Top 5 Things To Do In Arles, France
Planning a trip to Arles, Provence? Here are five sights and attractions that you shouldn’t miss when visiting this beautiful Provençal city:
1. Roman Arena
After 2,000 years, bullfights and bullgames still happen at the arena during summer months. Otherwise, the stadium is open for touring (€5.50, and pupil discount available). It provides great views of Arles and insight into Roman times in France.
2. St. Trophime Church
Located on the Place de la République this church has a fantastic Romanesque entrance- well preserved and detailed. Inside and to the right you be able to find a display with information on the interior aspects of the church.
3. Place du Forum
On the eastern corner of the Grand Hôtel Nord-Pinus, the remains from the ancient Roman Forum still stand. Read the plaque and try to imagine what used to be there. Cafés line the square, a little over priced, but a nice spot to grab an afternoon drink and people watch.
4. Museon Arlaten (Arles Folk Museum)
This museum is definitely worth the €1.00 for admission. If anything you get the feel for life in Provence and the tradition in Arles.
5. Walking the Van Gogh easels
Vincent van Gogh came to Provence for inspiration. He settled in Arles and painted many works. There are 12 concrete easels placed at the same vantage point of his original works. You can buy a map of all 12 at any Tourist Information office for €1.00, or you can try to find them on your own.
Top 5 Hotels in Arles, Provence :
- Hotel de l’Amphitéâtre – 2-star hotel – double room from €65
- L’Hôtel Particulier – 4-star hotel – double from €209
- Hotel du Forum – 3-star hotel – double room from €80
- Hotel Porte de Camargue – 2-star hotel – double room from €50
- Hotel Le Régence – 2-star public-house – double unoccupied place from €55
Photo of Arles Amphitheater, Provence, France, by the agency of http2007