If you’re wondering how to spend a weekend in Arles, you’re in the right place, because this city was a massive coup de coeur for me! On here and on Instagram, I talk about life in Toulouse, Occitanie and the south west of France. It’s the south of France I am from, the one I love, and the one I think is massively underrated.
But I am very much aware that when we say “south of France”, people think of Provence. It’s a part of France I love as well, and I definitely want to explore more of it, especially because it’s so easy to get to from Toulouse: there are plenty of trains every day. So I started this exploration with a weekend in Arles… and OMG, why did nobody tell me about this incredible city?
Arles has only 50,000 inhabitants and it has more cool places than Toulouse. It’s so walkable, with lots of amazing places for food, museums, and that insane arena built by the Romans at the same time as the Colosseum in Rome! So here is my guide for a weekend in Arles.
Good to know: if you visit from June to early October, the photography festival (Les Rencontres d’Arles) takes place. The downside: lots of tourists and fully booked hotels. The upside: a busy vibe and lots of great exhibitions. Book your accommodation early!
What to see during a weekend in Arles
- The Arènes d’Arles: the Roman amphitheatre, built at the same time as the Colosseum in Rome. Climb to the top for the view over the rooftops.
- The Théâtre Antique: a few minutes’ walk from the arena, so you can tick off both Roman monuments in one go.
- The Cryptoportiques: the underground Roman galleries under the Place du Forum. A cool (literally) break on a hot day.
- The Alyscamps: a peaceful, tree-lined Roman necropolis, perfect for a slow stroll.
- LUMA Arles: the Frank Gehry tower and the Parc des Ateliers. Even if contemporary art isn’t your thing, the building is worth the detour.
- Fondation Vincent van Gogh: Van Gogh painted around 300 works during his time in Arles, and this museum shows how contemporary artists respond to him.
- Musée Réattu: a lovely museum by the Rhône, with a strong photography collection.
- Place du Forum and Café la Nuit: the famous yellow café that inspired Van Gogh. Go for the photo, or for a drink on the terrace.
- The banks of the Rhône: for a sunset walk at the end of the day.
- The Saturday market on the Boulevard des Lices: if you are there on the right morning, it’s a must for local produce.
Where to eat during a weekend in Arles
Bakery
- Boulangerie Levain: sourdough breads made with local flours, plus seasonal focaccia and a wild blueberry sourdough brioche that is dangerously good.
Brunch or lunch
- La Cachette: my hidden-gem pick for brunch or lunch.
- Peach: another great option if you’re after a relaxed lunch.
- Le Chardon (rue des Arènes): a lively spot in the centre of town, perfect for lunch after the arena.
Dinner
- L’Épicerie du Cloître (rue du Cloître): sharing plates, natural wines and a gorgeous terrace under a paulownia tree. Book ahead, especially at the weekend.
- Le Galoubet (rue du Docteur Fanton): for a more traditional evening in Arles.
Aperitif
Place du Forum or Place Voltaire: grab a terrace and watch the town go by.
Where to stay during a weekend in Arles
- Hôtel Amphitéâtre, ideally located near the amphiteatre
- Hotel du Cloitre for a fabulous experience in the heart of Arles
- Hôtel Voltaire, ideally located + very affordable
My Toulouse and SW of France City Guide 🇫🇷
👉 Buy my city guide to visit Toulouse and South West of France like a local and be amazed by what the Pink city has to offer. +160 places, itineraries, day trips ideas and a Google Maps with places all over the region.
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