2025 NORTHWEST EUROPE
CANADIAN BATTLEFIELD TOUR
SUMMER EDITION
2025 Summer Northwest Europe Canadian Battlefield Tour
explore WWI & WWII in one week
the perfect trip for educators and families with students
At a glance
July 13-19, 2025 • 7 Days / 6 Nights in France
Overnights
Paris • Caen • Amiens • Arras
Highlights
Paris • Normandy & Juno Beach • Beaumont-Hamel and the Royal Newfoundland Regiment • Vimy Ridge • scroll down to see complete details
July 13-19, 2025 • 7 Days / 6 Nights in France
Overnights
Paris • Caen • Amiens • Arras
Highlights
Paris • Normandy & Juno Beach • Beaumont-Hamel and the Royal Newfoundland Regiment • Vimy Ridge • scroll down to see complete details
Have you ever wanted to travel with the kids to France during summer vacation, to see Juno Beach and Vimy Ridge with a quality guided tour? Now you can!
Your trip begins in Paris with a day to explore, and you can add extra days prior to the start of the tour if you would like more sightseeing time. You then travel to Normandy to spend two days discovering Juno Beach, with overnights in the area of Caen, Bayeux, etc. Then, you venture north to see the World War One battlegrounds of the Somme and Vimy Ridge, places every Canadian ought to visit at least once. The tour concludes back in Paris, where you can add more days or continue on other summer travel!
Your trip begins in Paris with a day to explore, and you can add extra days prior to the start of the tour if you would like more sightseeing time. You then travel to Normandy to spend two days discovering Juno Beach, with overnights in the area of Caen, Bayeux, etc. Then, you venture north to see the World War One battlegrounds of the Somme and Vimy Ridge, places every Canadian ought to visit at least once. The tour concludes back in Paris, where you can add more days or continue on other summer travel!
You will stay at quality hotels, selected for their great location and service, and enjoy several group meals with high quality food and good camaraderie. And, you’ll be part of a typically all-Canadian group. Read what past travelers have said about our trips.
Join us for an unforgettable, life-changing journey through France.
Join us for an unforgettable, life-changing journey through France.
We will donate to Forest Recovery Canada
to minimize the carbon footprint of your trip.
Vimy Ridge, France.
Every Canadian ought to visit once.
ITINERARY
Saturday July 12
For many of our travelers it is departure day, for the overnight transatlantic flight to France. Some travelers may choose to leave for Europe sooner to extend the start of the trip - let us know if we can quote you on pre-tour accommodations.
Guests who have other travels already in progress, or guests from other points of origin including the United Kingdom, the United States and elsewhere, will meet the start of the tour on Day 1 in Paris.
For many of our travelers it is departure day, for the overnight transatlantic flight to France. Some travelers may choose to leave for Europe sooner to extend the start of the trip - let us know if we can quote you on pre-tour accommodations.
Guests who have other travels already in progress, or guests from other points of origin including the United Kingdom, the United States and elsewhere, will meet the start of the tour on Day 1 in Paris.
Day 1
Sunday July 13
In the mid-afternoon travelers can check into the group hotel. In the meantime, luggage is stored in the baggage lock-up.
Today you are free to explore Paris, the City of Light. Sightseeing highlights could include The Louvre and the Musée d'Orsay, the Arc de Triomphe, Jardins de Luxembourg, Père Lachaise Cemetery, the Eiffel Tower, shopping along the Champs-Élysées, and so much more!
In the early evening we gather in the heart of Paris for our Welcome Dinner, to set the stage for our special journey.
Overnight Paris - Novotel Paris Centre Eiffel Tower. [D]
Sunday July 13
In the mid-afternoon travelers can check into the group hotel. In the meantime, luggage is stored in the baggage lock-up.
Today you are free to explore Paris, the City of Light. Sightseeing highlights could include The Louvre and the Musée d'Orsay, the Arc de Triomphe, Jardins de Luxembourg, Père Lachaise Cemetery, the Eiffel Tower, shopping along the Champs-Élysées, and so much more!
