Arles

Introducing Arles

Located in southeastern France, Arles belongs to the Bouches-du-Rhône department in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. It is 72 kilometers northwest of Marseille and has a population of approximately 50,000. Known as Arles during the Western Roman Empire, it was connected to the Mediterranean Sea by a canal in 103 BC. In 46 AD, under the rule of Julius Caesar, Arles became a settlement for retired soldiers and earned the nickname "Little Rome of the Gauls." It later became an important religious center during the early development of Christianity. Muslims invaded in 730 AD. In the 10th century, it became the capital of Burgundy and was acquired by King Charles VI of France in the 14th century. Van Gogh resided here from February 21, 1888, to May 3, 1889. The city boasts historical sites such as the Roman Arena, the Church of Saint-Trophime, and the Provence Museum of Arts and Crafts. Tourism is well-developed, with industries such as chemicals, shipbuilding, machinery, and food processing.

Climate and best time to travel

Mediterranean climate

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Arles Museum

Frédéric Mistral, a Nobel Prize winner who loved Provence and its language, used her prize money to fund the construction of this museum, showcasing the region's traditional costumes and crafts. This museum, offering a glimpse into the customs of Arles, holds great significance. A female staff member dressed in traditional folk costume will greet you at the entrance.

Ancient Roman ruins

St. Trophime Church

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Most Popular FAQs for Arles

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Arles is a historic city in southern France, founded by the Romans in 46 BC. It became a major cultural and trade center in the Roman Empire. Arles is known for its well-preserved Roman monuments, medieval architecture, and its connection to Vincent van Gogh, who created many paintings here.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

• Located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region in southern France.
• Accessible by train via Gare d’Arles connecting to Marseille, Avignon, and other cities.
• Buses and taxis provide local transport, and the city is compact enough to explore on foot.
• Car rentals are available for visiting surrounding countryside and Provence villages.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Most museums and Roman sites are open from 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM; some close on Mondays.
• Best time to visit is spring (April–June) or autumn (September–October) to enjoy mild weather and avoid summer crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

• Tickets for major sites like the Roman Arena and Roman Theatre are typically 5–12 EUR.
• Museums like Musée Réattu may charge around 8–10 EUR.
• Tickets can be purchased onsite or online via official city or museum websites.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For popular attractions, guided tours, and high-season visits, booking 1–2 weeks in advance is recommended.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

1–2 days are sufficient to explore the main Roman sites, Old Town, museums, and Van Gogh landmarks.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Roman Arena (Arènes d’Arles)
• Roman Theatre
• Saint-Trophime Church and Cloisters
• Alyscamps necropolis
• Old Town (Vieille Ville)
• Van Gogh sites
• Musée Réattu

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

• Guided tours are available in French, English, Spanish, and German.
• Audio guides for key attractions are often provided in French and English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Roman Arena and Theatre for historic architecture shots.
• Saint-Trophime Cloisters for Gothic architecture and courtyards.
• Alyscamps for dramatic Roman necropolis views.
• Van Gogh trail locations for artistic perspectives.
• Old Town streets and squares for colorful urban photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the Roman Arena, visit the Roman Theatre, walk through Old Town, explore Saint-Trophime and Cloisters, follow the Van Gogh trail, and end at Musée Réattu or local markets.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

• Some Roman sites host evening events, concerts, or light shows during summer festivals.
• Evening walks in Old Town offer lively ambiance and local dining experiences.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

• Peak tourist season is July–August; sites can be crowded.
• Least crowded times are weekdays in spring or autumn.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Public restrooms are available at major attractions and squares.
• Restaurants, cafes, and small shops are widely available in Old Town.
• Water fountains and benches are present throughout pedestrian areas.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

• Most sites are accessible, though cobblestone streets and steps in Old Town may be challenging.
• Some Roman sites have ramps for disabled access.
• Family-friendly facilities are available at key attractions.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

• Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in shops, cafes, and museums.
• Cash (euros) may be needed for small vendors or markets.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Traditional Provencal restaurants in Old Town.
• Cafes and bistros around Place du Forum and along the Rhône River.
• Modern dining and international cuisine in city center.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

• Vegetarian and vegan options are available in many cafes and restaurants.
• Halal food is limited but can be found in select city eateries.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Luxury hotels near the Rhône River and Old Town.
• Mid-range hotels and boutique guesthouses in central Arles.
• Budget hostels and apartments throughout the city.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Camargue Natural Park for wildlife and landscapes.
• Avignon for the Palais des Papes and Pont Saint-Bénézet.
• Nîmes with its Roman Arena and Maison Carrée.
• Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer on the Mediterranean coast.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Souvenir shops in Old Town and near the Arena.
• Typical items include Provencal lavender products, postcards, Roman-themed trinkets, local wine, and artisanal crafts.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Regional trains to Nîmes, Avignon, and Marseille.
• Buses connecting nearby villages and countryside.
• Car rentals for exploring Provence and Camargue.