visit avignon or arles

Avignon Or Arles: Which To Stay In For Visiting Provence?

If you’re planning to visit the beautiful Provence area in France but are trying to decide whether you should base yourself in Avignon or Arles, you’ve come to the right place!

Avignon and Arles are both smaller cities situated on the Rhône river in Southern France. They are quite close to each other – about 25 miles apart, approx. 17-minute by train. Both Avignon and Arles have their charm and historical sights. Avignon, however, is a bit larger than Arles, with population of about 95.000 vs about 55.000 , and is somewhat livelier with significantly more car traffic.

Travelers typically choose between Avignon or Arles as a base depending on whether they’re driving or not, how much nightlife they seek, and which cultural, natural, and town sights they plan to visit within the huge Provence area. Let’s dig deeper.

See also: Avignon or Aix-en-Provence for a few days?

Table of Contents

Avignon or Arles: what travelers say

• Avignon is a larger city than Arles with more going on – also a college town. Arles has a quieter small-town feel. Arles, however, is more affordable than Avignon.
• Some travelers find Arles to be a bit dead outside the high season , especially in the evening, whereas Avignon always feels lived-in. In the summer, however, Arles becomes quite lively and may have even more tourists than Avignon.
• Arles is charming while Avignon is a beautiful city. Travelers generally feel both cities are worth visiting, and each can easily be visited from the other in one day.
• Avignon has more restaurant options , better shopping , and more to see than Arles, e.g. the Palais des Papes at night. The old town part of Avignon is easy to visit on foot.
• Avignon by itself has enough sights for a 4 of 5-day stay, including the old town , the monastery , and the immediate surroundings.  The Pont du Gard should not be missed and is most easily accessed from Avignon.
• Some travelers prefer the Provence charm of Arles. The city is compact and easy to walk with interesting historical sights, though some parts of the city can feel a bit seedy out of season. Travelers are also interested in Arles’ bullfights , and the easy access to the beautiful Camargue wildlife natural area.
• If you’re not driving and relying on public transport, Avignon may be a better option as it has more train and bus connections within and outside of Provence than Arles.
• If you have a car, Arles is a good base for visiting Provence. Some travelers, however, suggest staying in an even smaller charming town such as Saint-Remy-de-Provence (close to the Luberon and Pont du Gard), L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, or Maussanne-Les-Alpilles (smaller) and making trips into cities.
• Provence is a large area so you should consider changing cities at least once (between Arles, Avignon, or another small town).

Avignon or Arles: access & transportation

If you’re driving, be aware that Avignon has heavier traffic than Arles. On the other hand, Avignon has underground parking by the Palace des Papes (but no street parking) unlike Arles where you need to park in a neighborhood outside the center after 6 pm.

Avignon is a transport hub with connections to many French cities. Arles also has easy rail connections to Avignon (15-20 minutes), Orange, Nimes, Marseille, and Nice. Taking the train from Arles to Avignon saves a lot of parking hassle.

The train station in Avignon is right next to the bus station outside the city walls , an easy walk from most hotels. The high-speed train station, however, is way further out.

Visiting the Provence countryside and villages is best done with a car – doing so by public transport can be limiting and costly after a few days.

On the other hand, driving in the cities, namely Avignon, is a nuisance, so the best option is to pick up a rental car (e.g. at the train station) after visiting the cities. Parking is also much easier in smaller towns such as in the Luberon.

From Avignon, you can easily get to the Pont du Gard and to Isle-sur-la-Sorgue by train and public bus. Avignon has more buses than Arles to the small towns and villages.

Avignon or Arles: vibe & people

As mentioned, Arles is a charming town worth a visit but often feels dead and abandoned at night, particularly on Sunday and Monday evenings, except perhaps in the middle of the summer. Avignon is generally livelier at night .

Arles has beautiful buildings, some of which look like paintings. The shopkeepers are friendly and let you sample their products. From Arles, you can easily visit the Fontaine de Vaucluse springs and some spectacular hilltop towns.

Avignon has many events taking place year-round – parades, festivals, movies, concerts – making it a great place to hang out and wander around. However, many events, including the renowned Festival d’Avignon , occur in July (“festival month”) with people flocking in from all over Europe for the countless theater shows. Avignon thus gets very crowded and prices shoot up. Arles also gets quite busy during the summer months.

Avignon or Arles: sights & culture

Avignon has ancient city walls and the superb Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes), a historical fortress and palace , one of the largest medieval Gothic buildings in Europe and a papal residence during the 14th century. Aside from the architecture, however, visitors often find the visit boring as there are mostly empty rooms.

Avignon also has an impressive 12th-century cathedral with papal tombs, Fort-Saint-André – a 14th-century medieval fortress with panoramic views, and the Musée du Petit Palais museum with Renaissance Italian paintings.

You can take a picturesque walk along the river bank opposite the town by crossing a busy bridge on foot or taking a free ferry across the river. You can walk up to the park above the palace for a great river view.

Le Pont du Gard , a huge and stunning aqueduct bridge built by 1st-century Romans with 3 well-preserved arched tiers, is a 30-minute drive from Avignon and a major highlight for most visitors. The Pont d’Avignon is the ruins of another bridge, this one from the 12th-century, which people traditionally dance on.

Arles also has 5 important Roman sites as the city was once an important capital of ancient Rome. Roman constructions include the Amphitheatre (Arènes) where many concerts and bullfight shows now take place, or the 1st-century Théatre Antique.

Arles has a compact old town , an Antic Arts museum , and an impressive 12th-century Gothic and Romanesque landmark, Paroisse Saint-Trophime . The Foundation Vincent Van Gogh displays exhibits of the painter’s works. Travelers often like finding Van Gogh’s locations throughout the town. There is also a very good museum of Provencal history.

The Camargue wetlands natural area with its wildlife and horses are also a major attraction near Arles.

Avignon or Arles: food & nightlife

Avignon is a great foodie destination with quite a few highly-rated restaurants and many bars, cafes, and bistros. Examples of restaurants include La Mirande and Hotel d’Europe, both famous 5-star hotels close to the Palais des Papes, Les 5 Sens (great courtyard), L’Ami Voyage (old bookshop).

The Les Halles market is also worth visiting for delicacies and is lively on Saturday mornings, a nice break in everyone’s daily routine. Most of the nice pubs to have a drink concentrate in the old town of Avignon.

Arles also has a few excellent restaurants such as Le Galoubet, l’Atelier Jean-Luc Rabanel, le Patio, or Le Franc Bourgeois. The Place du Forum cafe is a central place to hang out.

Although Arles has a quieter nightlife compared to Avignon, you can find a good range of bars, pubs and wine bars to have a drink, such as La Table du Caviste (wine bar), le Baravin (with DJ), and le Bar du Marché (authentic local bar). Most close quite early, however, except for a few places in the Van Gogh cafe area.

Avignon or Arles: lodging

In Avignon without a car, the best option is typically to stay inside the old town – the newer part of the city is not as interesting for visitors.

An alternative is to stay near the train station , e.g. Hotel Central, a 5-minute walk from the train station – travelers praise its affordable prices, friendly staff, and cleanliness. Other options travelers recommend in the area include the Grand Hotel and the Ibis Centre Gare right next to the train and bus stations, just outside the city walls.

If you’re driving, an alternative is to stay outside of Avignon e.g. in the Mas Saint Antoine self-catering units in the village of Rognonas, a 10-minute drive from Avignon. There you get easy parking and a central location for accessing many towns and villages of the area.

In Arles, many travelers choose small B&Bs . Also often recommended is the Le Calendal hotel which has a great location with views on the Roman Amphitheater (or on lush gardens).

If you have a car, you may also consider staying in a family-owned gite (holiday lodge) in Fontvieille, about 25 minutes east of Arles, a quiet place and an easy drive to Arles, Avignon, and Orange.  You can also stay in Saint-Remy-de-Provence which is centrally located to most of the sights in the Arles area and is much less tourist-flocked than Arles.

Another viable option for a basecamp is staying in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue from which you can easily get to Gordes, Roussillon, and Saint-Remy. Or, you can choose to stay in Les Baux or one of the Luberon towns. Some travelers also recommend Uzes as a base.

In general, if you’re driving, travelers suggest staying at one location for exploring the Western part of Provence, then moving to another town as a base for exploring the Eastern part, so as to reduce driving time.

On a very different note, some Provence travelers choose Nimes as a base. It’s a bigger and more affordable city than both Avignon and Arles, has many accommodation options and many things to see and do in itself. It has easy access from Paris by train (3 hours) and is close to Avignon, Arles, Aix en Provence and Montpellier.

Avignon or Arles: day trips

From Avignon, if you’re not driving, you can take day trips by train to Nimes, Marseille, or Arles – where you can catch a minibus tour to the Camargue. From Avignon, you can also take a bus to see the market in Carpentras on Fridays.

You can book a Rhone wine tour with Avignon Wine Tours to see some of Provence’s countryside and wineries. The tour also includes the Pont du Gard and you can even go kayaking around the Pont.

From Avignon you can also catch a minivan tour to the Luberon hilltowns e.g. Gordes, Roussillon, Menerbes, Loumarin, Venasque, Les Alpilles, etc. Other nice day trips from Avignon include Orange to the North and Nimes to the West (30 minutes by train), both offering spectacular Roman ruins.

From Arles, you have easy access by bus to the Camargue villages e.g. Saint-Remy – which has an excellent Wednesday market, Tarascon (great castle), or Les Baux. Travelers advise visiting Saint-Remy and the Carrière de Lumieres on one day and come back to see Les Baux a different day (it has many restaurants).

*** Photo credits: (1) Featured: “ avignon ” ( CC BY-SA 2.0 ) by  rey perezoso (2) “ Arles from the Arena ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by  decar66 (3) “ Avignon ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by  jodastephen (4) “ Arles ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by  Andrea Schaffer (5) “ Avignon ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by  David Locke (5b) (6) “ by night, centre-ville (AVIGNON,FR84) ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by  jean-louis zimmermann (7) “ Place de la Republique, Arles, France, S ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by  In Memoriam: PhillipC (8) “ Pont du Gard ” ( CC BY-SA 2.0 ) by  blieusong

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About the author.

Jesse Massard

I'm Jesse, I've lived in and traveled to many different countries, and each time around I've done tons of research on the different places I could visit. I've always loved comparing cities before (and after) see them. Apparently I'm not alone, so I decided to make a website out of it and share my experiences and research. All packed?

• Travel Planning Guide

A Travel Price Comparison for France Avignon vs. Arles for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Couples

• Pros & Cons
• Attractions
• Backpackers
• Public Transit
• Walkability
• More time in Avignon or Arles?
• Which is Cheaper, Avignon or Arles? (Travel Cost Comparison)

Which is Bigger, Avignon or Arles?

• When to Visit Avignon or Arles?

Should you visit Avignon or Arles?

Which is cheaper to visit which is more expensive for vacation.

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Avignon and Arles. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Avignon is a scenic, picturesque, and historical town. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.

Arles is a charming, compact, and quaint town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Avignon and Arles: Pros and Cons

• Popular museums and historical sights
• Family-friendly
• Good for couples and romance
• Good for backpackers and budget travelers
• Small town charm
• Less popular for nightlife
• Active nightlife
• Impressive beauty
• Less family-friendly
• Less popular with backpackers

Is there more to do in Avignon or Arles?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Avignon than Arles. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Avignon is very popular for its food and small town charm, while Arles attracts visitors for its nightlife and impressive beauty. Avignon is more touristy than Arles and is popular for its architectural beauty and historical importance. It is also well known for Palais des Papes. Arles is famous for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh.

How is Avignon different from Arles?

Which is better for a holiday.

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Arles and Avignon. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Avignon or Arles?

You'll find a number of first-rate museums and attractions in both Arles and Avignon.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Avignon has many famous sights for visitors. The town is filled with historical landmarks such as Palais des Papes, Pont Saint Bénézet, Musée du Petit Palais, and Basilique Métropolitaine Notre-Dame des Doms.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Arles that are not to be missed. It's a small town but it's filled with Roman ruins and remarkable landmarks. Popular sights include L'Amphithéâtre Romain, Les Alyscamps, Cloître Saint-Trophime, and Théâtre Antique.

Is the Food Better in Avignon or Arles? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Avignon is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Avignon has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. For such a small town you'll find many great eateries where you can sample French cuisine. You'll find bakeries, patisseries, restaurants, chocolatiers, and cafes to try. Cooking classes are also a popular activity in town.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Arles. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's local agriculture. Popular dishes include agriade (beef stew), tellines soup, and fougasse (a local bread).

Is Avignon or Arles Better for Nightlife?

Arles is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Avignon is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Arles. There are countless bars and pubs where you can enjoy a cold drink and a relaxing night out.

Avignon is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There's a limited nightlife scene but the bars you'll find are usually centered around Place de lHorloge, Place du Palais, Rue Carnot, and Place des Corps-Saints.

Is Avignon or Arles Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the first-rate old town areas in both Avignon and Arles.

The old town of Avignon is one of the most recognized in the world. The walled medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it's filled with history.

Arles offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.

Is the Shopping Better in Avignon or Arles?

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Avignon and Arles.

Avignon has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are several shopping streets in town like Rue de la Republique, Rue Joseph-Vernet, and Rue St Agricol.

Arles is a great destination for shopping. There are many boutiques that are filled with local art, crafts, and merchandise.

Is Avignon or Arles Better for Families?

Avignon is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Arles is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Avignon . Families can enjoy cooking classes, boat tours, and exploring the old town together.

For families, Arles is not always the best place to visit. Filled with Roman ruins and beautiful art, this is a great town, but can make for a long day for younger kids.

Is Avignon or Arles Better for Couples?

Avignon and Arles both high quality destinations for a couple.

Avignon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Filled with history, couples can enjoy strolling through the old town or dinner on amazing French food.

Couples visit Arles frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy history, roman ruins, and beautiful art will appreciate a weekend getaway to this town.

Is Avignon or Arles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Avignon is very good for backpackers. However, Arles is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Avignon is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find a few affordable hotels, but hostels are a little bit more difficult to come by.

Arles is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels and apartments in the area.

Is Avignon or Arles Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Avignon and Arles.

Avignon has some public transit options. There are city buses as well as tourist shuttles around town.

You'll find some public transit in Arles, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are shuttle buses that run between the city center and the train station, which is less than a kilometer out of town.

Is Avignon or Arles a more walkable city?

Avignon is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Avignon on foot is easy. There's almost no traffic in the city center so it's easy to explore on foot.

Arles is very walkable. It's a historic walled city that is very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Avignon Worth Visiting? and Is Arles Worth Visiting? .

Should I spend more time in Arles or Avignon?

How long in avignon or arles.

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Avignon or Arles to fill your time. In our opinion, Avignon has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Avignon than Arles . However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Avignon than Arles. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Avignon, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Avignon than Arles. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Avignon that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Avignon than Arles if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Avignon.

• How many days in Avignon or Arles? Ideal Length of Stay Avignon 1-2   Arles   1-2

One day in Avignon or Arles?

Even though Avignon is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Arles, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Avignon or Arles?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Avignon. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Arles, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Arles has to offer.

Five days in Avignon or Arles?

Avignon is a fun place to experience. Avignon is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Arles is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Avignon or Arles?

Avignon is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arles. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Arles. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in France , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France , The Best 2-Week Tours in France , and The Best River Cruises in France .

Which place is cheaper, Arles or Avignon?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

• Avignon Prices France Prices Arles Prices France Prices
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day Avignon € 700 Arles € 142

The average daily cost (per person) in Avignon is €700, while the average daily cost in Arles is €142. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Avignon and Arles in more detail.

Accommodation

• Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person Avignon € 647 Arles € 71
• Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room Avignon € 1,294 Arles € 142

Compare Hotels in Avignon and Arles

Looking for a hotel in Avignon or Arles? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Avignon

Hotels in Arles

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.

Local Transportation

• Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. Avignon € 21 Arles € 23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Avignon

Also for Avignon, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

• Arrival Priate Transfer Avignon Airport AVN to Avignon City by Luxury Van: $133
• Arrival Private Transfer Avignon Airport AVN to Avignon City by Business Car: $92
• Arrival Private Transfer Avignon Airport AVN to Avignon City by Luxury Minibus: $247
• Departure Private Transfer Avignon City to Avignon Airport AVN by Business Car: $92
• Departure Private Transfer Avignon City to Avignon Airport AVN by Luxury Minibus: $247
• Departure Private Transfer Avignon City to Avignon Airport AVN by Luxury Van: $133
• Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) to Avignon - Round-Trip Transfer: $236
• Private Departure Transfer from Avignon to Marseille Airport MRS: $118
• Private transfer Marseille - Avignon: $433
• Transfer Avignon to Vaison la Romaine and surroundings: $166
• Transfer Vaison la Romaine and surroundings to Avignon: $166

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arles

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Arles:

• Arles to Marseille Airport (MRS) - Departure Private Transfer: $118

Is it cheaper to fly into Avignon or Arles?

Prices for flights to both Arles and Avignon change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.

