Located in the north of France, Arras is both accessible and charming, and above all, a veritable open-air history book. When you arrive in Arras, you'll be dazzled by the impressive architecture of its squares, notably the Grande Place and Place des Héros, lined with 155 majestic Flemish Baroque facades. These squares bear witness to the rich history of Arras, which has played a key role since Roman times and was the scene of numerous events, notably during the World Wars. In this article, we present our top 11 must-sees in Arras, for a total immersion in the thousand-year-old heritage of this fascinating city.
1. Visit the impressive Arras Cathedral
An impressive cathedral, both in size and neoclassical style, well worth a visit for its very special history. Like many of Arras' monuments, the cathedral was severely damaged during the bombardments of the First World War, then completely rebuilt in 1934. Listed as a Monument Historique, it features a transept 52 meters wide and 102 meters long, and is home to several treasures.
Good to know a guide is always on hand in the afternoon to explain the history of Arras Cathedral to visitors.
2. Place des Héros: one of the wonders of the Hauts de France region
It's one of the most beautiful places in the Hauts-de-France region: Place des Héros is famous for its impressive Flemish architecture, with its charming arcaded facades. The 75-meter-high belfry topped by a golden lion, located at the far end of the square, symbolizes the heroism of its inhabitants. In 1945, the square was renamed Place des Héros, in tribute to the members of the Arrage resistance who were shot during the Second World War. It was rebuilt after the war. A wonderful, tranquil setting not to be missed on a visit to Arras.
3. Enjoy a spectacular view of Arras from the belfry
Overlooking the town hall, the belfry has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since July 15, 2005, and was voted Monument Préféré des Français. An elevator takes you up to the tower's first crown, then you can climb some forty steps. Perched at a height of 55 metres, you'll enjoya spectacular view of the city and its surroundings. The building is topped by a lion, in homage to Louis XIV, who united the town of Arras with France.
The article to read: 20 Unesco World Heritage sites in Europe to discover.
4. Les boves: an original walk in the bowels of the city
Immerse yourself in the subterranean history of Arras by exploring the boves, limestone quarries dug beneath the city as early as the 10th century. Initially used for quarrying, these boves became cellars and warehouses for local merchants, then a refuge for the population of Arras during the bombings of the Second World War. This historic site is both exciting and fascinating. An original walk through the bowels of the city. A word of advice: don't forget to bundle up - it can get cold!
Unusual activity to book : We recommend an ultralight flight in Arras. You'll fly over such magnificent sites as Arras, Vimy, the Notre-Dame-de-Lorette necropolis and Mont Saint-Eloi.
5. The Musée des Beaux-Arts: a must-see in Arras
The Musée des Beaux-Arts d'Arras houses a remarkable collection of 18th-century paintings by the French School and the Old Netherlands, as well asa rare group of large-format 17th-century Frenchreligious paintings, including seven Mays from Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. The museum also presents the history of the city through its medieval sculptures, 18th-century Arras porcelain, landscape paintings by the École d'Arras, and a unique example of the haute lisse tapestry that made Arras famous in the 15th century.
6. Arras Citadel
The Citadelle d'Arras is home to the Communauté urbaine d'Arras and the Centre régional des lettres et du livre Nord-Pas-de-Calais. Nicknamed "La Belle Inutile" because it was never really used, the citadel has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008. Outside is the Mur des Fusillés, which pays tribute to the 218 members of the Resistance executed in the ditches. Every summer since July 2010, the citadel has hosted the Main Square Festivala major event on the rock and electro scene. The site is also home to Cit'Loisirs, a tree-climbing course.
Read the article: The 17 best music festivals in France.
7. Getting to Carrière Wellington
In November 1916, the British were preparing for an offensive that would begin at 5:30 a.m. on April 9, 1917. Their plan was for New Zealand Tunnellers to link up the city's chalk quarries, creating a veritable network of underground barracks. A visit to the Wellington quarry takes you down to a depth of 20 meters to explore this strategic site, which was also the daily living quarters of soldiers during the Great War. In April, don't miss the annual ceremony honouring the British and Commonwealth soldiers who took part in the Battle ofArras.
8. The Maison Robespierre: for history buffs
Located in an alleyway in the old center of Arras, not far from the theater, this house was occupied by the famous lawyer and revolutionary Maximilien de Robespierre from 1787 to 1789, on the eve of the French Revolution. He lived here with his sister Charlotte and brother Augustin, writing pre-revolutionary texts before leaving for Versailles as a deputy of the Tiers État. Fully restored by the Compagnons du Devoir et du Tour de France, the house now houses a permanent exhibition retracing Robespierre's life.
9. Visit the Memorial to the Wall of the Fused
This place of remembrance is located in the ditches of the Arras citadel, where commemorative plaques pay tribute to the victims of German executions. Between August 21, 1941 and July 21, 1944, 218 members of the Resistance were executed by the Germans in these ditches. The youngest was only 16, and the oldest 69. Those shot were of various nationalities: French, Polish, Belgian, Soviet, Portuguese, Italian, Hungarian, Czech and Yugoslav, and came from all walks of life. Commemorative plaques pay tribute to them all. The site was inaugurated on September 18, 1949 by Guy Mollet.
