Things To Do
in Arles
Arles is a charming town located in the south of France, known for its rich history and impressive Roman architecture. The town gained fame as the inspiration for many of Vincent van Gogh's paintings during his time there. Visitors can explore the well-preserved Roman amphitheater and theater, as well as the beautiful streets lined with traditional Provençal buildings.
Arles is also home to a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries and festivals celebrating its cultural heritage.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $2.50
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the iconic Arles Amphitheatre, exploring its impressive Roman architecture. Grab a coffee at a nearby café and take in the vibrant morning atmosphere.
Visit the Alyscamps, a stunning ancient burial site, and wander among the sepulchres. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local bistro, savoring traditional Provençal cuisine.
Stroll through the charming streets of Arles as the sun sets, soaking in the peaceful ambiance. Dine at a restaurant with a view, indulging in local wines and specialties.
Begin your day at the Van Gogh Foundation, enjoying the art and inspiration of the famous painter. Take a moment to admire the lovely gardens surrounding the building.
Head to the Palais des Papes, where you can explore the history of this grand structure. Take a break for lunch at a café near the Place de la République.
Enjoy a guided evening walking tour that reveals the hidden gems of Arles. Conclude your day with dinner at a traditional restaurant featuring live music.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and culture, including Roman ruins such as the Arles Amphitheatre.
- Beautiful Mediterranean climate, ideal for outdoor activities and tourism.
- Vibrant art scene, famously associated with Vincent van Gogh.
- Delicious local cuisine, especially noted for its Provençal flavors.
- Charming streets and architecture, with a picturesque old town recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Crowded during peak tourist season, which can detract from the experience.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Can be expensive in terms of accommodation and dining during high season.
- Summer heat can be intense, making outdoor activities less enjoyable.
- Some areas may lack modern amenities, depending on location.
Best Activities in Arles
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the well-preserved Roman amphitheatre and take in the historical significance of the site.
Take a peaceful walk along the ancient Roman necropolis with its rows of sarcophagi and picturesque avenue.
Enjoy a cycling adventure through the beautiful wetlands, diverse flora, and fauna of the Camargue region.
Tours
Uncover the best of Arles with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Arles
Visit one of these nice places.
An ancient Roman necropolis with picturesque avenues of trees, perfect for capturing a historic backdrop in photos.
A well-preserved Roman arena offering stunning panoramic views of Arles and regular events that make for dramatic photo opportunities.
Impressive views of the city and the surrounding landscape, with an added artistic touch of following in the footsteps of Vincent van Gogh.
Food in Arles
Arles Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Provencal fish stew made with a variety of local fish and shellfish, and flavored with saffron and fennel. It is best enjoyed at La Gueule du Loup, a renowned restaurant known for its authentic bouillabaisse.
Must-Try!
A delightful vegetable stew made with eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes, seasoned with herbs like thyme and basil. Le Troubadour is a charming bistro that serves an exceptional ratatouille.
A flavorful spread made from crushed olives, capers, and olive oil, often enjoyed on crusty bread or as a condiment. For an exquisite tapenade, visit the Arles Food Market where local vendors offer their homemade versions.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Arles better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a wide array of fresh local produce, cheeses, olives, and other Provencal specialties. It's a great place to sample street food like socca (chickpea flour pancake) or pan bagnat (a sandwich with tuna, olives, and vegetables).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Arles, it is important to greet people with a handshake, or for closer acquaintances, a kiss on the cheek. This is a common practice in French culture and is seen as a sign of respect.
Mealtime is a significant part of French culture, and it is essential to be punctual and to fully engage in the dining experience. It is also customary to wait until everyone is served before starting to eat.
When visiting public places and restaurants in Arles, it is advisable to dress neatly and moderately. Casual wear is generally acceptable, but it's important to avoid overly revealing or beach-style clothing, especially in more formal settings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Arles with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Arles
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Arles, France is not mandatory and is not expected in most situations. However, it is appreciated to leave a small tip (around 5-10%) at restaurants, cafes, and for exceptional service. In tourist areas, tipping may be more common.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Arles, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. Cash is also commonly used, and ATMs are readily available. It is advisable to have a combination of cash and cards for convenience.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Arles.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Arles is in spring (April to June) when the weather is mild, the fields are in bloom, and the town comes alive with festivals and outdoor events.
Summer (July and August) can be very hot in Arles, but it's a great time to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the town, with many outdoor concerts, art exhibitions, and the famous photography festival.
Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it a good time to explore the surrounding countryside and enjoy the local produce at the markets.
Winter (December to February) is the quietest time in Arles, with cooler temperatures and occasional rain. It's a great time to explore the town's historic sites and museums without the crowds.
Arles at Night
Hiking in Arles
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A unique natural park known for its wetlands, wildlife, and scenic walking trails. It offers a variety of hiking routes suitable for all levels.
Located just northeast of Arles, this spot provides hiking trails with stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and the RhĂŽne River.
A beautiful mountain range offering numerous hiking paths, with options ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, known for its picturesque views and rocky landscapes.
Located slightly further away, this area features dramatic gorges and cliffs, with hiking opportunities that showcase the stunning scenery and natural beauty.
This reserve offers diverse trails through marshlands, where hikers can observe a variety of wildlife, including flamingos and wild horses.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Arles through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Arles by plane.
Located approximately 66 kilometers from Arles, this is the main airport serving the Marseille area and is one of the largest in the region.
Situated about 20 kilometers from Arles, this airport serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Located around 43 kilometers from Arles, this airport offers seasonal flights to various European destinations.
Approximately 128 kilometers from Arles, this airport primarily caters to domestic flights and a few international routes.
About 187 kilometers from Arles, Niceæșćș serves as a major hub for international flights and is one of the busiest airports in France.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group consisting of residents with French nationality.
A significant demographic group, particularly from Algeria and Morocco.
Senior residents aged 65 and above, reflecting the growing aged population in the region.
Individuals aged 18 to 35, contributing to the vibrant culture and workforce.
Households with children, representing a vital demographic for community services.
Visitors from various regions, adding to the temporary demographic landscape, especially during peak seasons.
The Soul of Arles
Discover the essence of Arles through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is hugely popular in Arles, with local teams participating in regional leagues.
Rugby is another popular sport in Arles, with several clubs and a strong local following.
Cycling is a preferred activity due to the scenic routes in and around Arles and its proximity to the Camargue.
Running is enjoyed by many local residents, with various races and marathons held throughout the year.
A traditional French game similar to boules, petanque is commonly played in parks and local squares in Arles.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Arles.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Arles offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with a focus on fresh vegetables and local ingredients. Visitors can easily find options like stuffed bell peppers, grilled vegetable platters, and vegan ratatouille.
Several eateries in Arles cater to gluten-free diets, with options ranging from gluten-free pizzas to salads and quiches made with gluten-free crusts. The local cafes and restaurants are accommodating and attentive to specific dietary needs.