Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
Currency
Euro (€)
Language
French
Timezone
CET (UTC+1)
Discover Arles
Arles isn't just a city; it's a living canvas where Roman engineering, medieval stonework, and the ghostly brushstrokes of Vincent van Gogh converge. Walk the same sun-baked streets where the tormented artist painted his iconic 'Café Terrace at Night' and 'The Yellow House,' then turn a corner to find yourself dwarfed by a 2,000-year-old amphitheater that still hosts roaring bullfights. This UNESCO-listed gem in the heart of Provence offers a rare duality: the refined culture of ancient monuments and art foundations, and the raw, wild spirit of the nearby Camargue, with its white horses, pink flamingos, and vast salt marshes.
Beyond its famous sons and stones, Arles pulses with a contemporary creative energy, most notably during the world-renowned Rencontres d'Arles photography festival that transforms the entire city each summer. The light that captivated Van Gogh—that intense, crystalline Provençal light—still bathes the terracotta rooftops, the Rhône River, and the bustling Saturday market on Boulevard des Lices. Here, you can savor a pastis in a historic square, explore Roman cryptoporticos underground, and watch cowboys (gardians) herd bulls, all within a compact, walkable center that feels both profoundly ancient and vibrantly alive.
Why Visit Arles?
Walk in Van Gogh's Footsteps: Follow the 'Van Gogh Trail' to see the exact locations immortalized in his Arles period paintings, like the Starry Night Over the Rhône site at the riverbank, the reconstructed 'Jardin de la Maison de Santé' (Garden of the Hospital), and the Fondation Vincent van Gogh which contextualizes his legacy with contemporary art.
Experience Living Roman History: Explore one of France's most impressive collections of Roman monuments outside Rome itself, including the remarkably intact Arena (Arènes d'Arles) still used for bullfights and concerts, the ancient theater (Théâtre Antique), and the atmospheric Alyscamps necropolis with its alley of sarcophagi.
Immerse in the Wild Camargue: Venture just 20 minutes south to the vast, untamed delta of the Rhône, a unique regional park where you can spot pink flamingos, ride the region's iconic white horses, visit a traditional manade (bull farm), and experience the distinct cowboy (gardian) culture.
Discover a Global Photography Capital: Time your visit for the Rencontres d'Arles festival (July-Sept), where historic venues across the city host cutting-edge photographic exhibitions, cementing Arles' status as a world epicenter for the medium.
Savor Authentic Provençal Life: Lose yourself in the vibrant Saturday market on Boulevard des Lices, one of Provence's best, bursting with local olives, cheeses, textiles, and santons. Enjoy the slower pace of café culture in the Place du Forum, shaded by plane trees.
Explore Layers of Architectural History: From the Romanesque grandeur of the Church of St. Trophime and its haunting cloister, to the medieval lanes of the Hauture district, to the striking modern architecture of the Luma Arles arts complex by Frank Gehry.
Arles is Known For
Ready to explore Arles?
Arles Neighborhoods
La Cité (Historic Center)
The compact, pedestrianized heart of Arles, encircled by remnants of Roman walls. This is where you'll find the greatest concentration of major monuments, museums, and tourist activity, all woven into a labyrinth of narrow, shop-lined streets.
Highlights:
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La Roquette
The historic fishermen's quarter nestled between the Rhône River and the old town walls. It's a quieter, more residential area with a village-like feel, characterized by pastel-colored houses, small squares, and direct access to the riverbanks Van Gogh painted.
Highlights:
Best for:
Hauture
The elevated district south of the Arena, offering a more local, lived-in perspective. It's a maze of quiet, sloping streets with fewer tourists, traditional houses, and stunning panoramic views over the city's rooftops and monuments.
Highlights:
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Luma Arles / Parc des Ateliers
A former railway yard transformed into a groundbreaking contemporary arts campus, anchored by Frank Gehry's dazzling, twisting tower of stainless steel. This area represents the bold, modern future of Arles' cultural scene.
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Top Attractions
Local Tips & Insider Knowledge
- •Buy the 'Arles City Pass' (€16-€29) for bundled entry to most major monuments and museums, including the Arena, Theatre, Baths, and museums. It pays for itself after 3-4 sites.
- •For the best light and fewest crowds at the Roman Arena and Theatre, visit right at opening (9 AM) or in the late afternoon, two hours before closing.
- •The real Van Gogh's 'Night Café' is now a disappointing souvenir shop. Instead, have a drink at Café Van Gogh on Place du Forum, which recreates the terrace's ambiance.
- •On Saturday market day, arrive early (by 8:30 AM) to experience it like a local before the tourist buses arrive. The best food stalls are at the southern end near Boulevard Emile Combes.
- •Free entry to most municipal museums (Musée Réattu, Museon Arlaten, etc.) is offered on the first Sunday of every month.
- •To experience a traditional bullfight (course camarguaise), where the bull is not killed, check summer schedules at the Arena. The Féria d'Arles in Easter and September are the biggest events.
