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THE 10 BEST Arles Museums

Museums in arles.

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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Musee Departemental Arles Antique

2. Espace Van Gogh

3. Fondation Vincent Van Gogh Arles

4. Musee Reattu

5. Domaine de Méjanes en Camargue

6. Museon Arlaten

7. LUMA Arles

8. Musee de la Camargue

9. The Manuel Rivera-Ortiz Foundation for Documentary Photography & Film

10. Conservatoire du Santon Provencal

11. MG Galerie - Guy Martinez

12. Anne Clergue Galerie

13. fondation lee ufan.

14. De Natura Rerum

16. Maison L'étoile

17. art thema gallery, what travelers are saying.

The Fondation is closed to prepare ˗ˏˋ ☆ ˎˊ˗ VAN GOGH THE STARS  ˗ˏˋ ☆ ˎˊ˗  Opening on the 1st of June

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Upcoming exhibition

Van gogh and the stars, a cosmic journey through 165 works by over 78 artists.

Van Gogh's Starry Night over the Rhône is presented for the first time in Arles since its creation 136 years ago.

Around this masterpiece - on loan from the Musée d'Orsay - you are welcome to explore a cosmic journey through more than 130 works by 78 modern and contemporary artists.

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THE FONDATION VINCENT VAN GOGH ARLES

Discover our missions and history

My Van Gogh

Dominique séréna-allier | van gogh: a resolute draughtsman.

Throughout the year, Bice Curiger invites prominent figures from the world of the arts to talk about an aspect of the life and work of Vincent van Gogh that holds particular meaning for them. Van Gogh: A resolute draughtsman In […]

About the figure and life of Vincent van Gogh

Short films.

Invited by the Vincent van Gogh Foundation in Arles, the Phare festival will present on 1 December a selection of short films based on the figure and life of the famous Dutch artist.

Literary conversation with Etel Adnan

In this literary talk, Etel Adnan proposed a comparison between two major bodies of writing: The Confessions of Saint Augustine and Vincent van Gogh’s letters to his brother Theo. She sought in particular to retrace the spiritual ascent that characterises the experiences […]

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Self-guided Walking Tour of Arles (with Map!)

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Embarking on a walking tour of Arles is like stepping into a vivid tapestry woven with the threads of ancient history, artistic heritage, and Provençal charm. Nestled in the heart of the sun-drenched region of Provence in southern France, Arles serves as a captivating portal to the past, boasting an array of well-preserved Roman monuments, medieval buildings, and streets that echo with the footsteps of Vincent van Gogh, who found profound inspiration in this picturesque town.

As you meander through the cobblestone lanes, every turn presents a new page of history, a burst of colorful culture, or a masterpiece of nature. From the imposing Roman Amphitheatre, whispering tales of gladiators and spectators of yore, to the serene beauty of the Rhône River that gently nudges the town’s edges, Arles is a mosaic of timeless moments.

This blog aims to guide you through the most enchanting corners of Arles, ensuring you soak up the essence of its storied past and vibrant present. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply in search of the Provençal dolce vita, our walking tour itinerary is designed to offer a comprehensive experience of Arles’s unique allure. We’ll explore hidden gems and iconic landmarks, delve into the town’s rich artistic legacy, and perhaps, find ourselves walking in the very steps of Van Gogh, immersing in the landscapes that inspired some of his most celebrated works.

Place de la Republique (Republic Square)

The Place de la République, nestled at the heart of Arles, embodies a pivotal spot within the city’s vibrant core. This square is a tapestry of architectural evolution and urban metamorphosis over centuries, crafting its distinctive, multifaceted identity. Located to the south of the erstwhile Roman forum, this space was initially a compact antechamber flanked by the Saint-Trophime and Sainte-Anne churches during the medieval era. The construction of the town hall in the 17th century marked a significant transformation, broadening the square and altering its façade considerably. Over the years, the Place de la République has been embellished with a variety of monuments, each bearing different styles and purposes, assembling an eclectic mix reminiscent of an Italian piazza. It has become a focal point for significant local traditions, including the triennial crowning of the “Queen of Arles,” which draws community engagement and infuses the area with energy.

Clock Tower of Arles

Featuring classical Provençal Renaissance decorations, the clock tower is a testament to the area’s refined architectural taste. Even with the new town hall’s construction, the decision to keep the clock tower by the city’s leaders emphasizes a commitment to preserving the classical elegance of that era.

Obélisque d'Arles

The Arles Obelisk is a significant ancient Roman monument located in Arles, France, recognized for its historical and cultural importance. It is an anepigraphic obelisk, meaning it lacks inscriptions, and stands out due to its Roman origins and inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage list since 1981. Unlike traditional Egyptian obelisks made from Egyptian granite, the Arles Obelisk is crafted from red granite from Asia Minor, around the ancient city of Troy, and stands approximately 20 meters tall, including its base.

Originally erected in the 4th century during Emperor Constantine’s reign, it was positioned in the Roman circus of Arles, a site for chariot races. The obelisk fell into disrepair by the 6th century, breaking into two parts. Rediscovered in 1389, there were plans by King Henri IV to relocate it to the Arènes d’Arles, which were never realized. In the 19th century, the obelisk’s base was adorned with a basin and bronze lions designed by sculptor Antoine Laurent Dantan, enhancing its visual and historical appeal. Since 1840, it has been recognized as a historic monument, underscoring its significance within Arles’ rich Roman and Romanesque heritage.

Saint-Trophime Cloister

The Cloister of St. Trophime, nestled within the ancient cathedral of Arles, stands as a testament to exquisite craftsmanship spanning the 12th to 14th centuries, imbuing it with profound historical and artistic value.

Distinctively positioned in relation to the cathedral, the St. Trophime Cloister diverges from common architectural practices; it’s linked to the choir via a staircase of twenty-five steps, rather than adjoining the nave or transept directly.

Initiated around 1150, the construction of the cloister began with the north gallery and was swiftly followed by the east gallery. It was only by the late 14th century, during Jean de Rochechouart’s episcopacy (1390-1398), that the construction saw completion, including the west and south galleries. This phased development bestowed the cloister with a blend of Romanesque styles in the north and east galleries and Gothic styles in the west and south galleries, marking a fusion of architectural influences.

The architectural finesse of the St. Trophime Cloister, with its balanced volumes and intricate sculptural details, reflects the artisans’ pursuit of aesthetic excellence.

Since being designated a historical monument in 1846, and later a part of the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1981 for its inclusion among the Roman and Romanesque monuments of Arles, the St. Trophime Cloister has been celebrated for its exceptional cultural significance and contribution to the architectural heritage of the region.

Église Sainte-Anne d'Arles

The Sainte-Anne church, erected between 1614 and 1630, exhibits the enduring charm of southern Gothic architecture, providing insights into the area’s rich artistic legacy. Furthermore, the 17th-century revamp of the archdiocese and the late 18th-century reconstruction of its façade add to the Place de la République’s architectural richness, creating a layered and compelling narrative of Arles’ historical and cultural landscape.

Town Hall and Cryptoportics of Arles

Arles boasts two notable yet intertwined heritage sites: the Town Hall and the Cryptoportics, each reflecting the city’s rich history.

The Arles Town Hall, finalized in 1676 and declared a historical monument, stands as a testament to architectural magnificence and fine craftsmanship across its three stories. Upon entering, visitors are welcomed by a grand vestibule under a low vault, demonstrating the intricate French stereotomy. This architectural feature, with its dual intersecting barrel vaults tied elegantly to the walls through arches and spanning 15 meters with minimal sagging, highlights the exceptional skill of its creators. It showcases the essentials of stereotomy, like the precision in lowering and the masonry’s interplay, all while revealing the inner beauty of the vault’s structure.

The ascent up the main staircase introduces guests to lion sculptures by Jean Dedieu, adding to the space’s splendor. A reproduction of the Venus of Arles, a find from Arles’s ancient theater now in the Louvre, graces the staircase. A replica by Girardon enriches this setting with classical elegance. The first floor features a balcony supported by double columns, and the second floor is distinguished by a central pediment with the sun symbol of Louis XIV, decorative balusters, and fire pots, enhancing the Town Hall’s historical allure.

In close proximity, the Cryptoportics form a mysterious underground network dating back to Roman times, lying beneath the city’s contemporary heart. Originating from the first Roman colony in 46 BC, these subterranean passages, possibly built upon older Greek structures, invite visitors to traverse through millennia. Likely serving as commercial or storage spaces in the Roman forum, the Cryptoportics offer an immersive journey into Arles’s ancient commercial practices and everyday life.

The combination of the Town Hall and Cryptoportics in Arles presents an enriching narrative of the city’s past, from the splendor of municipal architecture to the underground echoes of ancient commerce, offering a comprehensive glimpse into the legacy and daily existence of historic Arles.

Église Saint Trophime d'Arles

Dedicated to the legendary first archbishop of Arles, this church showcases the Romanesque architectural style and stands on the foundations of a 5th-century basilica. It functioned as a cathedral until the episcopal see was relocated to Aix in 1801. Constructed from the 12th to the 15th centuries, it is celebrated as a quintessential example of Provençal Romanesque art. Noteworthy is the elaborately carved western entrance, crowned by a tympanum that illustrates the Apocalypse, featuring St. Trophime wielding his bishop’s staff. The interior houses a treasury with relics of Arles’ bishops. The adjacent Cloître St-Trophime cloister occasionally serves as a venue for exhibitions.

Théâtre Antique, Arles (Ancient Theatre of Arles)

The Arles Ancient Theater, nestled in Arles, France, is a significant historical landmark, constructed towards the close of the 1st century BC under Emperor Augustus’s rule. It emerged as one of the initial Roman stone theaters, with its construction phase stretching from around 40/30 BC to approximately 12 BC, coinciding with Arles’s elevation to a Roman colony status.

Positioned along the decumanus, the primary east-west thoroughfare in the Roman urban layout, the theater exemplifies the Romans’ sophisticated approach to city planning. Since 1840, it has been acknowledged as a historical monument, underscoring its profound historical importance.

Presently, this site offers a window into the past for visitors. Despite the survival of only a single section of the original seating structure, this remnant, repurposed as a part of the medieval city’s fortifications, speaks volumes about the theater’s former splendor. The orchestra, the space preceding the stage, retains evidence of an altar dedicated to Apollo, featuring swan motifs, a nod to Emperor Augustus’s symbol.

A notable aspect of the Arles Ancient Theater is the “two widows,” solitary columns from what was once a hundred-column stage facade, standing as silent witnesses to history’s passage.

Beyond its historical allure, the theater doubles as a vibrant cultural hub, hosting an array of events and festivals from June to August. These include the Arles and Costume Festivals, the International Photography Meetings, Les Suds, Cargo Stopovers, and the Peplum Film Festival, breathing life into this ancient venue and perpetuating its role as a center for cultural and artistic endeavors.

Arenes d'Arles (Arles Amphitheatre)

Located in the charming town of Arles, the Arles Amphitheatre is a monumental structure from Ancient Rome, constructed in 90 AD. This magnificent amphitheatre is a testament to the architectural prowess and enduring legacy of Roman civilization, making it a key attraction for visitors to Arles.

Designed as a two-tiered coliseum, it could host over 20,000 spectators, offering them a variety of spectacles, from thrilling chariot races to intense gladiatorial combat, reflecting Arles’s cultural prominence in the Roman world.

Despite its ancient origins, the amphitheatre underwent changes in the medieval period, including the addition of towers that contribute to its distinctive appearance by merging Roman and medieval architectural styles.

Today, the Arles Amphitheatre continues to enchant audiences, serving as a venue for cultural activities rather than ancient sports. It is the centerpiece of the Feria d’Arles, a lively annual festival, and hosts an array of performances such as plays and concerts during the summer, drawing both local and international crowds.

In 1981, UNESCO acknowledged the amphitheatre’s significant cultural contribution by designating it a World Heritage Site, under the “Arles, Roman, and Romanesque Monuments” category. This honor emphasizes the amphitheatre’s role in global heritage, celebrating its historical and cultural importance.

Musee Reattu (Reattu Museum)

The Reattu Museum stands out for its eclectic array of art, including paintings, drawings, sculptures, and photographs. It highlights works by Jacques Réattu, a native of Arles, alongside pieces by Picasso and a range of contemporary artists. The museum also frequently organizes contemporary art exhibitions.

Home to a remarkable collection of 800 works by Jacques Réattu, the museum dedicates twelve rooms to both his creations and personal collections, primarily featuring 17th-century paintings. The exhibition space also honors Réattu’s connections, showcasing works by his uncle Antoine Raspal, among others, with “The Couturiers’ Workshop” from the 1780s as a standout piece. Picasso’s artistic genius is spotlighted in three rooms, while a separate area is reserved for an extensive photography collection, representing various artists and eras.

The Musée Réattu’s holdings are rich in contemporary sculptures by figures like César, Richier, Bourdelle, and Zadkine, and modern paintings by Dufy, Vlaminck, and Prassinos. This breadth offers a panoramic view of historical and contemporary art movements.

A distinctive feature of the museum is its vast photography collection, initiated with contributions from notable photographers such as Richard Avedon and Man Ray, expanding to over 4,000 works by 2001. This collection has grown through donations from participants of the Rencontres d’Arles photography festival, enriching the museum’s offerings and providing a deep dive into the development of photography as an art form.

Thermes de Constantin (Baths of Constantine)

The Baths of Constantine, also known as the Thermes du Nord, are historic Roman bath ruins situated along the Rhône River in Arles. Constructed in the early 4th century during Emperor Constantine’s stay in Arelate (Arles), these baths later earned the moniker “Palais de la Trouille” in the Middle Ages, mistakenly thought to be a palace built by Constantine himself.

Recognized as historical monuments in 1840, with the Roman wall and adjacent cellars additionally classified in 1922, the city acquired and meticulously renovated the site from 1980 to 1995, aiming to safeguard its architectural legacy.

Today, the Thermes de Constantin rank among France’s most well-preserved Roman baths, alongside the Thermes de Chassenon in Charente and the Thermes de Cluny in Paris. Initial excavation and cleaning in the 19th century revealed much of what is visible today.

Presently, the baths’ most prominent features are the remains of the caldarium, the hot-water bath area, characterized by its underfloor heating system (hypocaust) and three pools, two rectangular and one semi-circular with an apse, showcasing three windows under a half-dome vault. This area links to the laconicum (a dry sauna) and the tepidarium (a warm bath), the latter ending in a semi-circular apse on its western side.

Visitors to the Thermes de Constantin are offered a fascinating insight into Roman bathing culture and architectural ingenuity. The diligent restoration and conservation efforts by Arles highlight the enduring allure and historical importance of these ancient baths.

Place du Forum, Arles

Forum Square is a place of considerable historical and artistic value, historically serving as the heart of activity in many Roman cities, including Arles. Originally, it covered a vast area from what is now Boulevard des Lices to the north, reaching towards the river.

The square’s fame is significantly attributed to Vincent van Gogh’s iconic painting, “Cafe Terrace at Night,” created in September 1888. This artwork captures a lively café scene on Forum Square, where the café now known as Cafe Van Gogh stands, painted in the same yellow hues featured in Van Gogh’s piece. Though the painting bears no signature, Van Gogh frequently discussed and referenced it in his correspondence, and a pen drawing of the scene is part of his estate.

Present-day visitors to Forum Square can experience the same view Van Gogh did when he painted the enchanting café scene. The square remains a vibrant center of life in Arles, bustling with energy both day and night. Tourists are invited to enjoy the lively scenes, absorb the square’s ambiance, and witness the timeless allure that inspired Van Gogh.

Forum Square not only highlights the historical prominence of Arles as a Roman metropolis but also stands as an emblematic site in the art world, famed for being depicted in one of Van Gogh’s most celebrated paintings. Its rich history intertwined with notable artistry continues to attract global visitors, offering them a chance to delve into Arles’s cultural heritage.

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Home » Travel Guides » France » 15 Best Things to Do in Arles (France)

15 Best Things to Do in Arles (France)

In Roman times Arles was one of Gaul’s most venerated cities, home to more than 30,000 people and furnished with monuments that remain in place today. On a multi-site pass you can quench your thirst for Roman wonders and then be amazed by the works of art they left behind at the city’s museum.

Much later, Arles was where Vincent van Gogh spend a year in 1888, completing many masterpieces of scenes you can visit around the city. You could also strike out into the mythic Camargue, a land of wild horses, fighting bulls as well as widescreen lagoons and salt-pans sweeping out to the Mediterranean.

Lets explore the best things to do in Arles :

1. Amphitheatre

Arles’ marquee attraction is the oval arena where for more than 400 years the ancient populace would have been entertained by gladiators and chariot races.

It was modelled on Rome’s coliseum and was built a couple of decades after in 90AD. When you come, note the clever touches, like stairways regularly spaced around the arena to manage the flow of spectators in and out.

The arena is still part of the city’s cultural life, holding bullfights and concerts.

On the outside you may notice towers, and these are medieval vestiges from the arena’s time as a citadel, filled with more than 200 houses.

Arles’ theatre is still a performance venue, more than 2,000 years after it was constructed.

The lower tiers of the cavea are all still here, and in Roman times this would have had additional terraces and been able to seat as many as 10,000 spectators.

On the left side of the stage the south tower gives an indication of how high the cavea would have been.

Behind the stage are two columns, labelled “Les Deux Veuves” (The Two Widows) and they are part of what would have been a gigantic backdrop that included a three-metre-high statue of Augustus.

At Arles’ Museum you can see a large model of what the theatre would have looked like in its heyday, and how the two columns would have fitted into the scaenae frons.

3.  Musée de l’Arles et de la Provence Antiques

The ideal complement to your tour of Arles ancient monuments is this museum where many of the artefacts recovered from these archaeological sites render life in Roman Arles in sparkling detail.

It’s a playground for amateur historians, overflowing with sculptures, mosaics, early-Christian sarcophagi and decorative fragments from buildings like the theatre.

One of the newer exhibits will set your pulse racing; a Gallo-Roman barge discovered in the Rhône in 2004 and now on show surrounded by its cargo of amphorae.

You’ll also be awed by the statue of Augustus that once stood in the theatre’s scaenae frons.

It measures more than three metres, with a torso found in 1750 an a head unearthed nearly a century later in 1834!

4. Van Gogh Heritage

Vincent van Gogh came to Arles in 1888 and lived here for a year, at a time when his mental health was deteriorating . As we’ll see, he completed some of his most acclaimed paintings in the city, like The Night Café, Café Terrace at Night and Van Gogh’s Chair.

But it was also where he mutilated his left ear.

The Tourist Office organises a Van Gogh Walking Tour, which will show you around all of the locations you may already know from the 300 paintings he made in the city.

On the itinerary is the Fondation Van Gogh, which tells the story of his time in Arles and how his style changed, and holds temporary exhibitions of his work.

5. Church of St. Trophime

This church on Place de la République belongs to the city’s UNESCO site, and you’ll know why when you get close to the western portal.

Here you’ll be met by one of the most celebrated sets of romanesque sculpture, carved no later than the 1100s.

They show all sorts of biblical scenes like the the Apocalypse and the Gospel of St. Matthew.

If you look up at the tympanum you can identify Jesus seated above the 12 apostles, beneath some 40 angels in the archivolt.

The interior has early-Christian sarcophagi, 13th-century plaques and epitaphs, baroque paintings and nine Aubusson tapestries from the 17th century.

6. Cloister at St. Trophime

The church’s cloister was built at the same time and deserves a separate entry as it’s one of Arles’ indispensable sights.

This part of the church was for the church’s canons, whose routine resembled that of monks, removed from life in the city.

The most captivating part is the northern and eastern galleries of the cloister, built much earlier than the southern and western ones: This is because work was halted when Counts of Provence chose Aix as their seat of power instead of Arles.

You have to study every pillar in detail as each one tells a story, whether it’s Jesus’ empty tomb after the transfiguration, Moses meeting God by the burning bush or St. Stephen being stoned.

7. Thermes de Constantin

In the early 300s Emperor Constantine lived in Arelate, and these baths were built around that time although there’s no proven connection to the man himself.

They were excavated in the 19th century and are seen as one of the most complete Roman bathing complexes surviving in France.

The caldarium (hot bath) is probably the most interesting part, suspended over the hypocaust that used to heat it, with three pools one of which is walled by a semi-circular apse with windows.

This room connects with the tepidarium (warm bath) and the laconicum (hot room). The baths aren’t extensive, but will fill you in about another aspect of daily life in Roman Arles.

8. Montmajour Abbey

Minutes northeast of Arles is a medieval monastery set on what used to be an island.

There are several sections to the complex, the oldest being a hermitage cut from the rock in the 1000s, and this is accompanied by a 12th-century cloister and the fortified monastery of Saint-Pierre, which dates to the 14th century.

This final ensemble features the Pons de l’Orme tower, 26 metres high and fitted with crenellations to help defend the monastery against the Free Company, a mercenary army that plundered Italy and southern France in the 1300s.

As the surrounding terrain was marshy,  this former island was used as a cemetery: In many instances tombs were hewn from the rock, and these cavities are still visible at this site.

9. Alyscamps painted by Van Gogh and Gauguin

In a city less replete with ancient marvels the necropolis, Alyscamps would be a headline attraction, but in Arles it falls by the wayside of many tourists.

Starting in the Gallo-Roman period it was one of the occidental ancient world’s eminent cemeteries.

As was the Roman style, it was placed along Aurelian Way just before it entered the city and was such a coveted burial site that sarcophagi were shipped from around Europe to be interred here.

By the 300s there were thousands of tombs, three layers deep.

Van Gogh and Paul Gauguin had a tetchy and competitive companionship in Arles, and Alyscamps was the first location that they painted next to each other.

10. Place de la République

Arles’ town hall is on this stately square, as are the churches of Saint-Trophime  and Sainte-Anne, opposite each other.

But after exiting Saint-Trophime you’ll find your attention drawn to the monument in the middle of the square.

This is a Roman obelisk that originally stood in the spina (the long central barrier) in Arelate’s circus.

It was found in the 1300s and erected here on a plinth in the 17th-century.

The stone for the obelisk has travelled a long way when you consider the time it was erected and that it measures more than 15 metres.

It’s made of a specific type of granite found in Asia Minor, and most likely Ancient Troy.

11. Place du Forum

There aren’t many signs of the Roman forum that stood roughly on this square, save for fragment of a temple portico integrated into the facade of the Hôtel Nord Pinus.

Now Place du Forum is filled with lively restaurant terraces under the shade of plane trees, and takes on extra meaning because Vincent van Gogh set his easel in northeast corner of the square to paint Café Terrace at Night in 1888. Come in the morning when the tables are empty to spend a moment with the statue of Frédéric Mistral, the Nobel Prize-winning author who lived and worked close to Arles.

12. Musée Réattu

Arles main art museum is named after Jacques Réattu who was born in the city and bequeathed a large collection of his paintings and drawings to the museum when he died in 1833. There are some 800 pieces by the painter, displayed in 12 rooms, and three rooms for Pablo Picasso, who donated drawings in the early 70s.

You can also check out a massive photography collections with contributions by the likes of Richard Avedon and Man Ray, as well as sketches by the fashion designer and Arles native Christian Lacroix.

The building is a former monastery for the Order of Malta, built right next to the Rhône.

13. Cryptoporticus

On a hot day you could descend below the old Roman forum and enter a network of tunnels constructed by the Greeks.

There are three twin tunnels arranged in a U-shape and you might be surprised to see how well they’ve survived the years.

Their purpose is a matter for debate: In other Roman cities, tunnels like these would have been used as granaries, but the ground is too damp here in Arles for that.

So it’s likely they’d have been made to support the monuments above as well as possibly housing the city’s public slaves.

14. Camargue Nature Park

Arles is seen as the capital of the Camargue, and is on the northern reaches of this special region.

You can book a safari tour to venture into this area of low-lying marshes, lagoons, rice paddies and reddish salt pans between the mouths of the Gard and Rhône.

These extend out to the Mediterranean, so the Camargue is famed for spectacular open spaces extending from horizon to horizon.

In this harsh environment the camarguais horse breed lives in semi-feral herds, and is used on farms to help rear fighting bulls for Spain.

The brackish waters of its wetlands offer one of the only habitats in Europe for greater flamingos.

15. Barbegal Aqueduct

A few minutes east of Arles you get an idea of the resourcefulness that allowed Roman cities like Arles to develop.

The Roman Aqueduct of Barbegal is in the Alpilles Regional Park and delivered water from the Alpilles Range to Arles several kilometres away.

The structure is mostly in ruins and you have to use your imagination a little more than at say, the Pont du Gard, but it also was the scene of one of the Roman world’s most creative uses of hydropower: On a craggy rock here are the remnants of an ancient flourmill, which had 16 waterwheels.

So not only could the aqueduct provide water for all of Arles, it was part of a system that could make 10,000 tons of flour a day, enough to feed a third of the city’s population.

15 Best Things to Do in Arles (France):

• Amphitheatre
• 3.  Musée de l'Arles et de la Provence Antiques
• Van Gogh Heritage
• Church of St. Trophime
• Cloister at St. Trophime
• Thermes de Constantin
• Montmajour Abbey
• Alyscamps painted by Van Gogh and Gauguin
• Place de la République
• Place du Forum
• Musée Réattu
• Cryptoporticus
• Camargue Nature Park
• Barbegal Aqueduct

• Tourism in Arles
• Get Inspired
• Towns and Villages
• Bouches-du-Rhône Tourism

Arles , a city of art and history at the gates of the Camargue, in the Bouches-du-Rhône department, is a city with an exceptional heritage that must be discovered. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , the city reveals all its beauty between past and modernity. The historic heart is full of architectural treasures such as the arenas, the ancient Roman Amphitheater, the Roman Theater, the cryptoporticus, the Roman baths of Constantine, etc. Architecture enthusiasts will also appreciate the innovative building along the Berges du Rhône (Banks of the Rhône) which houses the Musée de l’Arles antique (Museum of Ancient Arles).

Provençal culture spreads through the narrow streets of the city during traditional holidays . These events are an opportunity to highlight the traditions of the city and its costumes as those of the Arlesian women. The city’s monuments have inspired many artists who have tried to represent the beauty of the place under their paintbrush or lens. Arles has particularly inspired Van Gogh who painted many canvases during his stay. It is also the city of the Gipsy Kings and Christian Lacroix. Every season, events are organized to promote culture: photography, music, literature, drama and bullfighting.

The Amphitheater

The Arles Amphitheater , located in the center of the city, once was a Roman amphitheater that could hold 21,000 spectators. The building rises over several floors and is equipped with various doors, galleries and staircases to allow spectators to move around easily. Today it is the most visited monument in the city . Numerous bullfighting events are organized there, such as the Easter Feria, La Cocarde d’Or and the ACE trophy final, but also musical or theater shows , reenactments of gladiator fights… The monument inspired many artists, including the famous painter Vincent Van Gogh who, in 1888, painted “Les Arènes,” a painting depicting the crowd on a bullfighting day.

Voir cette publication sur Instagram Une publication partagée par Gabriel Bancora Photography (@gabrielbancoraphotography) le 15 Août 2019 à 8 :20 PDT

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The Roman Theater

The Roman Theater of Arles is a UNESCO World Heritage Site . It had a capacity of 10,000 spectators. After numerous excavations, various remains of decoration were found, such as the “Venus of Arles,” now in the Louvre Museum, the statue of Augustus, preserved in the Musée de l’Arles antique (Museum of Ancient Arles), or the Altar of Apollo. Built on the L’Hauture hill, only a few tiers, the orchestra, the pit and two high columns remain of the building today. It is in summer that the theater regains its function as a performance venue. Various cultural and traditional events take place there, such as the Arles festivals, the Costume Festival, international photography meetings, the Les Suds Festival and the Peplum Film Festival.

Roman Baths of Constantine

The thermal baths were in ancient times a particularly widespread and frequented public place. The thermal baths allowed the population to get together to enjoy the hot and cold baths, but also to practice sports. Located on the banks of the Rhône, the Roman baths of Constantine were built at the beginning of the 4th century before undergoing a major restoration to clear the remains visible today. They are the best preserved in the commune although only a third of them can be seen. The building is a listed historical monument.

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Cryptoporticus of the Forum

The cryptoporticus is located under the central square of the Roman City, called the forum. Thanks to its pillars supporting the vaults, it stabilizes the esplanade built on a sloping ground. Organized in three galleries , forming a U, the cryptoporticus served as cellars for private individuals, as catacombs, but also as a deposit of wood and marble. The galleries were opened to the public in 1966 and are now classified as UNESCO World Heritage Sites .

Cloister of Saint Trophime

Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , the Cloister of Saint Trophime is located between the ancient theater and the town hall square. During the construction of the buildings organized around a cloister, the galleries were built. The first two are decorated with sculptures representative of Provençal Romanesque art. Two other galleries were later built in a Gothic style. The restored rooms are now used to host contemporary art exhibitions , thematic presentations of the city’s heritage, but also the International Fair of the Santon and the “Lecture en Arles” (reading in Arles) festival in summer. The cloister is highlighted during visits on European Heritage Days. In 2006, spectators discovered a magnificent exhibition of medieval objects.

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Practical information

• Tourist Office of Arles : https://www.arlestourisme.com/fr/
• Road service : A54 Highway (from Marseille or Nîmes)
• Air access : Nîmes Airport (25 minutes), Avignon Airport (1 hour), Marseille Provence Airport (1 hour), Montpellier Méditerranée Airport (1 hour)
• Railroad access : train station
• Also discover : Arles markets

nearby towns:

• Aix-en-Provence
• Salon de Provence

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11 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Arles

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

In the heart of Provence, Arles offers distinctive Provençal character and small-town charm. Thanks to its relaxing atmosphere, Arles is a pleasant place to explore. The narrow pedestrian streets and tree-lined public squares invite you to take leisurely strolls, then relax at the shaded terraces of outdoor cafés.

Despite its slow-paced southern-French lifestyle, Arles inspires sightseeing at a fast clip. There are so many attractions to see: wonderfully preserved ruins, including the ancient Arena, Roman Theater, the Forum, and the Baths of Constantine. These archaeological sites make Arles one of the best places to visit in Provence for a glimpse of the region's Roman heritage.

Art lovers will want to follow in the footsteps of Vincent van Gogh by visiting the scenes of the artist's famous paintings. For more ideas on things to do, read our list of the top attractions in and around Arles.

See also: Where to Stay in Arles

1. L'Amphithéâtre Romain (Les Arènes d'Arles)

2. les alyscamps, 3. cloître saint-trophime, 4. théâtre antique, 5. musée départemental arles antique, 6. van gogh self-guided walking tour, 7. thermes de constantin, 8. musée réattu (musée des beaux-arts d'arles), 9. place de la république, 10. fondation vincent van gogh arles, 11. place du forum, where to stay in arles for sightseeing, best day trips from arles, the camargue, les baux-de-provence, abbaye de montmajour, a romanesque pilgrimage church, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to arles.

The UNESCO-listed Roman Amphitheater ( les Arènes d'Arles ), dating back to the 1st century CE, is the largest and best-preserved ancient monument in Arles. With a length of 136 meters and a width of 107 meters, the arena was one of the largest in Gaul and could accommodate around 21,000 spectators.

The facade has a double row of arcades with 60 archways and four arches used as main entrances. Seating for the spectators was once on 33 rows of tiered steps. The arena was actually built into the bedrock of the site, and in Roman times, the stone seats were covered with wooden planks.

During the Middle Ages, towers were added to the arena. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower over the entrance for a wonderful view of the old town of Arles and the nearby ancient theater. The amphitheater is still used today as an open-air venue for bullfights, reenactments of gladiator fights, music concerts, and shows.

Address: 1 Rond-Point des Arènes, Arles

Read More: Best Places to Visit in the South of France

Another UNESCO-listed site, Les Alyscamps reveals the remains of ancient Arles' vast Gallo-Roman necropolis. This site was also an important stop on the Way of Saint James medieval pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela in Spain, because of a priory installed here around the year 1040.

In the Middle Ages, the Alyscamps was so revered that the dead were brought here for burial from considerable distances. Dante refers to this necropolis in his Inferno . Only the plain stone tombs remain; more ornate examples are on display at the Church of Saint-Trophime.

At the end of the Allée, visitors arrive at the 12th-century Church of Saint-Honorat . In the side chapel on the left, lies a beautiful sarcophagus dating from the 4th century CE.

In October 1888, Vincent van Gogh captured the Alyscamps in several paintings. Around the same time, Paul Gauguin also created two paintings of the Alyscamps.

The site is open year-round, with longer hours during summertime. Entrance requires an admission fee.

Address: Avenue des Alyscamps, Arles

The Cloître Saint-Trophime is a masterpiece of Provençal Romanesque architecture. This UNESCO-listed monument was constructed between the 12th and 14th centuries.

The cloister features pairs of pillars with beautifully carved capitals. Upon closer observation, the finely detailed sculptures reveal biblical scenes, including the life of Christ and Saint Trophime.

The medieval cloister adjoins the Church of Saint-Trophime and is accessible by way of the church's courtyard. The adjacent Eglise Saint-Trophime also exemplifies Romanesque architecture with its marvelous intricately sculpted portal, featuring a theme of the Last Judgment.

Along with Les Alyscamps, the Church of Saint-Trophime was a stop on the Chemin de Saint Jacques medieval pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela in Spain .

The cloister and the church are dedicated to Saint Trophime. An important local historical figure, Saint Trophime was the first bishop of Arles during the early Christian period.

The Cloître Saint-Trophime welcomes visitors daily (except holidays) year-round. Entrance requires an admission fee.

Address: Place de la République, Arles

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions of Parc Naturel Régional du Luberon, Provence

Not as well preserved as other ancient sites in Arles but still interesting, the UNESCO-listed Théâtre Antique (Roman Theater) was built in the 1st century BCE during the rule of Augustus. The theater could accommodate a crowd of 10,000 people in 33 rows of seats.

Archaeologists have discovered that the theater's stage was sumptuously decorated with marble columns and statues. The Musée Départemental Arles Antique displays some of the objects that were excavated here, including an enormous statue of Augustus.

During the early Middle Ages, the theater was used as a quarry, and the town wall was built with the material it provided.

The Théâtre Antique is open year-round daily, except for January 1st and December 25th. The theater also serves as a venue for outdoor performances and cultural events during the summer.

Address: Rue de la Calade, Arles

If you are interested in ancient history and archaeology, the Departmental Museum of Ancient Arles is a must-see destination. The museum occupies a striking contemporary building on the remains of the ancient Roman circus.

The museum's wealth of art and everyday objects reflects Arles' status as one of ancient Rome's most important colonial outposts. Featuring a wide range of exhibits, the museum's collection includes mosaics, statues, and other objects offering insight into daily life during Roman times.

The Musée Départemental Arles Antique is open Wednesday through Monday from 10am until 6pm and closed on Tuesdays, January 1st, May 1st, November 1st, and December 25th. The first Sunday of every month, entrance is free of charge. From July 9th through August 30th, guided tours in English are available on Thursdays at 3pm.

Address: Presqu'île du Cirque-Romain, Arles

Follow in the footsteps of Vincent van Gogh by visiting the sites where he created some of his most well-known works. The Van Gogh Pedestrian Path indicates 11 of Van Gogh's painting sites. Pick up a map of the pedestrian circuit at the Tourist Office of Arles (9 Boulevard des Lices).

Highlights of this self-guided walking tour include the outdoor café on the Place du Forum (now the Café Van Gogh ) that provided the scene for the Café Terrace at Night ( Terrasse du Café le Soir ) painting, and the location of the celebrated Starry Nights ( La Nuit Etoilée ) painting.

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Marseille

Visit the ancient Roman ruins of an extensive bathing complex, which was once as elaborate and pampering as any modern-day spa.

The Thermes de Constantin (Baths of Constantine) is a UNESCO-listed 4th-century CE bathing complex. During Roman times, the complex served as a place where people could socialize, exercise, bathe, and relax, and even get massage treatments.

The site is open every day (for an admission fee). You can see remains of the Caldarium ("hot bath"), parts of the underfloor heating system, and the Tepidarium ("warm air room" that functioned as a steam room).

Address: Rue Dominique Maïsto, Arles

The Musée Réattu ( Arles Fine Arts Museum ) is housed in a magnificent Renaissance building that was once the Grand-Prieuré de l'Ordre de Malte (Grand Priory of the Knights of Malta). The 15th-century building is found in an inspiring spot, overlooking a bend in the Rhone River.

The museum exhibits paintings by Jacques Réattu , who purchased the Grand Priory building in 1796 and lived here for about 30 years. Réattu was a renowned Peintre d'histoire , the esteemed French classification for a History Painter. Réattu painted historical, biblical, and mythological subjects in a realistic yet aesthetically pleasing way.

Contemporary art is also well represented at the museum. There is a noteworthy assortment of artworks by Pablo Picasso . Many of the Picasso pieces on display are painted in his characteristic whimsical, humorous style. Several paintings feature Picasso's evocative images of musketeers and harlequins.

The museum is open year-round from Tuesday through Sunday. Closed on Mondays, January 1st, May 1st, November 1st, and December 25th. Admission is free of charge on the first Sunday of every month.

Address: 10 Rue du Grand Prieuré, Arles

At the heart of Arles, the Place de la République centers around an ancient Egyptian obelisk that is 15 meters high. The obelisk was found in the amphitheater and placed here in 1676.

On the north side of the square stands the Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall), an elegant building constructed between 1673 and 1675. Its bell tower dates from 1553 and came from the building that previously stood on the site.

The Fondation Vincent van Gogh Arles explores the influence of Vincent van Gogh on 19th-century and 20th-century art. The gallery space displays themed exhibits. Many exhibits feature contemporary artworks alongside influential paintings by Van Gogh.

Not to be missed, the rooftop terrace affords beautiful views of the city. The Fondation also has a gift shop/bookstore.

Address: 35 ter, Rue du Docteur Fanton, Arles

Vincent van Gogh depicted a café on the Place du Forum in his famous painting Le Café Le Soir ( Café Terrace at Night ). On the pleasant tree-lined square, the café's outdoor terrace still has the same enchanting ambience captured by Van Gogh. This café is today called the Café Van Gogh .

Another point of interest: The Place du Forum was the Roman-era town center. Part of an ancient building with weathered Corinthian columns is visible in one corner of the square.

The historic center of Arles is compact and easily walkable, and most of the tourist attractions lie within an easy stroll of each other. For sightseeing, this is the best place to stay. Many of the hotels here offer parking nearby, some for a fee. Here are some highly rated hotels in this convenient and central location:

Luxury Hotels:

• About a 10-minute walk from the Roman Amphitheater, the five-star Hotel Jules Cesar blends old and new in a former 17th-century convent with chic decor designed by Christian Lacroix. Other amenities include an outdoor pool, a spa with a sauna and hot tub, and a gourmet restaurant.
• L'Hôtel Particulier is a five-star hotel that features luxurious modern guest rooms in a historic building. The hotel has a delightful garden courtyard (where breakfast is served) and an outdoor pool. Other amenities include a spa, concierge, and room service.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• On a quiet street near the Roman Amphitheater, the Hôtel de l'Amphithéâtre offers comfortable accommodations in a renovated 17th-century building. Some rooms have rooftop views.
• Near the Roman Amphitheater, the Hôtel Spa Le Calendal features cheerful contemporary-style decor. Guests will appreciate the hotel's spa and hammam, sandwich bar, and garden courtyard dining.
• A short walk from the Fondation Vincent van Gogh, Le Cloître is known for its welcoming staff, eclectic interior decor, and sunny rooftop terrace. Guest rooms have either freestanding bathtubs or Italian showers.

Budget Hotels:

• Steps away from the Musée Réattu, the Hôtel du Musée provides stylish accommodations in a quaint historic mansion. The hotel has two courtyard patios where breakfast and refreshments are served.
• On a tree-shaded square near the Roman Amphitheater, the Hôtel La Muette occupies a renovated 14th-century hôtel particulier (mansion). Guest rooms feature antiques and modern furnishings and ceilings with exposed wooden beams. This family-run hotel offers homemade breakfasts that include excellent coffee, fresh-baked cakes, pastries and bread from a local bakery, artisanal jam, and seasonal fruit.
• The affordable ibis budget Arles Palais des Congrès has an outdoor swimming pool, garden, and free parking. The hotel is about a 10-minute taxi ride from the tourist attractions in the old town of Arles.

Tourists flock to Avignon to visit the UNESCO-listed Palais de Papes , a remarkable fortress-like palace that was built in the 14th century. Between 1309 to 1377, seven Popes lived in lavish quarters of the Palais de Papes.

Avignon's other must-see attractions include the Pont d'Avignon (Saint Bénézet Bridge) and the Musée du Petit Palais , which displays masterpieces of medieval and Renaissance art.

Arriving at Avignon from Arles (43 kilometers away) takes about 50 minutes by car and less than 20 minutes by train.

Across the river from Avignon (three kilometers away) is Villeneuve-lès-Avignon , with a splendid Carthusian Monastery. Also worth a detour, the medieval village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape is perched on a hilltop about 20 kilometers away from Avignon. Slightly farther north (10 kilometers from Châteauneuf-du-Pape) is Orange , a Provençal town renowned for its ancient Roman ruins.

Nestled in the foothills of the Languedoc region, Nîmes has a lovely historic center with shady, tree-lined streets and squares that feature gushing fountains, typical of Southern France. Outdoor cafés in the pedestrian areas add to the appealing ambience.

One of Nîmes' top attractions is the Arènes , the best-preserved of all existing ancient Roman amphitheaters. This 1st-century amphitheater is now used as an open-air venue for music concerts and cultural events.

For the most relaxing and enjoyable experience, take a guided tour of Nîmes. The Private Day Trip to Nimes is a customizable tour of Nîmes that includes a visit to the Pont du Gard aqueduct, a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

The Camargue is a wild and unspoiled region of Provence, protected as a natural regional park (the Parc Naturel Régional de Camargue ) and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve . Vast open spaces, lagoons, and wetlands characterize this unique landscape that is less than 20 kilometers from Arles.

An incredible variety of bird species inhabit the marshlands. For many visitors, a highlight of visiting the Camargue is the chance to spot pink flamingos .

Listed as one of France's Plus Beaux Villages (Most Beautiful Villages), this ancient hilltop town feels a world away but is just a 30-minute drive from Arles. One of the most enjoyable things to do in Les Baux-de-Provence is to wander the quaint, old streets and soak up the medieval ambience .

The most striking aspect of Les Baux-de-Provence is its dramatic location on a rocky outcrop. The vantage point affords breathtaking panoramic views of the Provence countryside.

In the countryside, about a 15-minute drive from Arles, this monumental abbey is the perfect spot to meditate and contemplate the spiritual heritage of the Benedictine monks. Perched on a rocky hill like a fortress, the Abbey of Montmajour was an important place of pilgrimage throughout the Middle Ages.

The abbey has an immense Romanesque crypt dating back to the 12th century and an austere single-aisled church. Built in 1369, the abbey's cloisters exemplify serene Romanesque design with rows of double pillars.

Address: Route de Fontvieille, Arles

• Tour of Van Gogh Sites in Arles from Avignon : Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Private Provence Tour: In the Footsteps of Van Gogh . On this four-hour excursion, an expert guide shares details about Van Gogh's life while covering an itinerary of landmarks in Arles that inspired some of his most famous paintings. The tour also stops at ancient Roman sites, such as Arles Amphitheater.
• Camargue Tour from Avignon : The Small-Group Tour to Arles and the Camargue is a popular tour among nature lovers. This full-day guided tour includes transportation by minivan, wildlife spotting at the Camargue nature preserve, and visits to UNESCO-listed sites in Arles.

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Quintessential Provence : At the center of Provence , Arles is a great place to begin exploring the region. Several interesting historic towns are within easy travel distance: the medieval city of Avignon , renowned for the UNESCO-listed Palais de Papes, is one hour by train; the ancient Roman ruins of Orange are 30 minutes by train; and Nîmes is one hour by train.

Less-Touristy Places to Visit : In the Provençal countryside, the Haut-Vaucluse area is dotted with picturesque perched villages such as Gordes, about a one-hour drive from Arles. Farther off-the-beaten tourist path, Vaison-la-Romaine (about a 90-minute drive away) is renowned for archaeological sites and summertime festivals. For a taste of real life in Provence, the seaside metropolis of Marseilles (less than one hour from Arles by train) is the place to go.

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Frank Gehry’s Luma Arles tower to open in south of France

Building is architect’s tribute to Arles’ most famous residents: the Romans and Vincent van Gogh

Rising from the skyline of Arles, the tower appears like a futuristic structure from a Marvel movie with nearly 11,000 stainless steel panels gleaming in the Provençal sun.

Here, at what was once the centre of the Roman empire in France, this twisting structure is the 92-year-old architect Frank Gehry’s tribute to Arles’ most famous residents: the Romans and the artist Vincent van Gogh.

The tower, with its glittering facade meant to evoke Van Gogh’s painting Starry Night, will be the literal high point of a new “creative campus” called Luma Arles, a multidisciplinary art and culture complex sprawling over 27 acres at the Parc des Atéliers, the site of former railway workshops.

At the base of the tower is a vast steel and glass rotunda, also by Gehry, nicknamed the Drum, a structure he said was inspired by the city’s noted Roman amphitheatre.

At a press conference on Friday, Gehry explained his thinking behind the building that has taken 13 years and a reported €150-€225m to complete.

“I visited here when I was living in Paris and studying Roman architecture and I was very moved by it,” he said. “This is my first Roman building.”

The Tower’s opening exhibition will include works by Diane Arbus, Annie Leibovitz, Olafur Eliasson and others, and will have a permanent room dedicated to a rotating display of the collection of Maja Hoffmann, whose Luma Foundation commissioned the building.

The Swiss film producer and philanthropist’s grandmother, Maja Sacher, was a well-known collector of Picasso works, and her father, Lukas Hoffmann, was a co-founder of the World Wide Fund for Nature.

In France, Gehry is best known for his Iceberg building housing the Louis Vuitton Foundation in the Bois de Boulogne in Paris, a cloud of glass that opened in 2014. Worldwide he is famous for the Guggenheim museum in Bilbao, Spain.

“I love the light in Arles and the wind, the mistral that is here,” he said. “I liked the idea of capturing and reflecting the light in this region and this city. It is not a cold building … the metal has a softness about it, even inside. It plays with the light in the extraordinary way I hoped for. It is part of the city and I wanted it to be soft and welcoming.”

Maja Hoffmann, who was born in Switzerland but grew up in the south of France , said the “creative campus” of Luma Arles, which will be free to enter, was the foundation’s gift to the city.

“I hope the people of Arles will get to know this tower. It represents a notion of hope, an archipelago where everything is possible. It is a place where the past, present and future come to mix,” she told reporters on Friday.

Patrick de Carolis, the mayor of Arles, said Gehry had produced “something extraordinary” for the town.

“It’s also an extraordinary challenge that Arles now had to rise to in terms of having the infrastructure, including hotels and transport, to welcome the visitors it will attract,” De Carolis said. “Now we have to be able to match that level of ambition.”

Gehry – Canadian-born and US-based – worked with two Belgian architects, Bas Smets and Jan Boelen, to create the building.

“It has been a long and interesting, sometimes difficult but great journey to get here, but I am very proud of what Maja and I have created together,” he said.

“I tried to make a building that was welcoming and inviting. The Drum is not architecturally complicated. At street level it’s meant to invite you in. It’s not postmodern. It’s trying to be something of its time, and it has feeling, I hope.”

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The Ultimate Self Guided Walking Tour of Arles, in the Footsteps of Van Gogh

Vincent Willem van Gogh , better known to the world as just  Van Gogh , is one of the most prolific artists (if not  THE  most) of all time. A tall order, but anyone who has ever had the chance to view his work, especially in person, can tell you;  his paintings are more than paintings . They are expressions. Emotionally compelling images of pain and suffering mixed with astonishing beauty.

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Van Gogh  was born in  Zundert  but spent one of the most important years of his life as a painter in  Arles, France .  Arles  and the provincial countryside inspired Van Gogh to create brighter and more exciting landscapes. This walking tour will wind you across the city, through its narrow, quaint and beautiful cobblestone backstreets. Our journey takes us along the  Rhone River  and into the various picturesque squares that Arles is famous for. The walking tour will show you the various works of art that Van Gogh painted while living in Arles and the buildings he frequented as a resident of this historic city. 

Roman Arles

Arles , a large city in the French region of Provence, has a long history that dates back to Roman times. Back then, it was one of the most important cities in the Empire. There are signs of occupations as early as 800 BC. The Romans took over the town in 123 BC and continued to enrich the city with their incredible architecture and infrastructure.  Emperor Constantine I  built the Roman bathhouses. His son,  Constantine II , was born in Arles as the emperor had made it a home away from home. In 408 BC, the new emperor Constantine made Arles the capital city of Rome. Arles became a cultural and religious centre throughout the late Roman Empire.

For hundreds of years, the city of Arles continued to hold absolute authority over those in power. Arles joined the countship of Provence in 1239. Due to its proximity to the river, it was a mighty trade city. But in the 19th century, with the advent of the railroad, its significance began to diminish. The town became stagnant, with little to no modern development.

Van Gogh Comes to Arles

But this relic from the past was precisely why Van Gogh was so drawn to the city. The city was full of memories yet peaceful enough to feel like an escape. Everywhere he looked, it seemed as if something was waiting to be discovered.

Sadly, after years of poverty and suffering from various mental illnesses, Van Gogh committed suicide at age 37. But this was not the end of his story. Despite not being appreciated during his lifetime, his impact in the history books is unmatched. And Van Gogh’s stories from Arles put the city back on the map. After years of almost being forgotten, the city suddenly was a hot spot for visitors trying to follow in his footsteps.

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Accommodation

If you want to spend a night in Arles, the best place to stay is the little B&B,  L’aubergine Rouge . This little hotel is tucked away in the southwest corner of Arles on one of the most darling streets you’ll ever wander down. They have several rooms inspired by the painter where you’ll feel like you’re sleeping inside of his paintings.

Most people arriving in Arles arrive either by  car  or by  train . Arles is just an hour from Marseille, 35 minutes from Nimes, and 40 minutes from Avignon if you  rent a car . Often you’ll find if you are travelling from either Nimes, Marseille or Avignon, the train is often an even faster journey than driving! So long as the departure and arrival times align with your plans. The train from Nimes is 30 minutes, Marseille takes 45 minutes, and Avignon is only a 20 minutes journey. Most days, trains arrive and depart about every hour from these cities.

If you are driving into Arles for the day, the best place to park your car is in the  Parking Garage  near the  Post Office . This is just on the outskirts of town, meaning you won’t have to drive through too many narrow streets. Since it’s a little outside the centre, you also won’t have to pay a huge mark up for being in the middle of town. This parking lot is very reasonably priced and right beside the first stop on our tour.

Walking Tour

The Alyscamps

The first stop on the walking tour is the  Alyscamps Necropolis.  The  Alyscamps  is one of the oldest Roman ruins in Arles. Roman cities didn’t allow burials inside the city limit for fear of dead infecting the living. Therefore, roads into the city were often lined with tombs and mausoleums. And the Alyscamps was THE place to be buried! People had bodies shipped from all over Europe for the honour of being buried here. 

But during the middle ages, when it became more traditional to be buried in a church graveyard, the  Alyscamps  fell out of fashion. In the Renaissance, old roman sarcophagi were given as gifts to visiting dignitaries. And others were looted by local thieves. All of this contributed to the Alyscamps falling into disrepair, and eventually, it was a forgotten piece of history. The site was wild and overgrown and yet a naturally beautiful environment.

When Van Gogh arrived in Arles, it was still a ruin. He painted four scenes here in 1888, sitting in front of the ancient Roman ruins.  Paul Gauguin  was staying with Van Gogh during this period. Although their relationship was fraught with hardship, it also inspired the best in both artists. Van Gogh gifted one of his Alyscamps paintings to Gaugin. And even lost past his death, this painting hung in Gaugin’s room for years. Since Van Gogh made it famous once more, the  UNESCO World Heritage group  has turned it into a heritage site. And restored much of the place to be appreciated by visitors once more.

Jardin d’Eté 

Walk north along the  Avenue des Alyscamps  and turn left down  Avenue Victor Hugo . On the north side of the street, you will begin to see the bright green grass of the  Jardin d’Eté  starting to peek through. 

The  Jardin d’Eté  is a relaxing urban park situated against the backdrop of the ancient Roman amphitheatre. There are dozens of fountains and playgrounds, so it’s a great place for kids to have a nice runaround.

For Van Gogh, it was a place he would often come to paint on sunny, summer days. In a letter to his sister, he wrote of the gardens in the park:

I don’t know whether you can understand that one may make a poem by arranging colours…Similarly, the bizarre lines, purposely selected and multiplied, meandering all through the picture may not present a literal image of the garden, but they may present it to our minds as if in a dream. Van Gogh

Roman Amphitheatre

Walk north along the pathways in the park until you can exit to the east of the Roman Amphitheatre. You’ll walk out onto  Rue Porte de Laure . Continue walking along until you reach the imposing  Roman Arena . Built in 90 AD, the amphitheatre was capable of seating over 20,000 spectators. People would come from far and wide to watch chariot races and bloody hand-to-hand battles. Unlike the  Colosseum  in  Rome , this amphitheatre is still used for concerts and festivals to this very day.

Vincent went to many bullfights in his time in Arles. He wrote to his friend: 

Have seen bullfights in the arenas. The crowd was magnificent, great multicoloured crowds. One on top of the other on 2, three tiers, with the effect of sun and shade and the shadow cast by the immense circle. Van Gogh

Van Gogh painted a scene in 1888 entitled  Arena in Arles . The painting is more focused on the spectators than the action or environment. It is a rough and tumble painting. Quick brush strokes and unfinished shapes are obscured in the background. The speed of the painting reflects the voracious atmosphere of the bullfights. A small bull can be seen off in the distance. Spectators are excitedly turning to chat with their neighbours and cheering for their favourite fighters.

This jittery motion used throughout the painting was a technique that Van Gogh perfected under Gauguin’s influence. His paintings of dance halls also had the same, almost unfinished approach. This technique conveyed to the viewer the idea that some spaces were filled with such powerful energy they simply couldn’t be captured in a moment of stillness.

Rue Voltaire

From the arena, walk north along  Rue Voltaire . Walking down this street is like taking a step back in time. Dozens of vibrant cafes and restaurants pour out onto the street. Dazzling awnings hang off ancient stone buildings. Pastel shutters brighten up the rainiest day. You will see so many little scenes as you walk, which could have stepped right out from one of Van Gogh’s paintings.

Restaurant Carrel

When you reach  Rue Léon Blum , turn left and stop on the corner of  Rue Amédée Pichot . When Van Gogh first moved to Arles, he stayed in a room above the  Restaurant Carrel , owned by Albert Carrel and his wife. Vincent wrote to his brother Theo when he arrived in Arles:

At times it seems to me that my blood is more or less ready to start circulating again, which wasn’t the case lately in Paris, I really couldn’t stand it anymore. Van Gogh

Shortly after arriving in Arles, the lack of creativity he experienced in Paris disappeared. With his creative spark alight once more, he painted  View of a Butcher’s Shop . One can imagine that this butcher shop perhaps was painted from the very room he stayed in. Walking up and down this otherwise ubiquitous street gives you a sense of the area Vincent first called home in Arles.

But Van Gogh didn’t live on this street for long as he often had mighty disagreements with his landlord. While he might not have loved his landlord, he did love the neighbourhood. It wouldn’t be long until Van Gogh would soon move into his iconic  Yellow House , which was just up the street.

As you near the end of the Street,  Rue Voltaire  turns into  Rue de less Cavalerie . You will pass through the two giant aged guard towers. These towers are surrounded on either side by the ancient city walls.

Yellow House

Across the roundabout, at the corner of Rue Georges Tinarage and Avenue de Stalingrad, is a simple restaurant. But this was once where you would have found Van Gogh’s beloved home. The same one featured in his painting  The Yellow House . 

The original house had four rooms and a small studio. Vincent painted the entire building bright, sunflower yellow. In the painting, you can see a train rushing by in the distance. These trains were Vincent’s way into the countryside, his beloved muse. More than any woman. He loved the city, but the wild sunflower fields, blossoming fruit trees, charming peasants and golden wheat fields were where his brush came alive.

Nuit étoilée sure le Rhône

Turning left, make your way towards the  Rhone River.  Here you’ll find the scene from painting  Nuit étoilée sure le Rhône . Don’t get this mixed up with  Starry Night , although they are both very similar and show Van Gogh’s obsession with capturing night effects. In a letter he wrote to his brother Theo, he said:

Often it seems to me the night is even more richly coloured than the day. Van Gogh

Nuit étoilée sure le Rhône  is an explosion of blue; Prussian blue, ultramarine and cobalt. Each one of these colours are contrasted with intense orange and yellow. The firery colours representing the gas lights reflecting in the water. A man and his wife walk along the shore away three boats, bobbing in the water. Whereas  Starry Night  is a dreamlike fury of brush strokes,  Nuit étoilée sure le Rhône  is a much calmer scene. The brush strokes are evenly spaced, and even the lights on the water are still. Not a single ripple seems to disturb them.

Musée Réattu

Continue walking down the water’s edge. The fantastic pedestrian promenade is ideal for taking in all the sights along the river. After about five minutes, you’ll reach the  Musée Réattu.  When Van Gogh lived in Arles the museum was a place he hated. He is quoted as saying:

The women are beautiful here, it’s no joke — on the other hand, the Arles museum is dreadful and a joke. Van Gogh

Van Gogh was very judgmental of other artists. Perhaps out of jealousy of those who seemed to manage to make the kind of living, he would never. During his lifetime, he only sold one painting. He couldn’t understand how people could see the greatest in these artists and not himself.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Musée Réattu (@musee.reattu)

Vincent van Gogh Foundation Arles

As a cosmic coincidence, the  Vincent van Gogh Foundation in Arles  is located only a few minutes south of the  Musée Réattu . In 1983, Yolande Clergue founded the  Association for the Creation of the Foundation Van Gogh . He was a long-time resident of Arles and believed there should be an institute to study and educate people on Van Gogh’s influence on modern artists in Provence. In 2010, the city of Arles gave the historic  Hôtel Léautaud de Donines  to the institute. It was renovated to become an educational space.

The museum features a large collection of Van Gogh’s letters and perhaps one or two original Van Gogh paintings. Don’t come here expecting to see those famous works of art. The museum is meant to highlight modern artists influenced by Van Gogh and the city of Arles.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Katrina Burton (@treeburton)

Place du Forum

Walking along Rue du Dr Fanton and turning down Rue de la Place , you will come up the Place du Forum . The Place du Forum was once the historic city centre during the Roman ages. You can still see one of the ancient columns embedded into the side of the Nord-Pinus Grand Hotel .

Vincent’s fixation on the appearance of the world at night continues and is highlighted in Café Terrace at Night . He said in a letter:

In the past, they used to draw, and paint the picture from the drawing in the daytime. But I find that it suits me to paint the thing straight away. It’s quite true that I may take a blue for green in the dark, a blue lilac with a pink lilac since you can’t make out the nature of the tone. But it’s the only way of getting away from the conventional black night with a poor, pallid and whitish light, while in fact, a mere candle by itself gives us the richest yellows and oranges. Van Gogh

Le Café Van Gogh

Despite Vincent’s lack of popularity in his lifetime,  Van Gogh  is big business these days.  Le Café Van Gogh  is a recreation of the original cafe from the painting. Although it’s not the authentic spots from the painting, it has been done up to look as much like the real thing as possible. While the square is pretty busy and expensive, it is also a stunning place to sit with a coffee and enjoy the scenery. 

Old Arles Hospital

Walk south from the forum until you reach the  Old Arles Hospital . One evening, after Gauguin had made it clear to Vincent that he had made plans to leave, Van Gogh returned home alone. Suffering from hearing voices, especially when left alone, Van Gogh was tormented. In a fit of madness, he cut off his ear. Perhaps as a means to cut out the noise of the voices. Van Gogh bandaged the wound and wrapped the ear in the paper. He delivered it to a cleaning woman who worked at a local brothel that Gaugin and Van Gogh frequented together.

Van Gogh was found unconscious by a policeman and taken directly to the Old Arles Hospital the following day.  Félix Rey , a young doctor still in training, treated him inside his hospital. Van Gogh was diagnosed with “acute mania with generalized delirium during his time in hospital.” Vincent would go from being semi-lucid to suffering from hallucinations and delusions. His brother Theo came to visit him in hospital despite getting engaged the day previous. Nothing would keep Theo from being by Vincent’s side.

Hospital in Arles

Dr. Rey  felt sorry for Vincent. He would allow Vincent into the courtyard to paint on his more lucid days. And paint he did. Even today, this courtyard manages to bring a sense of peace to even the most scattered mind. The golden walls seem to glow in the sunlight. The garden is full of lustrous flowers which burst open in the afternoon. Van Gogh’s painting,  Hospital in Arles,  depicted the courtyard in 1888. Looking at it today, you can barely see the passage of time between the two.

Ward in the Hospital in Arles

He also created two other paintings during his stay in the hospital. One was a gift to Dr. Félix Rey. It was a portrait of the beloved doctor who showed Vincent genuine kindness. The second painting is entitled  Ward in the Hospital in Arles.  The scene is quiet and simple. But Vincent’s slight distortions represent the isolation and confinement while living here. 

Starry Night

In 1889, Van Gogh was committed to the  Saint-Paul de Mausole  asylum in  Saint-Rémy de Provence . From there managed to channel his pain into one of the most impactful paintings,  Starry Night . This painting is all about dreams versus reality. The natural versus the divine. It brings us into the beautiful madness inside Van Gogh’s mind. In his mind, he lived in the stars, beloved and looked up to by everyone on earth. The swirling, fluid paint in the sky contrasts the rigid city landscape below. Like a window into the heavens, a wonderful dream, unlike our structured reality. 

The Bridge of Trinquetaille

Walking back towards the river, walk up the water’s edge. Here you can see the scene from the painting of  The Bridge of Trinquetaille.  Van Gogh was in love with bridges. They are frequently featured in his works. In a letter to his brother, he wrote:

I have a View of the Rhône — the Trinquetaille iron bridge, where the sky and the river are the colour of absinthe — the quays a lilac tone, the people leaning on the parapet almost black, the iron bridge an intense blue — with a bright orange note in the blue background and an intense Veronese green note. One more effort that’s far from finished — but one at least where I’m attempting something more heartbroken and therefore more heartbreaking. Van Gogh

Walk out to the centre of the  Pont de Trinquetaille , where you’ll have a beautiful view across the  Rhone River . Looking out, see if you can spot all those magnificent colours Van Gogh spoke about in his letter. Van Gogh is an artist whose use of colour is unparalleled. He saw the world in a way that many of us simply miss. Take this time to yourself. Put away your phone or camera for the moment and simply look over the horizon.

While Van Gogh’s depression was something he couldn’t overcome, there is no doubt that, at least for a time, Arles gave him a momentary respite from the overwhelming sadness he felt in his soul. And no matter who you are, I hope that visiting Arles brings you the same sense of peace Van Gogh felt when he was here. You may even see a little bit of that magic Van Gogh etched into history. And bring a little bit of that magic home with you too!

Get the Downloadable PDF of the Van Gogh Arles Walking Tour!

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21 comments.

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Hi Laura, I liked your article on Arles a lot! There’s one little thing that needs fixing though; van Gogh was born in Zundert which is in the Netherlands, not Belgium, and which is the reason why he is Dutch. People who are born in the Netherlands are Dutch

Wow, nice catch! Totally a mixup for me there. Thanks Michelle 🙂 Glad you enjoyed the article.

Hey!! Really loved your article 🙂 I am a big fan of Van Goght and really look forward to visit Arle’s on April 2019 to do this lovely tour myself. I kindly wanted to ask you , in your opinion, how many days this tour in Arle’s should last to properly enjoy the experience. Many thanks again for your article.

Hi Andrea! Glad to hear you’re such a fan! April will be such a beautiful time to visit, all those awesome spring flowers in bloom. I think 2 full days should be more than enough. I think most people could do it in one long day but if you’re a big fan you’d wanna take your time and not rush through it. Plus it gives you can option if one of the days are rained out. If you’re a big Van Gogh fan, I’d suggest staying at Laubergine Rouge. They have a Van Gough themed room which you’ll love!

Laura- Did you do the walking tour on your own? Or did you hire a company? If so, would you mind sharing their name? We will be visiting Arles next fall and I’ll love to schedule a walking tour like you described.

We did the walking tour all on our own! Just followed pretty much what I’ve laid out here. It’s such a wonderful city to explore on foot! Don’t be afraid to poke your head around hidden corners, you’ll never know what surprising secrets you’ll discover!

Laura – Great article and very informative. I am going there shortly and you have given an excellent idea of what’s there.

Thanks Keith! Arles is such a great city to explore on foot, you’ll have a great time following this as well as discovering new things for yourself! Let me know what you loved most!

Francesca M

I feel like I traveled there myself through this blog post. Thank you.

Thanks, Francesca! Hope you have an amazing time, it really is such a unique and beautiful place!

My husband & I are planning a cruise that stops for the day in Marseille. We would like to take the walking tour of Arles as you’ve described (it sounds outstanding!). Generally, how long is the tour if you enjoy it at a comfortable pace? Is the weather pleasant in early September? ( [email protected] )

Hi Linda! So excited to hear about your trip plans, Septemeber is a great time to visit as it’s when the high summer heat starts to reduce but it’s still going to be nice and warm. I would give yourself at least 4-5 hours to soak it all in. The town is pretty small but it’s just nice to go at a leisurely pace to really study the intricacies of the environment and architecture. There’s a train from Marseille direct to Arles which should take a little less than an hour so you could early go there in the morning, enjoy some lunch and be back in Marseille for a late dinner. Hope this helps, let me know if you have any other questions 🙂

Do you offer a PDF of your tour? I would like a hard copy but don’t see a link. It sounds wonderful. Thanks

Hi Betty, I don’t have one available on the site but I can easily email you one 🙂

Hi, Really enjoyed your information on the walking tour. Would you send me a hard copy of this tour? Please tell us where we start the tour. We are taking a Viking River cruise in May where we will be stopping in Arles for a day. Really looking forward to taking this walking tour. Thank you, Susan

Thanks so much Susan! I’ve send you an email to follow up 🙂 Cheers, Laura

albert tecci

Hi we are planning a trip Sept 2021 and Arles and VH are our favorites. This is so valuable to us. And, please can we have a hard copy also.

Thank you so much Albert and Cheryl

laura.f.whelan

Thanks so much, Albert and Cheryl! You will have a wonderful time in Arles, a great place to visit in the fall! Let me know if you would like me to send you a PDF to your email address of the post and then you should be able to print that off for your hard copy. Unfortunately, I do not have buyable physical versions of the posts yet but the PDF printable version should work just fine.

Blythe Hughes

Hi Laura – I would love to have a pdf of your walking tour of Arles. I’ll be visiting in May and have been looking for something just like this! Can you please email me a copy?

Hi Blythe, Thanks for your lovely comment! May is such a wonderful time of year to visit Provence. If you’re looking for a downloadable PDF you can get it here: https://thecreativeadventurer.com/product/self-guided-walking-tour-of-arles-downloadable-pdf/ Cheers, Laura

Hello- please disregard my original message- I was able to download the document. Appreciate all do! S

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Ostrich Trails

Because it is a walking bird and walking is what we do.

Arles Walking Tour

Home » Europe » France » Arles Walking Tour

By Vicky · Published Sep. 15th, 2023 · Updated Sep. 21st, 2023

When you buy through links highlighted with an asterisk (*) on this site, we may earn a small affiliate commission at no cost to you.

A walking tour of Arles is a wonderful way to explore the Provençal town’s rich history, Roman heritage, vibrant culture and Van Gogh links.

Page Contents:

This walk starts from the Place de la Republique , a square in the centre of Arles. It’s a 15-minute walk from Arles train station or a 5-minute walk from the Parking du Centre (€2 per hour, larger cars will struggle with the tight entrance).

Arles Walking Tour Map

Get the route by downloading the .gpx or .kml file below. For navigation with Maps.me on your mobile phone, simply download the .kml file and open to add it to the Maps.me bookmarks.

Tips for Arles Walking Tour

• There are several tourist passes you can buy if visiting Arles, see the box below for details.
• Make sure to visit the amazing Pont du Gard and Nîmes nearby!

For more walking tours and hikes, check out the lovely walk around Les Baux-de-Provence , or a Bird Walk in the Camargue . Alternatively, see our France Hiking Page .

Top Sights in Arles

On this self-guided walking tour you’ll see the main sights and attractions of Arles. You don’t need to spend more than one day in Arles just to walk around, but you need at least a couple of days if you visit a few of the museums and old Roman attractions. Arles also makes a good base for exploring the surrounding region. This is a self-guided walking tour, you can find a guided walking tour of Arles here *.

• Place de la Republique
• St Trophime Cloisters
• St Trophime Cathedral
• Cryptoportico
• Roman Theatre
• Roman Amphitheatre
• Musée Réattu
• Thermes de Constantin
• van Gogh Foundation
• Place du Forum
• Arlaten Museum
• Espace Van Gogh

You can also some popular sights and attractions in Arles that are slightly further from the centre. You can also walk to the Alyscamps Necropolis , Archaeology Museum , or the Luma Arles Museum but it will make the walking tour a bit longer. Additionally, a 10-minute bus ride away from Arles is the Abbaye de Montmajour , a beautiful Abbey with lots to do. The Camargue Museum is a 25-minute bus ride from Arles, or you can go on a great Camargue Safari from Arles *. You travel in an open-air vehicle and can see flamingoes, the wild Carmague horses, bulls, and birdlife!

Combined Ticket Passes for Arles

There are several combined tickets you can get to see all the best sights in Arles. If you’re staying in Arles for one or two days, the combined ticket or Pass Liberté are good options. The Pass Avantage is only useful if you are staying for a bit longer, else you won’t be able to visit everything that’s included.

• Pass Avantage €19/16 (valid for 6 months): 6 monuments + the Réattu Museum + the Arlaten Museum + the Archeological Museum + the Camargue Museum
• Pass Liberté €15/13 (valid for 1 month): 4 monuments of your choice + the Réattu Museum + the Arlaten Museum or the Archeological Museum or the Camargue Museum
• Combined ticket €9/7 (2 consecutive days): Amphitheater + Roman Theater or Alyscamps + Saint-Trophime’s Cloister

Arles Monuments list: Amphitheater (€9/7), Roman Theatre (€5/4), Baths of Constantine (€5/4), Cryptoportico (€5/4), Alyscamps Cemetery (€5/4), Saint-Trophime’s cloister (€6/5). Opening hours of these monuments: May-Sep 9am-7pm, Mar, Apr & Oct 9am-6pm, Nov-Feb 10:30am-4:30pm.

Museums in Arles

The best museums in Arles are probably the Archeological Museum which displays a lot of Roman artifacts, and the Museon Arlaten which is a super interesting ethnographic museum.

Arles Walking Tour Route

This walking tour starts from the Place de la Republique in the centre of Arles. The Tourist Office * (open 9am-12:45pm & 2-4:45pm) is 1 minute south of here, just across the main road if you want more information or to pick up some maps or leaflets.

1. Place de la Republique

The Place de la Republique * is the central square in Arles, dominated by the Hotel de Ville and a 4th-century Roman obelisk in the centre. There are several historic sights around the square, including the St Trophime Cloister, the St Trophime Cathedral and the Cryptoporticos. There are several cafes around the edges of the square and it’s a nice place to start a walking tour of Arles.

Directions: The next attractions in Arles are all around this square.

2. St Trophime Cloister

Key Information: Open May-Sep 9am-7pm, Mar, Apr & Oct 9am-6pm, Nov-Feb 10:30am-4:30pm. Tickets are €6/5 or part of a combined ticket.

The St Trophime Cloister * is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a beautiful sanctuary in the centre of Arles. There are many information boards within the cloisters in both French and English that bring the history of the cloister to life. The cloisters date from the 21th-14th centuries with a mix of earlier Romanesque and later Gothic styles.

3. St Trophime Cathedral

St Trophime Cathedral * is a large Romanesque Catholic church. The front on the square is richly carved with depictions of events from the bible. On the front, the scenes are mainly from the Apocalyse, with the lions representing sin. The inside is also wonderful and full of artworks such as carvings, tapestries, statues and side chapels.

Finding Van Gogh in Arles

There are several sights of interest in Arles for those who are fans of Vincent Van Gogh. Vincent van Gogh spent 16 months in Arles, arriving in 1888. He painted over 300 works during his stay. He then left for Saint-Rémy-de-Provence (45 minutes drive northeast).

There’s a special Van Gogh Circuit in Arles where you can visit places that you can recognise from van Gogh’s paintings. However, most of them have changed quite a bit since van Gogh was here so don’t expect any exact replicas! The best spots are mentioned below and marked as viewpoints on the map of this walking tour.

•  In Place du Forum you can see the cafe in the painting Cafe Terrace at Night.
• L’Espace Van-Gogh is the garden of the former hospital where van Gogh stayed and painted The Asylum Garden at Arles.
• At the Trinquetaille Bridge viewpoint, you can see the staircase in the painting Trinquetaille Bridge in Arles, though it’s a bit obscured by a tree now.
• The painting Les Alyscamps was created in the Alyscamps necropolis and shows an alleyway of trees.

4. Cryptoportiques

Key Information: Open May-Sep 9am-7pm, Mar, Apr & Oct 9am-6pm, Nov-Feb 10:30am-4:30pm. Tickets are €5/4 or part of a combined ticket.

The Cryptoportiques * are the foundations of what used to be a large Roman forum, though now only the much smaller Place du Forum remains above ground. A cryptoporticus is an underground vaulting system that supports the structures on top, often with arches.

Once you descend the stairway, it’s lovely and cool and a series of underground chambers and archways. There aren’t any English translations inside but there are photos, maps and diagrams which help explain the layout and history. It can be quite eerie underground, especially if there aren’t too many other people there.

Directions: Leave the square towards the centre of Arles and take the first right along Rue de la Calade. You’ll soon see the stone ruins on your right.

5. Roman Theatre

The Roman Theatre * is a peaceful place which you can explore at your leisure. There are beautiful columns and classic semi-circular seating. It was built around 12 BC during the reign of Augustus Caesar, and at the time up to 10,000 spectators could watch events here. It’s not a huge area and you can see a lot of it from the outside, but with a combination ticket it is worth seeing.

Directions: Head past the theatre and turn left. Walk around the amphitheatre, via a viewpoint, to the entrance on its northern end.

6. Arles Roman Amphitheatre

Key Information: Open May-Sep 9am-7pm, Mar, Apr & Oct 9am-6pm, Nov-Feb 10:30am-4:30pm. Tickets are €9/7 or part of a combined ticket.

The R oman Amphitheatre *, also known as Les Arènes was built around 90AD. It’s one of the best-preserved amphitheatres in the world, and you can explore this ancient arena, which once hosted gladiator battles and other events. Its seating capacity is roughly 20,000. Today it’s often used for concerts and bullfights.

There’s not too much to see inside, but you are free to wander about as you want and there’s a good view from the top of the tower. A couple of information boards near the entrance (on the north side) explain its history.

Directions: Walk down the wide steps, continue a short distance and head left through the narrow, atmospheric lane. At the T-junction, turn right and take the second left. The Réattu Museum is in the old building on your right.

7. Réattu Museum

Key Information: Open Tue-Sun 10-5/6pm. Tickets are €8/6.

The Reattu Museum ( Website , Tripadvisor Reviews *) is located in a lovely building, formerly a priory, near the Rhone. It’s not huge and there is a mix of more and less famous artworks inside. These include paintings, sculptures photographs and drawings from a wide time range. The museum is named after the Arles-born painter Jacques Réattu and includes many of his works, along with others by Picasso and many other artists. All captions and explanations are in French.

Directions: Turn right out of the museum and you’ll see the next stop.

8. Thermes de Constantin

The Thermes de Constantin *, or Roman Baths of Constantine, are well-preserved and provide insight into the daily life of the Romans. You can see some of the baths and the complex without actually entering and there’s not too much extra to see inside. There are scenic views of the River Rhone nearby and quite a few different rooms with baths of different temperatures. The baths become more interesting if you buy a short guide that brings the Thermes to life. Apart from that, there are only a couple of information boards explaining everything.

Directions: Continue past the Thermes, head left then right and you’ll see the van Gogh Foundation on your left.

9. Vincent van Gogh Foundation

Key Information: Open daily 10-6pm. Tickets are €10/8/3.

The Vincent van Gogh Foundation ( Website , Tripadvisor Reviews *) focuses on how modern artists are influenced by van Gogh. There are not many paintings by van Gogh himself, instead there are many letters written by famous artists and similar displays. It’s interesting if you’re into art and the art world, but you’ll be disappointed if you expect to see a lot of famous van Gogh paintings. They do have interesting exhibits sometimes, so make such to find out what is on.

Directions: Take a walk to the Rhone River. Head left at the river to the bridge, where you can see the Stairway Trinquetaille as painted by van Gogh. After the viewpoint continue onwards and take the first left. At the peaceful square turn left. Cross the main road and wind your way to the Place du Forum.

10. Place du Forum

The lively Place du Forum * was the centre of Arles in Roman times. It’s now a popular square filled with restaurants and cafes, but you can still see the columns of the Forum in the walls of a hotel at the far end. Le Café Van Gogh is also in this square, famous for being in van Gogh’s painting Café Terrace at Night. You can get a photo that looks fairly similar to his painting, though the cafe itself is overpriced as you might expect.

Directions: Walk down the street past the cafe, then turn right at the end. At the corner turn left and you’ll reach the entrance to the next museum.

11. Arlaten Museum

Key Information: Open Tue-Sun 9:30-6pm. Tickets are €8/5.

The Arlaten Museum ( Website , Tripadvisor Reviews *) has been extensively renovated recently and is now a highly recommended ethnographic museum. It documents the social and cultural life of people living in Provence 150-100 years ago. In this unique museum, artifacts tell stories from different ages. There are enough English translations and you could easily spend a few hours here.

Directions: Head down the street opposite the museum and take the first right.

12. Espace Van Gogh

Key Information: Open daily 8am-6pm, free entry.

The Espace Van Gogh * is located in the Old Arles Hospital where van Gogh was treated after cutting off his ear. Doctors diagnosed him with mania and delirium and he often sat painting in this courtyard garden while recovering. Van Gogh painted ‘The Asylum Garden at Arles’ here and it’s easy to recognise, perhaps the least changed vista since van Gogh’s time. Around the edge of the courtyard there are now little souvenir shops and expensive cafes.

This is the end of the Arles self-guided walking tour. You can now head back to explore more streets of the centre, or discover some of the other attractions slightly further from the centre of Arles.

Things to Do in Arles further from the Centre

Archeological museum.

Key Information: Open daily 9:30am-6:00pm, closed Tuesdays. Tickets cost €8/€5, or in a combined ticket. Audioguide recommended, but there are also captions in English.

The Archeological Museum, also known as the Musee Departemental Arles Antique ( Website , Tripadvisor Reviews *) is a 15-20 minute walk from the centre of Arles, or a 10-minute bus ride. The Archeological Museum sounds like it might be dull, but it’s actually one of the best museums in Arles, so worth the short distance to get there. You could easily spend a few hours here to see everything.

The museum is full of amazing Roman artifacts, the highlight being a complete boat, or river barge, found recently in the nearby Rhône. There are also statues, mosaics, and much more, with the artifacts all well-displayed. You’ll learn a lot about the history of Arles and the Roman period while you’re here.

Les Alyscamps Cemetery

Les Alyscamps Cemetery *, or Necropolis, is a 10-minute walk from the central Place de la Republique. It’s famous for its ancient sarcophagi and picturesque avenues of trees (that van Gogh painted). It’s quite a serene and atmospheric place to explore, though can be a little creepy. It’s an ancient Roman Necropolis but continued to be used for many centuries afterward. In Medieval times was one of the most famous cemeteries in the world.

During this period, Roman cities forbade burials inside the walls, hence the location of this cemetery a little distant from the centre. Many of the sarcophagi have unfortunately been damaged or removed, but you can also see the little Church of St Honorat and a chapel, both of which are rather lovely.

Key Information: Open daily 10-7:30pm. Free entry. Book online in advance during busy periods.

