The jewel of Provence, Arles has inspired many great names in art, starting with a certain Van Gogh... In this pretty corner of southern France, the rich architectural heritage and enchanting atmosphere make Arles a city steeped in Provençal history and culture. Surrounded by superb scenery, the town is particularly well known for its Roman past. Its majestic Roman arenas, among other vestiges, bear witness to this. Discover this little Provencal gem with our 13 must-sees in Arles.
1. Arles arenas, the Roman amphitheatre
Standing proudly in the heart of the city, the arles arenas impose their power. In 2,000 years, they have lost none of their appeal, just like their cousins in Nîmes. Seen from the outside, they seem to invite you in to immerse yourself in their history. Unfortunately, some of the original seating has now been replaced by metal bleachers. The cause? Looting. Years after the end of the Roman invasion, the people of Arles began destroying the buildings that had been imposed on them. Today, this little story explains the presence of these partial remains, while providing a better understanding of the history of the site. Theamphitheatre remains the best-preserved Roman building in Arles.
Travelling with children? Keep your eyes peeled for a gladiatorial re-enactment. Kids love it!
Good to know: you can buy a pass (Liberté or Avantage) for a very reasonable price. These allow you to visit several Roman remains at a lower cost. You can obtain them directly from the amphitheatre ticket office.
2. The ancient theater, a Roman vestige of Arles
Although not much remains today, the ancient theater of Arles allows us to partially imagine this vibrant place of antiquity. It was here that many shows were staged. This is still the case today, albeit on a modern stage set amidst the remains. Erected at the top of the Hauture hill, the ancient theater bears witness to the ingenuity of the Roman colony founded by Julius Caesar in 46 BC. Next door to the amphitheatre, it is one of the 8 must-see monuments listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Although less well preserved than its neighbor, the Roman theater of Arles remains a living symbol of Arles life.
3. Cryptoportiques, the underground Arles
Did you know that there was a city under the city of Arles? Go to the Hôtel de Ville to find the starting point for an unusual visit. Beneath the cobblestones of Arles lie the cryptoporticos of the Forum, fascinating underground galleries listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Forming the bedrock of the forum, the vibrant heart of the Roman city, they offer a timeless journey. You ceremoniously stroll through three U-shaped galleries, revealing layers of the city's history. Witness to a bygone era, this mysterious tangle of passages has been meticulously restored to offer visitors a pleasant experience, punctuated by interesting photos.
4. Les thermes de Constantin, the baths of yesteryear
Let's be honest, the baths require a good dose of imagination to picture them over 2,000 years ago! To make up for this, there are plenty of explanatory panels to help you understand how the baths were organized and how they worked. Constantine's baths were buildings inextricably linked to Roman comfort and socialization. As you explore the remains of the various rooms, you'll discover the ancestral rituals of sweating, hot and cold baths and more. The hypocausts, a testament to Roman ingenuity, reveal the secrets of ancient technology still visible today.
5. Les Alyscamps, Roman necropolis
A Christian necropolis listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Les Alyscamps offers a spellbinding stroll alongsarcophagus-lined alleys. This historic site was immortalized by Vincent Van Gogh and Paul Gauguin. Much more than just a Roman cemetery, it's a place where history, art and nature come together. As the starting point of the Chemin d'Arles vers Saint-Jacques de Compostelle, Les Alyscamps makes an interesting visit on your short tour of Arles.
6. Saint-Trophime Cathedral, a Romanesque treasure of Provence
Among the buildings to visit in Arles, you can't miss the Cathedral Saint-Trophime, an emblematic edifice of the Christian community from the earliest days of Gaul. Built in several phases, its remarkable architecture, typical of the Provencal Romanesque style, amazes the curious. Part church, part cloister, it bears witness to a bygone era, housing relics on the road to Compostela. Its sumptuously decorated portal, evocative of the Last Judgement, transports you into a veritable biblical fresco, celebrating the glories of the Church of Arles. A wonderful visit, not far from the arena and the Van Gogh Foundation.
7. Discovering Van Gogh in Arles
Let's talk about Van Gogh! It's impossible not to think of him when you think of Arles, so inspired was he by this city and its region. Step by step, Arles reveals the inspiring traces of Vincent Van Gogh 's stay here between February 1888 and May 1889. It was during this period that he created some of his most emblematic masterpieces. Some of these are among the most beautiful landscapes immortalized by painters over the centuries. Follow in the painter's footsteps along an itinerary lined with his creative sites, where panels reproduce his paintings.
From the Place du Forum to Rue Mireille, each location evokes his artistic genius. L'Espace Van Goghthe former hospital where he stayed after his ear was cut off, offers a glimpse into his creative world. The Fondation Van Gogh, meanwhile, skilfully blends his works with those of contemporary art, offering a captivating cultural experience. Not yet familiar with the artist? Then you've come to the perfect place to discover his fascinating world!
8. The superb Musée départemental de l'Arles antique
Is there only one museum you need to visit during your stay? We recommend the Musée départemental de l'Arles antique! Its best ally is the Rhône, in which numerous relics of the past have been found, in addition to the archaeological digs carried out in the region. While the museum as a whole is a marvel, its most distinctive feature is a huge 31-metre-long barge salvaged from the river. A film in an adjoining room explains in detail the epic process of raising the wreck. Thanks to the hard work of enthusiasts, and the extension added to this exceptional museum, you can now discover one of the finest fluvial relics of our time.
From everyday objects to sarcophagi, amphorae and other ancient artefacts, you can experience a real journey into the past.
9. The Musée Réattu, an art paradise
Lovers of fine paintings and photography, welcome to the Musée Réattu in Arles, housed in the Grand Priory of the Order of Malta. The legacy of local painter and Grand Prix de Rome Jacques Réattu, the museum has preserved his work and personal collection since its conversion to a museum in 1868. A superb achievement, nestled in a charming period building.