• Food Meals for one day Avignon € 33 Arles € 52

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Avignon

For Avignon, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

• Avignon Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience : $100
• Cooking workshop with an exceptional chef in Avignon: $210
• Cooking lessons: $215
• Cooking Class and Lunch with a Local Chef: $409

Typical Food Prices in Arles

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Arles:

• Cooked Clams € 4.50
• Ice Cream € 1.00

Entertainment

• Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. Avignon € 15 Arles € 31

Tours and Activities in Avignon

For Avignon, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

• Glanum Archaeological Site Entrance Ticket: $9.94
• Avignon Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $9.98
• Ticket for the Gourmet Journey at Maison Brotte: $18
• All About Avignon Tour: $18
• Around The Palace Tour: $28
• La Noctambule du Pape Night Tour: $31
• Chocolate and Wine Pairing Experience in Châteauneuf-du-Pape: $44
• A Tour in Provence in a typical French motorized bike : the Solex: $46
• Half-Day Tour from St Rémy-de-Provence by Electric Bike with Carrière de Lumiere: $50
• City Walking Tour with Popes Palace Entry: $75
• Avignon Walking Tour including Pope's Palace: $76
• Lavender Beauty Small Group Half Day Tour from Avignon: $77

Typical Entertainment Prices in Arles

Here are a few typical costs in Arles for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:

• Castle Entrance Fee € 5.50

Tours and Activities in Arles

Here are a few actual costs in Arles for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

• Arles 2-Hour Private Walking Tour: $189
• Arles Private guided walking tour from Marseille: $347
• Arles, Saint-Rémy & Les Baux De Provence: Guided Tour: $1,192
• 2-Hour Private Walking Tour: $204
• Art and History Walking Tour: $303
• City tour 1 hour of the city, its history, its monuments,: $86
• City tour 45mn of the city, its history, its monuments,: $70
• From Avignon: Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence & Saint-Rémy Tour: $107
• Private Guided Tour of Arles: $221
• Provence Region Roman Abbey of Montmajour Entrance Ticket: $7.73
• Alcohol Drinks for one day Avignon € 16 Arles € 24

Sample the Local Flavors in Avignon

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Avignon:

• Wine tasting in Sablet: $3.30
• THE CUBE: Private Tour Of Semi-Gravity Cubist Cellar with Wine Tasting: $11
• E-bike tour and wine tasting from Vaison la Romaine: $66
• Provence and Wine Tasting by E-Bike from Saint-Rémy-de-Provence: $66
• Half-Day Provence Pont du Gard and Wine Tasting Tour from Avignon: $88
• From Morning Wine Tour to Châteauneuf du Pape: $96
• Morning Wine Tour to Chateauneuf du Pape from Avignon: $98
• From Afternoon Wine Tour Châteauneuf du Pape: $103
• Afternoon Wine Tour to Chateauneuf du Pape from Avignon: $105
• Full Day Pont du Gard, Orange theatre, Wine tour from Avignon: $132
• Roman heritages and Chateauneuf du Pape Wine Tour from Avignon: $132
• 8 Hours Private Wine Tour in Châteauneuf du Pape: $166

Sample the Local Flavors in Arles

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Arles:

• Lavender Field & Distillery Tour between Nimes & Arles: $6.29

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Avignon and Arles, we can see that Avignon is more expensive. And not only is Arles much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Arles would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Arles and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Avignon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Avignon than you might in Arles.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Avignon Expensive? and Is Arles Expensive? .

Avignon has a larger population, and is about 68% larger than the population of Arles. When comparing the sizes of Avignon and Arles, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Avignon or Arles?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Avignon or Arles in the Summer?

Both Arles and Avignon during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Avignon for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Arles in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Avignon is around the same temperature as Arles in the summer. The daily temperature in Avignon averages around 24°C (75°F) in July, and Arles fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

In Arles, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Avignon. In the summer, Avignon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Arles. Avignon gets 354 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 354 hours of full sun.

Avignon usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Arles. Avignon gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Arles receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

• Summer Average Temperatures July Avignon 24°C (75°F)   Arles   24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Avignon or Arles in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Avignon and Arles. Many visitors come to Avignon in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Also, most visitors come to Arles for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Avignon is around the same temperature as Arles. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Avignon in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Arles averages at about 16°C (61°F).

Avignon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Arles during autumn. Avignon gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Arles receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Avignon gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Avignon usually receives around the same amount of rain as Arles. Avignon gets 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Arles receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

• Autumn Average Temperatures October Avignon 16°C (61°F)   Arles   16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Avignon or Arles in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Avignon as well as Arles. Most visitors come to Avignon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Arles because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Avignon is generally around the same temperature as Arles. Daily temperatures in Avignon average around 7°C (44°F), and Arles fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Avignon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Arles. Avignon gets 146 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 146 hours of full sun.

Avignon usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Arles. Avignon gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Arles receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

• Winter Average Temperatures January Avignon 7°C (44°F)   Arles   7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Avignon or Arles in the Spring?

Both Arles and Avignon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Avignon because of the small town charm. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Arles this time of year.

Avignon is around the same temperature as Arles in the spring. The daily temperature in Avignon averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Arles fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Arles. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Avignon. Avignon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Arles during spring. Avignon gets 218 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 218 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Avignon usually receives around the same amount of rain as Arles. Avignon gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Arles receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

• Spring Average Temperatures April Avignon 13°C (56°F)   Arles   13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Arles and Avignon

Related articles for avignon, related articles for arles.

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• Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions

Best Things to Do in Avignon and Arles (3 Day Itinerary)

• Post author: Lisa Garrett
• Post last modified: March 26, 2024
• Post category: Europe Getaways / France

Disclaimer :  This page may contain affiliate links.  I earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links (at no additional cost to you).

There are many fantastic things to do in Avignon, Arles, and Provence! See Roman ruins, a papal palace, gorgeous hilltop cities, and more!

Wondering what to do in Provence besides visiting lavender fields? (Not everyone loves flowers!) Did you know that you could:

Marvel at the splendid papal palace in Avignon and enjoy Avignon’s vibrant theater scene.

Take a deep dive into history and explore the extensive Roman ruins in Arles , the ‘little Rome of Gaul’. 

TOP PICK: PROVENCE DAY TRIP

My top pick is this full-day Provence highlights tour . We loved being able to see the Pont du Gard and the charming hilltop villages of the Luberon without having to rent a car!

Immerse yourself in the unique and picturesque hilltop cities in the Luberon Valley . 

I have all of the best things to do in Avignon and Arles (and more!) right here for you based on my favorites from our France trips. Lace up your shoes and let’s go!

Table of Contents

Best things to do in Avignon France

Avignon makes an excellent home base for your long weekend.  It’s an easy trip via high-speed train (TGV, Train à Grande Vitesse).  You can travel to Avignon in about two and a half hours from Paris , and it’s only an hour from Lyon . 

Wondering what to do in Avignon France ? Let’s dive right in!

Tour the Palais des Papes

Avignon is probably most famous for being the seat of the papacy in the 14 th century, when the popes fled Rome due to unstable political conditions.    (Most people don’t know this interesting fact about France !)

The Palais des Papes is one of the largest medieval gothic buildings in the world and is an Avignon must see !  It is honored as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its architecture and its historical importance as the seat of the papacy.

Avignon was home to a series of popes (all French) from 1309-1377.   The official papal residence returned to Rome in 1378.  However, there continued to be a second pope located in Avignon (known as an ‘antipope’). 

See the highlights of historic Avignon and enjoy skip-the-line access to the Palais des Papes on this sightseeing tour of Avignon !

North of the Palais des Papes you’ll find the Jardin des Doms.  This is a lovely public garden, and its hilltop location provides excellent scenic views of the Pont D’Avignon and the Rhône River.  There is a little café here and you’ll find many locals enjoying a picnic under the shade trees.

In addition to the Palais des Papes, Avignon is home to many churches and cathedrals. 

Adjacent to the palace, you’ll find the Avignon Cathedral.  This cathedral is crowned by a golden statue of the Virgin Mary , and is the final resting place of the Avignon popes. 

Marvel at the intricate carved walnut doors of the Basilique Saint-Pierre.  Or visit the Église Saint-Agricol, which dates from the 7 th century and features a baroque altar and beautiful stained-glass windows.

Dance on the Pont D’Avignon

Pont Saint-Bénézet is more commonly known as Pont D’Avignon . 

This 12 th century medieval bridge at one time crossed the Rhône.  The complete bridge had 22 arches and reached from Avignon on its southern end to Tour Philippe-le-Bel on the northern end. 

Unfortunately, the yearly flooding of the Rhône took its toll on the Pont D’Avignon.  Today, only four arches remain, along with the gatehouse at the Avignon side. 

You can also find a tiny chapel to St. Nicholas  on the bridge’s second pier.  The remaining portion of the bridge is part of Avignon’s UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Pont D’Avignon was also made famous by the French dance song and nursery rhyme ‘Sur le Pont D’Avignon’.   Today you can walk out upon the remnants of the Pont D’Avignon for a small fee. 

Just a few minutes’ walk east from the Pont D’Avignon there is a little ferry that operates that will take you to the island in the middle of the Rhône. 

The free ferry runs every 15 minutes daily from mid-February until the end of December (hours vary).   From the ferry stop, there is a lovely grassy, tree-lined walkway along the Rhône.  This is a great place to relax in the shade, or to enjoy a picnic.

Soak up Avignon’s vibe at the Place de l’Horloge

The Place de l’Horloge , or Clock Square, is the heart of historic Avignon. This central, tree-lined square runs along the Rue de la Republique.

The Place de l’Horloge is flanked by many of Avignon’s most beautiful buildings , and you’ll also find plenty restaurants and cafés here. Many of the restaurants directly on the square are touristy, so venture a little of the beaten path for a more authentic dining experience.

On the plaza’s west side stands the grand Hotel de Ville d’Avignon, Avignon’s City Hall. The clock tower for which the plaza is named pokes out from behind the Hotel de Ville.

To the north of the Hotel de Ville you’ll find the gorgeous Opéra Grand Avignon , built on the former site of a Benedictine abbey. This opera house hosted its first performance in October 1825 — so it’s been in business for nearly two centuries!

A carrousel in the middle of the square adds a bit of whimsy.

The Place de l’Horloge is certainly one of the best places to see in Avignon !

Walk along the Remparts d’Avignon

The Remparts d’Avignon, or Walls of Avignon, are the city’s historic defensive stone walls .  These protective walls originated in the 14 th century when the papacy was centered in Avignon. 

The walls stretch 4.3km around the city of Avignon and now contain various entrances for pedestrians and vehicles.

Take a walk along the ramparts and view the towers interspersed at regular intervals along the crenellated city walls.  It is also free to go up on the ramparts and enjoy some phenomenal views of the city and the river .

The city of Avignon has of course expanded over the centuries, and now only around 10 percent of Avignon’s populace lives in the area encircled by the ramparts.

Shop at Les Halles d’Avignon

No visit to a French town is complete without a visit to its local market.  Within the historic walled portion of Avignon, you’ll find Les Halles d’Avignon . 

This indoor market is open daily from 6am to 2pm (closed Mondays).  Here you’ll find fresh local produce, breads, spices, fish, and prepared foods. It’s always a good idea to carry some money in France to spend on small purchases at the market!

One unique feature of Les Halles d’Avignon is its ‘green wall’.  Spanning a surface area of over 300 square meters, the north façade of the market is a botanical work of art .  Lush plants decorate this vertical surface thanks to special irrigation techniques.  

See a performance at one of Avignon’s many theaters

There are an astounding number of theaters in Avignon.  Dozens of performing arts venues dot Avignon’s cityscape – you’ll find a theater around every corner. 

Although you can enjoy live entertainment throughout the year, the biggest performing arts celebration is the Festival D’Avignon . (It’s definitely one of the best Avignon things to do!)

The Festival D’Avignon occurs in month of July and runs the gamut from theater to dance to mime.   Performances are held in the Honour Courtyard of the Palais des Papes as well as in dozens of other locations inside and outside of the medieval city walls.   

This is definitely one of the best things to do Avignon has to offer! Plus, it’s so much fun to participate in French holidays and festivals!

Explore Fort Saint-André

On the north side of the Rhône, just a kilometer north of Tour Philippe-le-Bel, you’ll find Fort Saint-André.  This magnificent 14 th century fortress sits atop Mount Anadon, and from here you will enjoy fabulous panoramic views of Avignon and the surrounding countryside.

Fort Saint-André was built to defend France against Provence, which had been the first Roman province outside of Italy .  At the time of the construction of Fort Saint-André, it was a semi-independent state governed by the Counts of Provence.

Fort Saint-André is open to the public daily (closed Sundays), for a small entry fee.  Explore the fort’s twin towers and the chapel of Notre Dame de Belvezet. Download the app in advance to access information about the fort’s history and architecture.

Relax in Avignon’s Town Square

Even if you are not in need of information or maps, be sure to visit the tourist information office within the historic walled city.  You’ll find it in an impressive stone building adjoining a medieval church complete with steeple, rainspouts, and buttresses. 

Right next to the tourist information office, you’ll find Square Agricol Perdiguier, Avignon’s town square . 

There are gardens, waters features, and even some freestanding medieval arches here to check out, or just relax and enjoy the gardens from a perch on one of the benches.  Our hotel was just down the block from the square, so every morning we enjoyed our breakfast pastries here!

Day Trip: The Pont du Gard and Hilltop Towns of the Luberon Valley

For the most part, we like to explore an area on our own.  But on this trip, we didn’t have a car, and we really wanted to see the Pont du Gard.  So, we decided to book a tour from Avignon.

We were able to find a perfect day tour of the Pont du Gard and the picturesque hilltop towns of the Luberon Valley.  We were very happy to be able to visit these towns without having to drive the narrow twisty roads ourselves.

There are many great half-day or full-day tours from Avignon to choose from, depending on which attractions and towns you’re most interested in:

Marvel at the historic Pont du Gard

The Pont du Gard is a spectacular feat of Roman engineering which remains impressively well-preserved even after 2000 years.  A trip to the Pont du Gard is definitely one of the best day trips from Avignon — I highly recommend!

The Pont du Gard is an aqueduct bridge with three levels which allows the 50km aqueduct to cross the Gardon River.  

It was built to carry water to the Roman province of Nemausus (the city we know as Nîmes).  It is honored as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its engineering technique as well as its beautiful aesthetics.

There is a fee to enter the site of the Pont du Gard, which is open year-round .  You can explore the site on your own, or take a guided tour for an additional fee.  

There is also a museum where you can learn about the techniques involved in the construction of the Pont du Gard, and gain insights about life in Roman times .

Be sure to take the time to walk across the Pont du Gard for an up-close look at the bridge, and to enjoy the view from the other side of the gorge.  Don’t worry – it is a very wide walkway, and you walk across the first (lowest) tier of the bridge.

For a unique view of the Pont du Gard, rent a kayak from one of the local kayaking companies.  Floating along the Gardon River, you’ll enjoy impressive views of the Pont du Gard from all angles (including underneath).

Enjoy more fantastic views of the Pont du Gard in this brief video from World Heritage Journeys:

Visit Les Baux-de-Provence

Les Baux-de-Provence is located in the Alpilles mountain range, atop a rocky outcrop. 

This pedestrian-only village has been officially named ‘ one of the most beautiful villages in France ’.  So, it’s definitely worth taking a trip to Les Baux-de-Provence !

From its lookout points you will enjoy excellent views of the countryside, from Arles to the Camargue.

One of its top attractions is Château des Baux-de-Provence, a medieval castle fortress .  If you’re planning a visit to the Château, you can download their app in advance.  Be sure to see the reconstructions of medieval siege engines and the trebuchet.

See the red houses of Roussillon

Roussillon and Gordes are located in the hills sandwiched between the Petit Luberon mountain range to the south and the Vaucluse mountain range to the north. 

From Roussillon, you can also see the most prominent geologic landmark in the area— Mount Ventoux , the “Giant of Provence” of Tour de France fame—about 20 miles to the north. 

As you approach Rousillon, you’ll notice the landscape changing and featuring striking red cliffs.

You can immediately identify Rousillon’s ochre-colored buildings (made with materials from the vast local ochre quarry). 

To get an up-close look at the mineral, you can explore the Le Sentier des Ocres, two paths through an old ochre quarry.  Or, you can tour the underground quarry tunnels at the Mines de Bruoux.

Wander the cobbled lanes in Gordes

Gordes is another gorgeous hilltop village of the Luberon Valley. The buildings seem to be carved directly out of the rocky face of the mountain as they spiral upwards.    

The castle dominates the village from the hilltop and is home to a museum featuring the works of Flemish artist Pol Mara.  Just a stone’s throw away, you’ll find the Eglise Saint-Firmin, which is also rather fortress-like in appearance.   

It’s fun to wander through the narrow, cobbled lanes of Gordes – you’ll find little restaurants and quaint shops around every corner.  Be sure to watch where you’re going, as there are a lot of stairs to contend with.

Best things to do in Arles France

You can easily take a day trip from Avignon to Arles – just hop on the train and you’ll be there in twenty minutes.   

