Arles - Discovering France

Travelling to Arles

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Arles, a pretty good destination in France (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Arles and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Arles, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through France, here's everything to know about Arles for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Arles

Arles is a city in the south of France, located in the Bouches-du-Rhône department of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. It is known for its rich Roman heritage, including the magnificent Roman amphitheater and the ancient theater. Arles is also famous for being the home of the renowned Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh, who lived there from 1888 to 1889 and painted some of his most famous works. The city is situated on the banks of the Rhône River and has a beautiful historic center with narrow streets, charming squares, and buildings dating back to the medieval era. It is a popular tourist destination in France and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

What to visit in Arles

Arles is a city in the south of France, located in the beautiful region of Provence. It is famous for its well-preserved Roman monuments and beautiful countryside. Here are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Arles and some information about each: 1. Amphitheater of Arles: This Roman amphitheater was built in the 1st century AD and was used for gladiator games and other spectacles. Today, it is still used for cultural events and concerts. Visitors can explore the remains of this massive structure and imagine life in ancient times.
2. Roman Theater: The Roman Theater is another impressive Roman monument in Arles, dating back to the 1st century BC. It could accommodate up to 10,000 spectators, who came to see plays, musical performances, and other shows. Visitors can explore the ruins of the theater and enjoy the views of the surrounding countryside.
3. Alyscamps: Alyscamps is an ancient Roman necropolis located just outside the walls of Arles. It dates back to the 4th century AD and contains some beautifully preserved sarcophagi and tombstones. Visitors can also see the remains of a medieval church and enjoy a peaceful walk among the cypress trees.
4. Van Gogh Foundation: Arles was the home of the famous painter Vincent Van Gogh for a year in the late 19th century, and he produced many of his most famous works here. The Van Gogh Foundation is a museum that celebrates the artist's legacy and showcases some of his original works.
5. Place du Forum: This bustling square in the center of Arles is home to some beautiful architecture and a lively market. Visitors can sample the local cuisine, browse the shops, or simply enjoy the atmosphere and people-watching.
6. Church of St. Trophime: This beautiful Gothic church was built in the 12th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can admire the intricate carvings and sculptures on the façade, as well as the impressive cloister.
7. Camargue Regional Nature Park: Just outside Arles lies the Camargue, a stunning region of salt marshes, lagoons, and beaches. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including flamingos, bulls, and horses. Visitors can take a guided tour or rent a bike to explore the area.
Overall, Arles is a beautiful and historic city with much to offer visitors. Whether you are interested in Roman history, art, or the natural beauty of Provence, there is something for everyone in this charming town.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in France, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Arles.

When to go on holiday to Arles

The best time to visit Arles, France is during the months of May, June, September, and October. During these months, the weather is mild and the crowds are much lesser than during the peak summer tourist season in July and August. Additionally, there are plenty of cultural events, festivals, and exhibitions that take place during the spring and fall months, making it an ideal time for cultural and historical enthusiasts. However, do keep in mind that the weather can vary during these months and it's important to always check the forecast before planning your trip.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Arles

There are a few different ways to get to Arles, France. Here are some options: 1. By Train: Arles has a train station with regular connections to major French cities such as Paris, Marseille, Lyon and Toulouse. From Paris, the journey takes around 3 hours and 40 minutes.
2. By Car: Arles is located approximately 90 km north-west of Marseille, which is the closest major city. If you are driving, take the A7 motorway and then the A54 motorway towards Arles.
3. By Bus: There are regular bus services to Arles from Marseille, Avignon, Nimes and other nearby towns.
4. By Plane: The nearest major airport to Arles is Marseille-Provence Airport, which is approximately 70 km away. From the airport, you can take a train, bus or taxi to Arles.
I hope this information helps with your travel plans. Let me know if you have any other questions!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Arles, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Arles

