A Memorable Day in Arles

A narrow alley flanked by stone houses with greenery-covered walls, located in Arles, France

Last month I attended my host agency's annual symposium. During this year's event, "Navigating Growth and Expand Your Business", I was able to explore the city of Arles, France on a river cruise journey on the beguiling Rhône River.

If you're a history buff, art lover, Francophile, or gastronome, a day in Arles will whet your appetite for your favorite things.

Unearth the Essence of Arles on an Unforgettable Panoramic Tour

Welcome to Arles, a captivating jewel nestled along the sunlit shores of the Rhône's shimmering waters in southern France.

Renowned for its rich Roman history, stunning artistic heritage, and quintessential Provençal elegance, Arles invites you to step into a world where luxury is woven into the very fabric of its storied past.

A city once alive with the echoes of gladiator games, today Arles enchants visitors with its ancient ruins, sun-kissed squares, and vibrant cultural scene, offering you an immersive journey that's nothing short of extraordinary.

Whether you’re marveling at the arena’s timeless grandeur or strolling through Van Gogh–inspired streets, Arles promises a captivating day of discovery.

Here’s how to experience the best of this Provençal gem in just one day, kicking off your adventure with a broad overview of the city’s magnificent past and scenic landscapes.

The Majestic Place de la République

At the heart of Arles, this stately square is a magnificent blend of history and modern vibrancy.

Admire the intricate sculptures on the 12th-century Romanesque Cathédrale Saint-Trophime, and mingle with locals amidst bustling cafes and vibrant market stalls.

The Iconic Roman Amphitheater (Arènes d’Arles)

Arches and columns of a 1st century Roman Amphitheatre in Arles, France

A monument to Arles' Roman pedigree, this 1st-century marvel was once home to gladiators. Today it hosts bullfights and cultural events, bridging ancient spectacle with modern Provençal tradition.

Revel in its grandeur and experience the cultural confluence of the past and present.

Stroll Along the Enchanting Rhône Riverbanks

Take in the tranquil water views and imagine Van Gogh’s nighttime paintings inspired by these very lights dancing on the Rhône.

The riverside promenade offers a peaceful introduction to Arles’ timeless charm

The Mystical Alyscamps (Elysian Fields of Arles)

One of the most famous necropolises of the ancient world, the Alyscamps (Elysian Fields) is lined with centuries-old sarcophagi.

A stroll through this tree-shaded avenue evokes a poignant sense of history and reverence.

Savor History and Flavor in Harmony

Delight in a walking tour that intertwines Arles’ historic tapestry with delectable Provençal flavors

Arles Market (Le Marché d’Arles)

On vibrant market days (typically Wednesdays and Saturdays), the city overflows with aromas and delectables—golden tapenades, pungent cheeses, fragrant herbs, and aromatic olive oil.

Sample the treasures, and don't leave without a jar of lavender honey as a token of Arles' charm.

Uncover Van Gogh’s Legacy

Bright yellow exterior of a cafe with red doors a made famous in a painting by Vincent Van Gogh

Arles served as a backdrop for some of Vincent van Gogh’s most iconic works.

Follow the Van Gogh Walking Trail, marked by easels placed at the real-life locations of his paintings—like the Café Terrace at Night on Place du Forum.

Pause at a Provençal Bistro

Indulge in culinary masterpieces like ratatouille and bouillabaisse, paired perfectly with the region’s exquisite rosé or robust Côtes du Rhône red.

Artisan Discoveries

Navigate through Arles’ narrow lanes, where each turn reveals workshops brimming with handcrafted pottery, vibrant textiles, and paintings—each echoing the creative essence Arles is celebrated for.

Dive into Roman Grandeur

Explore the city's Roman treasures for a deep embrace of its cultural foundation.

The Théâtre Antique (Roman Theatre)

Built in the 1st century BC, this theatre once accommodated thousands of spectators.

Though partially in ruins, it still hosts concerts and festivals today, demonstrating Arles’ living connection to antiquity.

