Nature, culture, and heritage

Best Things to do in Arles

Home to an ancient Roman arena and theatre, the “Rencontres de la Photo” international photography festival, and the exciting new Fondation Luma, Arles is a lively melting pot of Celtic, Roman and contemporary culture that offers a packed programme of traditional and creative events throughout the year.

Relive the ancient past of Arles

Nicknamed « Little Rome » by the Romans themselves, Arles certainly lives up to its reputation. Don’t miss a visit to the impressive Arles Amphitheater, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site or the Alyscamps, also referred to as the Champs Elysées of Arles: one of the Western world’s most prestigious mausoleums until the Middle Ages. Built in 1 BC, the Théâtre Antique is the venue for many summer shows – you can still admire two magnificent Roman columns comprising the remains of the stage wall. The Musée Départemental de l’Arles Antique museum shines the spotlight on Arles’ former status as one of the major towns of Roman Gaul. The only known portrait of Julius Caesar, as well as an incredibly well-preserved, 31-metre Roman barge retrieved from the Rhône river in 2010, are exhibited there.

You can easily spend an entire day exploring the ancient heritage of Arles, as there is so much to do! For lunch, you can easily find a delicious restaurant in the historic center of the city of Arles.

Explore Arles through the eyes of Van Gogh and Picasso

You can also enjoy exploring Arles through the paintings of Van Gogh, who brought the town to fame with his masterpiece « Café Terrace at Night« . The Fondation Vincent Van Gogh has been paying tribute to the master’s work since April 2014. Picasso expressed his attachment to Arles by donating 57 of his drawings to the Musée Réattu. Spurred by a passion for bullfighting, his love of the town inspired 8 portraits of his wife Jacqueline in traditional Arlesian dress.

Enhance your visit to the Vincent Van Gogh Foundation and the Réattu Museum with a stroll through the city center, along the banks of the Rhône, and amidst the ancient ruins that inspired the artists. The Alyscamps, listed among the things to do in Arles, were notably painted by Vincent Van Gogh.

Linger on the Forum Square

A gathering place for labourers seeking day work in Roman times, the ancient Place du Forum is set in the town centre. The square is also home to the legendary Nord Pinus hotel, which has welcomed numerous illustrious guests, including Picasso. Its two Corinthian columns come from a ruined Roman temple formerly set on the Forum. This is a great place to stop off for a drink and lap up the atmosphere. Just next door is the city hall. Go through the foyer to admire the virtually-flat arch built by the craftsmen and artisans of the « Compagnons du Tour de France » guild. The carved door of Saint-Trophime church opens to reveal a sober Romanesque nave, offering a striking contrast to the Gothic choir stall mouldings and Paleochristian sarcophagi.

Discover the contemporary side of Arles

Arles is a genuine hub of contemporary art. Head off to the ancient railway workshops, now a centre for art and innovation. Rehabilitated since 2014 under the aegis of architect Frank Gehry, the site, opened in 2019, form part of the new Luma Arles Tower, designed to evoke the rocky relief of the neighbouring Alpilles and harbouring exhibition areas and artists’ studios. Modern art fans will love Les Rencontres d’Arles, an international photography festival taking place every summer until late September – an absolute must-do. Featuring around 40 exhibitions held at venues throughout the town, the event adorns Arles’ ancient and modern walls alike with photographic works from all over the globe. A unique experience!

The best monuments in Provence

Between the Camargue and the Alpilles

The southern side of Arles opens onto the wild and beautiful Camargue, home to roaming bulls and horses, and Europe’s largest concentration of migrating flamingos. To the north, the town stands under the watchful gaze of the Alpilles mountain range and valley, with its vast olive groves and typical villages such as Maussane, Fontvieille and Mouriès. Don’t miss a stop-off in the medieval village of Les Baux-de-Provence, proud holder of the “France’s Most Beautiful Villages » label. Just a few kilometres down the road, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence inspired one of Vincent Van Gogh‘s most famous works. This treasure trove of Roman architecture is now a hub of emerging creative and artistic talent.

The most beautiful villages in Provence

Visit the Abbey of Montmajour

Located just a few kilometers from the historic center of Arles, the Montmajour Abbey is a historical treasure nestled in the heart of peaceful nature. Dating back to the 10th century, this Benedictine abbey offers a captivating immersion into the medieval past of the region.

Explore its expansive spaces, such as the church and the cloister, imbued with spirituality and remarkable architecture. The fortified keep provides a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside. Discover the chapels, monks’ cells, and architectural details that testify to the richness of its history.

The Abbey of Montmajour presents itself as a place of inspiration, marked by centuries of events and sacred art. A must-visit for history and tranquility enthusiasts, revealing the timeless soul of Provence.

Arles Camargue Tourist Office - Reception Service

For over 100 years, the Arles Tourist Office has been welcoming you 363 days a year. Do you need information, want to book your accommodation or...

Top Provence Restaurants

Friends, couples, or solo travellers who love a good meal, discover these tasty tables that honour the flavours of the South. Get your forks ready and dig into our top 10...