Picardy Guide

WWI Picardy Battlefields Tours: Somme & Beyond

Explore the historic WWI battlefields of Picardy, France, with expertly guided tours of the Somme, Verdun, and more.

25+ tours
From $$35
Full Day

Picardy, a region deeply etched into the history of the First World War, stands as a poignant testament to the courage and sacrifice of a generation. This northern French landscape, once a churned and scarred battleground, now offers a profound opportunity for reflection and remembrance. WWI battlefields tours in Picardy are not merely sightseeing excursions; they are immersive journeys into a past that shaped the modern world. From the vast, silent craters of the Somme to the enduring fortifications of Verdun, these tours bring history to life, offering a tangible connection to the events that unfolded here over a century ago. These meticulously planned excursions allow visitors to walk in the footsteps of soldiers, to stand on ground where pivotal moments of the war occurred, and to understand the sheer scale of the conflict. Expertly guided tours provide invaluable context, bringing to life the strategies, the daily lives of those involved, and the devastating impact of the fighting. You can expect to visit iconic sites such as the Newfoundland Memorial Park, the Ulster Tower, and Thiepval Memorial, among many others. TopTours.ai aggregates a wide range of these tours, enabling you to discover and compare options from reputable local operators, ensuring a meaningful and informative experience.

Featured WWI Battlefields Tours Tours

Discover our top picks for wwi battlefields tours in Picardy

Full day Australian Battlefields Tour
From $249.05
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

This tour brings the Australian story on the Somme to life through heartfelt storytelling, deep knowledge, and a true passion for remembrance. Guided with warmth and care for visitors’ comfort, it offers a thoughtful and memorable way to walk in the footsteps of Australian soldiers. While this is not a tailor-made tour and follows a set itinerary described in the tour details, there is flexibility to include a stop to visit the grave of a relative buried in a CWGC cemetery if it fits sensibly along the route.

4.9(91)
8h
View Details
Musee Somme 1916 Admission Ticket
From $9.49
Free Cancellation

Welcome to the Museum Somme 1916. Located at the heart of the Battles of the Somme (1914-1918), in a tunnel which was converted into an air-raid shelter in 1938, the Somme Trench Museum recreates the life of soldiers in the trenches of the July 1916 offensive, where the allies attacked the positions held by the Germans.

4.6(105)
1h
View Details
WW1 Somme Battlfields
From $284.63
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Our guide, Michael Smith, has lived and worked on The Somme since 1991 The is a comprehensive circuit of the Somme battlefields of 1916 The itinerary can be tailored to reflect your nationality If you have ancestors who fell during these battles, the cemetery and/or monument will be included. Our circuit takes us through beautiful countryside Other attractions can be added in the region: steam heritage railway, Amiens cathedral (the largest in France), windmills, a micro brewery.

5.0(12)
4h
View Details
Half Day Private guided Tour Battlefields of the Somme
From $314.28
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

This is a Somme offensive introductory tour. Visit some of the key sites and memorials as your guide describes the events surrounding this pivotal phase of the war on the western front. Reflect and pay your respects to the soldiers from many nations who fought here over one hundred years ago. As this is a half day tour why not start or end your day with a visit to the town of Albert with its restaurants , shops (except Monday) and Somme 1916 Museum. 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(23)
4h
View Details
Full-Day Private WW1 Australian Battlefield Day Tour from Amiens
From $332.07
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

This tour covers the sites where the Australians fought in the Somme in WW1: from the 1916 battle of Pozieres to Villers-Bretonneux where the Germans were halted in 1918. A great immersion into Australian history with an expert guide, each tour is a unique experience. All our tours are Private and/or personalised with a maximum of 7 passengers.

5.0(11)
9h
View Details
Australian private Somme tour including Sir John Monash Centre
💸Special Offer
$367.65From $330.88
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 Australians on the Somme with a local experienced guide. We conduct 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(51)
7h
View Details
WW1 Somme Battlefields in English or French
From $830.17
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

This is a living history visit of events that took place in the 20th century There is so much preserved here, that we could imagine that these battles happened yesterday. There is nothing "tacky" here. There is a tremendous sense of honour and respect. On certain days there is a nearby steam railway, constructed to carry troops and war materials during the First World War. The circuit of remembrance is in beautiful, rural countryside. There are specific circuits, depending on your nationality. Villers-Bretonneux has four Australian sites to visit, Your guide has lived and worked on The Somme for a little over 30 years. Other additional visits possible: micro breweries, steam railways, gardens.

5.0(1)
5h
View Details

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Why Choose WWI Battlefields Tours in Picardy?

Historical Significance

Picardy was a central theater of WWI. These tours offer a deep dive into its crucial role.

Expert Guidance

Knowledgeable guides provide historical context and personal stories, enriching the visitor experience.

Profound Reflection

These tours facilitate a quiet, respectful encounter with history, fostering understanding and remembrance.

Memorial Visits

Access to key memorials, cemeteries, and preserved battlefield sites like the Somme and Verdun.

Convenient Aggregation

TopTours.ai allows easy comparison of various tour options and operators in one place.

Accessibility

Many tours depart from major cities like Amiens or Arras, making them easy to access.