Arles was once a provincial capital of Rome and today is known as the ‘Little Rome of Gaul’ .  The Roman monuments of Arles are honored as a UNESCO World Heritage site .

Its Roman history is a huge part of Arles’ appeal but is not the only thing that draws visitors.  Many famous artists (including Picasso and Gaugin) painted in Arles, inspired by the quality of light.   Vincent van Gogh created some of his most well-known works while living in Arles.

Wondering what to do in Arles France ? I’ve got all of the top Arles attractions right here!

For in-depth insights into the history and culture of Arles, take this private tour of Arles , completely customizable for your interests!

Explore the Arènes d’Arles

We love all things pertaining to ancient history, so we were like kids in a candy store exploring Arles.  The Arènes d’Arles ( Arles Amphitheatre ) dominates the historic heart of Arles, so that was our first stop.   

(I will say that the Arena in Nimes is much more impressive than the one in Arles.)

If you’re like me and want to see as much as you can within your day trip, you’ll want to purchase one of the Arles monuments passes . 

There are multiple different options available depending upon which mix of museums and Roman monuments most interest you.  (Note that the monuments passes do not include entry to the Fondation van Gogh.)

The Arles Amphitheatre is a smaller version of its incredible cousin, the Roman Colosseum.  The two-tiered Arles Amphitheatre has 120 arches and could hold 20,000 spectators.  In ancient times it showcased spectacles of gladiator fights and chariot races . 

The Amphitheatre is still used today for community events such as concerts and bullfighting.  Of course, now there are a few more safety features that have been added. 

Explore the galleries and bleachers of the amphitheater and marvel at the Roman engineering which has survived (with some help) to modern times. 

One thing that boggles my mind:  Can you imagine what it would be like to see this view every day as you head off to work, or to the market?

See the Théâtre Antique d’Arles

The Théâtre Antique d’Arles, or Roman Theater of Arles , sits just to the southwest of the Arles Amphitheatre.  This theater was constructed during the reign of Caesar Augustus and dates back to the 1 st century.

In its prime, this performing arts theater featured an elaborate stage and could seat 8,000 spectators.  Unfortunately, over the ages the stone has been ‘repurposed’ to build the city wall and other structures, so the theater is only a shadow of its former self.   

View the Roman baths and necropolis

Near the banks of the Rhône, you’ll find the Thermes de Constantin.  These Roman baths were built during the reign on Constantin in the 4 th century.   

Baths were a key part of life in Roman times.  Unfortunately, these baths have fallen into disrepair.  You can tour the site, but you just get a very vague impression of what they would have been like in their prime.

If you don’t mind venturing underground, you can explore the Cryptoportiques du Forum . 

The Cryptoportiques are the subterranean support system for the forum, which was the town square for the Romans.  These vast arched tunnels form a U-shape – the north and south galleries are 90 meters long, and the connecting west gallery is 60 meters long.

About a 10-minute walk southeast from the arena and outside the original city walls, you’ll find the Alyscamps.  This is a Roman necropolis (cemetery), once one of the most famous of the ancient world.  

Walk down the path amongst the ancient sarcophagi .  At the far end sits a 12 th century church, the Eglise Saint-Honorat.

Visit Musée de l’Arles et de la Provence Antiques

The Musée de l’Arles et de la Provence Antiques is the most popular museum in Arles.  It sits just a bit west of the historic center of Arles.

 This museum focuses on regional antiquities and features a large collection of sarcophagi as well as other treasures excavated from Arles’ historic sites. 

View the Roman barge that was excavated from the river and restored – along with a video that documents and explains the complicated process of doing so.  It’s worth taking the time to watch (added benefit: you can get off your feet for a few minutes).

We really enjoyed the giant mosaics housed in this museum.  Be sure to climb to the viewing gallery to be able to get a birds-eye view of the mosaics and appreciate their beauty and intricacy more fully!

Admire the Cathédrale Saint-Trophime

The Cathédrale Saint-Trophime has pride of place on Arles’ town square, Place de la République. 

This Romanesque cathedral has a beautiful façade with elaborately carved sculptures . Inside you’ll find soaring ceilings, vividly colored stained-glass windows, and massive paintings and tapestries.

The Cloître Saint-Trophime sits adjacent to the cathedral, and provided housing to the clergy.  The cloister is a quiet and serene place, with beautiful architecture. 

Stroll through the airy, sunlit galleries and view the carved support columns.  Enjoy viewing the works of art and tapestries gracing the walls of the cloister.

See the sites that inspired Vincent van Gogh

Arles’ other significant claim to fame is Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh , who lived and painted in Arles in 1888-1889.  He created many masterpieces inspired by this lovely city, including ‘ Starry Night Over the Rhône ’.

If you’re an aficionado of van Gogh, be sure to take the ‘van Gogh Walk’.  This will guide you to about ten locations in Arles where van Gogh created his well-known artworks.  In some cases, you’ll be able to enjoy the same views that provided inspiration to van Gogh over a century ago.

You can also visit the museum, Fondation Vincent van Gogh.  As a disclaimer, this museum doesn’t display much of van Gogh’s art (only one piece), but honors his influences on other artists.

Avignon and Arles Travel Tips and FAQ

Avignon or arles as a base.

Stay in Avignon as your home base , and just take a day trip to Arles. It’s only twenty minutes away by train, with many trains running throughout the day.

The cities of Avignon and Arles are both on smaller side, although Avignon’s population is about twice that of Arles. This means that there are definitely more options for dining and evening entertainment in Avignon (especially given all of Avignon’s theaters).

Avignon is a transportation hub and has a lot more options for public transit , which is handy if you’re visiting without a car.

Avignon has both a train station serviced by TGV (France’s high speed train system), as well as a station for regional trains. It’s also home to the Avignon-Caumont Airport (an international airport, but only in that it does have flights to England).

On our visit, we spent a couple nights each in Avignon and Arles. Although there were a lot of great Roman ruins to explore during the day in Arles, we often found ourselves at loose ends in the evenings, unable to find something really appealing to do.

Traveling by Train in Provence

France has a great rail network, so I like do do the majority of my travels in France by train. (It really cuts down on my stress levels.)

You can travel to Avignon in about two and a half hours from Paris via France’s high speed trains (TGV, or Train à Grande Vitesse). And Avignon is only about an hour by train from Lyon . 

Just sit back, relax, and watch the beautiful French countryside roll by outside your window!

Pro Tip : You will need seat reservations for the TGV, so it’s best to buy your tickets in advance so that a full train doesn’t ruin your travel plans.   Purchase your train tickets   here !

Now you definitely know what to do in Arles and Avignon ! Whether you choose to visit Arles or Avignon (or both!) you’ll be sure to have a great time exploring these top Provence attractions.

Pin this for later! Don’t miss out on all these great ideas for visiting Avignon, Arles, and the Pont du Gard!

You might also enjoy these posts about my favorite places in France:

• Perfectly Paris: 21 Best Paris Attractions
• Amazing Paris Night Tours You’ll Love
• Jardin du Luxembourg: Paris’ Best, Most Beautiful Garden
• Best Things to Do in a Weekend in Lyon
• See Chateaux on a Hot Air Balloon Ride in France’s Loire Valley
• Best Things to Do in Nîmes
• Best Things to Do in Nice and the French Riviera
• 23 Fantastic Day Trips from Paris by Train You’ll Love

Lisa Garrett

Lisa Garrett is the founder of Waves and Cobblestones. She has taken 18 cruises ranging from a multi-generational Caribbean cruise to solo Alaska cruises to fabulous Mediterranean cruises.

She lived in Ireland for 4 months and has taken over a half-dozen multi-city vacations in Europe (primarily relying on train and public transit). Lisa helps people plan amazing vacations to Europe and popular cruise destinations.

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Arles, France Travel Guide | Provence

Ancient, Artistic, and Fun -- Arles is all of these

Yann Guichaoua-Photos/Getty Images

Arles, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is located along the Rhone river, where the Petite Rhone breaks off to the west on its way to the sea. Arles dates back to the 7th century BC when it was the Phoenician town of Theline, and its Gallo-Roman heritage is seen in the ruins which are incorporated into the houses and buildings of the city.

Vincent Van Gogh's arrival at the Arles railroad station on the 21st of February 1888 signaled the beginning of Arles and Provence as an artist's retreat. Many of the things and places he painted can still be seen, especially in Arles and the area surrounding St. Rémy de Provence .

Getting to Arles

The Arles train station is on Avenue Paulin Talabot, about a ten minute walk from the center of town (see a map of Arles ). There is a small tourist bureau and car rental available.

Trains connect Arles and Avignon (20 minutes), Marseille (50 minutes) and Nîmes (20 minutes). The TGV from Paris connects to Avignon.

The main bus station is located on Boulevard de Lices in the center of Arles. There is also a bus station opposite the train station. There are senior discounts available on bus tickets; inquire.

Office of Tourism Arles

Office de tourisme d'Arles is found on Boulevard de Lices - BP21. Telephone: 00 33 (0)4 90 18 41 20

Where to Stay

Hotel Spa Le Calendal is steps away from the Amphitheatre and has a nice garden.

Since Arles is set in a spectacular setting, and has a train station to get you around Provence, you might want to settle in for a while in a vacation rental. HomeAway has many to choose from, inside Arles and in the countryside.

Arles Weather and Climate

Arles is hot and dry in the summer, with the least rain coming in July. May and June offer ideal temperatures. the Mistral winds blow hardest in spring and winter. There's a good chance of rain in September, but September and October temperatures are ideal.

Coin Laundry

Laverie Automatique Lincoln rue de la Cavalerie, by the Portes de la Cavalerie in the north end.

Festivals in Arles

Arles is known not only for impressionistic painting, but for photograpy as well. Arles is home to L' Ecole Nationale Supérieure de la Photographie (ENSP), the only university-level national photography school in France.

International Photography Festival-- July - September

Nude Photography Festival

Harp Festival--End of October

Epic Film Festival - The Roman Theater at Arles stages a series of outdoor screenings of Hollywood epics in August, known locally as Le Festival Peplum.

Camargue Gourmande a Arles--Arles hosts a Gourmet festival in September, with products from the Carmargue.

What to See in Arles | Top Tourism Sites

Perhaps the top attraction in Arles is the Arles Amphitheatre (Arènes d'Arles). Built in the first century, it seats about 25,000 people and is the venue for bullfights and other festivals.  TripSavvy trusts its readers to make their own decisions on the ethics of bullfighting as an attraction.

Only two columns remain of the original Roman theater on the Rue de la Calade, the theater serves as a concert stage for festivals like the Recontres Internationales de la Photographie (Photography Festival).

Eglise St-Trophime - The Romanesque portal is the high point here, and you can see lots of medieval carvings in the cloister, for which there is a charge (the church is free)

Museon Arlaten (history museum), 29 rue de la Republique Arles - Find out about life in Provence at the turn of the century.

Musee de l'Arles et de la Provence antique (art and history), Presqu'ile du Cirque Romain Arles 13635 - see the ancient origins of Provence, starting at 2500 bc to the "end of Antiquity" in the 6th century.

Near the Rhone, the Baths of Constantine were constructed in the fourth century. You can weave through the hot rooms and pools and check out the hot air ventilation circulating through tubuli (hollow tiles) and underfloor stacks of bricks ( hypocausts ).

Arles has the biggest market in Provence on Saturday mornings.

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Top Attractions In Arles, An Underrated Gem in Provence

Arles is a UNESCO site and a must see town in southeastern Provence. It’s filled to the brim with Roman treasures, fantastic art, and colorful pastel houses.

Arles is a sun-kissed, biscuit-colored town built on a cliff overlooking the Rhone and is the gateway to the Camargue.

“Happy as a cicada,” Van Gogh sliced off his ear in Arles. Picasso loved Arles and frequented the bullfights at the Roman Amphitheater.

When I last visited Arles, I had just seen the hip hop wunderkind musical Hamilton . It reminded me of Arles.

Odd you say? Yes, most certainly. But bear with me.

Both Hamilton and Arles feature an intriguing and rare blend of old and new, an intertwining of ancient history and contemporary themes.

In Hamilton, a historic revolutionary era backdrop is layered with musical present. In Arles, a Roman past is leavened with the dazzle of contemporary art and architecture. In both, the duality is quintessential to success.

Most people don’t understand or appreciate the vibe and authenticity of Arles … but they soon may.

Yet, Arles is rarely at the top of or even on most “must see” Provencal sites.

People are busy chasing the Luberon villages , going to Aix-en-Provence (why exactly?), or eating and drinking their way through the Provencal markets.

I kind of get it. I am just naturally inclined to ignore something that is too obviously pleasing.

And I wondered, was the venerated Rick Steve’s fond endorsement of Arles as “unpolished and a little dirty” actually counterproductive? Is he unintentionally driving would be tourists away from a city he loves for its un-obvious beauty?

To find out, I based myself in Arles on a recent trip to Provence, Happily, I was greeted with a tsunami of historical and cultural stimulation. In fact, I think Arles might well become the newest “hot spot” in Provence .

To be sure, Arles is not synonymous with the languid romance and disney perfection of Provence’s small medieval hilltop villages. So if all you want is a tiny cliffhanger, Arles may not suit.

But what the city may lack in the most obvious scenic beauty, Arles makes up for with some of the top attractions in southern France. It seduces with sensuality, Rosé, the smell of lavender, and Roman goodies a plenty.

Throw in a huge dollop of art, two smidgeons of Mediterranean influence and a dash of Italian flavor, and you have an ideal cultural home base for western Provence.

To get oriented in the city, you may want to book a guided walking tour .

Top Attractions In Arles

1. fondation vincent van gogh.

Fondation Vincent van Gogh , Arles’ fine art museum, is one of Arles’ top attractions. It’s the first stop for art lovers or those on the Van Gogh heritage trail.

Recently opened in 2014, The Foundation is the beautifully restored Hotel Leautand de Danines, a stone mansion off the Place du Forum.

Ironically, you won’t see a lot of Van Gogh — the Post-Impressionist genius who was maniacally prolific in Arles and loved its sun-drenched light. But there are usually several pieces on loan from the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam.

Apart from it’s main collection (a Joan Mitchell piece was a favorite of mine) the Fondation has temporary thematic modern art exhibitions.

2. L’Espace Van Gogh

L’Espace van Gogh is the next attraction in Arles that’s a Van Gogh lover’s magnate.

This former hospital is where Van Gogh, often drunk and psychologically impaired, sought treatment after his bloody self mutilation.

In 1974, L’Espace stopped functioning as a hospital and reopened as a cultural center. There’s honestly not much to see here.

But, standing in the lovely courtyard, you may feel like you have stepped into a real Van Gogh painting — “Le Jardin de la Maison de Sante a Arles.”

3. Cafe Terrace

Van Gogh’s Café Terrace at Night was painted in Arles. It’s housed in the Kröller-Müller Museum in the Netherlands, which is home to the second largest collection of Van Gogh paintings.

The original Café Terrace, which inspired this painting, still operates at Place du Forum. However, it now goes by the name Café Van Gogh. It’s a sort of a mecca for Van Gogh fans and one of Arles’ top attractions.

4. Photography Festival

Arles is also the international capital of photography. It’s home to the oldest photography festival in Europe, Les Rencontres Internationales de la Photographie , which is held there each summer.

Thousands of photographers and cosmopolites descend upon Arles to see cutting edge photography. Since it almost entirely showcases unseen work, the Rencontres is a visionary creative melting pot and has an international impact.

5. Luma Arles

One of Arles’ top attractions with real real wow factor is the game changing Luma Arles . The 27 acre complex is the $150 million art center. It was the brain child of Swiss art patron Maja Hoffman.

Luma Arles is half art museum, half think tank, and all Frank Gehry. the word renowned architect designed the 10 story glass building.

It’s a twisting tower clad in reflective aluminium tiles designed to attract the international art jet set. The building is meant to evoke Van Gogh’s famous Starry Night masterpiece.

Gehry has a reputation as the go to architect for starchitecture projects since his Guggenheim Museum Bilbao opened in 1997. The museum saved the underrated city of Bilbao , metamorphizing it and giving teeth to the transformative effect of art.

In Arles, the hope is that the “Guggenheim effect” will erase, Bilbao style, Arles “gritty” stereotype and usher in a “New Arles.” Luma Arles opened on on June 26, 2021.

Hoffman calls the multi-purpose complex an “archipelago” where the “future is being produced.” Luma Arles has exhibition spaces, artist and rehearsal studios, installation spaces, an archive, restaurants, and cafes.

6. Musee Reattu

Musee Reattu is a splendid small museum in Arles. The museum is named after the French painter Reattu and located in his house-studio.

The collection features fashion drawings from Christian La Croix, a native of Arles.

You’ll also find drawing by Picasso. In 1971, two years before his death, Picasso sealed his attachment for Arles by bequeathing the museum 57 drawings.

7. The Amphitheater

Now that we’ve covered Arles’ top cultural attractions, let’s get down to the things that make Arles a UNESCO destination.

Like nearby Nimes, Arles’ amphitheater was inspired by Rome’s Colosseum and is largely intact. Built in the 1st century when Augustus reigned, the two tiered arena can hold up to 25,000 people.