- •Rent a bike from a shop like Vélo Service to easily explore beyond the center, especially to the Alyscamps and along the Rhône paths.
- •Many smaller shops and some restaurants still close for a long lunch (12:30 PM - 2:30 PM or 3 PM), especially outside peak season. Plan accordingly.
- •For a unique souvenir, buy a 'santon' (traditional Provençal clay nativity figure) or local Camargue products like fleur de sel (salt) or riz de Camargue (rice).
- •The Mistral wind can be fierce and cold, even on sunny days. Always pack a wind-resistant layer, especially if visiting the exposed Camargue.
Arles Food Scene
Arles' cuisine is a robust reflection of its Provençal and Camargue roots, emphasizing sun-ripened vegetables, olive oil, garlic, wild herbs, and products from the surrounding land and sea. Expect hearty dishes like gardiane (bull stew) and tellines (tiny clams), alongside classic Provençal ratatouille and aioli.
Must-Try Dishes
Traditional Provençal & Camargue
- • Le Gibolin (for authentic gardiane)
- • L'Atelier de Jean-Luc Rabanel (2-Michelin-star tasting menus)
- • Le Criquet (for classic aioli and local fare)
Many traditional restaurants offer a fixed-price 'Menu du Terroir' at lunch, which is excellent value.
Bistros & Modern French
- • L'Autruche (creative, seasonal dishes)
- • Le Galoubet (refined bistro in a vaulted room)
- • Le 16 (trendy spot on a quiet square)
Reservations are essential for dinner, especially in summer and on weekends.
Markets & Street Food
- • Saturday Market on Blvd des Lices (for olives, cheese, socca)
- • Bread & pastries from Boulangerie des Lices
- • Socca (chickpea pancake) from market stalls
For a quick, delicious lunch, assemble a picnic from the market and eat in the Jardin d'Été or by the river.
Cafés & Wine Bars
- • Café Van Gogh (for the historic terrace vibe)
- • Le Café de la Nuit (another Van Gogh-themed spot)
- • Le Bar à Vin (for local Côtes du Rhône wines)
Order a 'pastis' (aniseed aperitif) with a carafe of water to dilute it to your taste, a true local ritual.
Popular With
Best Time to Visit Arles
Spring
April to June is arguably the ideal time. The weather is warm and sunny (15-25°C), the countryside explodes with wildflowers and poppies, and the tourist crowds are manageable before the summer peak.
Pros:
- + Pleasant temperatures perfect for sightseeing
- + Fields of poppies and lavender (by June) in the countryside
- + Easter Féria (bullfighting festival) brings local excitement
Cons:
- - Occasional rain showers
- - The Mistral wind can be strong and chilly
- - Some attractions may have shorter hours than in summer
Summer
July and August are hot (often 30°C+), dry, and extremely busy. This is the festival season, with the renowned Rencontres d'Arles photography festival in full swing, but also the height of tourist crowds.
Pros:
- + Rencontres d'Arles photography festival (a world-class event)
- + Long daylight hours and vibrant nightlife
- + All attractions, restaurants, and tours operate at full capacity
Cons:
- - Intense heat and crowds can be overwhelming
- - Higher accommodation prices
- - Risk of wildfires in the surrounding region
Autumn
September and October offer a second peak of perfection. The heat mellows, the light is golden, the grape harvest occurs, and the major September Féria provides a burst of local culture.
Pros:
- + Warm, stable weather ideal for exploring
- + September Féria (major bullfighting festival)
- + Harvest season means excellent local food and wine
Cons:
- - Can still be quite busy, especially during the Féria
- - Days start to get shorter
- - Some summer-specific events end in September
Winter
November to March is the quietest and coldest season (5-12°C). While some attractions have reduced hours, you'll have monuments largely to yourself and can experience authentic local life.
Pros:
- + No crowds and lower accommodation prices
- + Atmospheric, moody skies perfect for photography
- + Experience Arles as a living city, not a tourist hub
Cons:
- - Some smaller hotels and restaurants may close for part of the season
- - Reduced hours at many monuments and museums
- - The Camargue can be bleak, windy, and wet
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Day Trips from Arles
The Camargue
20-30 min by car
A vast, wild river delta unlike anywhere else in France, famed for its white horses, pink flamingos, black bulls, and unique cowboy (gardian) culture. It's a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
Les Baux-de-Provence & Carrieres de Lumieres
40 min by car
Combine a visit to a stunning, fortified medieval village perched on a rocky outcrop with an unforgettable sound-and-light show projected inside a vast, immersive former quarry.
Avignon
40 min by train or car
The historic city of the Popes, home to one of Europe's most important Gothic palaces and a famous medieval bridge. A major cultural center with excellent museums and dining.
Arles Budget Guide
Arles is moderately priced for Provence. Costs are lower than in the French Riviera but higher than in rural areas. Major expenses are accommodation (especially during festivals) and sit-down meals. Many top attractions are ancient monuments with reasonable entry fees.
