Arles, France: The Ultimate Travel Guide 2025

Positioned along the River Rhône in the heart of Provence, Southern France, Arles captivates with its blend of elegant 18th and 19th-century mansions and ancient Roman architecture. Arles is one of the most underrated cities in France. Its fame was significantly heightened by Vincent van Gogh, whose time in Arles left behind an array of scenes that continue to draw visitors. The city, divided by the expansive River Rhone and connected by the Pont de Triquetaille, comes alive in the summer months, bustling with tourists who fill its outdoor cafes and restaurants, contributing to a vibrant atmosphere.

Arles boasts a rich history that dates back to Roman times, including Hannibal’s famed crossing of the Rhône. The city’s contribution to the arts is notable, with celebrated personalities like Frédéric Mistral and Christian Lacroix calling it home, alongside its connection to the Gypsy Kings, whose ancestors sought refuge here from Spain’s Civil War.

Today, with its 50,000 residents, Arles serves as an entry point to the Camargue region, known for its distinct wildlife such as pink flamingos, white horses, and black bulls. Beyond its historical and artistic legacy, Arles remains a dynamic city that melds historical depth with cultural richness and scenic beauty, offering a compelling reason for it to be on every traveller’s itinerary.

Visiting the Sites of Arles

A day is sufficient to wander around Arles, but if you’re planning to explore some of the museums and ancient Roman sites, you’ll want to allocate at least a couple of days. Arles serves as an excellent hub for venturing into the nearby areas. For those preferring a structured exploration, we have written a Historic Self Guided Walking Tour of Arles, and a Arles Van Gogh Self Guided Walking Tour. If you would like a guided walking tour option then I recommend this 2-Hour Private Walking Tour.

Traveling Further Afield

For those willing to extend their walk, the Nécropole des Alyscamps and Musée Départemental Arles Antique and are notable sights a bit further from the city centre. Additionally, the Montmajour Abbey, just a 10-minute bus ride from Arles, offers a rich experience with plenty to see and do. For a more adventurous outing, the Camargue Museum is a 25-minute bus journey from Arles, or you can embark on a Half-Day 4×4 Camargue Safari. This experience, departing from Arles, takes you in an open-air vehicle through the Camargue to observe flamingos, wild horses, bulls, and diverse birdlife!

History of Arles

Arles in Antiquity and Roman Times

Arles was originally a Ligurian settlement before being colonised by the Greeks and later becoming a thriving Roman city known as Arelate. In 46 BCE, Julius Caesar rewarded Arles for supporting him in his civil war against Pompey by developing it into a colony for veterans. The city flourished under Roman rule and became a major port and administrative centre. Monumental architecture from this era—including the amphitheatre, theatre, baths, and aqueducts—established Arles as a key urban hub in the western Roman Empire.

Arles in the Early Middle Ages

With the decline of Roman authority, Arles transitioned into a powerful Christian centre. It became the seat of an archbishopric and hosted several important church councils. During the Merovingian and Carolingian periods, Arles was repeatedly contested but maintained its regional importance due to its strategic location and religious prestige. It became part of the Kingdom of Burgundy and later the Holy Roman Empire. Despite invasions and turmoil, the city preserved many of its Roman and early Christian structures.

Arles in the High Middle Ages

In the 11th and 12th centuries, Arles regained political and commercial significance. It was governed by powerful local counts and later became a free commune with a degree of self-rule. Trade flourished due to its position on the Rhône River, and the city saw a revival of religious construction, including Romanesque churches like Saint-Trophime, whose cloister and sculpture work are renowned. Arles was also a key stop on pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela.

Arles in the Renaissance and Early Modern Period

As power consolidated under the French crown, Arles experienced periods of decline and stagnation. The Rhône’s changing course and the silting of its port reduced the city’s commercial clout. Nonetheless, the religious and civic architecture remained central to local life. Though it did not undergo the same scale of Renaissance transformation as some other cities, Arles preserved its historical core, which retained a medieval character.

Arles in the 19th and 20th Centuries

The 19th century brought a cultural revival, most famously through the presence of Vincent van Gogh, who painted some of his most iconic works in and around Arles between 1888 and 1889. The arrival of the railway and a renewed interest in the city’s Roman heritage spurred preservation efforts. Arles remained a modest but culturally rich city, gradually attracting visitors drawn by its architecture, art, and Provençal setting. In the 20th century, archaeological excavations uncovered more Roman remains, and major conservation projects helped protect the city’s historical legacy.

Arles in the Contemporary Era

Today, Arles is known for its blend of ancient heritage and contemporary creativity. Its Roman monuments are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and the city has embraced its artistic identity through festivals such as Les Rencontres d’Arles photography festival. With ongoing development of cultural venues like the LUMA Arles campus, the city continues to balance its historic character with a dynamic role in modern art and regional tourism.

Visiting Arles for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Arles on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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