10. Cité Nature: an idea for a family visit to Arras
Cité Nature is a cultural and scientific center in the spirit of La Villette, dedicated to food, agriculture, nature and health. It offers 2,500 m² of permanent exhibitions on the environment, food and technology, from history to the present day. a further 1,600 m² are devoted to major temporary exhibitions. An enriching visit for the whole family, with plenty to enjoy in the way of scientific and artistic discovery.
What to do : We recommend you book this cooking class in Arras. You'll create a complete 3-course menu (starter/main course/dessert) using fresh, quality, seasonal produce. You can then enjoy your creations at the workshop!
11. Take a tour of the Jardin du Gouverneur
Located at the corner of boulevards de Gaulle and Crespel, this park covers more than six hectaresand is criss-crossed by wide paths and magnificent trees. It features a children's playground and vast lawns ideal for picnics, ball games or simply relaxing. There's also a bowling green and a basketball court. Just a stone's throw from the town center, the park is home to a bandstand where concerts are regularly held, including the "Musique en Kiosque" event every Sunday at 3 p.m. in May and June. Popular for its green, wooded spaces, the park is ideal for a quiet stroll or a run, for example.
Where to stay in Arras?
Arras offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets. Here are a few suggestions to help you find the ideal accommodation for your stay in Arras:
- The most original: the Hotel de l'Univers
Located right in the heart of Arras, this hotel, housed in a former 17th-century Jesuit monastery, offers comfortable rooms book here and is ideally located for exploring the city on foot. Plus: you can enjoyone of the city's finest restaurants with the adjoining : Le Clusius.
- A very well-located hotel: the Holiday Inn Express
We liked this modern, friendly hotel, located opposite the station and close to the historic heart of the city, which you can book here. Plus: a large lounge with TV and a terrace are available during your stay. It's an ideal location for visiting the beautiful city of Arras. It's also ideal for business stays.
- The ideal hotel for gourmets : Le Dome
We recommend this hotel, which is close to the Grand-Place d'Arras and can be booked here. Its 9 comfortably-equipped rooms feature a laptop safe, sitting area and iHome. Bonus: you can dine on site at the La Coupole restaurant, where you can enjoy delicious dishes by chef Bryan Arimone, Best Apprentice 2016!
What to do in Arras as a couple
Arras offers a multitude of romantic and cultural activities to discover as a couple. Here are a few suggestions to make the most of your stay as a couple:
- Stroll through the historic squares: La Grande Place and Place des Héros, with their magnificent Flemish Baroque facades, are perfect places for a hand-in-hand stroll.
- Visit the Belfry: Climb to the top of the Belfry for a panoramic view of the city and its surroundings. A magical moment for two.
- Explore the Boves: Immerse yourself in Arras' underground history with a visit to the limestone quarries. A unique and fascinating experience.
- Discover the Citadelle Vauban: Stroll through the citadel's gardens and explore its moats. A peaceful, verdant setting for a romantic stroll.
- Dinner for two: Arras is full of charming restaurants where you can enjoy local dishes in an intimate atmosphere.
- Attend a concert or play: The Théâtre d'Arras offers a varied program. Enjoy a cultural evening for two.
Discover also the most popular things to do in Arras:
Family activities in Arras
rras is an ideal destination for family activities, offering a variety of options for all ages. Here are a few suggestions for making the most of your family holiday:
- Visit Cité Nature: This cultural and scientific center, housed in the Art Deco buildings of a former miners' lamp factory, is devoted entirely to food, agriculture, nature and health. With 2,500 m² of permanent exhibits and 1,600 m² dedicated to temporary exhibitions, Cité Nature offers an enriching and interactive visit for the whole family.
- Have fun at Cit'Loisirs: Located in the Citadelle Vauban, Cit'Loisirs is an accrobranche course ideal for children and adults alike. It's the perfect opportunity to spend a fun and sporty time in the great outdoors.
- Explore the Boves: Immerse yourself in Arras' underground history with a visit to the limestone quarries.Children will be fascinated by these former cellars and warehouses, transformed into shelters during the world wars.
- Climb up to the Belfry: Take the elevator up to the first crown of the Belfry, then climb some 40 steps to admire a panoramic view of the city and its surroundings. A great experience for the whole family.
What to visit around Arras?
The area around Arras offers a multitude of sites to visit, all within 20 km of the city. Here are a few suggestions for enriching and enjoyable excursions:
- The Canadian Vimy Memorial located some 10 km north of Arras, this memorial pays tribute to the Canadian soldiers who fell at the Battle of Vimy Ridge in 1917. The site includes restored trenches, monuments and an interpretation center.
- Notre-Dame-de-Lorette Memorial about 15 km northwest of Arras, this memorial commemorates the French soldiers who fell in the First World War. The site includes a necropolis, a chapel and a memorial ring inscribed with the names of 580,000 soldiers who died in the region.
- Château de Bertangles located some 15 km southwest of Arras, this 18th-century château is surrounded by magnificent formal gardens. It is possible to visit the château and its gardens, offering a beautiful historical and natural getaway.
- The town of Douai douai: Located some 18 km northwest of Arras, Douai is a city rich in history and culture. You can visit the Chartreuse de Douai, the Belfry of Douai (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and the Musée de la Chartreuse.