The amphitheater is beautifully preserved. Much of the structure’s original architecture remains, including terraces, galleries, and the original Roman drainage system.

Today, the arena hosts spectacles and concerts befitting a cultural hot spot. It also features Camargue-style bull runs and controversial bullfighting, which while beloved by Picasso is controversial or illegal elsewhere in France.

8. The Roman Theater

Another top attraction in Arles is the Roman Theater in the Rue de la Calade.

Like the Arena, Arles’ Roman Theater is of Augustian vintage. With seating for 8,000, it’s as large as the famous theater in Orange France.

While I was there, I was lucky to witness a dance performance at night.

With the lights flickering across the roman stones and the few remaining pillars standing guard in the darkness, I felt catapulted back in time. It was exactly as affecting as it ought to have been.

9. Constantine’s Baths

My next stop was the Baths of Constantine, which date from the 4th century A.D. and were part of the imperial palace of the Roman Emperor Constantine the Great.

Only a small part of the original site is excavated, but it is well-preserved and you can glimpse some of the engineering that supported it.

Roman baths were, of course, an important part of Roman public and social life and are now fittingly part of Arles’ UNESCO classification.

10. Place de la Republique

The place de la République is Arles’ main square.

Some of the top attractions and main monuments are on the square, including the Town Hall and the churches of Saint-Trophime and Sainte-Anne.

In the center is a Roman obelisk. It was discovered in the 14th century and added to the square in the 17th century.

11. Eglise St. Trophime

When the Roman sites are a fait accompli, tucked away in the northeast corner of the Place de la Republique is the Eglise St.Trophime .

Built between the 12th and 15th centuries, St. Trophime is an important example of medieval architecture. It made the UNESCO list in 1981.

The church has an elaborately carved Romanesque portal telling bible stories via sculpture. Inside, it’s austere, but not without adornment.

The church houses some of the world’s finest examples of Romanesque sculpture, including what I call the “approved public stoning” piece.

For better or worse, the church has been laser cleaned, wiping away more of the apparently tourist deflecting Arlesian grime.

The church’s cloister, however, is one of Arles’ top attractions. It’s exceptionally well preserved. There’s a separate entrance to visit and you’ll find interpretive displays.

Tip : Entry is on the east side of the Place de la Republique. There is free admission to the church, but the cloister is a small fee.

12. Les Alyscamps: Death and Glitter

Alyscamps is a famous tree-lined Roman necropolis a short distance outside the walls of the old town. It’s near Jardin d’été, shadowed by the Chaine des Alpilles Mountains.

Dating from 241 BC, Les Alyscamps is a hybrid place, both a lichen covered stone cemetery for former aristocrats and a serene tree-lined promenade for those of more recent vintage.

During the middle ages, it was forbidden to bury the dead inside the city walls for religious and hygienic reasons. Cities like Arles created suburban “Aurelian Ways” lined with tombs just outside the city.

Alyscamps was the most coveted burial site outside of Rome. In fact, it became so popular that sarcophagi were shipped from around Europe to be interred.

Legend holds that Jesus Christ himself attended the burial ceremony of Saint Trophimus (the first bishop of Arles), leaving an imprint of his knee on a sarcophagus lid.

Van Gogh and fellow artist Paul Gaugin often came to stroll in and paint what they considered the romantic “Champs Elysées” of Arles.

Their relationship, like their art, was turbulent. Van Gogh apparently razored off his ear after one of their absinthe-fueled quarrels.

Both loved vibrant colors. Gaugin once remarked of Van Gogh (and you can see it his 1888 painting of Les Alyscamps above):

Oh yes! He loved yellow did good Vincent…When the two of us were together in Arles, both of us insane, and constantly at war over beautiful colors, I adored red; where could I find a perfect vermilion?”

There’s a satisfying contrast between the serene feeling of the ancient cemetery and the dusty bustle of Arles within spitting distance.

Arles has so many Roman attractions that Alyscamps could easily be

13. The Laid Back La Roquette Neighborhood

If you’re feeling culturally oversaturated, catch your breath and get off the beaten path in Arles’ La Roquette neighborhood. It’s a charming spot in southwest Arles that dates back to the middle ages.

It’s an excellent place to stay if you don’t have a car. Otherwise, you must park across the river with some very minor inconvenience and cost.

Nestled between the Quai de Rhone and the Boulevard Clemenceau, La Roquette is a funky bourgeois bohemian neighborhood with nearly every type of architectural detail.

It’s been spectacularly restored and is crammed with narrow streets, open air cafes, and artisan shops. There are colorful flowers and vines everywhere, spilling out of and surrounding the beautifully renovated homes.

14. Arles: Stepping Stone to the Camargue

Just 30 minutes from Arles lies one of France’ stop notch wildlife destinations, the Camargue. You can take a guided 4 x 4 safari day tour from Arles.

When I think of southern France, my mind turns to enchanting medieval villages and bucolic lavender fields. I don’t expect to see wildlife. So imagine my surprise when I arrived in the Camargue, on a fantastic day trip from Arles.

I saw wild bulls and white horses galloping in the countryside and pale pink flamingos flapping their wings in the salt flats. Because of its biodiversity and natural splendor, the Camargue is on the tentative UNESCO list.

The Camargue is a river delta where the Rhône meets the sea. Not only is it an outdoor enthusiast’s and birdwatcher’s dream, it’s a very off the beaten path destination in southern France.

Much more so than Arles. Visitors can hike, cycle, or ride horses in peace and quiet.

Or unwind by cruising the waterways. If you want to see thousands of flamingos, they’re on the coast between Les Stes Maries and Salin-de-Girard. Boats leave from Les Stes Maries.

15. Abbey de Montamjour

Just 15 minutes northeast of Arles is the monumental Abbey de Montmajour. The ancient Benedictine abbey was founded in the 10th century. It was built between the 10th and 18th centuries.

Because of the different building initiative, the abbey is an ensemble of a Roman cloister, Romanesque abbey church, a cave chapel, and a necropolis dug right into the rock.

In the Middle Ages, it was an important place of pilgrimage. Van Gogh was fascinated with the abbey and went there to paint.

Tips For Visiting Arles

How to get to arles.

Trains connect Arles with other major cities in southern France.

You can reach Arles in 20 minutes by train from Avignon, 50 minutes from Marseilles, and 20 minutes from Nimes.

You can book a guided day tour to Arles with wine tasting from Avignon. You can take a Van Gogh themed guided tour from Avignon .

You can day trip to Arles from Aix-en-Provence . You can book a guided day tour from Marseilles that also includes Les Baux and St. Remy.

Where To Stay In Arles

Arles has some great hotels if you’re using the town as a base. Like the city itself, international design influences have begun to shape the burgeoning hotel scene.

L’Hotel Particulier Arles is a beautiful 5 star with old world charm in a 19th century mansion with a limestone pool.

You should also check out the  Hotel & Spa Jules Cesar Arles , which is housed in a former convent. La

The astoundingly pretty  L’Arlatan is housed in a 15th century townhouse. It’s been fully renovated and gleams withcolors influenced by Van Gogh.

Arles is no longer the sleepy small post-industrial town crystallized in most people’s perceptions.

Flash forward, it is differently embodied, with more gloss than grit. Like the Broadway smash Hamilton, Arles flawlessly combines the ancient and the modern to riveting effect.

I would say Arles is a veritable jewel in the crown of Provence and a must visit 21th century cultural center.

Go ahead, take a step back into the past and a glimpse into the future in Arles. Have I convinced you?

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to the top attractions in Arles. You may enjoy these other travel guides for southern France:

• 10 day itinerary for southern France
• Charming hidden gems in Provence
• 30 secret towns in France
• Hilltop villages of the Luberon Valley
• Historic landmarks in southern France
• Beautiful villages in Occitanie
• Guide to Toulouse
• Guide to Carcassonne
• Guide to Albi

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4 thoughts on “Top Attractions In Arles, An Underrated Gem in Provence”

We are staying in Arles for two days next month. Your guide is so helpful and I can’t wait to check out the sights. Thank you for your detailed leg work!

Thank you so much Donna. I really liked Arles and I hope you do too

Thanks for your helpful guide! Doing research and trying to decide if we should visit the arena in Arles or Nimes. Enjoyed reading your experiences!

The Nimes arena is probably more impressive and better preserved. But I love the town of Arles.

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Last Updated on January 12, 2024 by Leslie Livingston

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Five reasons why you should visit Arles, Provence’s surprising gem

May 9, 2019 by Steve Ertrachter 1 Comment

When I asked my late 97-year-old Father-In-Law about his years of military service in Europe during WWII, his most interesting memory was visiting Arles and Southern France.  I had never heard of Arles prior to this point.  After research, I discovered that Arles has been visited by Julius Caesar, Vincent Van Gogh, Paul Gauguin, Pablo Picasso and other notable figures in its history.   Caesar would have called it Colonial Julia Paterna Arelatensium but today it is called Arles. I am in love with this city as this is my second trip in the past two years. I hope that this blog inspires you to visit Arles!

Disclaimer: We do not condone bullfighting.

Arles offers amazing sites, foods, nature, art, and culture.  Arles is located in Provence, which is located in Southwestern France.  Although Nice is more famous, Arles offers countless delights for history lovers as well as nature lovers away from the crowds in Nice. 

• 1 Roman Historical Sites
• 2 Discover Van Gogh’s connection to Arles
• 3 Explore nature in Camargue National Park
• 4.1 Easter in Arles
• 4.2 Other festivals in Arles worthy of note
• 5 Eat Well in Provence
• 6 Additional notes about Arles
• 7 Have you visited Arles, France?

Roman Historical Sites

Arles has many Roman ruins throughout the city which offers an amazing opportunity to see world-class archeological sites without the huge crowds that you might encounter in Italy.

The Arles Arena dates back to 90 A.D. and has 20,000 seats.  It is still in use today. On my first visit, I was able to walk on the sand where the Gladiators fought 2,000 years ago. I also attended a bullfight during the Easter Festival. It is hard to describe the feeling of sitting in an arena dating back two millennia. Today, the Arena is in great shape and hopefully will be in existence for another 2,000 years.   It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Both Vincent Van Gogh and Pablo Picasso painted the Arena in their paintings.  

The Theatre Antique dates back to the 1 st century. This is where Romans watched plays and attended other cultural events. Today, classical performances are held at the Theatre during the summer. Anyone can tour the Theatre, as I did, and still be amazed by the structure of 33 rows and imagine events being held in ancient times. 

The Ancient Obelisk is found in Place de la Republique. It dates back to Roman times and is a landmark in front of the center of town.  Today, local merchants sell art, food, clothes and other items in the square. 

Discover Van Gogh’s connection to Arles

Vincent Van Gogh moved to Arles in 1888. Many paintings had Arles as a subject by Van Gogh.  One theory about Van Gogh cutting his ear off was that he saw the Matador cut off the ear of the bull while attending the Arles Arena. He also stayed in a local hospital for his mental illness.

Some of the sites associated with Vincent Van Gogh in Arles are still today visible including the Arena, The Bridge of Langlois, Saintes-Maries de la Mar, Musee Reattu, Cathedral Saint Trophime, and many others.  Sadly, some sites have disappeared including his residence. 

If you are interested in art, many websites display Arles and the actual locations of Van Gogh’s paintings.  It is fantastic to physically them.  The Tourist Board offers information about a walking tour “In the footsteps of Van Gogh.”

Explore nature in Camargue National Park

The Camargue is a National Park made up of a marsh preserve located outside of Arles between the Mediterranean Sea and Rhone River.  It is protected with strict regulations where wild bulls, horses, storks, flamingos, and birds thrive.  It is one of France’s major wetlands and offers a unique opportunity to experience true nature a short distance from Arles.  It is best visited in spring and avoided in summer due to the mosquito population.  There are many ways of seeing the Camargue including using a tour guide (my option.)  For more information about bird watching in Camargue National Park, I recommend this independent travel guide to Camargue National Park .

We ended up hiring a tour guide that we met at the tourist office. Our tour was conducted by an experienced guide in an SUV since parts of the road were muddy. Without the guide, we would have missed so much information about the Camargue.  If you prefer traveling in a different manner, horseback riding or biking is also available for seeing the Camargue. 

One surprising stop was the town of Saintes Maries de la Mer that is the largest town in the Camargue.  There is a 1,000-year-old church, a great beach, countless restaurants, and shopping in the town. In May, Roma people have a large festival in the town, which I highly recommend.

Festivals in Arles

Easter in arles.

Beyond being a religious holiday, Easter in Arles has a number of traditions, which date back hundreds of years. Throughout the city, you’ll find strolling bands playing music from flamenco to Lady Gaga. Also, there are many flamenco dancers performing throughout Arles.

Although many events happen in Arles during the four-day period surrounding Easter, I was advised to avoid the crowds as the best days are the first and the last.  During the festival, the hotel and food prices in Arles remained unchanged from non-festival periods.  

In the mornings, there is an Encierro where local people test their courage by running with 8 bulls around the square for one hour.  In the evenings, there is a Bandido Finale, where bulls run through the streets.  The bulls are escorted by guardians (French cowboys).  In the morning and afternoon in the Arena, there are bullfights.  These events are best avoided for anyone who is an animal lover. ( We do not condone bullfights. )

Other festivals in Arles worthy of note

There are many festivals held throughout the year including the Course de Satin dating back to 1529 with horse racing. The Rice Festival is held at the end of summer and celebrates the crop and worth visiting Arles for!

Eat Well in Provence

Provençal food is famous for its freshness. Being so close to the Mediterranean, Arles has seafood and fish that is delicious and readily available. Local French wine cost a few euros per glass although a better buy has to be getting a bottle or half a carafe to share with dinner!

While in Arles, I tried many of the many famous dishes of Provence. One of my favorite dishes was the ratatouille that is made with eggplant, zucchini, and other local vegetables. Many restaurants also specialize in chicken dishes cooked in. I also tried the fresh Artichokes for lunch that was fantastic. The chefs excel in using local ingredients with flair. Be prepared to wait since the food is cooked after ordering. Be patient.

Many restaurants also serve local French cheese with the meal. One day, I went to the market and the oranges were spectacular. Perhaps, my favorite meal is the Salad Niçoise. One small restaurant that was great was the L’ Amendier with a great plat du jour that included tuna, vegetables and wine per person cost 17 Euros for dinner (2019).

Additional notes about Arles

I stayed at a great 3* hotel called Hotel le Calendal very close to the Arena and theatre that I stayed at.  Although it’s touted as a three star hotel, I believe that it should be rated as a 4* hotel for its value and hospitality.  The managers told me that Rick Steves stays in the hotel when in Arles. 

I did not find it difficult to get around Arles without speaking fluent French. Of course, being able to speak a few words went a long way towards communicating in restaurants, streets, but do not worry if you forget your high school or college French as the locals are friendly!

Have you visited Arles, France?

About Steve Ertrachter

New Yorker–born and raised. Lover of tennis. Curious. Frugal and independent traveler who believes that travel yields an understanding of different cultures. 10% of the magic behind Wanderlustingk.

Reader Interactions

May 14, 2019 at 11:54 am

Arles is such a wonderful city indeed! As for the festivals there, I would add “Les Rencontres de la photographie d’Arles”, a huge photography festival that has been held in the city since 1970. It’s really big and some of the best photographers in the world gather there and have their work shown to the public. If you’re into photography, it’s a major event to attend. The opening is in July but I think the exhibitions run until September.

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How to Spend the Perfect One Day in Arles, France (+14 Best Things to do)

• January 23, 2024
• by Jenoa Matthes

Planning to spend one day in Arles? From ancient Roman ruins to the sites that inspired many of Vincent Van Gogh’s paintings, there are so many incredible things to do in Arles in one day.

Located in the heart of Provence, next to the Rhône River, Arles is one of the most unique cities in the region. This is one our favorite places to visit in Southern France for its mix of ancient Roman architecture and classic French culture. We’ve visited 3 separate times and just can’t seem to get enough!

In this article, we are sharing the best things to do in Arles in one day, including a Van Gogh walking tour, visiting the historical Roman monuments, going to a museum or two, and more!

One Day in Arles Overview

Here is an overview of the most significant sites to see during your one day in Arles, including the Roman Ruins and the history of Van Gogh in the city.

Roman Ruins in Arles

Arles became an important Roman colony in the 1st century BC.

During this time period, many Roman structures were built and several of them are still standing today. You can visit 6 of these monuments, and they are all within walking distance around Arles.

These Roman monuments were recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites in 1981.

Here is a list of all of the Roman monuments you can visit in Arles:

• Roman amphitheater
• Roman Theater
• Baths of Constantine
• Saint-Trophime Cloister
• Cryptoportiques
• The Alyscamps (Roman and medieval graveyard)

You should have plenty of time to see all of the Roman monuments in one day. If you need to pick and choose, then we recommend visiting the amphitheater, Roman Theater, Saint-Trophime Cloister, and the Alyscamps.

Van Gogh in Arles

Vincent Van Gogh spent 14 months in Arles between the years of 1888-1889. He created over 300 paintings during this time where he found inspiration from the Provencal landscapes and Arles itself.