With an early opening to photography and exceptional gifts from Picasso and Alechinsky, the museum offers a rich artistic experience. In addition to the pictorial collection, you'll discover an exhibition dedicated to modern sculpture, not to mention the listening room dedicated to sound art and thematic exhibitions. With tactile works and videos available to the public, the Musée Réattu offers a highly interesting immersion into the world of art!
10. The Arles market, full of regional produce
Ah, the markets of Provence smell of southern produce, sunshine and the warmth of their producers! The Arles Provencal market is no exception, inviting you to indulge your senses every Saturday morning... From boulevard des Lices to boulevard Clemenceau, you'll find almost 2 km of stalls, ranging from food products to clothing and handicrafts. Another market, on boulevard Émile Combes, offers stalls every Wednesday morning.
11. Montmajour Abbey, a cultural treasure of Arles
Set amidst verdant countryside 2km from the heart of Arles,Montmajour Abbey was built in the 12th century. This architectural treasure combines Romanesque, Gothic and Classical styles. From its pedestal, the building offers a panoramic view of the region. For this reason alone, a visit is a must! The buildings house fascinating rooms, adorned with sculptures and superbly ornate capitals. Although some parts are closed, such as the Hermitage of St. Peter, it's still a really interesting visit.
Good to know: the abbey hosts exhibitions during the Rencontres de la Photographie d'Arles.
12. The Musée de la Camargue, immersion in regional tradition
Immerse yourself in an authentic world in 5...4...3...2...1! We're off! A resolutely local setting awaits you at the Musée de la Camargue, offering an immersive experience between man and nature in this charming region. In a building of remarkable architecture, you'll discover a captivating permanent exhibition and interactive installations, exploring the past and present of the Camargue. A recent renovation has enabled us to offer a larger reception area and temporary exhibitions all year round. It gets even better!
Its architecture, evocative of the coastline of the Rhône delta, is reason enough to visit this museum. Looking for an unusual adventure? A variety of cultural activities and artistic tours of the region are organized on a regular basis.
13. Taste gardiane de taureau and other regional specialties
Arles and the surrounding region are bursting with delicious culinary specialties that reflect the identity of Provence. Admit it, you're visiting the South of France partly for its delicacies! Among the must-tries is of course gardiane de taureau, an emblematic dish based on bull meat simmered in a savory aromatic sauce.
The delights of the sea are not to be outdone, with the famous bourride, a fish soup flavored with garlic and saffron. A pure delight! And don't forget to try the Arles sausage, a local specialty made from lean beef.
For those with a sweet tooth, we invite you to discover the fougasse d'Arles. These sweet breads, flavored with aniseed and garnished with candied fruit, are a traditional treat not to be missed! Last but not least, many renowned local wines, such as Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence or Baux-de-Provence, are on offer in this region of France renowned for the quality of its crus.
Where to stay in Arles?
Looking for a good compromise between peace and quiet and proximity to the city center? The Trinquetaille district is a good option! The upmarket Chabourlet district also has its share of quiet hotels. For immediate proximity to the train station, without being too far from points of interest, Le Trébon and Monplaisir are the best choices.
- The charm of yesteryear
In this skilfully renovated hotel with its XVIIᵉ century charm, ancient and modern rub shoulders in an atmosphere of yesteryear. A pure success, inviting travelers to put down their suitcases in a high-class hotel. The Hôtel de l'Amphithéâtre offers the luxury of a palace in a warm and welcoming establishment, which you can book right here : we love it!
- The best value for money
Forget the overpriced, noisy mobile-home campsites of Arles, and curl up at the quiet Hostellerie de la Source, which you can book in just a few clicks here. Close to the city center, but nestled in a serene park, this affordable establishment is a haven of peace.
- The friendliest
Let yourself be carried away by the charm of Le Rodin, a hotel whose warm welcome is matched only by the quality of its services, and which you can book right here. Swimming pool, palm trees, personalized advice for your visits: there's nothing lacking for a quality stay in Arles for couples or families.
What to do in Arles in the evening?
The evening begins at the Grand Café Malarte, an institution in Arles. In a refined atmosphere, in the heart of a charming building, refined cuisine is served. The evening continues in one of the city's lively venues: cinema, theater or escape game, there's something for everyone! Le Fémina, a small cinema with an original program, is a great address for a stress-free night out.
In a different style, two theaters open their doors to you in the evening: the Théâtre de l'Éléphant and its nomadic shows, or the Théâtre d'Arles, with its more classic performances. Prefer to get moving? Head for Get Back - Live Escape Game, for thrilling mystery adventures with friends or family!
What to do around Arles?
The Camargue is a beautiful place, inviting you to let go for a real getaway break. Discover the 15 must-sees in the Camargue, including the incomparably charming Sainte-Maries-de-la-Mer, by booking this guided 4x4 excursion . You'll also see wild horses, flamingos and bulls! As Arles lies at the heart of the Camargue National Park, we can't recommend you miss the chance to explore it in all its glory. Bulls, Camargue horses and pink flamingos await you! The town ofAigues-Mortes, a medieval symbol of the Camargue, is also well worth a visit.
Les Baux-de-Provence, with its authentic atmosphere, also invites you to discover its historic heritage. In season, families can explore the village on a child-friendly discovery trail. Finally, add a touch of the anecdotal to your stay, with a visit to the Moulin de Daudet in Fontvieille.
Arles is so evocative of the good life that it is one of the top 10 towns to retire to in enchanting surroundings. It's great to lose yourself in its narrow streets, discovering its historic vestiges. With a particular penchant for the art of photography, this lovely Provencal town showcases its artists in its museums and art galleries. What a program!