In the early evening we gather in the heart of Paris for our Welcome Dinner, to set the stage for our special journey.
Overnight Paris - Novotel Paris Centre Eiffel Tower. [D]
Day 2
Monday July 14
This morning we depart for the Normandy coast, for two special days exploring the historic allied landings of D-Day - June 1944 - by walking the sands of Juno Beach.
In the mid-morning we arrive in the village of St-Aubin-sur-Mer, where a 50-mm German anti-tank gun still sits ominously in its casemate. We follow in the footsteps of our Canadian soldiers, from the landing on the beach (where the famous film footage was recorded) to the back streets, and to the German bunker.
After a group lunch, we venture a short distance to the town of Bernières-sur-Mer to observe the famous Canada House and the nearby defenses. This house is arguably the most famous of all the structures on the Normandy coast. Travelers will have the option to walk the beach 30 minutes from Saint-Aubin to Bernières, to reflect upon the sacrifices made so long ago.
Overnight Caen - Mercure Cote de Nacre. [B,L]
Monday July 14
This morning we depart for the Normandy coast, for two special days exploring the historic allied landings of D-Day - June 1944 - by walking the sands of Juno Beach.
In the mid-morning we arrive in the village of St-Aubin-sur-Mer, where a 50-mm German anti-tank gun still sits ominously in its casemate. We follow in the footsteps of our Canadian soldiers, from the landing on the beach (where the famous film footage was recorded) to the back streets, and to the German bunker.
After a group lunch, we venture a short distance to the town of Bernières-sur-Mer to observe the famous Canada House and the nearby defenses. This house is arguably the most famous of all the structures on the Normandy coast. Travelers will have the option to walk the beach 30 minutes from Saint-Aubin to Bernières, to reflect upon the sacrifices made so long ago.
Overnight Caen - Mercure Cote de Nacre. [B,L]
The German gun at Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer, Juno Beach.
Day 3
Tuesday July 15
Today is very special as you tour inside the amazing Juno Beach Centre - your home away from home in Normandy. Scheduling permitting, you will receive a guided tour of the German command bunker buried beneath the dunes.
We then walk along the shore, with storytelling and much reflection, to hear personal accounts of the men who landed in this stretch of Juno Beach.
Following another wonderful group lunch, we move across the channel into the town of Courseulles-sur-Mer with more visits at the water's edge and a close-up look at a Sherman Tank.
We conclude the day at the hallowed grounds of Bény-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery, the burial place of 2,044 Canadians who fell in the early hours of D-Day and the subsequent Battle of Normandy. The young men resting here await your visit.
Overnight Caen - Mercure Cote de Nacre. [B,L]
Tuesday July 15
Today is very special as you tour inside the amazing Juno Beach Centre - your home away from home in Normandy. Scheduling permitting, you will receive a guided tour of the German command bunker buried beneath the dunes.
We then walk along the shore, with storytelling and much reflection, to hear personal accounts of the men who landed in this stretch of Juno Beach.
Following another wonderful group lunch, we move across the channel into the town of Courseulles-sur-Mer with more visits at the water's edge and a close-up look at a Sherman Tank.
We conclude the day at the hallowed grounds of Bény-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery, the burial place of 2,044 Canadians who fell in the early hours of D-Day and the subsequent Battle of Normandy. The young men resting here await your visit.
Overnight Caen - Mercure Cote de Nacre. [B,L]
Travelers come down the dunes onto Juno Beach, Courseulles-sur-Mer.
Bény-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery, Juno Beach.
Day 4
Wednesday July 16
This morning you will enjoy some free time for cultural exploration in the medieval town of Bayeux. You may wish to consider seeing the 1,000-year-old Bayeux Tapestry which depicts events leading to William the Conqueror's invasion of England, or perhaps take a peek inside the enormous cathedral. Bayeux is a wonderful location for photography, the town having been mostly spared the destructive fighting of the war.
Later, we pause at Abbey Ardennes near Caen, an important site of pilgrimage. Here, young Canadian prisoners were illegally executed by the Germans in the early days following D-Day.
We then say goodbye to Normandy and continuing our journey into northeastern France.