One of my favorite things to do in Arles is the Van Gogh self-guided walking tour. This tour will take you to many of the places that he painted, including the cafe from his painting “Le Cafe La Nuit.”

You can download the walking tour guide here , or you can pick one up from the tourist office in Arles.

The Langlois Bridge

Van Gogh painted the Langlois Bridge many times during his stay in Arles. You can see it in the photo above. To visit the bridge, it’s either a 40-minute walk from the center of Arles or a 12-minute drive.

Best Arles Walking Tours

Want to learn about the Roman monuments and history of Van Gogh in Arles with an expert Guide? We recommend these private tours to make the most out of your one day in Arles.

Half-day Private walking tour – On this tour, you’ll spend 4 hours exploring the city’s most historical sites, including stops at almost all of the Roman monuments. Admission to the sites is included on this tour!

2-hour Private Walking Tour – This tour will take you around the city as you learn about its history and significance. You’ll stop at the Roman amphitheater and explore Van Gogh’s life in Arles. Admission to sites is not included in this tour. 

14 Best Things to do in Arles

With one day in Arles, you will have plenty of time to see many of the Roman monuments and Van Gogh sites, as well as a museum or two. Here is a list of some of the best things to do in Arles.

1. Roman Amphitheater (Arena)

Whether you arrived by train or by car, head over to the Roman Amphitheater and start your day off here.

This arena was built in 90 AD and once held 20,000 spectators. That’s about 30,000 less than the colosseum in Rome to give you an idea of its size – it’s a bit smaller but still an incredible feat no less. Spectators once gathered here for gladiator battles and chariot races.

You’ll notice two towers on either side of the arena. The towers were added on in the 5th century when the arena was transformed into a medieval fortress.

Nowadays, the arena hosts bullfights and theatrical performances.

2. Roman Theater

The Roman Theater sits adjacent to the arena. This theater was built one century before the arena in 1st century BC when Augustus was Emperor.

The Roman theater once held 10,000 people and is used today to host many theatrical and musical events.

3. Saint – Trophime Cloister

The Saint-Trophime church was completed in the 15th century and is a Roman-Catholic church.

You can visit the cloister inside where it displays incredible sculptures on the columns depicting many biblical scenes.

4. Baths of Constantine

The Roman Baths of Constantine in Arles, France are a stunning example of ancient Roman architecture. Built around the 4th century AD during the reign of Emperor Constantine, these baths were designed to provide public bathing facilities for citizens and visitors alike.

The complex features several distinct areas such as hot and cold swimming pools, saunas and massage rooms. The walls are adorned with intricate mosaics depicting mythological scenes from Greek and Roman mythology.

These baths remain an impressive testament to the engineering prowess of the Romans who constructed them more than 1,600 years ago.

5. Cryptoporticus

The Cryptoporticus is an underground passageway dating back to 1st century BC, during the Roman Empire. It is a subterranean structure located beneath the city of Arles, France.

The purpose of this ancient underground passageway was to provide an efficient and secure means of transporting goods from one part of the city to another. This remarkable engineering feat featured a series of arched vaults and is supported by pillars made from stone blocks.

6. Place de La Republique

The Place de la Republique is the main square in Arles. It features a 4th century obelisk that is another reminder of the Romans influence on the city.

Surrounding the square you’ll find many shops and cafes, as well as the Saint-Trophime church and the town hall.

7. L’Espace Van Gogh

L’Espace Van Gogh was once a hospital that was made famous by Van Gogh. Van Gogh stayed in this hospital twice after he cut off his ear during a manic episode.

During his stay at the hospital, he painted two artworks – “Garden of the Hospital in Arles” and “Ward of the Hospital in Arles.”

The exterior of the building still looks the same as it did in his painting back in the late 1800s.

The building is now a community center, and the courtyard is open for visitors to walk around and enjoy.

8. Le Cafe Van Gogh

Make your way to Le Cafe Van Gogh to see the cafe that is in Van Gogh’s “Le Cafe La Nuit.”

The cafe looks almost the same as it did in the painting, so it’s fun to stop by and see it in person.

I personally have not eaten at the cafe and the Google reviews aren’t convincing either, so I can’t recommend eating there. But if you do try it, let us know how it is in the comments.

9. Fondation Vincent Van Gogh

The Fondation Vincent Van Gogh is a non-profit museum that pays homage to Van Gogh’s life and legacy.

The foundation features many artworks by contemporary artists that were inspired by Van Gogh’s time in Arles. It also features many of Van Gogh’s original paintings.

I really enjoyed my time here and would recommend visiting if you would like to learn more about Van Gogh’s life and see some of his artwork in person while you are in Arles.

10. Walk Along the Banks of the Rhone River

Arles is situated next to the Rhone River that runs all the way from Switzerland to the Mediterranean Sea.

Take a moment and walk along the banks of the river and enjoy the views.

11. Wander Through The Streets

The streets of Arles are incredibly charming. One of my favorite activities is to wander around the old streets, visit small shops, grab a pastry or gelato, and just slowly stroll around the town.

I once discovered an art shop tucked at the end of a windy street. I picked up a few art supplies to draw during my time in Provence after being inspired by Van Gogh.

You never know what you’ll discover . . .

12. The Alyscamps

The Alyscamps is a Roman and medieval graveyard located about a 10-minute walk from the arena.

This is also a stop on the Van Gogh walking tour since it was the setting for several of his paintings. It’s a beautiful area to walk around and explore history.

13. The Arles Market

Visiting a market in Provence is a must! The Arles market is open year-round every Wednesday and Saturday morning from 8am – 1pm.

The Wednesday market is much smaller and is located on Boulevard Émile-Combes . The Saturday market has a lot more vendors and is located on Boulevard des Lices.

The market is filled with fresh produce, cheeses, meats, olives, food vendors, clothes, and much more. If you have time, I would highly recommend stopping by to experience a market in the South of France!

14. The Yellow House

The “yellow house” was the studio and residence of Vincent Van Gogh during his time in Arles. The house is no longer there, but the building that was behind the yellow house in the painting is still there.

One Day in Arles… if you have more time

If you are left with more time on your day in Arles, then here are a couple of museums you can visit.

• Reattu museum – A fine art museum with contemporary artworks, photography, and drawings by Pablo Picasso
• Arles Antiques Museum – Displays many antiques and artifacts from the Roman period in Arles.
• LUMA Arles (Parc des Ateliers) – Located just outside of the city center, this is a unique space that hosts modern and contemporary art exhibitions.

Arles Discount Passes

We highly recommend purchasing a discount pass for your one day in Arles. You’ll be able to get access to most of the sites in a city for a very reasonable price!

There are two passes – Pass Avantage and Pass Liberte.

Pass Avantage – this pass gives you one entry into each of the monuments and 3 museums. Cost: €16

Pass Liberte – this pass gives you entry to 1 museum, 4 monuments, and the Reattu museum. Cost: €12

You can buy these passes directly from the tourist office in Arles when you arrive.

Note: these passes do not include entry into the Vincent Van Gogh Foundation.

Les Rencontres d’Arles

One of the best things to do in Arles is to attend Les Rencontres d’Arles , an annual photography festival held during the summer months of July – September.

If you are visiting during these months, then you can plan ahead and attend an exhibition, a workshop, or a performance that is held during the festival.

For more information, visit the official website of the event.

Tours to Arles from Provence

Arles is a fantastic day trip from nearby Provencal towns, such as Avignon and Marseille.

We love doing guided tours when we travel because it’s a great way to take a deep-dive into the history of a city and gain a new perspective on the place.

Here are a couple of tour options we recommend:

• Day tour from Marseille: Follow the Steps of Van Gogh – a 7.5 hour private tour from Marseille that takes you to the most significant places that Van Gogh painted and lived in Provence. You’ll visit Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence, and St-Remy-de-Provence on this tour.
• Day tour from Avignon: Art and History in Provence – an 8.5 hour group tour taking you to the most famous Roman monuments and Van Gogh sites in Provence. This includes a visit to Arles, Les Beaux-de-Provence, Nîmes, and the Pont du Gard.

Getting Around Arles

Arles is a very walkable city. Everything is within a 10-15 minute walk, and the city is so charming that you’ll want to explore the streets as much as you can.

For example, the Roman amphitheater to the Fondation Vincent Van Gogh is only a 7-minute walk.

One Day in Arles Map

To help you get around during your one day in Arles, here is a map of all of the sites highlighted in this itinerary.

Select the icon on the left with arrow to view a list of all of the sites. On your phone, select the box icon on the right and the map will open up on Google Maps.

How to Get to Arles

Getting to Arles By Car

Renting a car is a great idea for your trip to Southern France! We’ve rented a car almost every time we’ve visited Provence because it’s the most convenient way to get around the region. It usually ends up being cheaper than taking the train everywhere as well.

We recommend Discover Cars for car rentals in Europe. It’s convenient, reliable, and easy to use, plus it always has the most competitive pricing.

Arles is located only 1 hour and 15 minutes Northwest of Marseille and 45 minutes South of Avignon. It’s a perfect day trip from one of the larger cities in the area.

Getting to Arles by Train

Arles is pretty centrally located in Provence, which makes it easy to access by train.

The train from Marseille to Arles takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour and costs around €32 round trip. The train from Avignon takes 30 minutes and costs around €17 round trip.

To purchase your train tickets, use the SNCF Connect website .

Best time to visit Arles

Arles is beautiful year-round, but the city really comes to life during the summer. With Les Rencontres d’Arles, markets, and other festivities, there is a lot happening from June to early September.

Of course, most people want to visit during this time, so expect higher prices and crowds in the peak summer season.

For a more affordable and more calm experience, visiting Arles during the shoulder seasons is a great idea. April to May and September to October are all wonderful times to visit, plus the weather is quite pleasant during this time as well.

Where to Stay in Arles

• Luxury hotel: L’Hôtel Particulier | This gorgeous 5-star hotel is an oasis in the center of Arles. With modern rooms, A/C, and a pool, it has everything you need for a comfortable stay.
• Boutique hotel: Maison Volver | This charming hotel features a private outdoor terrace and charming rooms, making it a great pick for your stay in Arles.
• Mid-range hotel: Hotel Spa Le Calendal | Located in the center of Arles, this hotel features nice rooms with spa access.
• Budget hotel: Hôtel de l’Amphithéâtre | This affordable hotel has everything you need for an enjoyable stay and is located very close to the ancient Arles Amphitheater.

One Day in Arles Frequently Asked Questions

Is one day enough for arles.

Yes, one day is plenty of time to see the main sights in Arles. If you’re looking for a good base for day trips around Provence, then Arles is a great spot to stay for a few days while exploring the region.

Is it worth visiting Arles?

Yes! Arles is a beautiful city with ancient ruins and a fascinating history. Visiting Arles for a day or more is well worth it.

Which is better Avignon or Arles?

We’ve spent a lot of time in both cities, and they are both worth visiting. If you have the time, try to visit each for a day.

Final Thoughts: Best Things to do in Arles

From its historical sites to its modern cafes and boutiques, Arles is a city full of culture and activity. Whether you’re looking for an unforgettable one-day experience or planning an extended stay in the south of France, there are so many things to do in Arles and Provence.

There’s a reason it’s one of our favorite towns in Southern France, and we hope you love it too!

Let us know about your experience in Arles or if you have any questions in the comments below!

More information for your trip to southern France

• One Day in Aix-en-Provence
• Best Day Trips from Avignon

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2 COMMENTS:

Hi! How do you recommend getting from AIX to Arles? We we take an uber back and forth? Or is there a good site for booking car service?

You can get from Aix-en-Provence to Arles in 2 hours by train. Take the train from Aix Centre to Arles with a stopover at Marseille St Charles station. Tickets can be purchased at the train station, or online at SNCF . Just make sure to search from Aix-en-Provence Centre station – not the TGV station because that’s a few KM outside of the city center.

Unfortunately, I do not have a contact for a private car service in Provence. You could rent a car in Marseille or in Aix, it’s quite easy to get around the region by car.

Let me know if you have any other questions.

Best, Jenoa

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The 12 Best Things to Do in Arles, France (Roman Arena, Van Gogh & More!)

I recently spent three nights in Arles, after visiting nearby Aix-en-Provence and before heading to (also nearby) Avignon. While most people visit Arles as a day trip from Avignon, I was really glad that my itinerary allowed me to have two full days to explore the city, as it is absolutely steeped in ancient history, modern art and Provençal culture. There’s something magical about climbing to the top of Ancient Roman arena, as the wind blows lavender-scented air through your hair and you look down at the very same river that once inspired Vincent Van Gogh to paint “Starry Night”.      

Things to Do in Arles

Many of the best things to do in Arles are included in the Arles City Pass, which you can pick up at most of the sights below, or at the Tourist Information office. I recommend buying the Advantage Pass, which includes access to nearly all of the paid attractions that I’ll mention below.  At only €16, and valid for six months (one entry per site), it’s a great value.

1. The Roman Arena of Arles (Ampitheatre)

Of course, the most breathtaking thing to do in Arles is to visit the world-famous Roman Ampitheatre, where you can ascend the ancient towers to take in stunning views of the arena, the city and the surrounding region.  It’s amazing to imagine that gladiators once fought in the ring here, while more than 20,000 people could have sat in the stands to cheer them on.

The arena is included in the €16 Advantage Pass, which also includes access to four other historical monuments and several museums.  You don’t need to reserve a time slot to enter, and if you happen to arrive when there’s a queue, I would just recommend that you come back later.

2. Spectacles of the Camargue

Unfortunately, it’s still possible to attend bullfighting events in the arena of Arles.  Although the most famous matches occur during the annual Feria d’Arles, there are occasional shows throughout the summer (or, there were when I visited in 2022).  I was not comfortable seeing a bullfighting show, as it doesn’t align with my ethics or my beliefs about animal cruelty.

Fortunately for me, there were also other types of shows during my summer visit to Arles.  For €14 I got a ticket to a show called “ La Camargue aux Arènes”, which was focused more on the equestrian tradition of the nearby Camargue region.  There were a few minutes where they had a bull in the arena, but no bullfighting took place.

To see if there will be any shows in the area while you’re in Arles, check the arena’s website .  You can buy your ticket online and then pick it up at the ticket office at the arena, or you buy the ticket on-site.  They don’t currently offer digital tickets.  For the show that I saw there was no reserved seating; I showed up about fifteen minutes before the gates opened (so, forty-five minutes before the show) and was able to secure a coveted front-row seat in the shade.

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3. LUMA Arles

In a city that is so rich in history, one of the most enjoyable things to do in Arles is to step away from the past for a few hours, and travel forward to the future at LUMA Arles. This brand-new contemporary art complex features a sprawling park dotted with exhibition spaces, including The Tower (shown above) which was designed by Frank Gehry.

Entry to LUMA was free in Summer 2022 (hopefully it will stay that way!) but you do need to reserve a timeslot to enter The Tower.  Inside, there are lots of gallery spaces featuring temporary contemporary art exhibits, an elevator that takes you to two floors of panoramic lookouts, and, on your way down, a three-story slide that even adults can use to exit in style!

4. The “Starry Night Over the Rhone” Lookout Point

Only meters outside the city center and the ancient walls, you’ll find Arles’ most famous viewpoint.  Here, in 1888, Vincent Van Gogh painted “Starry Night Over the Rhone”, one of his most recognizable masterpieces. To find the exact spot, walk straight from Place Lamartine (the roundabout between the train station and the city center) to the river, then look to your left. Yes, you’ve found it!

The tourist information office in Arles sells maps that will lead you on a Vincent Van Gogh walking tour of Arles, and they have recently made the same maps free online.  Click here to visit their site and download the self-guided walking tour in PDF format.

5. Theatre Antique

The little sister of the Arena is the Theatre Antique.  Back in the Roman era it could accommodate up to 10,000 spectators; today you’d be surprised to find more than a dozen people wandering around both the theatre itself and the surrounding ruins.  The Theatre Antique is included in the City Pass.

Behind the theatre you’ll find the Jardin d’Ete, or Summer Garden.  Admission to this public park is free, and it’s a nice place to relax with a bottle of water in the shade provided by the old city ramparts and the many trees.

6. St. Trophieme Cloister & Church

St. Trophieme Church is located in the center of Arles (on Place de la Republique) and, like most churches in France, admission to the St. Trophieme church itself is free.  Built during the medieval era, this church is known for its Romanesque sculptures on the front facade.  The highlight, however, is the peaceful cloister, which was recently restored with the support of the World Monument Federation.

7. Alyscamp Necropolis

This was a surprising highlight for me!  The Alyscamp is a Roman and medieval graveyard located about ten minutes outside the center of Arles (near LUMA).  Apparently it was particularly famous during the late Roman era, probably due to a legend that Christ had attended a burial there and left his kneeprint on a sarcophagus. More recently, it was painted by both Van Gogh and Gaughin.

You’ll enter the Alyscamp through the gate (show your city pass) and then walk about 750 meters along the burial path, lined with sarcophagi, until you reach the abandoned Saint Honorat church. At the time of my visit a contemporary artists had installed a moody exhibition in this cavernous space, with gigantic stone balls and sheets of glass placed haphazardly, as though left by the spirits (or aliens!).  This is definitely a creepy place, and one of the best things to do in Arles for anyone into dark tourism.