Budget
€60-€90 per person for budget travelers (hostel dorm, market picnics, few paid attractions)
per day
Mid-Range
€120-€200 per person for mid-range (private hotel room, café lunches, nice dinners, City Pass, some taxis)
per day
Luxury
€300+ per person for luxury (boutique hotel, fine dining, private tours, car rental)
per day
Money-Saving Tips
- •The Arles City Pass saves significant money on monument entries.
- •Lunch 'formules' (set menus) at restaurants are often half the price of dinner menus.
- •Stay just outside the historic center (e.g., in La Roquette) for better hotel value.
- •Renting a bike is a cheap and efficient way to get to sights like the Alyscamps.
- •Self-catering from the magnificent Saturday market is the best way to eat well on a budget.
Arles Hidden Gems
Cryptoportiques du Forum
A vast, mysterious underground gallery of three parallel tunnels built by the Romans as a foundation for the ancient forum, located beneath the Place du Forum.
Few tourists venture down here, offering an eerie and fascinating glimpse into the literal underground foundations of Roman Arles, away from the crowds above.
Chapelle de la Charité & Jardin des Vestiges
A small, often-overlooked 17th-century chapel with a tranquil hidden garden built atop and amidst ancient Roman ruins.
A peaceful oasis in the center where you can sit among fragments of Roman walls and columns, completely free and rarely busy.
Musée de l'Arles et de la Provence Antiques
A modern archaeological museum located just south of the center, across the river, housing an exceptional collection of Roman artifacts from Arles.
It's slightly out of the way, so it sees fewer visitors than the in-town monuments, yet it holds the stunning 'Arles Rhône 3' Roman barge and exquisite mosaics and sarcophagi.
Espace Van Gogh
The courtyard garden of the former hospital where Van Gogh was treated after cutting off his ear, now a cultural center and municipal library.
The garden has been meticulously replanted to match his painting 'The Garden of the Hospital in Arles.' It's a serene, living tribute that feels more intimate than the marked trail spots.
Rue du Sauvage
A particularly beautiful and quiet medieval street in the Hauture district, lined with ancient stone houses and architectural details.
It captures the authentic, unpolished medieval character of Arles away from the main tourist drags, perfect for atmospheric photos and quiet exploration.
Arles Culture & Customs
Arlesian culture is a proud blend of deep Roman history, Provençal traditions, and the rugged, independent spirit of the Camargue cowboys (gardians). Bullfighting in its non-lethal 'course camarguaise' form is a passionate local sport, not just a tourist spectacle. The city maintains a strong identity tied to its language (Provençal), festivals, and reverence for its artistic legacy, from Van Gogh to contemporary photography.
Cultural Etiquette
- •Greet shopkeepers with a polite 'Bonjour' upon entering and 'Au revoir' when leaving.
- •Dress respectfully when visiting churches like St. Trophime (cover shoulders and knees).
- •Tipping is not obligatory as service is included, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.
- •Be patient and polite; the southern pace can be slower. Attempting a few words of French goes a long way.
- •At bullfights (courses), understand the local passion; it's a deep cultural tradition, not merely a spectacle.
Useful Phrases
Frequently Asked Questions about Arles
How many days do I need in Arles?
Two full days is ideal. Spend one day exploring the historic center's Roman monuments and Van Gogh sites, and a second day either delving deeper into museums or taking a day trip to the Camargue. Add an extra day if attending the photography festival.
Is Arles safe?
Yes, Arles is generally very safe, even at night in the well-lit historic center. Standard precautions apply: be aware of pickpockets in crowded markets or at the Arena, and avoid the isolated areas around the train station late at night.
Where are Van Gogh's original paintings in Arles?
None of Van Gogh's original paintings remain in Arles. They are scattered in museums worldwide. The Fondation Vincent van Gogh Arles displays contemporary art responding to his legacy, and the 'Espace Van Gogh' recreates the hospital garden. The Van Gogh Trail marks the locations he painted.
Do I need to speak French?
No, but it helps. In tourist areas, hotels, and major restaurants, staff usually speak some English. In local markets, smaller shops, or with taxi drivers, basic French phrases are very useful and appreciated.
What is the best way to see the Camargue from Arles?
Renting a car is by far the best option for flexibility. Alternatively, book a guided 4x4, jeep, or horseback tour from Arles. Public bus service is extremely limited and won't get you to the key natural sites like the bird park or salt flats.
Can I visit the Roman Arena during a bullfight?
No, you cannot do a standard tourist visit when a bullfight (course) or concert is scheduled. Check the arena's official website for event schedules and plan your visit for a non-event day or time.
Is the Arles City Pass worth it?
Absolutely, if you plan to visit multiple monuments. The 2-day pass (€29) includes entry to the Arena, Theatre, Baths, Cloister, Alyscamps, and several museums. Visiting just the Arena, Theatre, and Cloister already exceeds the pass price.
What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are essential for cobblestones. Dress in layers; even hot days can turn cool with the Mistral wind. In summer, sun protection (hat, sunscreen) is crucial. For evenings, smart-casual attire is fine for most restaurants.
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