Overnight Amiens - Mercure Cathedrale. [B]
Wednesday July 16
This morning you will enjoy some free time for cultural exploration in the medieval town of Bayeux. You may wish to consider seeing the 1,000-year-old Bayeux Tapestry which depicts events leading to William the Conqueror's invasion of England, or perhaps take a peek inside the enormous cathedral. Bayeux is a wonderful location for photography, the town having been mostly spared the destructive fighting of the war.
Later, we pause at Abbey Ardennes near Caen, an important site of pilgrimage. Here, young Canadian prisoners were illegally executed by the Germans in the early days following D-Day.
We then say goodbye to Normandy and continuing our journey into northeastern France.
Overnight Amiens - Mercure Cathedrale. [B]
Entrance to the garden at the Abbey Ardennes, site of the memorial to the Canadians.
Day 5
Thursday July 17
Day Five is steeped in history as we wind our way into the French countryside to consider the Battle of the Somme, one of the largest, bloodiest and most destructive battles of World War One.
You will be intrigued with a guided tour at Beaumont-Hamel - it is here that the Royal Newfoundland Regiment was nearly wiped out in the first few hours of the attack. This proudly Canadian battleground is one of the best preserved WWI sites in all of France.
Following a group lunch in the midst of the Somme region, we visit the impressive Thiepval Memorial - the largest Commonwealth War Graves monument in the world on which are inscribed the names of over 72,000 soldiers who fell in battle and have no known grave (including one very special name).
The day includes a visit to Canada's monument to the battle at Courcelette.
Overnight Arras - Mercure Centre Gare. [B,L]
Thursday July 17
Day Five is steeped in history as we wind our way into the French countryside to consider the Battle of the Somme, one of the largest, bloodiest and most destructive battles of World War One.
You will be intrigued with a guided tour at Beaumont-Hamel - it is here that the Royal Newfoundland Regiment was nearly wiped out in the first few hours of the attack. This proudly Canadian battleground is one of the best preserved WWI sites in all of France.
Following a group lunch in the midst of the Somme region, we visit the impressive Thiepval Memorial - the largest Commonwealth War Graves monument in the world on which are inscribed the names of over 72,000 soldiers who fell in battle and have no known grave (including one very special name).
The day includes a visit to Canada's monument to the battle at Courcelette.
Overnight Arras - Mercure Centre Gare. [B,L]
Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial Park.
Y-Ravine Cemetery, Beaumont-Hamel.
Day 6
Friday July 18
Each Canadian ought to visit Vimy Ridge once in their lifetime and today is your day. Ample time is then given to be on and around the monument, arguably the most impressive of all the war monuments in Europe. Scheduling permitting, we will go down into the tunnels with an on-site guide to learn how soldiers prepared for battle beneath the earth. We also walk the above-ground trenches for a first-hand feel of trench warfare.
To conclude the day, we visit Cabaret Rouge Cemetery where many of those who fell in the Battle of Vimy Ridge are laid to rest.
In the evening we gather for our Farewell Dinner, to raise a toast to all those past and present who wear the uniform in the pursuit of freedom, democracy and peace.
Overnight Arras - Mercure Centre Gare. [B,L,D]
Friday July 18
Each Canadian ought to visit Vimy Ridge once in their lifetime and today is your day. Ample time is then given to be on and around the monument, arguably the most impressive of all the war monuments in Europe. Scheduling permitting, we will go down into the tunnels with an on-site guide to learn how soldiers prepared for battle beneath the earth. We also walk the above-ground trenches for a first-hand feel of trench warfare.
To conclude the day, we visit Cabaret Rouge Cemetery where many of those who fell in the Battle of Vimy Ridge are laid to rest.
In the evening we gather for our Farewell Dinner, to raise a toast to all those past and present who wear the uniform in the pursuit of freedom, democracy and peace.
Overnight Arras - Mercure Centre Gare. [B,L,D]
The Canadian National Vimy Memorial, near Arras, France.