8. The Cryptoportiques

You might be walking on top of the Cryptoportiques and not even realize it!  Located deep underneath Place de la Republique, the ruins of this ancient city center date back to about 46 BC.  Built underground to support a typical Roman marketplace above, these little rooms would have been used as shops, market stalls and storage.  You can duck into lots of little nooks and crannies here (sometimes I was surprised I was allowed to go so far into the deep, dark depths of the rooms!) so I recommend bringing a well-charged phone (for the flashlight!) and study shoes.

Entrance to the Cryptoportiques is included in the City Card.

9. Thermes de Constantin (Roman Baths)

I’m a sucker for spas, so visiting historic bathhouses is always on my travel itinerary.  In Arles, the Roman baths are called the Thermes de Constantine, and they date back to the 4th century.  You only need ten or fifteen minutes to breeze through the ruins of these bathhouses, where you can still make out traces of the hot and cold baths, the fireplaces and the surrounding buildings. Admission is included in the Arles City Card.

10. Musee Réattu

Artist Jacques Réattu was born in Arles in the 1700s, and during his life he slowly purchased this building, bit by bit, turning it into his home and studio. When he passed away and left most of his body of work to the city, they converted it into the museum that you can visit (with your Arles City Pass!) today. Réattu himself left more than 800 works to the museum, but the collection also features work by Picasso and contemporary photographers.  Depending on how interested you are in the temporary exhibits, plan to spend between one and two hours here.

11. Fondation Vincent Van Gogh

Full disclosure: I didn’t get past the lobby at the Fondation Vincent Van Gogh.  At the time of my visit, the receptionist told me that they didn’t have any works by Van Gogh on display, and that they didn’t have any exhibits about him in the museum.  Because tickets were €10 and not included in the City Pass, I didn’t think it was worth my money.  That being said, there may have been a miscommunication there, as many people who visited recently report that they saw two paintings by Van Gogh (still… that doesn’t seem like much to me?).

Technically speaking, this is more of a modern and contemporary art space than a display of Van Gogh’s work. If you’re into contemporary art and don’t have time to walk over to LUMA, this could be a good alternative. Or, if they do bring in a temporary exhibit of Van Gogh’s work, it would be worth seeing as well.

12. Day Trip to Avignon or Villeneuve-les-Avignon

Arles is only seventeen minutes by train from the Avignon Centre station, and trains make the trip between the two cities about once per hour.  This means that it’s easy to take a day trip from Arles to Avignon, or to Avignon’s secret little sister, Villeneuve-les-Avignon.

If you arrive by train from Avignon, it’s more or less a straight line through the historic city center to reach the most important sights in Avignon , such as the famous Palais des Popes and the nearby Pont d’Avignon.  En route, stop at the Tourist Information office for a city map, which will show you the five museums (all nearby!) that you can enter for free.

If you’d prefer to experience medieval history without the crowds, from the Avignon train station you can take bus #5 to Villeneuve-les-Avignons .  Here, a €17 city pass gets you access to five historical sites, including the monolithic Fort Sant-Andr é (shown above) and the tranquil La Chartreuse monastery complex.

Hotels in Arles

In my opinion, the best hotel in Arles has to be Hotel Spa Le Calendal .  This hotel is located right beside both the Roman Arena and the Theatre Antique, meaning it’s perfect for exploring Arles on foot. But what makes it better than other Arles hotels?  Two things!

First, if you reserve through Booking.com, it’s likely your room rate will include access to the hotel spa (mine did!).  It’s a fairly small spa, with just a steam room, whirlpool and cold water rinse, but the amazing thing about the spa is its view directly over the Roman Arena. After a long day of sightseeing, nothing beats coming back to the hotel, taking a dip in the cool pool, and looking out over such an important piece of history.

Second, Hotel Spa Le Calendal has a lovely restaurant and cafe.  It’s worth it to pay for the breakfast buffet, which is served in the pretty, shady garden cafe behind the hotel.  You can squeeze your own orange juice, help yourself to espresso and fill your plate with typical French breakfast fare like fresh bread, cheese, meat, fruit, yogurt and pastries.  The cafe provides guests with complimentary still and sparkling water in a glass bottle that you can keep in your room, then swap out each day (or twice a day, if you’re like me and love to stay hydrated!).

Check Prices & Availability

Restaurants in Arles

I was in Arles for three days, so I had the chance to try quite a few different restaurants for lunch and dinner (oh, and a few ice cream shops too!).  Here are the places I would recommend:

• My favorite restaurant in Arles was La Caravelle .  This is where I ate the beautiful roasted vegetable and burrata salad shown above, which I followed with their homemade lavender crème brulée.  They have a great location beside the river, with a cool breeze and lots of shade.
• I actually ate at Creperie Chez Mam Goz twice: once for their full lunch menu, and a second time for a quick sweet crepe before my train.  They serve beautiful buckwheat galettes (one of my top tips for eating healthy in France is to choose the buckwheat option!) and three kinds of Breton cider.
• Another memorable meal was from Cocoricco , a restaurant that serves a fusion of French and South American cuisine.  Although they didn’t have many vegetarian options, they had a meal-sized appetizer of foccacia, roasted vegetables, salad and burrata.
• A place with a much better selection of vegetarian dishes (and even a vegan dish!) was Saveurs et Terroirs , beside the arena. The salads here are super-Instagrammable (expect sprigs of fresh lavender to be sticking out!) and everything is cooked to order with fresh, seasonal and local ingredients.
• For ice cream, I tried both RAVI Glaces de Provence and Glaces de Maitre Artisan .  They’re on the same block and they both serve a menu that’s about half standard flavors and half provençal specialties like lavender and orange blossom. I preferred Glaces de Maitre Artisan, but it could have been due to my flavor choice.

I love getting out of the big cities and exploring smaller towns in France.  Check out my guides to Vichy , Villeneuve-les-Avignons and beautiful French villages .

Planning a trip to France?  Pin this post for later!

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• Avignon/Arles/Nim...

Avignon/Arles/Nimes -- two days, how to divide

Feeling like I can't play this buy ear as I need to buy some tickets and also because the Avignon festival means that I need to have my plans in advance.

I'm arriving in Avignon the day before the festival at 10 AM and have a hotel room. I'm planning to spend the next day in Arles, and need to be back in Avignon by 5:30-ish to ensure I can catch my train to Paris. Now, I want to add Nimes if possible. Would I be best off splitting the second day between Arles and Nimes and just staying in Avignon the first day? I'm starting to suspect we might enjoy Arles and Nimes more than Avignon, but we do have the twist that we aren't arriving until 10 and are planning dinner in Avignon at Pollen at 7:30 that first night. I could change this and make it later or eat in one of the other towns, I suppose.

I think if we split Avignon with Nimes, we would probably just do the Papal Palace and lunch, and plan to be more leisurely at Arles the next day. I guess another way of putting this is which two should we sprint through and which one deserves more time.

OR -- should I just skip Nimes. I know you can't do everything, but I kind of want to do everything! My son likes Roman history ...

The Papal Palace is probably skipable for most of us, but maybe not for someone interested in Roman History. And although I didn’t spend time in Nimes, I found Arles to be a lot more interesting and quaint than Avignon and definitely deserving of more time.

Stay in Nimes over Avignon. If you are not driving there is bus to see Pont du Gard roman aqueduct

https://www.pontdugard.fr/en/ancient-work-art

right outside the Nimes train station. That would be a shame to miss if you don't get to that area often.

Avignon is skippable the Papal Palace is just the same medieval architecture plentiful to see anywhere and ok to see from the outside but it is no where unique like Pont du Garde.

Possibly I am doing this wrong, but we are taking the train from Nice to Avignon and then eventually on to Paris. There are direct, high speed trains for both of those trips, whereas there is no such thing from Nice to either Nimes or Arles, so it will kill more of the day. Also, not dying to switch trains with all of our stuff. Going on to Paris is a little better, though Arles has a better time than Nimes. This is super hard to figure out!

edit: just looked carefully, and if I go from Nice to Arles, I don't get there until 11:45, thus killing half the day anyway, and the options for going to Paris are also bad. We would get to Avignon at 10:15. Nimes is a bit better: we can get up at the crack of dawn for a 6:30 train and get there at 10:30 and there are direct high speed trains to Paris, although not at the very best times.

Rent a car then.

Renting a car would make everything easier, but also harder, and I'm just not up for it. I just find the idea a bit stressful.

Well that is the way it goes sometimes we can't see everything sometimes. I've been all over France but as a non retiree it took ten different trips to see most of all I wanted. I still have a couple of places left. The Pont du Garde the arena in Nimes https://www.arenes-nimes.com/ and the Maison Carree in Nimes https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maison_carr%C3%A9e all must sees in roman history.

Sounds like you’re using public transport exclusively, though connections are good this is a limitation. Trying to squeeze some time for Nimes is not really worth the effort imo. I’m not a fan of Avignon, but it’s fine and enjoyable enough for a day. You’re really only there for a few hours of sightseeing. Don’t bother going inside the Papal Palace or paying the fee to get onto the bridge. A couple of the biggest tourist traps I’ve come across. Better to splurge on a drink at the cafe across from the Palace and enjoy the view.

Nimes is on a different rail line than Avignon-Arles, so getting there and back requires going through Avignon again. I just see time lost trying to do this. The big draw in Nimes is the amphitheater, there’s also one in Arles.

Arles has a lot to offer, and you can spend a full day there easily. If it’s a market day it gets even better. Arles’ amphitheater is awesome, and the forum ruins are pretty good compared to other places. The Roman Museum is also well worth a visit. I suspect you might enjoy Arles more than Avignon as well (I sure did.) If you’re capable of adjusting plans, you might want to consider staying in Arles the two nights. Arles has its own TGV station to Paris (same line as Avignon.) So, heading directly there and skipping Avignon might be the simpler option. You could also arrange to grab the TGV to Paris from Arles and (Im assuming) you can leave your luggage at the station while you explore that day.

I spent time in all three cities this past summer.

Since you are staying in Avignon I would suggest you do do Avignon the first day and one of the others either Arles or Nimes the second day but not try and do all three.

And the contrast between Avignon and one of the others is greater than the contrast between Arles and Nimes.

In either Arles or Nimes you can see one of the "big" Roman sites and the related museum.

@awrzesinski -- thank you, very helpful. Weirdly, though, Nimes has better trains both from Nice and to Paris than Arles. With respect to Paris, we are moving on to stay there, so we wouldn't need to store our luggage. We just have the one night/two days in Provence, and I am clearly having a hard time figuring it out. I already bought my trains to and from Avignon, but they are changeable ... ONCE. So I need to make up my mind!

EDIT: Oh, I get what you are saying, store lugging while exploring Arles. Sorry, my head is spinning.

Staying in Avignon the night before the opening of one of the biggest festivals in France is not going to be a relaxed stay. I'm actually a little surprised that you were able to get a hotel room.

The train from Nice to Avignon is not high-speed for most of the trip; it goes the same speed as the local train and stops in the same places. The tracks along the coast cannot handle high-speed, so the train doesn't speed up until it turns north. With this in mind, it does not take that much longer to reach Marseille and switch to the train to Arles. If your son likes Roman history, Arlès and Nîmes are where you'll see some ruins. (You do have the the Roman theater, north of Avignon in Orange one of my favorites, but being the middle of summer, it's probably set up for theater and musical productions. )

In Nîmes, you have the Maison Carée, a former temple, the Roman arena still used today for musical productions and bull fights, and a new Roman museum. The list is short compared to Arlès.

I haven't been to Arlès in decades but I do know it has more Roman ruins. Getting to Pont du Gard is easy by car from Nîmes. You don't have enough time to fiddle with the buses.

I've been to Avignon many times, most recently during Covid when all the restaurants and cafés were closed. Given what you want to see, you really should try to go to Arlès and Nîmes.

There's no guarantee that any station has luggage storage. You can check any station on line and also search for private luggage storage near the stations. We've learned this the hard way. In your thread asking about arriving late at the Gare du Lyon, you said that you would have a lot to carry or a lot of luggage. Unless you are moving, someone has special equipment for a medical condition that must be carried around, or one of you is disabled and unable to handle his or her own suitcase, I urge you to read Ric Steves writings and all of the Forum questions and answers on helping you enjoy your trip by packing and traveling light. Bon voyage.

I just understood what you are trying to do: two partial days and one night. Yes, the Nîmes line has a lot more trains. This is the line that goes to Barcelona and all of the southwest.

Arlès to Nîmes is a 20 minute local trip. Your trip is doable if you are willing to forget Avignon and stay your one night in Arlès.

Take the train to Arlès. Leave your luggage at the hotel. Then take the train to NÎmes and visit. Unless you go to the museum, it's a quick visit. Next, go back to Arlès and enjoy the rest of the day, evening, and the next day there until you leave for Paris.

I checked a dummy date to see train times, July 5th. It turns out to be the day the festival starts. There's a direct train from Arlès at 5:36. As of this moment, 2nd class is 31 euros and first class is 35 euros. This may have just been loaded into the system for the price to be so inexpensive, or someone made a mistake. It is a INOUI, not a low-cost OUIGO.

This is the only direct train in the afternoon and evening. Every other train, you have to connect somewhere once or twice, like Avignon. But 5:36 is a good time.

@Bets. Thank you. I think maybe it is not the length of the journey of Nice to Avignon vs Nice to Arles, but the times trains are available. The direct TGV train for Nice to Avignon gets us there direct in about three hours, by 10:15. To get to Arles, we can choose from a 5:25 AM train (and we would need a taxi to a train station, we'd be getting up at 4 AM at the latest), or a 7 AM train, which wouldn't get us there until noon, and is nearly a 5 hour journey, at the end of which, half the day is gone.

Going Nice-Nimes, next day Nimes-Arles-Nimes-Paris seems to make the most sense. Again, trains are not available at the most convenient times, which is part of trains, I guess. Even if we packed lighter, we would need to store luggage, and I am worried about being able to know beyond doubt that we could do that. Arles also has basically only one option to Paris, and that's at 5:30. I think best we could do is Arles to Nimes, getting to Nimes at 6, and then a direct train to Paris at 8, getting us there even later than originally planned, at 11.

Based on all of the above, if we are going to skip Avignon, I guess we would spend the night at Nimes, and do Arles the next day, doubling back to Nimes to go to Paris. Not the best, but I really don't want to drive, so here we are. Or, I guess I could do a taxi from Arles back to Nimes for more flexibility.

@Bets -- posted above before I saw your most recent post. So you are saying stay in Arles, go to Nimes the first day. I think the only problem with that is, per my other post, I won't even get to Arles until noon. Do you think that would still work? Even if I took a taxi to Nimes, we aren't getting there until probably 1:30ish, it just feels like a mostly wasted day.

THANK YOU for your advice.

Ugh, maybe the thing to do is to rent a car to get to Arles. It's not that expensive, I am just very nervous about driving there. If I did that, I could even stop in Aix, which we otherwise have no way of getting to.

You'd be fine getting there in the afternoon. It's true that the time waster is waiting for the next train in Marseille. I know this route well and know how long it can take. As for time arriving in Nîmes, we got there at four last year and saw what we wanted. A 12-year old may want to explore the arena more thoroughly than we did. But still this gives you the rest of the day, evening and next day in Arlès.

In Arlès, hopefully, you'll find a hotel is near the station and you can leave your luggage there until it's time to go to the train.

The issue here is not your research and planning skills--which are perfectly fine. It's that one night is in no way two days. It's part of two days. The reason you can't arrange visits to Avignon, Arles and Nimes in a reasonable way is that you just don't have enough time. How much of the few hours you have do you want to spend carting your luggage between hotels and train stations, hanging around train stations, sitting on trains, checking in and out of hotels and getting oriented to a new place?

Please pick two cities.

OK, another option, which actually saves money bc my Nice hotel is $$$, is leaving Nice the night before. I'd still have that day in Nice. Then I could wake up in Arles, do Arles on the 4th, and on the 5th go to Nimes and back and then go to Paris.

This is definitely a less frenetic thing to do.

Well, it won't save money. Arles is mostly sold out. I found one lovely room available, nonrefundable, that will end up costing more overall. I'm trying to find out what the special event is, which is the reason for the nonrefundability. It looks like there is some event at the arena on the 3rd, but I want to find out if it, like the Avignon festival, is enough to make life in Arles difficult! It's always something ...

Arles and Avignon are close enough that a big deal in one city could affect room availability and rates in the other. That happened to me when a major event in Arles drove up rates in Avignon.

Leaving Nice in the evening so you have the next full day in Arles is a good idea.

Well, you all were very kind internet strangers today. I had to take a break from insane levels of planning to do a work event, and then went back to insane levels of planning. I think this is going to work out a bit oddly, but maybe OK?

