Arles

Day Trips

Start your day with a visit to the impressive Roman Amphitheatre, known as the Arènes d'Arles. Wander through the ancient streets and admire the stunning architecture, including the beautifully preserved Roman theater. Grab a fresh croissant and coffee from a local boulangerie to fuel your exploration.

In the afternoon, visit the Fondation Vincent van Gogh, where you can appreciate the temporary exhibitions celebrating the artist's connection to Arles. Stroll through the charming streets of the historic center, stopping at local shops and cafés to soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Don’t miss the chance to see the beautiful Place du Forum, once frequented by van Gogh himself.

As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a traditional Provençal restaurant, savoring local specialties such as ratatouille and bouillabaisse. Afterward, take a relaxing walk along the Rhône River, where the reflections of the city lights create a magical ambiance. End your night with a glass of local wine at a cozy bar, immersing yourself in the local culture.

Begin your day by embarking on the Van Gogh Trail, visiting locations that inspired some of his most famous works. Use a map highlighting the spots seen in his paintings, such as the Café Terrace at Night and the iconic Yellow House. Capture photographs at each location to create your own visual tribute to the artist.

After lunch at a café, continue your exploration by visiting the Musée de l'Arles et de la Provence Antique, where you can see ancient artifacts and more about the region's rich history. The museum's stunning collection includes Roman mosaics and the famous sarcophagi. Spend some time in the adjoining gardens, enjoying the tranquility and beauty.

For dinner, indulge in a meal at a riverside restaurant, enjoying the picturesque view of the Rhône. As the evening progresses, consider attending a local theater performance or concert, where you can experience the artistic spirit of Arles. Enjoy a nightcap at a nearby bar, reflecting on the day’s artistic journey.

Dedicate your morning to exploring the impressive Roman ruins scattered throughout Arles, starting with the ancient baths of Thermes de Constantin. These ruins provide a fascinating glimpse into the daily life of Romans in the city. Be sure to take a guided tour to fully appreciate the historical significance.

Continue your heritage exploration by visiting the Saint-Trophime Church, known for its stunning Romanesque architecture and intricate sculptures. Afterward, head to the local market at Place de la République, where you can browse fresh produce, local crafts, and artisan goods. Enjoy a light lunch at one of the market stalls, sampling local delicacies.

As evening arrives, take some time to unwind at the Parc des Ateliers, where art installations and exhibitions often take place. Afterward, enjoy dinner at a restaurant serving regional cuisine, where you can try local wines paired with your meal. Wrap up your evening by taking a scenic walk through the illuminated streets of Arles, enjoying the blend of history and modern charm.

Set out early for a day trip to the Camargue region, known for its unique wildlife and stunning landscapes. Begin your adventure by visiting the Parc Naturel Régional de Camargue, where you can spot flamingos, wild horses, and other wildlife. Enjoy a guided tour to learn about the ecosystem and the history of the area.

After exploring the park, enjoy a picnic lunch by one of the lagoons while soaking up the breathtaking scenery. Later, visit the salt flats of Salin de Giraud, where you can witness the fascinating salt harvesting process. Spend the afternoon cycling through the vast landscapes, taking in the natural beauty.

Return to Arles in the evening and treat yourself to a dinner featuring fresh seafood from the Camargue region. Look for local restaurants that serve specialties like bull stew or seafood paella. End your day with a peaceful stroll along the riverbank, watching the sunset over the water.

Start your morning at the Espace Van Gogh, a cultural center located in a former hospital where Van Gogh was treated. Explore the art exhibitions, workshops, and events that showcase the vibrant culture of Arles. Enjoy a light breakfast at the café, surrounded by the artistic atmosphere.

In the afternoon, visit the local artisan shops and galleries that showcase the work of contemporary artists. Engage with local artisans, learn about their craft, and perhaps even participate in a workshop. Afterward, take a break at a nearby park, enjoying the ambiance while people-watching.

For dinner, choose a restaurant that features live music or local performances, allowing you to immerse yourself in the cultural scene. Savor a meal inspired by the region’s culinary traditions, accompanied by a glass of local rosé. Cap off the night with a visit to a jazz club or a bar featuring local talent.

Begin your day with a visit to the vibrant Arles market, held on Wednesdays and Saturdays, where you can find fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local crafts. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere, sampling cheeses, olives, and pastries as you stroll through the stalls. Don’t forget to pick up a few souvenirs to remember your visit.

After shopping, take a culinary class where you can learn to prepare traditional Provençal dishes using fresh, local ingredients. Enjoy the hands-on experience and the opportunity to connect with local chefs. Once your meal is prepared, savor the fruits of your labor during a communal lunch.

As evening falls, venture to a local bistro for a casual dinner, where you can try dishes made with seasonal ingredients. Engage in conversation with locals, learning more about their lives and traditions. End your day with a leisurely walk through the picturesque streets, soaking in the enchanting ambiance of Arles.

Take a short drive to the stunning beaches of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, where you can relax on the sandy shores of the Mediterranean. Spend your morning soaking up the sun, swimming, or enjoying water sports like paddleboarding or kayaking. Refresh yourself with a beachside brunch at one of the local cafés.

Continue your beach day with a leisurely stroll along the coast, taking in the breathtaking views of the turquoise waters and white sands. Consider renting a bike to explore the coastal trails or visiting the nearby Camargue Horse Reserve for a unique experience with the region's wild horses. Take in the beauty of the natural surroundings as you unwind.

As the sun sets, find a beachfront restaurant where you can enjoy fresh seafood while listening to the soothing sounds of the waves. Look for local specialties, such as grilled fish or bouillabaisse, paired with a refreshing glass of local rosé. Conclude your beach day with a romantic walk along the shore, basking in the last light of the day.

Embark on a day trip to the nearby village of Les Baux-de-Provence, known for its stunning hilltop fortress and breathtaking views. Spend your morning exploring the narrow streets, visiting the Château des Baux and learning about its rich history. Don’t miss the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the fortress.

After exploring the village, enjoy lunch at a charming café, sampling local delicacies and enjoying the rustic ambiance. Spend the afternoon visiting the Carrières de Lumières, where you can experience immersive art exhibitions set in a former quarry, showcasing famous artists’ works through stunning light displays. Take your time to soak in the artistry and creativity of the space.

Return to Arles in the evening and enjoy a leisurely dinner at a restaurant that highlights local cuisine. Try dishes inspired by the region's agricultural richness, focusing on seasonal ingredients. End your day with a stroll through the historic center, admiring the illuminated monuments and soaking in the enchanting atmosphere.

Start your day with a visit to the nearby wine-producing regions, such as Châteauneuf-du-Pape or Côtes du Rhône. Tour a local vineyard, learning about the winemaking process and the unique characteristics of the region's wines. Enjoy a tasting session, sampling a selection of reds, whites, and rosés.

Continue your wine adventure with a picnic lunch in the vineyard, surrounded by lush grapevines and scenic views. Afterward, visit another winery, perhaps one that specializes in organic or biodynamic wines, to deepen your understanding of different wine styles. Engage with the winemaker to learn about their philosophy and approach to viticulture.

Return to Arles for dinner at a restaurant known for its extensive wine list, where you can pair your meal with the perfect local wine. Consider ordering a tasting menu that showcases the flavors of the Provence region, expertly paired with wines from your day’s tastings. Wrap up your incredible journey with a toast to the beauty of Arles and its surroundings.