Day 7
Saturday July 19
This morning is departure day for some travelers, with the coach providing an optional early morning shuttle to Charles de Gaulle Airport on the outskirts of Paris. Buffet or box breakfast is included depending on departure time from the hotel. Some travelers may choose to remain in Europe longer to extend the end of the trip - let us know if we can quote you on post-tour accommodations! [B]
Saturday July 19
This morning is departure day for some travelers, with the coach providing an optional early morning shuttle to Charles de Gaulle Airport on the outskirts of Paris. Buffet or box breakfast is included depending on departure time from the hotel. Some travelers may choose to remain in Europe longer to extend the end of the trip - let us know if we can quote you on post-tour accommodations! [B]
Note: This itinerary is subject to minor alteration prior to the booking deadline. Clients should also keep in mind that minor variances are always possible during the actual tour based on the need to adapt to circumstances we encounter during our travels.
PRICING
$3950 CAD Land Only, Per Person, Based on Double Occupancy (two people sharing a room)
$750 CAD Single Supplement (the additional cost if traveling on your own - one person in the room - LIMITED SUPPLY, BOOK EARLY)
PRICING INCLUDES:
PRICING EXCLUDES:
$3950 CAD Land Only, Per Person, Based on Double Occupancy (two people sharing a room)
$750 CAD Single Supplement (the additional cost if traveling on your own - one person in the room - LIMITED SUPPLY, BOOK EARLY)
PRICING INCLUDES:
- An expert Canadian Historian, and an expert Canadian Tour Director, who will both accompany you on your full tour
- Six nights accommodation in twin or double rooms with private facilities
- Travel by luxury air-conditioned coach with reclining seats, facilities and free on-board Wi-Fi
- Buffet breakfast (cold and/or hot) at the hotel each morning, plus select meals as outlined in the itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner); lunches and dinners typically include a glass of wine/beer
- All entrances as per your itinerary
- All hotel service charges and local taxes
- One coach transfer at either end of the tour: from Charles de Gaulle Airport to the hotel in Paris on July 13, 2025 in coordination with the arrival of Air Canada AC872; and to Charles de Gaulle Airport on July 19, 2025 in coordination with the departure of Air Canada AC873; travelers on different days/flights and not utilizing these transfers will make their own arrangements
- Gratuities to Coach Driver and Local Guides are included ... these costs are extra on most other tours and can add up to $150 CAD or more per person at the end of your trip, be sure to compare
- Tour package which includes select daily detailed historical battle maps, period photographs, original audio recordings, and more ... a complete digital copy of all this is also given to you at the farewell dinner - an invaluable personal resource
PRICING EXCLUDES:
- Airfare - we can provide a quote for flights from any gateway in Canada, to match your own individual preferences based on dates, routes, class of seating, etc; you can go over early, stay later at the end, carry onward to other destinations, add the tour to existing travel plans - whatever arrangements work best for you!
- Pre-tour and/or post-tour accommodations - check with your favourite travel agent or ask us for a quote
- Travel Insurance Protection - check with your favourite travel agent or ask us for a quote from Manulife
- Meals other than stated on the itinerary
- Passport & related fees
- Any optional excursion not specifically stated
- Items of a personal nature
- As with all our trips, this tour will feature walks of some distance, ascending stairs, walking up or down hills or slopes of varying degree, walking on sand or rough pathways, etc, in order to reach some of the amazing locations on the tour; good personal mobility is key to a positive experience; we regret those who use walkers, canes, walking sticks or other assistance devices would not be successful on this trip
- Hotels have been pre-booked but are subject to change
- This tour requires a minimum of 20 passengers to operate
- Non-refundable deposit of $750 per person due with booking
- Balance of payment due on or before the booking deadline: Thursday April 15, 2025
- Liberation Tours will donate on your behalf to Forest Recovery Canada, to minimize the carbon footprint of your trip
- Download and read our Terms & Conditions prior to making your booking
Questions? Contact your favourite travel agent or:
John Cannon, Tour Director
1-833-252-0001 | booking@liberationtours.ca
John Cannon, Tour Director
1-833-252-0001 | booking@liberationtours.ca
Join us on the journey of a lifetime.