Things To Do
in Arras
Arras is a charming town located in the Hauts-de-France region of northern France. The town is famous for its well-preserved historic architecture, including the striking Flemish-style town hall and picturesque squares. Arras also boasts a unique underground network of tunnels, known as the Boves, which were used during World War I.
Visitors can enjoy exploring the town's quaint streets, sampling local cuisine, and soaking in its rich 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): $50 - $150
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $80
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the bustling Arras Market, where you can sample local cheeses and pastries. Saint-Vaast Cathedral is nearby, offering a splendid view to enjoy.
Visit the Museum of Fine Arts to see an impressive collection of European paintings. Afterwards, stroll through the charming streets filled with beautiful architecture.
Dine at a local bistro to savor traditional French cuisine. Wrap up your evening by exploring the illuminated city center.
Join a guided tour of the historic Wellington Quarry to learn about Arras's role in WWI. This experience brings the past alive through underground tunnels.
Take a leisurely walk through the stunning Place des Héros, indulging in some shopping at local boutiques. Grab lunch at a quaint café with a view over the square.
Attend a live performance at the Arras Theatre, showcasing local talents. Enjoy a nightcap at a nearby wine bar to unwind.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage with beautiful architecture, including the Arras CarriĂšre Wellington and the town square.
- Vibrant cultural scene with festivals, museums, and local events.
- Convenient transportation links, including rail connections to major cities like Paris and Lille.
- Pleasant public parks and gardens, making it suitable for outdoor activities.
- A variety of local delicacies and culinary options, showcasing the region's gastronomy.
- Relatively small size may limit entertainment and activity options compared to larger cities.
- Weather can be unpredictable, with frequent rain and cool temperatures.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors, especially for those seeking specialized professions.
- Tourist influx can sometimes lead to overcrowding in popular areas.
- Public transportation may not be as extensive, making a car more convenient for travel.
Best Activities in Arras
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the historic military complex and its underground tunnels and moats.
Enjoy the stunning architecture of the central square lined with Flemish-style buildings.
Discover the extensive network of underground tunnels used during World War I.
Enjoy the picturesque countryside around Arras on a cycling tour.
Relax and enjoy a picnic in one of Arras' beautiful parks, such as the Parc Urbain.
Tours
Uncover the best of Arras with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Arras
Visit one of these nice places.
The Citadelle offers panoramic views of Arras and the surrounding countryside, making it a great spot for photography and sightseeing.
This historic square in Arras features beautiful architecture and is a popular spot for capturing the charm of the city with its stunning buildings and vibrant atmosphere.
The underground passages of Les Boves provide a unique perspective of Arras and offer interesting photo opportunities of the city's hidden history.
Food in Arras
Arras Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty beef stew cooked in beer and flavored with onions and mustard. Best enjoyed at La Guinguette, a traditional French restaurant located in the heart of Arras.
Must-Try!
A savory tart made from the pungent Maroilles cheese, a local specialty. This dish can be savored at Chez RĂ©gis, a charming bistro known for its authentic regional cuisine.
A delectable savory pancake filled with ham, mushrooms, and cream sauce. Le Comptoir de la Bulle is a popular spot to indulge in this classic dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Arras better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The bustling market offers a wide array of fresh local produce, cheese, and artisanal goods. Visitors can also savor various street food such as gaufres (waffles) and frites (fries) from the market stalls.
This open-air museum hosts regular food festivals celebrating regional gastronomy, where one can sample an assortment of local delicacies and street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Arras, it is customary to greet people with a handshake and use formal titles such as 'Monsieur' or 'Madame' when addressing someone, especially in formal settings.
When dining in Arras, it is polite to wait for the host to initiate the meal and to keep your hands visible on the table during dining. Additionally, it is customary to say 'Bon appétit' before starting the meal.
In Arras, people typically value their personal space, so it is important to maintain an appropriate distance when conversing and avoid unnecessary physical contact.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Arras with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Arras
Ensure a smooth experience
In Arras, France, tipping is not mandatory as a service charge is often included in the bill. However, it is common to leave a small amount of change or round up the total bill as a gesture of appreciation for good service.
Cash is widely accepted in Arras, especially in smaller establishments. Credit and debit cards are also commonly used, particularly in larger restaurants and hotels. Contactless payments are becoming increasingly popular as well.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Arras.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Arras, France for mild weather and blooming flowers. Expect crowded streets due to peak tourist season.
Ideal for outdoor activities and festivals. Expect warm weather and lively atmosphere in the city.
Great time for autumn foliage and fewer tourists. Expect cooler temperatures and the opportunity to experience local culture.
Quiet time with fewer tourists. Expect cold weather and the chance to explore the Christmas markets and seasonal festivities.
Arras at Night
Hiking in Arras
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A nearby hill offering various hiking trails with beautiful views of the Arras countryside and historical ruins.
A bit further out, this regional park features diverse landscapes, coastal paths, and a variety of hiking routes.
A forest area with well-marked trails, popular among local hikers, providing a mix of nature and historical sites.
This area offers scenic walking paths along the river Scarpe, perfect for a relaxed hiking experience.
Coastal hikes along the Opal Coast featuring cliffs, beaches, and breathtaking views of the English Channel.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Arras through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Arras by plane.
Located approximately 60 kilometers from Arras, Lille Airport serves both domestic and international flights.
Located about 190 kilometers from Arras, this is the largest international airport in France, serving numerous global destinations.
Situated around 150 kilometers from Arras, Brussels Airport is a major international airport serving Belgium and connecting to various worldwide destinations.
Approximately 250 kilometers from Arras, London City Airport is a key international airport located in London, UK.
Located around 50 kilometers from Arras, this airport primarily serves regional flights and some international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population in Arras, including various cultural and ethnic backgrounds of French citizens.
A significant demographic group, particularly those from Algeria and Morocco, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.
Residents from other EU countries who have settled in Arras, adding to the multicultural fabric of the city.
A smaller but present demographic group representing a variety of nationalities and cultures.
These groups represent a mix of new immigrants and established communities with historical ties to France.
The Soul of Arras
Discover the essence of Arras through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Arras, with many local teams and a strong community following. The city has several football clubs that compete at various levels.
Rugby is also quite popular in Arras, with a dedicated club that engages both youth and adult players. The sport has a strong sense of tradition and community.
Basketball enjoys popularity among the youth in Arras, with multiple clubs offering training and competition. The sport is known for its dynamic pace and teamwork.
Cycling is a favored recreational activity in Arras, with numerous cycling routes available. The city also hosts cycling events and races that attract participants from various regions.
Athletics, including track and field events, has a good following in Arras. Local clubs promote fitness and competition among athletes of all ages.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Arras.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Arras has several eateries committed to offering delectable vegetarian and vegan dishes. From innovative plant-based creations to traditional recipes, visitors can explore a variety of meat-free dining options across the city.
Many restaurants and cafes in Arras understand the importance of catering to gluten-free diners. They offer a range of gluten-free dishes, ensuring that individuals with dietary restrictions can indulge in the local cuisine with peace of mind.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Arras with these cultural adventures.