Bottom line, I think it is going to be: leaving the night before I planned, but still going to Avignon. It works out best with train times, hotel cost and location, and tour availability. So, I leave Nice on the 3rd and arrive at Avignon at night. My hotel is available -- only 15 Euros more per night than my original room. I'm a little worried about why this is, given that Arles is completely sold out, other than this one expensive nonrefundable room I found, but reviews are OK. It is the Mercure Palais des Papes, which at least is well-located.

The main difference is I probably won't spend any time during the day in Avignon, except to the extent that we get back from somewhere else early. I will, however, get to keep my dinner reservation at Pollen, which is good!

I will have the 4th and the 5th -- one of these will be Arles, and the other will be Nimes. One other advantage of Avignon is that a lot of tours leave from there, so I am looking at a half day tour to Nimes that will include the arena, Uzes, and Pont du Gard. One of the kind posters here made me look into Pont du Gard and I decided both that we had to see it and that we had no great way of getting there with our constraints, hence the tour. We will leave the night of the 5th for Paris.

This leaves the complication of being in Avignon during the festival. If we had more time, I'd love to see a play. As it is, I'm hoping we can just enjoy the festive atmosphere? The main issue will be getting to and from the TGV station when we arrive and leave. Going to Arles, we won't have luggage and we can walk to the in-town station.

If anyone can poke any holes in this, please do, before I go and cancel the 97 extra hotel reservations and rebook my train tickets. Merci beaucoup!

There is a non-tour option for doing a day trip Avignon-Pont de Gard-Nimes-Avignon. We (family of four) did this during our stay in Avignon in summer 2013: Take regional bus to Pont de Gard, and then another bus from Pont de Gard to Nimes, and then train from Nimes to Avignon. Below are our times, and we didn't feel rushed:

8:45am: bus departed Avignon. (bus station is next to the non-TGV train station, at least it was when we were there) 9:30am: bus arrived Pont de Gard 9:30am-1:52pm: Pont de Gard (including the excellent museum) 1:52pm: bus departed Pont de Gard 2:45pm: bus arrived Nimes 2:45-6:24pm: Nimes: lunch, Maison Carrée, Temple of Diana, outside of Arena (didn't enter the Nimes Arena as we had spent time on another day inside the Arena in Arles), etc. 6:24pm: Train departed Nimes 6:56pm: Train arrived Avignon

By chance we arrived in Avignon (via TGV from CDG, taking taxi from Avignon TGV station to our lodging) the last day of the music festival. It was unexpected surprise, with a free concert and light show in the square in front of le Palais des Papes -- a 30 second walk from our rental apt.

@GeoffB, wow, this is so helpful. The downside of the tours is not really getting to roam around Nimes on our own very much. I was also looking at a taxi tour that would take us to Pont du Gard and then drop us in Nimes. My main concern with the bus is that the times are a bit unforgiving. However, I can tell from your itinerary that you are my kind of traveler/planner!

The tour sounds good because it takes you to Uzès, too. There's less roaming to do in Nîmes than elsewhere. Uzès is extremely interesting. We stayed there, in the center, for five months during the pandemic.

Adding the extra night makes a big difference. Glad you were able to do that at the Mercure.

If you decide to drive be VERY careful. I got a speeding ticket for one (yes 1) kilometer over the posted speed limit. To make matters worse, the ticket was mailed to me in the US by ship with fines rising by calendar days after issue. Enjoy your trip.

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Avignon or Aix-en-Provence: Which French City to Visit?

Last Updated on February 6, 2024

by Brittany Scott-Gunfield

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Provence is one of the most beautiful regions in France and should definitely be on your bucket list of holiday destinations, but working out where to go in Provence can be tricky, as it’s full of quaint villages, striking, colourful landscapes and beautiful cities such as Avignon or Aix-en-Provence.

But which should you visit? Which offers more as a city break or day trip? They’re similar cities in many ways, but each has its own unique attractions; which appeals to you more is up to you.

In general, Avignon is a great choice for those looking for a deeply historic city with a distinct local cuisine. On the other hand, Aix-on-Provence is perfect for art lovers or those looking to get active during their stay.

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Avignon may be a small city, but it’s bursting with character. Over 1 or 2 days in Avignon , you can immerse yourself in Provencal culture and cuisine, not forgetting the local red wines, as well as experience a great deal of history first-hand from the Pope’s Palace to the city walls.

Accessibility

Avignon is easily reachable by plane, with Avignon-Provence Airport just a 20-minute drive from the city centre, or an hour by bus line 62, and receives flights from all over Europe.

You can also reach Avignon train station, which is a short walk from the centre, by TGV from other French cities in the region (such as Marseille or Arles ), or you can travel by bus or ridesharing app if you prefer. You can  view train schedules here.

You don’t need to rent a car to be able to get around Avignon, however, if you’re planning to visit some of the neighbouring villages yourself, you might find renting a car ( browse Rentalcars.com to compare prices) suits you better than joining a tour group, although if you’re alone, the latter can be a great way to get to know other people.

Similarly, you won’t need public transportation to travel around the city of Avignon as it’s relatively small and most of its attractions are located within the city’s ramparts, so it’s prettier and easier to see Avignon on foot.

However, there are buses and trams if you want to see the outskirts of Avignon, or the Petit Train that takes visitors on a short tour of the city centre with an audio guide, or a longer tour across the river and to Barthelasse Island.

Affordability

When comparing Avignon vs Aix-en-Provence in terms of cost, the cities are very similar, with plenty of affordable accommodation options available. However, Avignon has fewer expensive options, with very few hotel rooms costing more than €200 per night.

What’s more, since Avignon is a small city, you’ll likely stay a short walk from the centre so won’t have to fork out for public transport, although it is very affordable for a single bus ticket, and ten-journey passes are available.

The boat providing access to Barthelasse Island is free for everyone, and the Petit Train costs €10 to €18 for adults, depending which circuit you take.

If you’re travelling to the nearby Pont du Gard aqueduct or the wine-making village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, you can book a guided tour, take a local city bus or drive a hire car (be careful drinking too much if you use the latter option!).

Activities within Avignon are also reasonably priced, with the Pope’s Palace costing €12 to enter, with an extra €5 for the Palace Gardens, and the Pont d’Avignon costing €5 to enter. Or, you can buy a ticket for all three online, at the door or at the tourist information centre for just €17.

If you have more than one day in Avignon, you can also visit the Jardin de Doms, ramparts and Musée Calvet for free, or take a 4-5-hour vineyard tour from Avignon to Châteauneuf-du-Pape for a reasonable price.

Both cities provide great and varied eateries, from expensive fine dining to cheap but good-quality brasseries.

Mid-range restaurants that provide great food in a cosy atmosphere for a good price in Avignon, such as Cafe Saint-Jean offer lunchtime set menus from €14 to €25 for one to three courses, or main dishes such as steak, salads and scallops for €20-25.

Or try restaurant Au Jardin des Carmes , serving fresh local produce, rich with flavour, with affordable and reasonable prices per dish.

Things to do in Avignon

Famous as a former papal enclave, a visit to Avignon has to include a trip to the Pope’s Palace as well as Avignon’s other popular attractions, the Pont d’Avignon and the medieval city walls.

You can take a walking tour to learn more about the history of the city and if you’ve got more time, you shouldn’t miss out on a trip to the Pont du Gard or Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

Palais des Papes

Avignon is most famous for being one of the only papal seats outside of the Vatican, thanks to Pope Clement moving to the city in 1309, and the election of both Pope Urban VI and Pope Clement VII in 1378 causing the papal schism, leaving two Popes, one in Rome and one in Avignon until the schism ended in 1429.

This led to the construction of the Papal Palace in Avignon in 1316, next to the 12th-century cathedral, the Notre Dame de Doms which now holds the tombs of several Avignon Popes.

Despite not housing a Pope for the last 600 years, the Palace remained significant as a governmental residence before being turned into barracks during the French Revolution; it’s now open to the public to discover its history and marvel at the incredible frescoes and gardens.

Although it does have some Roman history on display, when choosing whether to visit Aix-en-Provence or Avignon, the Pope’s Palace is a huge factor making Avignon a strong contender.

Remparts d’Avignon

Avignon’s ramparts, or city walls, extend for 4.3 km around the historic city centre, making for a fantastic route to simply wander around the city, or you can book a guided tour to learn about the history of the walls.

The 8-metre high wall was constructed by order of Pope Innocent VI before the papal schism, in order to protect the area from mercenaries who wanted to destroy the papacy.

The walls have stood strong for several hundred years despite many attacks against the city of Avignon, and after some reparation work, now have 15 vehicle entrances and 11 pedestrian entrances, so you can easily amble into the outskirts of the city or head towards the riverside.

Pont d’Avignon and Tour Philippe-le-Bel

The Pont d’Avignon, although actually called Pont Saint-Bénézet, is one of the most famous sites in Avignon, partially due to a French song and dance about the bridge from the 15th century.

Though no more than four arches and the gatehouse in Avignon, the chapel on the second pier and Philippe-le-Bel Tower in Villeneuve-lès-Avignon remain, Pont Saint-Bénézet formerly comprised 22 arches when it was originally built in 1234 before being destroyed by floods over many years.

After visiting the bridge, you can also cross over the Rhône River via the modern bridges or free boat to visit the Philippe-le-Bel Tower, the end of the Pont d’Avignon, which you can go up and learn more about the bridge’s history, the King after which the tower is named and the major flood of 1669.

Pont du Gard and Châteauneuf-du-Pape

If you’re spending time around Provence or in Avignon and want to take a day trip just outside of the city, there are two fantastic options. A short drive or bus ride to the West of Avignon takes you to the Pont du Gard, a 2,000-year-old, 3-tiered Roman aqueduct crossing the river Gardon. You can buy skip-the-line tickets here .

At 275 metres long, the mighty aqueduct is quite the sight to behold and has a museum, cafe and souvenir shops so it’s well worth a day trip from Avignon. You can organise a guided tour that also visits some other nearby villages.

If you’re still deciding between Avignon or Aix-en-Provence, perhaps an afternoon wine tasting in one of France’s most renowned wine-producing areas, Châteauneuf-du-Pape in the Rhone Valley, would sway you.

A very short drive or bus journey north from Avignon takes you to the small village with over 7,700 acres of vineyards and wineries, with hundreds of opportunities for tours and tastings as well as the ruins of a mediaeval castle that gives the village its name. Some tour options include  this half-day tour  or  this afternoon tour.

Few white wines are made in the region, but you can find a variety of the region’s produce in Vinadea, the official AOC wine shop on 12 Avenue Louis Pasteur.

Where to Stay in Avignon

Hotel Boquier – Mid-range visitors to Avignon will love this cosy hotel in the centre of the city. They have a range of great rooms on offer, parking available, and there is also a wonderful breakfast for guests in the morning.

Hotel De Cambis – This luxury hotel is perfect for those looking for a splurge while visiting this Provencal city. They have a great selection of rooms to choose from with breakfast each morning and plenty of amenities to ensure you have a great stay in Provence.

Chapelle du Miracle – If you’d like to have your own flat in Avignon, then this self-catering accommodation offers fully furnished apartments in an excellent location.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Avignon hotels!

Aix-en-Provence

Sandwiched between Luberon national park and the Sainte-Baume national park, lies the small, Mediterranean city of Aix-en-Provence .

Formerly the capital of Provence under the Romans (and an essential stop on any itinerary through the region ), Aix-en-Provence has an almost two millennia-long history which you can observe as you explore the city’s museums and art galleries, and wander the streets, now vibrant due to the student population and fashion scene.

Marseille Provence Airport is a 25-minute drive or 30 minutes on the bus to Aix-en-Provence city, making it an easy city to arrive in from other countries, however, arriving from other cities in France can be more complicated as the main train station is 15 km south of the city and the central station is poorly connected.

What’s more, few trains are direct from other cities and make you change in Marseille, however, with bus companies such as Flixbus, you can arrive relatively close to the city centre directly from cities such as Lyon .

Inside Aix-en-Provence, you can use the bus network, but since it’s a small city, it’s best to walk around and take in the sights, or maybe rent a bike if you want to speed things up.

Aix-en-Provence is relatively cheap when compared to other cities on the Côte d’Azur for example, however, when comparing Aix-en-Provence vs Avignon, the distinction is less clear.

Truthfully, there are numerous options of hotels available in Aix-en-Provence for all budgets so accommodation shouldn’t be a problem unless you’re looking to stay in Avignon or Aix-en-Provence in Summer, at the height of the tourist season.

Although you’ll mostly be walking around the city, a bus ticket in Aix-en-Provence is slightly cheaper than Avignon. Or, you can buy a city pass which includes access to public transport and some museums and galleries.

A day in Aix-en-Provence can mostly be spent walking from one beautiful square to another past the gorgeous markets, but you can of course enjoy the work of Cézanne in Musée Granet for €6.50. To access Cézanne’s workshop with the city pass, you have to book in advance at the tourist information centre.

Like Avignon, Aix-en-Provence has a range of eateries, with many mid-range restaurants to enjoy a taste of Provence, such as Le Bistrot, 5 Rue Campra, serving the lunchtime plat du jour for an affordable price or a steak, salmon, octopus or lamb dish affordably, as well.

Things to do in Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is full of life, from the bustling squares to the crowded market stalls, so you can get lost in the streets of the old town or in the mind and art of Paul Cézanne.

The old town of Aix-en-Provence is a delightful area to stroll through with endless winding streets taking you past colourful houses and ornate buildings, including the town hall with its pale baroque façade, clock tower and courtyard.

This 14th-century wonder provides the perfect backdrop for the daily flower market that takes place each morning, bringing splashes of bright colour and sensational aromas into the city.

Explore the streets and enjoy the fountains and squares emerging around corners alone or with a tour guide as you take in Aix-en-Provence’s old town.

Cours Mirabeau

As the Champs Elysées symbolises Paris , the Cours Mirabeau is iconic to Aix-en-Provence. This long avenue skirts the old town from the extravagant Fontaine de la Rotonde – a large 19th-century fountain with ornate sculptures – past many classic French squares to the Fontaine Du Roi René.

In summer you’ll be grateful for the shade from the plane trees looming overhead, as you admire the beautiful architecture of surrounding streets and stop for a coffee or croque monsieur in one of the many cafes or restaurants along the avenue.

On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, a large market takes place in the city, with old books, records, furniture and nick-nacks along the Cours Mirabeau, and every local food and handicraft you can imagine on offer along the neighbouring roads. You can also take a food tour here.

Perusing the markets of the city is a perfect activity for a Saturday morning, so if you’re considering a weekend trip, Aix-en-Provence may be the city for you.

Musée Granet and Atelier Cézanne

If you like art, you’re in the right place, as both Musée Granet and Atelier Cézanne showcase some amazing works. Musée Granet is a 17th-century former priory with a large collection of Renaissance and Baroque art as well as many 21st-century pieces, and of course, a Cézanne collection.

The post-impressionist artist was born and lived a great part of his life in Aix-en-Provence, so his perfectly preserved workshop, Atelier Cézanne, is a great attraction in the city once you’ve seen many of his works in the museum that show Aix-en-Provence and its surroundings in all their beauty.

Montagne Sainte-Victoire

If you have extra time to spend in Aix-en-Provence, you can’t miss out on a trip to Montagne Sainte-Victoire – the centrepiece of more than 30 Cézanne paintings.

You can rent a car in the city and drive for 30 minutes on the D17 to one of the many car parks around the mountain or take a bus, and simply enjoy a picnic full of the fresh ingredients you’ve picked up at the market and enjoy the spectacular views surrounded by the fragrant smell of wild rosemary.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can enjoy a hike up to the peak of the limestone mountain and back in around 4 hours, with views from the top stretching as far as the Alps on a clear day.

Where to Stay in Aix-en-Provence

Hôtel Le Mozart – This 3-star hotel is a great option for mid-range travellers in Aix-en-Provence. They have a range of great rooms to choose from, a hearty breakfast available each morning and a perfect location for exploring this lively town.

Hôtel Cézanne – If you’re looking for a luxury stay in Aix, then this boutique hotel is the perfect choice. They have a range of plush rooms on offer, a terrace and bar on site and numerous great amenities for guests to enjoy.

Aparthotel Adagio – This aparthotel is a great choice for travellers who’d like their own flat while in Aix. There are many fully-furnished apartments to choose from in a central location that have everything you may need to enjoy your trip.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Aix-en-Provence hotels!

Avignon vs Aix-en-Provence: Which is Better to Visit

Deciding which city to stay in is difficult as they’re very similar cities with a strong Provencal culture, however, you can choose according to your personal preferences.

Although Aix-en-Provence has a significant Roman history, Avignon displays centuries of history as soon as you pass through the city walls and continue through to its main attractions of the Pope’s Palace and Pont d’Avignon.

However, Aix-en-Provence has a more artistic side than Avignon due to the presence of Paul Cézanne, so it’s perhaps a more appealing destination to art fans. In terms of cost, museums and attractions have largely the same price in both cities.

Considering both are located in Provence, both Avignon and Aix-en-Provence have incredible food and drink to try, however, Avignon has a distinct local cuisine thanks to the diversity of fresh produce in the region such as asparagus, garlic and olive oil, as well as a village producing one of the world’s best red wines right on its doorstep.

