Top Things to See & Where to Eat in Arles France – Ultimate Travel & Food Guide

Discover must-see attractions, best restaurants, local cuisine, and hidden gems in Arles France. From Roman ruins and Van Gogh trails to Michelin-starred dining—this guide helps you plan your perfect trip to Arles.

Why Visit Arles France Today?

Arles, Provence is a dream destination for history lovers, art enthusiasts, foodies, and cultural explorers. Known for its Roman monuments, Van Gogh legacy, and Mediterranean cuisine, this charming French town offers an unforgettable travel experience. This guide covers what to see, what to eat, where to dine, hidden gems, and travel tips to make your stay perfect.

What to See in Arles France

1. Roman Ruins and Arles Amphitheatre

The Roman Amphitheatre (Les Arènes) is the most famous landmark in Arles. This well-preserved structure once hosted gladiator battles and today hosts concerts and festivals. Don’t miss the nearby Roman Theatre of Arles, dating back to the 1st century.

2. Van Gogh Trail and Fondation Vincent Van Gogh

Vincent Van Gogh spent a productive period in Arles. You can follow his footsteps on the Van Gogh Trail, where many of his masterpieces were inspired. The Fondation Vincent Van Gogh showcases works dedicated to the artist’s influence.

3. Saint-Trophime Church and The Alyscamps

The Saint-Trophime Church and Cloister is a Romanesque masterpiece worth visiting. Nearby, the Alyscamps, an ancient Roman necropolis, inspired both Van Gogh and Gauguin with its haunting beauty.

4. LUMA Arles – Modern Art in a Historic Town

Arles is not only about ancient history. LUMA Arles, designed by Frank Gehry, is a contemporary arts center with exhibitions, installations, and cultural events.

5. Museums, Markets, and Nature

• Musée Réattu displays paintings and sketches, including works by Picasso.
• Stroll along the Rhône River or explore the Camargue for flamingos, bulls, and wild horses.
• Visit local markets for fresh produce, artisan foods, and souvenirs.

What to Eat in Arles France

Arles’ cuisine blends Provençal flavors with Mediterranean freshness. Be sure to try:

• Anchoïade – anchovy dip with vegetables
• Gardianne de taureau – a hearty bull stew, a local specialty
• Fougasse – soft bread enriched with olive oil
• Tommes d’Arles – local cheese
• Apricot tart and local pastries for dessert
• Seafood dishes like tellines (tiny clams) from the Camargue

• Where to Eat in Arles France

Restaurant	What Makes It Special	Price Range
L’Arlatan	Stylish Mediterranean dishes in a beautiful old town location	Mid-range
La Chassagnette	Michelin-starred, organic garden-to-table cuisine	High-end
Chez Bob	Rustic Provençal food with a Camargue vibe	Moderate
Nancy Bourguignon & Aux Ateliers	Traditional French cuisine with local touches	Moderate

Dining Tips:

• Try set lunch menus for affordable fine dining.
• Reserve in advance at popular restaurants.
• Visit morning markets for fresh street food and local wines.

Hidden Gems and Day Trips

• Camargue Natural Park: see flamingos, wild horses, and breathtaking marshlands.
• Fontvieille and Alpilles Villages: charming villages with olive groves and scenic views.
• Photography festivals: if you visit in summer, don’t miss Les Rencontres d’Arles.

Travel Tips for Arles

• Best time to visit: spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October).
• Summer can be very hot but full of festivals.
• Stay in the historic center to be close to main attractions.
• Consider city passes to save money on multiple site entries.

Conclusion

Arles is a city where history, art, food, and culture come together. From Roman ruins and Van Gogh’s legacy to delicious Provençal cuisine and Camargue adventures, this town has something for everyone.

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