Here are some typical foods and specialty dishes of Arles, France with a short description for each of them: 1. Gardiane de Taureau: It is a stew made with bull meat with carrots, onions, olives and red wine.
2. Brandade: It is a puree of salt cod mixed with olive oil and garlic. 3. Macaronade: It is a dish of macaroni pasta mixed with ground beef and tomatoes.
4. Fougasse: A typical bread from the Provence region, made with olive oil and sprinkled with herbs.
5. Ratatouille: A vegetable stew made with tomatoes, onions, eggplant, bell peppers, zucchini, and herbs.
6. Tapenade: A spread made from crushed olives, capers, garlic, anchovies, and olive oil.
7. Pieds et Paquets: It is a dish made from lamb feet and stuffed lamb stomach with parsley, garlic, and onion.
8. Bouille-Abaisse: It is a classic Provencal fish pot-au-feu that features fish, shellfish, and a rich broth.
9. Pastis: It is a famous anise-flavored aperitif that is popular in the region.
10. Calissons: These are almond-shaped sweets made from ground almonds, candied fruits, and icing sugar.
You can find general info about typical foods in France here.

Is Arles an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other tourist destinations in France, Arles can be considered a relatively affordable destination. However, prices can vary depending on the time of year you visit and the type of accommodation, food, and activities you choose. In general, the high season for tourism in Arles is during the summer months, when prices for accommodations and services may be higher than during the offseason. However, if you plan your trip in advance and look for deals on accommodations and activities, you can save money and make your trip to Arles more affordable.

Where to find accomodation in Arles

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Arles (France) are the historic city center, which is filled with Roman ruins, museums, and picturesque streets; the Trinquetaille neighborhood, which is across the bridge from the city center and offers a quieter atmosphere; and the outskirts of town, which have a more rural feel and offer easy access to the Camargue nature reserve. The areas of La Roquette and Méjan also offer a vibrant local culture and plenty of restaurants and bars.
You can check hotel prices at Arles here:
Booking.com

Is Arles a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Arles is considered a safe place for tourists. However, like any other tourist destination, it is always advisable to take general safety precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, keeping your belongings close to you, not leaving valuables unattended, and avoiding unlit or isolated areas at night. It is also recommended to follow the local guidelines and regulations, and to seek advice from the local authorities or your hotel if you have any concerns.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in France here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Arles.

What type of travelers will enjoy Arles the most?

Arles, France can appeal to a wide variety of travelers. Couples can enjoy the charming and historic architecture of the city, especially the beautiful Roman amphitheater and theater. There are also many art galleries and museums to explore, making it a great destination for art enthusiasts.
Young people looking for fun can enjoy the vibrant nightlife scene with trendy bars and clubs. Additionally, during the summer, Arles hosts several music and cultural festivals, such as the photography festival Rencontres d’Arles, which can provide a unique experience for young travelers.
Families can enjoy a more low-key trip to Arles. There are many family-friendly activities such as visiting the market and enjoying local cuisine or taking a stroll down the Rhône River. The city is also home to many parks and gardens, providing a relaxing environment for families to explore together.
Overall, Arles is a versatile destination that has something for everyone, making it a great place to visit regardless of your age or travel style.

How to get around Arles

In Arles, it is recommended to move around by foot or by bicycle, as the city center is quite small and pedestrian-friendly. However, for longer distances or if you want to explore the surrounding areas, you can opt for public transportation such as buses or taxis. Arles also has a train station that connects it to major cities in France, making it easy to explore the region by train.

What to see around Arles

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Arles: 1. Nimes: This beautiful city is just a 30-minute drive from Arles and is famous for its well-preserved Roman architecture, including the Arena of Nimes and the Maison Carrée.
2. Les-Baux-de-Provence: Located just 15 minutes away from Arles, this picturesque medieval village perched on a hilltop overlooks beautiful olive groves and is known for its stunning views, stunning castle ruins, and charming shops.
3. Marseille: Marseille is one of the largest cities in the south of France and is around an hour's drive from Arles. The city has a rich history and offers a variety of cultural attractions including museums, markets, and lovely port areas.
4. Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer: Located an hour's drive from Arles, this charming little village on the Mediterranean coast is known for its picturesque harbor, sandy beaches, and Camargue horses.
5. Avignon: This historical city is just a 45-minute drive from Arles and is famous for the splendid Palace of the Popes as well as its charming streets and lovely squares.
I hope this helps!
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