Types of WWI Battlefields Tours in Picardy

Full-Day Somme Battlefield Tours

These comprehensive tours typically cover the major sites of the Battle of the Somme, including cemeteries, memorials, and preserved trenches. They offer a deep understanding of one of WWI's most significant and costly battles.

Thiepval MemorialLochnagar CraterPeronne Historial Museum (exterior)Sausage ValleyLongueval Village

Verdun Sector Tours

Focusing on the brutal Battle of Verdun, these tours explore the key defensive positions, ossuaries, and fortifications that bore the brunt of years of fighting. Visitors gain insight into the trench warfare and the sheer resilience of the soldiers.

Fort DouaumontFort VauxVerdun OssuaryTrench of BayonetsFleury-devant-Douaumont

Multi-Day WWI Immersive Experiences

For a more in-depth exploration, multi-day tours combine various battlefield regions, including the Somme and Aisne, with historical sites and museums. These are ideal for those wanting a thorough historical context and understanding.

Combined Somme & Aisne sitesOvernight stays in historical townsIn-depth museum visitsPersonal stories and anecdotesFlexible itineraries

Private WWI Tours

Tailored for individuals, couples, or small groups, private tours offer a personalized itinerary and dedicated guide. This allows for a focused exploration based on specific interests or family history connections.

Customizable itineraryPrivate vehicle transportDedicated expert guideFlexible timingsFocus on specific interests

What to Expect on WWI Battlefields Tours in Picardy

Duration

Most day tours range from 8 to 10 hours, while multi-day tours can extend from 2 to 5 days.

Weather

Picardy experiences a temperate climate. Expect mild summers and cool winters. Rain is possible year-round, so packing layers and waterproofs is advisable.

Group Size

Tours typically range from small groups of 8-16 people to larger coach tours. Private tours offer exclusive experiences for your party.

What's Included

Generally includes transport from a designated meeting point, guided commentary by a historian or guide. Lunch, entrance fees to specific museums (if not on the battlefield itself), and personal expenses are usually extra.

Meeting Point

Tours commonly depart from central locations in cities like Amiens, Arras, or Lille. Some may offer pick-up services from local hotels.

Costs

Prices vary significantly based on duration, group size, and inclusions. Day tours often start from €35-€70 per person. Multi-day or private tours will be considerably more.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Wear comfortable walking shoes; you'll be traversing uneven terrain and visiting numerous sites.

2

Bring layers of clothing. The weather can change unexpectedly, and some WWI sites are exposed.

3

Carry a reusable water bottle and snacks. While some tours may include lunch, having provisions is always wise.

4

Consider purchasing a good WWI history book about the Somme or Verdun to read beforehand or afterward.

5

If you have specific family connections to the war, research any potential military service records before your trip.

6

Allow for quiet reflection time at cemeteries and memorials. These are places of remembrance.

7

Don't be afraid to ask your guide questions. They are a wealth of knowledge.

8

Check the specific tour inclusions for things like lunch, entrance fees, and hotel pick-ups before booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What is the best time of year to visit the WWI battlefields in Picardy?

A: The spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds than the summer months. However, tours operate year-round, so choose based on your preferred climate.

Q:How much walking is involved in these tours?

A: Expect a moderate amount of walking, often on uneven ground or through preserved trench systems. Comfortable footwear is essential. Some tours may have optional shorter or longer walking routes.

Q:Are these tours suitable for children?

A: While the subject matter is serious, many tours are designed to be educational and suitable for older children and teenagers (typically 12+). It's advisable to check specific tour operator guidelines for age recommendations.

Q:Can I visit specific family graves on a tour?

A: While tours visit major cemeteries, they may not be able to facilitate individual grave visits unless arranged as part of a private tour. It's best to contact tour operators directly with specific requests.

Q:What is the difference between a tour of the Somme and Verdun?

A: The Somme saw massive offensives with significant territorial gains and losses over a shorter period, famously in 1916. Verdun was a prolonged battle of attrition, lasting nearly the entire war, characterized by intense artillery duels and the defense of key fortifications.

Q:Do I need to book these tours in advance?

A: Yes, especially during peak season, it's highly recommended to book in advance. This secures your spot, particularly for smaller group or private tours, and ensures availability.

Q:What currency is used in Picardy?

A: The currency in France is the Euro (€). While many tour operators accept credit cards, it's good to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases or tips.

Don't Miss the Perfect Picardy Experience

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Why Visit Picardy?

Discover WWI history in Picardy's solemn memorials and preserved battlefields.

Experience charming medieval towns like Amiens, boasting stunning Gothic architecture.

Enjoy serene coastal landscapes and pristine beaches along the Opal Coast.

Delve into France's rich past with castles and cathedrals steeped in history.

Savor authentic regional cuisine and local produce in a relaxed setting.

Uncover a less-trodden path of authentic French culture and natural beauty.

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 Picardy Trip

Transportation Tips

Getting around Picardy is best achieved by car, offering the most flexibility to explore its varied landscapes and historical sites. Major towns are connected by rail, with services operated by SNCF. Within cities like Amiens, walking and local buses are viable options. Renting a car at hubs like Lille or Paris airports allows for easy day trips and access to more remote villages. Consider bike rentals for exploring the Baie de Somme's scenic routes.

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Where to Stay

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