it's best to speak with the tour operator beforehand to understand the specific conditions of the route and decide if it's suitable for you.

Q:Is it possible to visit the underground if I have mobility issues?

A: Unfortunately, due to the nature of the historical underground passages, which often involve stairs and uneven terrain, these tours are generally not suitable for individuals with significant mobility impairments. Please check with the tour operator for precise details.

Q:What should I wear to an underground Arras tour?

A: Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential for navigating the underground. It's also a good idea to wear layers, as the temperature remains cool year-round. A light jacket or sweater is usually sufficient.

Q:Can I take photos underground?

A: Photography is usually permitted, but flash photography might be restricted to protect any historical artifacts or due to the sensitive environment. Always follow your guide's instructions regarding photography.

Q:How are the underground tunnels related to WWI?

A: During WWI, the existing Boves were significantly expanded by the Australian Corps to create a complex network of tunnels and shelters. They were used to move troops secretly towards the front lines and provide safe accommodation, playing a crucial role in battles like the Battle of Arras.

Q:What is the difference between Boves and tunnels?

A: The 'Boves' are the original chalk quarries that have existed for centuries. 'Tunnels' often refers to the more militarized and expanded sections, particularly those created or adapted for use during World War I, forming a more extensive subterranean network.

Don't Miss the Perfect Arras Experience

Book your underground arras exploration today - 12+ tours with instant confirmation & best price guarantee!

Why Visit Arras?

Discover Arras' stunning Gothic architecture and vibrant market squares, a true Northern France gem.

Experience authentic Picardy charm in Arras, with its rich history and welcoming atmosphere.

Explore the underground tunnels of Arras, offering a unique glimpse into WWI history.

Immerse yourself in Flemish-inspired grandeur on Arras' magnificent central plazas.

Savor local Northern French cuisine and regional specialties in this charming Artois city.

Arras offers a captivating blend of history, beauty, and genuine French provincial life.

Best Time to Visit

Weather

France experiences a predominantly temperate climate, with variations across its diverse regions. Expect mild, wet winters and warm summers in the north and west, while the south enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters.

Best Months

May, June, and September offer the most pleasant weather across much of France, with warm temperatures, lower rainfall, and fewer crowds than the peak summer months.

Peak Season

July and August are the busiest months, characterized by warm to hot weather, long daylight hours, and a vibrant atmosphere, especially in coastal and tourist hotspots.

Off Season

The winter months (November to March) are generally cooler and wetter, with fewer tourists and lower prices, making it ideal for city breaks and experiencing local culture without the crowds.

Plan Your Arras Trip

Transportation Tips

Getting around Arras is delightfully easy on foot, especially the central squares and historic sites. For exploring further afield, local buses operate within the city and connect to surrounding areas. Consider renting a bike to explore the countryside around Arras at your own pace. Taxis are available for direct transfers, though less necessary for typical tourist routes. Public transport is generally affordable and efficient for navigating the region.

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Where to Stay

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