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.
Places to visit
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "Bonjour (Hello)" - Hello
- "S'il vous plaît (Please)" - Please
- "Merci (Thank you)" - Thank you
- "Excusez-moi (Excuse me)" - Excuse me
- "Oui (Yes)" - Yes
- "Non (No)" - No
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring the Ancient City
morning:Start your day with a visit to the Arles Amphitheatre, a well-preserved Roman arena dating back to the 1st century AD. Don't miss out on stopping by a local bakery to enjoy a freshly baked croissant and coffee.
afternoon:In the afternoon, wander through the charming streets of the Old Town, and explore the Van Gogh Cafe and the Place du Forum. Grab a delicious lunch at La Gueule du Loup, a quaint bistro known for its authentic Provencal cuisine.
evening:For an evening of delightful dining and entertainment, head to the Le Criquet restaurant for a taste of local flavors. After dinner, experience the vibrant nightlife at the Atelier des Artistes, a lively bar with a great atmosphere.
Riverside Serenity
morning:Indulge in a peaceful morning with a stroll along the Rhone River. Explore the scenic landscapes and historic architecture flanking the river banks. Enjoy a breakfast of French pastries and coffee at a riverside cafe to start your day off right.
afternoon:Visit the Fondation Vincent Van Gogh to explore the legendary artist's works and gain insight into his time in Arles. Take a leisurely lunch at Le 16 Haussmann, a charming restaurant offering a delightful menu of fresh, seasonal dishes.
evening:Cap off your day by enjoying an evening performance at the Theatre Antique d'Arles, an ancient Roman theater that hosts various cultural events and concerts throughout the year.
Art and Culture Galore
morning:Embark on a cultural morning by visiting the Musee Reattu, an art museum housed in a former grand priory. After exploring the museum, savor a delicious brunch at L'Atelier des Tapas, a restaurant specializing in delightful Spanish and Mediterranean fusion cuisine.
afternoon:Continue your artistic journey with a visit to the Espace Van Gogh, the location that inspired many of Van Gogh's masterpieces. Recharge with an authentic French meal at Le Patio, a charming restaurant with a delightful garden setting.
evening:End your day with a captivating evening at the Vincent Van Gogh Foundation, where you can immerse yourself in the art and legacy of the celebrated painter.
Scenic Countryside Escape
morning:Embark on a countryside adventure by visiting the Camargue Nature Park to discover the diverse wildlife and breathtaking natural beauty. Stop by a local boulangerie for a classic French breakfast of croissants and coffee.
afternoon:In the afternoon, take a peaceful nature walk through the Alpilles Natural Regional Park, surrounded by stunning landscapes and picturesque trails. Enjoy a delightful lunch at L'Aubergine, a charming restaurant nestled in the heart of the countryside.
evening:For a magical end to your day, experience a sunset horseback ride through the scenic countryside, offering a unique perspective of the breathtaking surroundings.
Arles Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Bouillabaisse
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!
Ratatouille
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.
Tapenade
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.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Arles Food Market
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).
Things to do in Arles
Unique local experiences...
Pet sitters in Arles
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!