The astonishing city of Arles is steeped in history and extremely rich in culture. It's a must-see destination in Provence, with six UNESCO World Heritage monuments. This Arles travel guide invites you to discover this nugget of the sunny Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region in the Bouches-du-Rhône.
As soon as you arrive, you'll be greeted by the Arles bullring, an impressive monument to Roman times that always makes an impression. These ancient structures evoke the grandeur of the Roman Empire. Still used for shows and bullfighting events, they are comparable to Rome's famous Colosseum. Inspired by Greek temples, the ancient theater was built under Emperor Augustus. Today, it serves as a venue for major cultural events such as the Arles Festival.
Nearby, the strikingly beautiful church of Saint-Trophime and its cloister illustrate the splendor ofRomanesque architecture. The ancient cemetery is known as Les Alyscamps. It offers a peaceful stroll along an alley lined with cypress trees and ancient sarcophagi.
The city is also renowned for its incredible photography festival , which is well worth a visit! This global event transforms Arles into a gigantic open-air art gallery . These international photography events attract professionals and art lovers from all over the world. The festival is a highlight of the Arles cultural scene, providing a platform for emerging and established photographic talent.
Discover the LUMA foundation. Its curious building is a sublime work of art in itself! It reinforces Arles' status as a center for contemporary art with its innovative tower. It is dedicated to the visual arts. Don't hesitate to take the indoor slide back down!
As you explore the picturesque streets and lanes of Arles, you'll discover its museums, including the Musée de l'Arles Antique and the Musée Réattu, which offer an immersion in local history and modern art. The Baths of Constantine bear witness to the importance of public and social life in ancient Rome. And the Cryptoporticus of the Forum is nestled beneath today's city center. This underground passage reveals Roman architectural ingenuity.
Just a few kilometers away, Beaucaire, located between the canal and the Rhône, boasts an exceptional heritage. Its attractions include the 17th-century town hall, the collegiate church of Notre-Dame-des-Pommiers and a medieval château, which majestically dominate the town. Arles and its surroundings are undeniably seductive, not to mention the region's idyllic climate and natural beauty!
The best of Arles is at your fingertips! With our tourist guide, discover charming accommodations, savor Provencal cuisine in renowned restaurants and visit the emblematic sites that make this historic city so rich!
When should you visit Arles? To make the most of your visit to this historic and artistic city, here's some information:
January and February in Arles are quiet months, marked by a cool climate. This is the ideal time to take advantage of off-season prices and avoid the crowds!
March and April warm hearts and bodies with beautiful days for visiting Arles' heritage. Prices are still low, and the town is starting to come alive.
The best time to visit Arles is in May and June. The weather is perfect for visiting historic sites and taking part in the first cultural events of the year.
July and August are high season in Arles. The city hosts its famous International Photography Festival , which attracts visitors from all over the world. Despite high temperatures and higher prices, the cultural effervescence makes this period very attractive.
September and October are delightful months to visit Arles. Temperatures remain mild, and the atmosphere more relaxed.
Finally, November and December in Arles are calmer. Temperatures drop, but you'll enjoy a more authentic experience, away from the tourist hustle and bustle.
Arles is a very accessible year-round destination, but to make the most of your getaway, opt for spring or autumn, when the weather is mild and the city less crowded. Whether you want to discover its ancient heritage or take part in its photography festival, Arles is bound to be a stopover not to be missed!
Typically Mediterranean, the weather in Arles is characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
In high season, from June to August, temperatures in Arles soar to 30°C, which is great for festivals and open-air sites!
The low season, from November to March, sees cooler temperatures, around 10°C to 15°C, which is still just right for exploring the city at leisure.
Our smart tip: spring and autumn are particularly pleasant, with mild temperatures and moderate sunshine, and are certainly the best time to visit.
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