Arques

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Arques's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival and Exploration
morning
:

Arrive in Arques and settle into your charming accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets, soaking in the beautiful French architecture and local shops. Enjoy a classic French breakfast at a nearby boulangerie, savoring freshly baked croissants and café au lait.

afternoon
:

Visit the ancient Château d'Arques, an impressive historical site that offers insight into the local heritage. Wander through the lovely park surrounding the castle, perfect for taking pictures and enjoying nature. Stop by a local café for a light lunch, trying regional specialties like quiche or a fresh salad.

evening
:

As dusk falls, enjoy a delightful dinner at a traditional French restaurant, relishing regional wines and dishes. If you're up for it, attend a community event or live music performance, which often bring a lively atmosphere to this charming town. End your day with a serene walk by the river, reflecting on your first impressions of Arques.

day 2
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the local market, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere and shop for fresh produce. Take time to interact with friendly vendors and sample local delicacies, making your breakfast a delightful adventure. Engage with the locals to learn about their life in Arques.

afternoon
:

Visit the Musée de la Vie Rurale to understand the rural history and traditions of the region. Enjoy a guided tour that showcases artifacts and exhibitions, providing a deep dive into the local culture. Relax in a nearby park afterwards, soaking in the sun and perhaps reading a book.

evening
:

Attend a traditional French cooking class, where you will learn how to create local dishes from seasoned chefs. Immerse yourself in the culinary arts, making new friends as you cook and enjoy your creations together. Conclude your evening with a glass of wine, reminiscing about your flavorful experiences.

day 3
Nature and Scenic Views
morning
:

Take a morning hike in the nearby Parc Naturel Régional des Caps et Marais d'Opale, surrounded by lush landscapes and breathtaking views of nature. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy a picnic breakfast with locally sourced ingredients while taking in your surroundings. Watch for local wildlife, including birds and other native species.

afternoon
:

Explore the picturesque village of Pihen-lès-Guînes, known for its charming surroundings and historic sites. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local café, where traditional dishes are served with a modern twist. Afterwards, hike the trails that wind through the picturesque countryside, capturing stunning vistas on your camera.

evening
:

Return to Arques and enjoy dinner at a homely patisserie, renowned for its delectable dessert options. Indulge your sweet tooth with classic French pastries, perfectly paired with a cup of gourmet coffee. Spend the evening relaxing at your accommodation, planning for the adventures that lie ahead.

day 4
Historical Discovery
morning
:

Embark on a guided tour of the historic sites within Arques, including the impressive Église Saint-Martin. Marvel at the intricate architecture and learn about the spiritual significance of these landmarks in the community. Take a moment to enjoy the serene environment and reflect on the history that surrounds you.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby town of Saint-Omer, where you can explore the stunning cathedral and the historical town center. Enjoy lunch at a bistro, celebrating the local flavors and perhaps trying a dish you haven’t had before. Dive into the history by visiting local museums, offering engaging exhibits suited for all ages.

evening
:

As you return to Arques, squeeze in a cultural experience by attending a local theater performance or an art exhibit. Experience the creative side of this charming town, enjoying performances from local artists. Close the evening in a cozy local wine bar, discussing your favorite moments from the trip with fellow travelers.

day 5
Adventure and Activities
morning
:

After breakfast, try your hand at kayaking on the nearby canals, enjoying the peacefulness of the waters and the beauty of the surrounding nature. This engaging activity is great for adventurers and offers a fresh perspective of the area. Feel rejuvenated as you paddle through the calm waters of the picturesque landscape.

afternoon
:

Take a break after kayaking and enjoy a picnic lunch along the water’s edge. After lunch, explore biking paths that weave through scenic routes of the countryside, soaking in the beautiful sights and sounds of nature. Don’t forget to take photos of the stunning landscapes to cherish your time spent outdoors.

evening
:

Return to Arques for a delightful dinner at a restaurant known for its creative takes on classic French dishes. Share stories of your day with fellow diners as you enjoy a cozy atmosphere. Wrap up the day taking a sunset stroll, enjoying the tranquil ambiance and reflecting on your adventurous experiences.

day 6
Local Art and Crafts
morning
:

Spend the morning visiting local artisan workshops, where you can witness the crafting of pottery, textiles, or local art. Talk with the artisans, learning about their techniques and the inspiration behind their work. This immersive experience will provide insights into the local craftsmanship and culture.

afternoon
:

After your artistic explorations, treat yourself to lunch at a café known for its artistic decor and mouthwatering menu. Following lunch, participate in a hands-on craft workshop, where you can create your own unique piece of art to take home as a souvenir. Channel your creativity and enjoy this unique learning experience.

evening
:

Conclude the day with a dinner focused on promoting local art, perhaps with an exhibition showcasing works of local artists. Enjoy a meal surrounded by the creative community, allowing inspiration to fuel your evening conversations. Reflect on your artistic experiences as you wind down at a local bar with a relaxing atmosphere.

day 7
Culinary Delights
morning
:

Start your day visiting a local farm, where you can learn about sustainable farming practices and pick fresh produce. Take part in a farm-to-table breakfast experience, enjoying meals made with ingredients just gathered from the land. Engage with farmers about their crafts and the importance of sustainability.

afternoon
:

Join a food tour that showcases different culinary delights around Arques, sampling cheeses, pastries, and more. Visit local specialty shops, sharing stories and recommendations with fellow food enthusiasts as you embark on this flavorsome journey. Enjoy a leisurely lunch, tasting various dishes that represent the rich culinary heritage of the area.

evening
:

Wrap up the culinary day with a gourmet dinner experience, possibly at a Michelin-star restaurant if available. Delight in a multi-course meal, thoughtfully crafted to highlight seasonal and local ingredients. Celebrate your culinary journey with a fine dessert paired with exquisite local wines.

day 8
Relaxation and Leisure
morning
:

Dedicate the morning to relaxation, enjoying a slow start with breakfast in bed or at a local café. Spend the early hours wandering the quiet streets of Arques, soaking in the tranquility before the day progresses. Stop by a bookstore or a local shop, browsing for unique finds to remember your trip.

afternoon
:

Indulge in a spa day or wellness retreat, pampering yourself with massages, facials, or a soothing sauna experience. This time for self-care will rejuvenate your spirit, leaving you refreshed and invigorated. Take some moments to reflect on your journey so far and the memories you’ve created.

evening
:

In the evening, revisit your favorite spots for a final dinner in Arques, enjoying dishes that have become your favorites during the trip. Revel in the ambiance of the town as you reminisce about your adventures, perhaps under the soft glow of string lights in an open-air café. End your trip with a heartfelt toast to the memories and experiences you’ve shared.

day 9
Departure Day
morning
:

Pack your bags while reminiscing about the memorable experiences you’ve had in Arques. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation, indulging in your favorite local dishes one last time. Take a final stroll through the charming streets, capturing a few more photographs before your departure.

afternoon
:

Check out of your accommodation and plan to grab lunch at a local restaurant that you didn’t have a chance to visit. Share stories with fellow travelers or locals, exchanging contact information to keep in touch. As you prepare to leave, absorb the beauty of Arques one last time, appreciating the moments that made your visit special.

evening
:

Depart Arques with a heart full of memories, enriched by the experiences you’ve gathered. As you travel back home, reflect on the beauty, culture, and delicious cuisine that have graced your time. Promise yourself to return, knowing that a part of this French town will always stay with you.

Discover Arques

Read more in our Arques 2025 Travel Guide.

Arques Travel Guide