Arles, France

Things to do

2 days in Arles

Day 1

  1. MorningVisit the Roman arena and the ancient theatre, still used for events.
  2. AfternoonFollow the Van Gogh trail to the spots he painted, like the café terrace and the hospital garden.
  3. EveningHave dinner on the Place du Forum.

Day 2

Visit the hilltop village of Les Baux-de-Provence, or the Camargue wetlands.

What to eat

Camargue red rice and saucisson d'Arles.

Local tips

Make the most of Arles

Beat the crowds

Summer is busy, especially during the photography festival in July. Spring and autumn are lovely and calmer.

Best photo spot

The Roman arena from the top of its towers, and the Rhône riverside at sunset, a view Van Gogh painted under the stars.

Getting there

Trains run from Avignon, Nîmes and Marseille. The centre is walkable.

Don't miss nearby

The Camargue wetlands and the hilltop village of Les Baux-de-Provence.

Good to know

One pass covers several Roman sites. The Saturday market along the boulevard is one of the best in Provence.

Secret spots

3 secret spots near Arles

Our most hidden places around Arles: fewer people, same wow. Unlock them with a route in Google Maps and a PDF guide of Arles to take with you.

30 km away
31 km away
76 km away
Unlock the secret spots · €2.99+ VAT · one payment, valid for a year

Plan your visit

Getting to Arles

Getting there

  • Nîmes Airport (FNI)19 km away
  • Marseille Provence Airport (MRS)55 km away
  • Avignon35 km away
  • Montpellier60 km away

Reachable by car or public transport; a car gives you more freedom to explore the area. Distances are in a straight line.

At a glance

Best timeAll year
TypeHidden town
Good forOld towns & architecture, Food
Getting thereCar or public transport
Stay1 night
CountryFrance

Questions

Arles: good to know

Is Arles worth visiting?

Yes, especially if you like historic old towns and food. A Roman arena and the streets Van Gogh painted.

How many days do you need in Arles?

Plan 1 night. Our free 2-day plan above shows how to spend your time.

When is the best time to visit Arles?

You can visit all year. Summer is busy, especially during the photography festival in July. Spring and autumn are lovely and calmer.

How do you get to Arles?

The nearest airport is Nîmes Airport (FNI), about 19 km away. Trains run from Avignon, Nîmes and Marseille. The centre is walkable.

What is there to see near Arles?

Nearby hidden places include Avignon (34 km), Gordes (53 km) and Montpellier (61 km).

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