Ever wondered where Starry Night Over the Rhône was painted? Don’t guess: it was Arles, the south of France.
This Provencal jewel, where Vincent van Gogh once found his muse, boasts a lively mix of ancient streets and artistic flair.
So, grab your easel (or just your camera), and get ready to capture the essence of Arles—where art lives, breathes, and invites you in for a closer look!
Image Credit: Getty Images, CJ_Romas. Image Location: Arles, France
Getting to Arles: train travel made simple
Traveling to Arles by train is both convenient and eco-friendly. With Trainline, snagging your seat from major cities like Paris, Lyon, or Marseille is a piece of cake.
Once you roll into Arles, there’s a free shuttle bus ready to zip you from the station to the heart of this charming town. Talk about rolling out the red carpet!
9 best things to do in Arles: from iconic sights to hidden gems
- Stroll through the historic city center. Wander the charming streets and discover the rich history and architecture of Arles.
- Explore the Roman Amphitheater. Step back in time in this ancient arena where gladiators once battled.
- Visit the Fondation Vincent van Gogh Arles. Immerse yourself in the art and life of the legendary painter who found inspiration in Arles.
- Check out the Arles Market, a biweekly bazaar with street stalls stretching for 1.5 mi. Here, you’ll find everything from crispy baguettes to rare truffles, just as the locals do.
- Discover the Alyscamps. Walk through this ancient Roman necropolis, a serene and historic site.
- Enjoy the Musée Réattu. Marvel at the artworks in this fine arts museum, housed in a former priory.
- Visit the Cryptoportiques. Uncover the underground passageways beneath the city, a hidden piece of Arles’ history.
- Take a photography tour. Capture the beauty of Arles’ secrets through your lens, inspired by the town’s rich photographic heritage.
- Relax by the Rhône River. Unwind along the banks of the Rhône, a lovely spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
Did you know? Arles is like a real-life art gallery where legends like Van Gogh and Paul Gauguin once swapped brushes for coffee cups. It’s here in this picturesque Provencal town that Van Gogh created over 300 of his masterpieces. So, while you’re sipping your espresso in a cozy Arles café, remember, you’re sharing the same creative air that inspired some of the world’s greatest art!
Image Credit and Location: © Adrian Deweerdt, Hotel L'Arlatan, Arles, France
Where to stay: 3 great hotels in Arles for every budget
- Luxury: 5-star Hotel Jules César offers a blend of luxury and history, right in the city center.
- Mid-range: Hotel L'Arlatan, where comfort meets affordability in a charming setting.
- Budget-friendly: Arl Hotel has got all the basics covered—air conditioning, free WiFi, and private bathroom. It’s a convenient base to explore the city.
Arles’ culinary adventure: 6 must-try delights
- Fougasse d’Arles. Dive into this sweet, almond-filled brioche, a fragrant treat that’s a local Christmas favorite.
- Bouillabaisse. Taste the sea with this classic Provencal fish stew, rich in flavor and local tradition.
- Ratatouille. Dig into this famous vegetable stew, packed with flavors that whisper Provence in every bite.
- Gardiane de Taureau. Get ready for a taste adventure with this Camargue bull stew, a true Arlesian specialty.
- Tapenade. Spread joy with this olive-based delight, perfect on a crusty baguette.
- Calisson. End on a sweet note with these diamond-shaped almond candies.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Flavio Vallenari. Image Location: Arles, France
Your quick guide to Arles: location, weather, and pronunciation
Where exactly is Arles located?
Nestled in the heart of Provence, Southern France, Arles sits on the Rhône River delta. It’s close to the Mediterranean coast and a stone’s throw away from the famous Camargue region.
What’s the weather like in Arles?
Arles enjoys a Mediterranean climate. Expect warm, sunny summers and mild, occasionally rainy winters. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, perfect for exploring.
How do you pronounce “Arles”?
It’s pronounced “Arl” — the “s” is silent. So, it rhymes with “carl”.
Ready to discover the charm of Arles? Book your journey with the Trainline app and start planning your French adventure!
Header Image Credit: Getty Images, Sergio Formoso. Image Location: Arles, France