Things To Do
in Arques

Arques is a charming commune located in the Pas-de-Calais department in northern France. Known for its serene landscapes and historical architecture, it offers visitors a glimpse into traditional French life. The town is surrounded by picturesque countryside, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike.

With its quaint atmosphere, Arques is a perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Arques
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local bakery for fresh croissants and coffee, then stroll through the quaint streets to admire the traditional houses.

afternoon
:

Visit the Église Saint-Martin, an impressive church with stunning stained glass windows, followed by a leisurely lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a relaxed walk by the canal to take in the beautiful sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a guided nature walk in the surrounding countryside to explore the local flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby historical site, the Château d'Arques, and learn about its significance in the region's history.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional bistro and enjoy a local wine, then if you're up for it, check out a small bar or pub for some live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🥐Croissant$1.50
🍷Glass of Wine$5.00
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15.00
Coffee$2.50
🚌Public Transportation Ticket$2.00

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming and picturesque scenery.
  • Rich historical and cultural experiences.
  • Peaceful atmosphere away from busy tourist spots.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Public transportation may be infrequent.
  • Some language barrier for non-French speakers.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Où est…?" - Where is...?
  • "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Arques

Visit one of these nice places.

Canal de la Lys

A picturesque canal perfect for capturing reflections and tranquil water scenes.

Château d'Arques

The historic castle provides a stunning backdrop for photography, especially during golden hour.

Église Saint-Martin

The church's intricate architecture and stained glass windows make for beautiful photographs.

Culinary Guide

Food in Arques

Arques boasts a delightful culinary scene that reflects the rich flavors of northern France, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Arques Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Coq au Vin

A classic French dish made with chicken braised in red wine, lardons, mushrooms, and onions.

Must-Try!

Tartelettes aux Fruits

Delicious fruit tarts that are a popular dessert in the region.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Market at Place de la Mairie

A vibrant market held every Saturday, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and pastries.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in Arques is temperate, with mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 3°C (37°F) in winter to 25°C (77°F) in summer. Rainfall is spread throughout the year, with slightly wetter months in late autumn and early spring. Visitors should prepare for occasional rain, especially during the cooler months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

Always greet with a polite 'Bonjour' when entering shops or restaurants.

Dining Etiquette

Keep your hands on the table but not your elbows during meals.

Respect for Quiet Hours

Be mindful of noise levels, especially in residential areas during late hours.

Safety Guide

Safety

Arques is generally a safe town, but like any travel destination, it's wise to stay vigilant. Avoid poorly lit areas at night, keep your belongings secure, and be cautious in crowded places to prevent pickpocketing.

Tipping in Arques

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It's customary to round up the bill at restaurants or leave a small tip of around 5-10% for good service.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer is warm and vibrant, perfect for enjoying local festivals and outdoor dining.

Autumn

The fall foliage creates a picturesque setting, but pack a light jacket as temperatures drop.

Winter

Winters can be cold and occasionally snowy, so dress warmly and enjoy the cozy indoor dining options.

Nightlife Guide

Arques at Night

Arques offers a laid-back nightlife scene that includes small bars and cafés where locals gather. While the options are limited compared to larger cities, you can find live music, especially on weekends, and enjoy quiet conversations with locals over a glass of wine or local beer.

Hiking in Arques

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentier de la Lys

A scenic hiking trail along the Lys River, offering beautiful views and easy walking paths.

Les Monts de Flandre

More challenging trails that wind through the hills, providing stunning vistas of the surrounding countryside.

Airports

How to reach Arques by plane.

Lille Airport (LIL)

Located about 70 km from Arques, Lille Airport offers both domestic and international flights, making it a convenient gateway for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Arques is a very walkable town, with most attractions, restaurants, and shops within a short distance of each other. The streets are safe and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot and enjoy the local ambiance.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The community is comprised mainly of French locals who are warm and welcoming to visitors.

Tourists

Visitors come from various regions, especially during the summer months, to enjoy the peaceful environment and local culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is a beloved sport in Arques, with local teams playing in regional leagues.

Cycling

Cycling is popular due to the picturesque countryside, and many locals participate in cycling events.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Arques is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation includes buses that connect to nearby towns, though service can be sporadic, so planning ahead is advisable.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Arques.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian alternatives, but it's advisable to inform your server.

Gluten-Free Meals

While gluten-free options are available, they may be limited; it's best to check with the restaurant beforehand.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Arques is accessible, with a local clinic and pharmacies available for basic medical needs. For more serious conditions, residents typically visit larger hospitals located in nearby cities like Saint-Omer.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide