Arles Travel Guide: Tourist Places & Activities
Located in the Provence region, this city is renowned for its Roman and Romanesque monuments. It inspired Van Gogh's paintings and hosts the international photography festival, Les Rencontres d'Arles.
- Population
- 53,000
- Size
- 759 square km
- Airport
- Nîmes-Alès-Camargue-Cévennes at 20 km – Int'l.
- Train Station
- Gare d'Arles
- Est. Visit Days
- 2 days
Overview
Arles, located in the Provence region of southern France, is renowned for its rich history and cultural heritage, notably its Roman and Romanesque monuments which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The city's ancient amphitheater and the Vincent van Gogh Foundation, which celebrates the artist's legacy, are major attractions. However, Arles can be quite crowded with tourists, especially during the summer. The city is relatively small, which makes it easy to explore on foot, but this also means that accommodation and dining options might be limited compared to larger cities. Despite these drawbacks, Arles offers a unique blend of historical architecture, art, and Provençal culture that makes it a worthwhile destination.
Traffic & Transport
The city's compact size and pedestrian-friendly streets make walking an excellent option for exploring the central attractions. For longer distances, bicycles are widely used and available for rent, offering a pleasant way to navigate and see the sights at a leisurely pace. Public buses are also available, providing efficient connections to broader areas and nearby points of interest. However, driving is less recommended due to limited parking and narrow streets in the historic center. Reliable taxi services can be accessed through local companies such as Taxi Radio Arlésien. Additionally, ride-hailing apps like Uber offer convenient options for booking rides directly from your smartphone, ensuring easy transportation around the area.
History
The city, located in the south of France, has a rich history marked by various periods of control and influence. Originally established by the Greeks in the 6th century BCE, it became a significant Roman colony in 123 BCE, evident from the remaining ancient Roman monuments. Throughout the Middle Ages, it was a major religious center and an important player in the Crusades. The city also thrived as a regional trading hub, particularly during the 17th and 18th centuries. In the 19th century, it became famous for inspiring the works of Vincent van Gogh, enhancing its cultural significance.
Itinerary Sample
Here's a two-day itinerary to explore Arles, France: – First day:
– Morning: Visit the Arles Amphitheatre and the Roman Theatre.
– Afternoon: Explore the Arles Archaeological Museum.
– Evening: Stroll through the historic city center and dine at a local restaurant. – Second day:
– Morning: Tour the Vincent van Gogh Foundation and see where the artist worked.
– Afternoon: Visit the Church of St. Trophime and the Cloister.
– Evening: Relax at the cafes in Place du Forum and enjoy the ambiance.
Near Excursion
This city is a great starting point for several exciting day trips. Here are some suggestions:
– Avignon at 35 km: Visit the historic Palais Des Papes and the famous Pont d'Avignon.
– Nîmes at 35 km: Explore well-preserved Roman monuments like the Arena and Maison Carrée.
– Pont Du Gard at 25 km: See the ancient Roman aqueduct bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
– Camargue at 40 km: Discover the unique wetlands, home to flamingos, wild horses, and bulls.
– Aix-en-Provence at 75 km: Enjoy the charming Old Town, markets, and Cezanne's studio.
Attraction
Known for its rich Roman history and well-preserved ancient monuments, this city offers a unique glimpse into the past.
– Amphitheatre: A large Roman arena still used for events and performances.
– Roman Theatre: An ancient theatre that hosts concerts and plays.
– Saint-Trophime Church: A Romanesque church with refined carvings and a cloister.
– Alyscamps: A historic Roman necropolis lined with sarcophagi.
– Van Gogh Foundation: An art center dedicated to the works of Vincent van Gogh.
– Cryptoporticus: An underground Roman gallery used for storage and as a marketplace.
Activity
In Arles, travelers can explore Roman ruins, attend lively cultural festivals, and enjoy nature in the Camargue.
– Van Gogh Trail: Follow the path of the famous painter's inspirations.
– Camargue Safari: Experience guided tours in the nearby Camargue region, home to unique wildlife including flamingos and wild horses.
– Photography Tours: Capture the essence of Provence through guided photography walks.
– Cryptoportiques: Discover underground galleries from Roman times.
– Rhone River Cruises: Experience scenic views of Arles and surrounding countryside from the water.
Cuisine
The city offers a rich culinary experience influenced by Provençal and Mediterranean flavors, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Some of the city's most famous dishes include:
– Bouillabaisse: A traditional Provençal fish stew with various fish, shellfish, and aromatic herbs.
– Tapenade: A spread made from olives, capers, and anchovies, often served with bread.
– Ratatouille: A vegetable stew featuring tomatoes, zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers.
– Gardianne de Taureau: A hearty bull meat stew cooked with red wine and herbs.
– Fougasse: A flatbread often filled with olives, cheese, or anchovies.
– Tarte Tropézienne: A dessert pastry filled with a rich cream, originating from nearby Saint-Tropez.
Shopping
In the city, visitors can explore a variety of small boutiques and local markets that offer unique Provençal products. A popular gift to purchase is the traditional Provençal fabric, known for its animated colors and patterns, which is used in tablecloths, napkins, and other home decor. Art enthusiasts may appreciate a print or painting from a local artist, capturing the city's historic architecture and landscapes. Lavender products, such as soaps and oils, are also a good choice, reflecting the region's flora. Additionally, the city's markets are great for finding fresh, local produce and artisanal foods, perfect for culinary enthusiasts.
Arts & Culture
The city is renowned for its beautiful arts scene, notably inspiring the works of Vincent van Gogh. It hosts the Rencontres d'Arles, an annual summer photography festival that has been a significant event in the art photography world since 1970. The ancient Roman amphitheater, still in use today, stages various cultural events including concerts and traditional bullfights. Additionally, the Fondation Vincent van Gogh serves as a tribute to the artist's legacy, displaying numerous works by contemporary artists influenced by his style.