For active people, Aix-en-Provence offers more regarding nightlife than Avignon as it has several universities and a large number of students in the area, as well as access to several beautiful national parks to hike in or enjoy the scenery over a delicious pastry.

It can become incredibly hot in both cities in summer, however, so if you’re looking for a summer break, make sure you can withstand the heat or you’re prepared to duck into museums to keep cool.

Whether you choose to stay in Aix-en-Provence or Avignon, you’ll have a fantastic trip in the Provencal sunshine surrounded by beauty, history, charm and the floral notes of lavender in the air.

Are you planning a trip to the South of France? Have any questions about either of these cities? Let us know in the comments!

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About Brittany Scott-Gunfield

Brittany is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Colchester, England, she is slowly but surely travelling the world as a digital nomad. She loves to hike around different landscapes and has a deep love for travelling around France (and elsewhere in Europe).

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FRANCE – Orange, Avignon & Arles, leg 3 of our South France road trip itinerary

Table of Contents

Orange: Roman Theatre, its Surroundings and the Triumphal Arch

Historic centre of avignon: papal palace, episcopal ensemble and avignon bridge, tarascon castle on the rhône river, arles, roman and romanesque monuments, the end of leg 3 of our south france road trip itinerary, gallery south france road trip itinerary.

In a South France road trip itinerary the cities of Orange, Avignon and Arles must be visited. Each of the cities has a UNESCO World Heritage Site worth visiting. To visit these three places in one day (total 3:00 hours driving) is a challenge but it is possible. I did it with my family including the kids! We drove from Montpellier through Orange, Avignon and Arles to a hotel close to the Marseille airport to make sure we would end up with a free trip. I wrote about the planning of the trip before ( Planning a “free” south France road trip and the first day in Carcassonne ) and how we would end up earning money on the trip. Now it’s time to share with you the third leg of our trip.

TIP! Make sure you start at 08:00 AM or earlier if traffic is announced to be bad to be able to finish this leg!

Orange is located in the Rhone valley just over an hour drive from Montpellier. Have your navigation take you to the Roman Theatre and park in that area. The city walk will take you to the Arc de Triumph and back to the Roman Theatre. We came in the first place to see the Roman Theatre and the Arc de Triumph which are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites . The theatre was build just two decades A.D. which is just a decade after which Orange was founded. The theatre with a stage wall of 103 meters long and 37 meters high is the finest example that remains today. The Arc the Triumph is located in the north of the city which is a 10 minute walk from the theatre. It was the entrance to Orange and is decorated with very fine artwork. Walking through the city you come across some other roman remains and various (newer) churches. We finished within two hours and drove (35 minutes) further to Avignon, the second city on the 3 rd leg of our South France road trip itinerary .

If you have done your planning correctly you arrive to Avignon before lunch time leaving time to visit first the Papal Palace. Avignon was the place where the popes fled to from Rome in the 14 th century when Rome was not safe. At that time it was not part of the French crown anymore but under Papal rule. The Papal Palace was built in a short time and has not much decoration but it is an imposing Gothic building. Because of its leading role in Christian Europe it is worth to spend some hours and learn its history. The building looks like a castle and inside most rooms are empty with some frescoes remaining. In some rooms are exhibitions explaining the history. It will take you not more than an hour to explore the Papal Palace.

TIP! Park your car under the square Place du Palais because the Papal Palace (Palais des Papes) is right there and this is the place to visit before taking lunch.

Now it is time for lunch! From the Papal Palace you can walk across the square into the small streets and look for a restaurant. Or, if you do not mind the price, take lunch on the square and watch the people passing by. We were on a tight schedule so after a nice salad and a few glasses of wine we continued our walk to the 12 th century bridge over the Rhone. A 15 minute visit will do there. Now walk back to the square but before leaving have a look at the Petit Palais and the Romanesque Cathedral of Notre-Dame-des-Doms if open. It should be not later as 2:30 PM when you leave Avignon as otherwise you won’t be able this day of the South France road trip itinerary .

TIP! If your schedule permits then Avignon is the best place for an additinal night stay in the area. It has a great atmosphere.

The itinerary of our South France road trip today was full but we went through Tarascon on the way from Avignon to Arles . So why not stop there? Tarascon is located just a 25 minute drive out of Avignon halfway to Arles. In Tarascon you find one of the most beautiful medieval castles of France. The massive castle was built in the mid-15 th century on the spot of an old Roman post at the edge of the Provence. When you enter the castle over the bridge a nice surprise awaits you as the inside is of totally different design. A lot of fine artwork and details make it a nice castle to wander around for 30 to 45 minutes. The towers reach over 50 meters above the Rhone giving a great view over the Rhone and the city of Tarascon. Just next to the castle you find the Church of St. Martha. We were only interested in the castle as the other places in the city of Tarascon are familiar to other places we saw so we headed quickly to our last stop of the day before it would close.

TIP! If you take the tour as we did and you run into time problems than skip the Medieval Castle of Tarascon.

We drove FAST from Tarascon to Arles and parked the car at the amphitheater entrance. Probably in a place it was not allowed but time was running out. We bought quickly the entrance tickets and walked to the top to have a view inside. The amphitheater dates back to the early second century and is still in use today as a bull arena. A lot more than to have a view you cannot do there so we headed to the theater and walked around the grounds for a while. The theater is much more in ruins but well worth a visit and its located just a few minutes walk from the amphitheater. We walked a bit around old town to see a bit of the city and ended up on a nice terrace for some great glasses of French wine and a lovely dinner.

TIP! Make sure you arrive in Arles at around 4PM latest to have a quick look at the amphitheater, theatre and church before they close.

After dinner we drove to the Holiday Inn Express hotel near the Marseille Airport. It is located north of Marseille which was a good place for us as the next day we would explore more of the area about which I will tell you in a next blog post. If you don’t collect hotel loyalty points as I did in this South France road trip itinerary then do stay in Arles to have the evening there. It IS more convenient. We managed to see all; it was tight, but it worked.

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Did you visit Orange, Avignon or Arles too or do you have questions? Please leave a comment at the bottom of the page. Love to hear from you!

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Saint-Remy or Arles or Uzes or Avignon ? - Avignon Forum

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For a charming town with a lovely medieval atmosphere with lively atmophere at nignt, which town is a good base to visit the region for 5 days between Saint-Remy, Uzes, Arles and Avignon from 23 to 27 july 2021?

Thank you in advance

I've given this advice before and I'll say it again. Instead of first picking a base you need to decide what you want to see and do and then pick a base central to those things that you want to see and do. Of the places you mentioned my favorite place is Uzès but it makes no sense to base in Uzès if the majority of places you want to visit are located near Avignon.

Without a car , stay in Avignon because of its transport links.

We xill rent a car and we are seraching to visit some lovely places before going back to. Annecy for 3 or 4 days.

To be honest, we didn't fixed yet what are the places which desserves to be visited. However, i heard good sounds about Saint-Remy, Uzes, Orange, Avignon, Nimes, Arles, Aix en provence l'Isle sur la Sorgue, Aigues Mortes.. I would be grateful if you can help us to choose some of the most beautiful and charming medieval towns among the mentionned cities .We will certainly enjoy cultural visits, museums and why not spending a time near a beautiful beach.

If you want to continue with your itinerary then right off the bat I'll tell you to drop Orange and Aigues-Mortes from your itinerary and your other places aren't near beaches so forget beaches too. You're making the classic mistake of trying to cover way too much ground in way too short of a time. If I were you and you really wanted to explore the south of France and see beaches then I'd skip the Annecy portion of your trip altogether. And since you haven't even made any reservations at this point then you may well find difficulty in finding accommodation that satisfies you at this late hour.

At this point I don't know what to tell you because you've got so many places you want to see spread out over such huge distances in such a short amount of time. I'll think about it and see if I've got any suggestions tomorrow.

With that amount of time, I would drop a few things. The most convenient base is probably Avignon or just outside (save some parking and lodging money by not staying dead center). You can then visit Avignon, Uzes, Pont du Gard , then choose Nimes or Arles, and perhaps head to the Luberon villa ges. I would drop Aix and Orange but you can of course, choose to drop something else.

Thank you for your replies and for the recommendations.

Agree with both of you to spend 8 days ( from 23 to 30 july) in the south, and leave annecy for another time.

The only constraint to take into account is that we should in any case return to Besançon on july 31, which is the latest step of our itinerary even in our first program after Annecy.

If you are me, how would you plan this itinerary to make it doable.

You will find it difficult to find accommodation within 50 km of Avignon for your dates because of the theatre festival which finishes on 31 July. 2 days ago I read in the local newspaper that accommodation in the Vaucluse département is booked up throughout July and August like never before, with prices to match.

In your position I would have a quick look at options in Avignon, which will probably show that it isn't a good time to visit, for the reasons Tradeform outlines, and then make a positive choice for a different base, determined by the places you want to visit, as French_Mystique suggested at the beginning at the thread.

Hello, We stayed in Arles in August 2017 for 5 days at Hotel Le Regence. This Hotel is nothing fancy and has no elevator, but they offered parking, was clean, offered breakfast, family owned and nice, is by the river (so we did not have to drive in all the narrow and confusing streets) and only a few blocks away from all the tourist attractions in town. It was very convenient for us, from there we drove to Les Baux-de-Provence, St. Remy, L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, Gorges, Rousillon, Aix, and Casis. The train station is a few blocks away and only one hour to Avignon at the most. We did not get to go to Nimes or Uzes. Is there traffic? yes, but in our experience and living in a big city in the USA, this was peanut butter and jelly. Good luck!

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Arles or Nîmes Where Best to Visit Roman Provence?

Roman Provence

Way back around 50 B.C., Julius Caesar conquered Gaul (now France), and the area remained part of the Roman Empire for centuries. As a result, Roman ruins are all over France, but the best ones are in and around Provence. In fact, ‘Provence’ comes from the Latin ‘Provincia Romana,’ the name of the large Roman province along the Mediterranean coast.

For history buffs or anyone who would like to see some amazing sights, Provence is a wonderland. It has Roman arenas and amphitheatres, aqueducts and bridges, and ruins galore.

With all this to visit, where do you start?

Arles vs Nîmes

If you have a limited appetite for Roman history, you might want to visit just Nîmes or Arles, as they each have plenty of Roman highlights. But don’t visit both, as their major sights are similar.

Each town has a large, well-preserved arena and an excellent Roman history museum. Nîmes gets extra points for its magnificent temple and imposing guard tower, while Arles scores for its theatre and ancient burial grounds. Nîmes might get the nod because it is near the magnificent Pont du Gard aqueduct, but Arles has many Van Gogh sights to see and who doesn’t love ol’ Vincent?

The choice is yours, but if you have limited time, you might want to pick just one of these fascinating cities.

Amazing Arles

Arles sits on the banks of the mighty Rhône River, making it the perfect hub for the Roman sea and river trade. Large ships that plied the waters of the Mediterranean Sea would come to Arles to exchange cargo with the smaller vessels that could navigate the Rhône or would unpack their loads for overland travel to other cities in the empire.

With all of this coming and going, it was inevitable that some of the cargo would slip overboard, presumably lost forever. But in recent years, scientists have been able to explore the river’s murky depths and have made some remarkable discoveries. First was the bust of Julius Caesar, considered the best ever found. Then came an actual Roman barge over 100 feet long. Both are now in the Museum of Ancient Arles, along with mosaics, coins, and other artefacts from the glory days of the empire.

The centrepiece of Roman Arles is its 15,000-seat arena, recently cleaned and still used for concerts and the popular local sport, course camarguaise . Nearby is a Roman theatre that was buried for centuries and only rediscovered in the 19th century. There is also a sprawling Roman burial ground called the Alyscamps that you can explore for hours.

Van Gogh in Arles

Vincent van Gogh spent over a year in Arles before the unfortunate business with his ear sent him to a mental asylum in St Remy de Provence. You can take a walking tour through Arles and see many places that he painted.

Also in Arles

Stop by the Romanesque St-Trophime church and admire the fabulous carvings over the main entrance. Next door is the entrance to the beautiful cloisters.

LUMA Arles is an art centre housed in a building designed by the famous architect Frank Gehry. He’s best known for the striking Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, and the LUMA building’s crazy tower takes things to another level.

For another dramatic building, check out the Villa Benkemoun , which epitomizes groovy 1970s architecture. Designed by a disciple of Le Corbusier, it’s a curvy, swirling masterpiece, complete with distinctive 70s furniture, that’s been recognized as a national treasure of France.

Addresses in Arles

Arles Tourist Office Website 9 Boulevard des Lices

LUMA Arles Parc des Ateliers 45 Chemin des Minimes 33 Avenue Victor Hugo Closed Tuesdays Guided tours are available

Musée départemental Arles antique presqu’île du cirque romain BP 205 13 635 Arles cedex. Tel : +33 (0)4 13 31 51 03 Closed on Tuesdays Free entry the 1st Sunday of each month

Nîmes was the capital of Provincia Romana, though it is not in present-day Provence. Once known as “the most Roman city outside of Italy,” at its heart is a 24,000-seat Roman arena. It is one of the largest and best-preserved globally and is still in use today for events ranging from concerts to mock gladiator battles.

Nearby is the Maison Carrée, perhaps the world’s most perfect Roman temple. It has been cleaned in recent years and is sparkling white, like in Roman times. Further on is the Tour Magne, a massive tower once part of the city’s fortifications.

Tying it all together is the recently-opened Roman history museum across the street from the arena. It has some of the best Roman mosaics outside of Pompeii, as well as many interactive displays that bring the ancient city to life—be sure to check out the one that lets you “dress like a Roman.”

Nîmes Addresses

Nîmes tourist office Website 6 Boulevard des Arènes

Musée de la Romanité 16 Boulevard des Arènes Closed on Tuesdays

The Stunning Pont du Gard Aqueduct was critical for the inhabitants of Nîmes. Ancient Nîmes had an elaborate system of fountains and public baths requiring a steady water supply. The closest major spring was many miles away, so Roman engineers built a gigantic system of canals and pipes to bring its waters to town. One of the challenges was crossing the Gardon River Valley, which cut right across their path. No problem! The Romans built an aqueduct to cross the valley, the Pont du Gard, and it’s enormous: as tall as the Statue of Liberty’s torch and long enough to park three jumbo jets.

The engineers came up with an elegant three-tier design to make it so tall: massive base arches are topped by progressively smaller ones. Gazing up at it is awe-inspiring! Next to the Pont du Gard is an excellent museum that explains the whole water system and how the Romans built it.

Image Credits

Arena: Nîmes tourist office Roman Barge: Courtesy of Rémi Bénali – Musée départemental Arles antique – CD13 Course camarguaise: Perfectly Provence Maison Carrée: Nîmes tourist office Mosaic: Nîmes Roman History musuem Pont du Gard: Wikipedia, Creative Commons License, attribution Benh Lieu

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Affiliate information, cocktail time pomegranate gin and tonic, winter meals braised oxtail with potato purée, related posts, visiting arles for art while learning french in provence, markets in provence cote d’azur a list for travel planning, reasons to visit nîmes unesco sites and roman inspired sandwich, join goût et voyage provence tours for tastes cuisine and culture, keith van sickle.

Keith and Val Van Sickle made their first trip to Provence decades ago, and it was love at first sight. After that, they came back every year until 2008, when they began a part-time life there, splitting their time between Provence and California. Over the years, they’ve travelled all over Provence, seeing sights both well-known and obscure. Their French friends have introduced them to favourite restaurants and wineries and picnic spots and taught them funny local expressions (not all for polite company). Keith now shares this local knowledge in his new book, An Insider’s Guide to Provence . Packed with the Van Sickles’ favourite things to see and do, it’s a must-have for anyone travelling to this glorious corner of France. Keith previously published two books about the couple's experiences in Provence. One Sip at a Time: Learning to Live in Provence, and Are We French Yet? , both are available from Amazon. You can see all of Keith’s blog posts at Life in Provence .

One of the best places to get a feel for life in Roman times is Vaison La Romaine in Vaucluse. More “humble” than Nimes or Arles but a very good place to understand how the Romans lived. And the rest of Vaison is very nice too, with a medieval part. And don’t miss the Roman bridge, still standing and being used after thousand of years and countless floods.

Hello, I agree Vaison La Romaine is a terrific village to visit. It’s much smaller than Arles or Nîmes, but very interesting. Plus the market on Tuesdays is one of the best in that area.

I have visited France five times in the past ten years, and have never had an unfriendly experience, even in Paris. Unfortunately, my luck ran out this summer in Nimes. Stayed at a wonderful hotel (great room, proprietors, and food) called Antichambre, but the people at the tourist sites and in the information office were decidedly unhelpful. I realize that the first summer after the pandemic has been overly busy, and I know the weather has been unseasonably hot. Still, I do not recommend a visit to Nimes.

Hello, I’m sorry to hear that you had a bad experience.

Thanks for sharing this article! I’m trying to decide if we should focus our time in Nimes or Arles. Perhaps I’ll have our focus in Nimes on the Roman sites, and visit Arles for market day and other excursions!

Hello, Both cities are interesting and kid-friendly. Enjoy!

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