The Luma Arles ( Website , Tripadvisor Reviews *) is a 10-minute walk from the centre of Arles, not far from the Alyscamps. It’s a new exhibition space and art museum with both French and English captions. The artworks are variable, but the building itself is architecturally interesting, designed by Frank Gehry (famous for the Sydney Opera House among others). It used to be an abandoned railway yard, now it’s a futuristic steel tower that can be seen from far away. On your visit you can climb the tower for great views.

The grounds are perhaps the most interesting part, full of old mainly train-related buildings, though these are not well-explained. Remember to ask at the reception for a map. There are also a couple of cafes in the complex, though they tend to be overpriced.

Camargue Museum

Key Information: Open daily 9am-6:00pm. Tickets cost €7/4. Directions: Take Bus A50 from Antonelle bus stop to the Camargue Museum. The bus takes 30 minutes.

The Camargue Museum shows how life in the Camargue has changed over time. It’s housed in a renovated sheepfold in the heart of the Camargue. You can go on a lovely walk from here, best experienced early mornings or later in the afternoon. You can also explore the Camargue on a safari from Arles *.

Abbaye de Montmajour

Key Information: Open daily Apr-May 10am-5pm, June-Sept 10am-6.15pm, Oct-Mar 10am-5pm and closed Mondays. Tickets are €6, or free for under 26 year-olds living in the EU. Directions : Take the 702 Bus (€2.10, takes 7 mins) from Arles train station or Gorodiche bus stop.

The Abbaye de Montmajour ( Website , Tripadvisor Reviews *) is a beautiful Abbey situated in the countryside just outside Arles. Benedictine monks founded the abbey in 948 and the cloisters are really beautiful. The architecture is interesting as it has developed over time, and incorporates styles widely varying in time. There’s lots of information, in English as well as French, and it’s all well-presented. Don’t miss the climb up the central tower, from which there are great views. You could spend 2-3 hours here and walk around the nearby trails.

Best Places to Stay in Arles

Arles has many places to stay, from budget hostels to fancy hotels and everything in between. Check out the best hotels and apartments in Arles below:

• Best Western Atrium *: A good value hotel very close to the centre of Arles. You can find free parking in the streets behind the hotel. There’s also an outdoor rooftop pool with good views of the city.
• Hôtel de l’Amphithéâtre *: A hotel in a heritage building in the town centre with lovely rooms and friendly staff. It’s 10 minutes walk to the nearest parking garage, you can’t drive to the hotel itself.
• Hôtel La Muette *: A typical provençal style hotel located in an old building with plenty of character and charming rooms. Nearest parking 250 metres away.
• Aux Alyscamps Apartment *: A very good value two-bedroom apartment with a fully equipped kitchen, washing machine and a balcony. Additionally, there is free parking just outside, though the apartment is a short walk from the city centre.
• Maison Arles *: A lovely 3-bedroom little house with a fully equipped kitchen and everything else you would expect. Free parking just outside. It’s a short walk to the city centre.

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Stage 4 - Torch Relay - Bouches-du-Rhône - A day of sport, culture and emotion to mark the return of the Flame to the Bouches-du-Rhône region

The fourth stage of the Olympic Torch relay made another stop in the Bouches-du-Rhône. Following the arrival of the Olympic Torch and the first stage in Marseille, other key sites in the region enjoyed the limelight on the way to Arles, the host of the day’s stage. The departmental, regional and Arles municipal authorities, as well as the official sponsors of the Olympic Torch Relay, Coca-Cola, Banque Populaire and Caisse d’Epargne took part in this event. Multi-medal-winning Paralympic table tennis player Stéphanie Mariage lit the Olympic cauldron at the end of the day!

Once more, the Olympic Torch enjoyed another day bathed in sunshine. Since its arrival on board the Belem, the famous three-masted ship of which Caisse d’Epargne is the main sponsor, the Olympic Torch has been enjoying glorious weather, which is ideal for the continuation of its long journey to the opening ceremony on 26th July. The day also witnessed its return to the Bouches-du-Rhône departmen. Two days after making its way through Marseille and highlighting its iconic sites, 140 torchbearers were able to shine the spotlight on all the other natural and cultural wonders of this region on the Mediterranean coast.

A nod to one of the relay’s sponsors

The morning began with the Olympic Torch passing in front of the Coca-Cola factory at Pennes-Mirabeau, to thank the employees of one of the Olympic Torch Relay’s sponsors. To mark the occasion, 24 employees took part in a team relay and a mini village was set up to celebrate the event.

From the shores of the Mediterranean to the gateway to the Camargue

The day continued close to the coast from Cassis. Twenty individual torchbearers took the relay along the harbour, under the high cliffs that dominate the coastline. Among these torchbearers, one of them even transported the Olympic Torch on a paddle board for 200 metres, from the Calanque de Port-Miou inlet to the harbour. The Olympic Torch then headed for Miramas and in particular its stadium, renowned for its water sports activities, before heading for Aix-en-Provence. After a stroll through the town centre, it reached the famous Cours Mirabeau and the fresher ambiance around the Rotonde fountain. The convoy also travelled to Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rhône. This town, which the regional council wished to put in the spotlight, marks the entrance to the Camargue area and its breathtaking panoramas. The day continued on the way to Istres, Eygalières and its famous Saint-Sixt chapel, before heading back to Arles. As France's largest municipality - seven times the size of Paris - the route promised to be a sporty one. It was also sporty due to being the venue for a relay event organised by the French Volleyball Federation to promote the 200,000 members of the federation throughout France. The former French national team coach, Laurent Tillie and former international player Karine Salinas were the two captains of this collective relay. Among the other sportswomen who carried the Flame today were Virginie Dedieu , three-time consecutive world champion in synchronised swimming as well as bronze medallist at the Sydney Olympic Games in the duo event, and Victoria Ravva , a former French national team volleyball player of Georgian origin.

Pride of place for inclusion and culture

Arles offered a culturally rich event as the Olympic Torch passed through the Musée départemental Arles Antiques Antiquity Museum, the museum dedicated to Van Gogh and then the museum devoted to history of the city (Musée Arlatan). It was also taken to the ancient theatre, the arenas and in front of the impressive Tour Luma tower. The site of the celebrations was a little further along, on the Quai Lamartine facing the Rhône. A number of events were planned for the occasion, including a performance by typical Provençal dancers from Arles, and another by a troupe of 28 dancers of 16 different nationalities, reflecting the diversity promoted by the Olympic Games. Former professional footballer Djibril Cissé, who has won 41 caps for the French national team and is now a DJ, set the scene for the celebrations with a set that thrilled the spectators on the quayside.   One of France's most popular drag queens, Nicky Doll was on the roads of Arles today. The presenter of Drag Race France, who puts their energy into building a more inclusive society and promotes France internationally in the world's most renowned drag competitions, was able to carry the Olympic Torch back to their home area of Bouches-du-Rhône. Para-sport was once again in the spotlight, as part of Paris 2024's vision to open up the Olympic Torch Relay to athletes and para-athletes. In their ranks on Saturday were Éric Dargent , who created a prosthesis that enabled him to become vice-champion of the world in para-sport surfing, Romain Pecker-Goubin , a para-sport boxer who founded an association aimed at using sport as a means of rebuilding and progressing, as well as Emma Reymond , a member of the French hearing-impaired badminton team, and Nicolas Savant , who plays para-table tennis. The last torchbearer of the day was Stéphanie Mariage . The native of Villers-Semeuse is a major para-sport table tennis champion who has won four medals at the Paralympic Games including two gold medals. Tomorrow, the Olympic Torch will continue its journey along the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, but slightly further to the west, with a unique stage on the menu, featuring a triptych between three cities full of character: Millau, Sète and Montpellier.

Copyright : Paris 2024 / C. Mahoudeau / SIPA PRESS

PROGRAMME FOR MONDAY, 13 MAY  

View the full stage programme at https://olympics.com/fr/paris-2024/relais-de-la-flamme-olympique/etapes/millau-sete-montpellier-montpellier Celebration venue programme:   Open to the public from 3:30 to 7:45 pm  Free admission, limited capacity  3:30 pm: opening to the public  4–5:30 pm: local authorities' activities on the sports esplanade  5:45–6:50 pm: partners' activities on the sports esplanade  7:20–7:30: finish of the last runner 

You can find all the photos and videos from the day on the  Content Library de Paris 2024 . Photo credits are included in the photo metadata. Footage package credit: France Télévisions — Paris 2024 / Credit: IOC Press contact :  [email protected]

Our attached press releases

Stage 3 — Torch Relay — Alpes-de-Haute-Provence sun, outdoor sports and a scent of lavender —the Torch Relay slips into provence mode

The third day of the Olympic torch on French roads provided a taste of the art of living in Provence! It took the scenic route, with stopovers in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Sisteron,[...]

Stage 2 — Torch Relay — Olympic Torch Relay tackles second day on French soil in the crisp Mediterranean air

From Saint-Raphaël to Toulon and from the coast to the hinterland, the second leg of the Torch Relay, which visited the Var department, was a love letter to the Mediterranean. It w[...]

Stage 1 — Torch Relay — Marseille Marseille parties on as the Torch Relay gets under way!

Following the spectacular arrival of the Olympic torch at the Vieux Port yesterday, Paris 2024 again invited the people of Marseille to celebrate the very first day of the Torch Re[...]

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• Follow Van Gogh's footsteps

Vincent van Gogh spent 16 months in Arles. Walk in his footsteps and admire some of his masterpieces at the Vincent van Gogh Arles Foundation.

The van gogh pedestrian path.

Arles marked out a path to follow Vincent Van Gogh's footsteps. During his stay in Arles between February 1888 and May 1889, Vincent Van Gogh made about 300 drawings and paintings. In the city, you will find boards that symbolize where Vincent van Gogh set up his easel. A dozen locations have been identified :

- place of the Forum for coffee in the evening , - the Trinquetaille bridge corresponds to the Trinquetaille bridge staircase , - the Quai du Rhône at La Nuit Micheline, Place Lamartine at La Maison Jaune , - rue Mireille au (Le) vieux moulin , - the Boulevard des Lices garden at (Le) public garden , - the Van-Gogh space in the (Le) garden of the health centre , - the road along the canal from Arles to Bouc at the Pont de Langlois aux lavandières, more commonly known as Pont Van Gogh , (*outside the city centre) - the Quai du Rhône. The starry night , - Lamartine Square. Yellow House, - the arenas and the Alycamps were also immortalised in several canvases.

The banks of the Rhône  Arles and the Rhône, a story of love and distrust for Arlesians according to the water's moods... In the 19th century, on the river banks, the commercial activity is still important. Van Gogh criss-crosses the city and its surroundings. He relentlessly paints the transformations of nature and landscapes season after season as well as fields workers and peasants. Everything he sees inspires him and becomes a canvas. He often struggles with the sun and the wind...

In the nineteenth century, on the quays, the commercial activity is still important.Van-Gogh who approaches little the local population criss-crosses the city and its surroundings, ceaselessly paints the transformations of nature in the spring, the landscapes, the works of the fields, The men of the river at work. Everything he sees inspires him and becomes canvas. On the quays he puts down his easel when the wind allows it.

The Van Gogh pedestrian circuit Description in a document for sale at the Tourist Office of a marked pedestrian route, to be travelled at its own pace. Download the document in PDF format

Vincent Van Gogh Foundation The Vincent van Gogh Arles Foundation pays a fair tribute to his work while exploring its impact in contemporary creation. During temporary exhibitions, you will see how Vincent van Gogh continues to influence modern artists. The Foundation exhibits each year between 1 to 10 artworks from Van Gogh which have been lent by museums and private art collectors from around the world.

9 Boulevard des Lices 13200 Arles

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