The Hidden Cryptoporticus

An underground gallery supporting the ancient Roman Forum, these vaulted corridors are a fascinating peek into the engineering prowess of the empire.

Wander through dimly lit passageways that once lay at the civic heart of Roman Arles.

Musée de l'Arles Antique

A modern revelation on the Rhône, showcasing awe-inspiring artifacts from the dawn of history to the height of the Roman empire.

Among its treasures are intricately carved sarcophagi and a Roman barge retrieved from the riverbed—testaments to the city’s strategic and commercial importance.

The Enchanting Wilderness of the Camargue

Enhance your escape with an exclusive guided tour of the Camargue region, a unique landscape of wetlands, salt flats, and wild beauty.

Wild Horses and Flamingos

Three white horses running in shallow water in the daytime

The Camargue’s iconic white horses graze alongside pink flamingos in marshes.

Nature lovers can explore this region by safari vehicle or horseback riding trails that offer a close-up look at the wildlife.

The Mesmeric Salt Pans of Salin-de-Giraud

These vast salt marshes, known for their surreal pinkish hues, have been harvested since Roman times.

A visit here reveals one of France’s most picturesque yet lesser-known natural treasures.

Culinary Treasures of the Camargue

Camargue rice is a regional staple—try it in a hearty risotto or in gardiane de taureau, a slow-cooked bull stew traditionally served with local red wine.

Restaurants in nearby villages feature fresh seafood and organic produce unique to the delta’s ecosystem.

Birdwatching at Parc Ornithologique du Pont de Gau

A haven for migratory birds, this sanctuary offers walking trails that wind through lagoons where herons, egrets, and flamingos gather.

The tranquil setting contrasts the bustle of Arles, highlighting Provence’s natural diversity.

Celebrate Arles' Festive Side

Arles is home to festivals and traditions that breathe life into its cultural mosaic:

Feria d’Arles

A spirited springtime affair embracing bullfighting and local joie de vivre, filling the streets with laughter, music, and revelry.

Photography Encounters (Rencontres d’Arles)

Every summer, Arles transforms into a global photography hub, hosting exhibitions in old churches, chapels, and industrial spaces. This festival demonstrates Arles’ ongoing passion for the arts.

Provençal Traditions

Arles boasts a strong regional identity, evident in the Arlésienne costume worn during festivals and events.

Rooted in Roman influence, layered with medieval heritage, and accented by local flair, the city’s festivities offer an immersive cultural experience.

Savor the Sweetness the Rhône Valley Wines

No visit to Arles is complete without tasting the region’s famed wines and relishing Provençal culinary delights.

Explore Local Wine Shops and Bars

Sample labels from Côtes du Rhône and Costières de Nîmes, noting the floral and fruity notes that capture the essence of Provence’s sun-baked vineyards.

Pair with Local Specialties

Arles’ coastal proximity brings fresh Mediterranean seafood to local menus—try grilled prawns or sea bass drizzled with olive oil.

Round out your meal with tangy goat cheese from the Alpilles region.

Indulge in Sweet Treats

Conclude your gastronomic journey with nougat, calissons, or tarte tropézienne.

These confections showcase the honey, almonds, and fruit flavors typical of southern France.

Embrace Provençal Hospitality

Whether you’re chatting with a sommelier or sampling artisanal cheeses at the market, Arlésiens’ warmth and pride in their city deepen the travel experience.

A Spectacular Day in Arles

From its Roman amphitheater to the flamingo-speckled wetlands of the Camargue, Arles seamlessly combines antiquity, art, and nature.

Whether you’re tracing Van Gogh’s footsteps, savoring fresh Provençal produce, or witnessing centuries-old festivals, a day in Arles offers a myriad of sensory pleasures and cultural insights.

Embrace the city’s sun-drenched ambiance, and let its vibrant past and creative spirit leave an indelible mark on your Provençal adventure.

Here, antiquity dances with art, nature and culture embrace, and every moment in Arles weaves an indulgent story for the sophisticated globetrotter (Globetrotter!)

Let the golden light and artistic whispers of Arles be your muse.