From Albert to Arras: the Rebirth of the Shattered Cities

This little museum is located in the underground tunnels of Albert, where both civilians and soldiers took shelter during the bombings. Visiting the Somme 1916 Museum is like travelling in time. Thousands of military artefacts such as arms, helmets, uniforms and war medals are displayed. Take the time to watch the video at the entrance, which provides a good explanation of the historical context.

Located on the ground of the Australian National Memorial, the Sir John Monash Centre is a remarkable high-tech museum not to be missed! Dedicated to the Australian soldiers on the Western Front, it is in fact an exhibition that concerns all men and women, who served during the war. Its multimedia technologies offer a truly harrowing war experience. The immersive gallery with a 186-screen spectacular show creates a 360° experience, enhanced by light beams and smoke effects. Visitors are literally thrown into the heart of the battle. Be careful if you are too sensitive.
Climb to the top of the 32metres-high tower of the Memorial. It offers a large panoramic view on the surrounding countryside.

After so many poignant visits, have a break at this wonderful viewpoint over the Somme Valley and its beautiful lakes. More than 100 years after the tragedy of the war, the nature is insisting back on its rights. Take your time to walk along the footpath and watch the wildlife. Breath some fresh air and enjoy the beauty of nature!
This small hike is a walk in the footsteps of the soldier-writer Blaise Cendrars, who was stationed here during the war.

You have arrived to Péronne, a small town on the banks of the river Somme. It is now nicely reconstructed after extensive damage during WWI. Have lunch at this restaurant, ideally located in front of the Museum of the Great War, which is your next stop.

Located inside the town's medieval castle, the Great War museum, named "Historial de la Grande Guerre" in french, is an outstanding place to visit. Its singularity is to give an equal space to the German, French and British perspectives on what happened, how and why.
After the visit, take the time to walk around the lake behind the museum to admire the modern architecture of the Historial, strongly connected to the medieval castle.

The Wellington Quarry is an underground museum, which allows discovering the network of tunnels built under the city during the Battle of Arras in 1917. It is named "Wellington", after the capital city of New Zealand, since soldiers from New Zealand have dug it. It was a complete underground city, with accommodation for soldiers and a large hospital for treating the wounded. The visit offers a really good scenography.
The temperature down there is a constant 11°C: don't forget to bring a jacket.

Artois' former capital is an unexpected gem of a city. More than 80% of Arras has been heavily damaged during WWI, but most of the gorgeous Flemish-style façades were reconstructed. You can stroll around the "Grand' Place", the main square of the city. Head towards the adjacent smaller square, the "Place des Héros", to admire the amazing city hall. It combines both Art deco and Flamboyant Gothic styles.

If you are a meat lover, this is a great restaurant for having dinner, situated on Arras main square. You will enjoy perfectly cooked beef with amazing sauce and a free refill of French fries.