Arles has a fascinating past:
Roman Era: Arles was an important Roman city, known as Arelate. It became a major hub after Julius Caesar’s victory over Pompey in 49 BC. You can still see impressive Roman ruins today, including:
Arles Amphitheatre (Les Arènes) – a massive arena still used for events.
Roman Theatre, Thermae (baths), and the Alyscamps necropolis.
Medieval Period: Arles became a center for religion and pilgrimage during the Middle Ages.
Van Gogh’s Legacy: In the 1880s, Vincent van Gogh lived and painted in Arles. His time there inspired many famous works like Café Terrace at Night and Bedroom in Arles.
Description
Arles is a picturesque town in Provence, nestled by the Rhône River and on the edge of the Camargue region (a nature-rich delta). The city has:
Narrow cobblestone streets
Warm-colored stone buildings
Roman ruins integrated into daily life
A vibrant arts scene
An authentic Provençal feel — relaxed, sunny, and historic
Typical Food
Arles and the surrounding Provence region offer a flavorful Mediterranean cuisine. Typical dishes and products include:
Gardiane de Taureau: A local specialty — bull meat stew, slow-cooked in red wine and herbs.
Brandade de Morue: Creamy salt cod and potato spread.
Tapenade: Olive paste made with capers and anchovies.
Fougasse: A kind of flatbread with olives, herbs, or cheese.
Camargue rice: Often red or black, grown locally.
Goat cheese, Provençal herbs, and lavender honey.
Local wines and Pastis, an anise-flavored apéritif.
Activities in Arles
Plenty to see and do in and around Arles:
Cultural & Historical:
Explore the Roman Amphitheatre and Theatre.
Visit Van Gogh’s sites and the Van Gogh Foundation.
Discover Saint-Trophime Church and its beautiful cloisters.
Wander the Arles Museum of Antiquity and Réattu Museum (fine arts).
Seasonal Events:
Rencontres d’Arles: One of the world’s top photography festivals (summer).
Féria d’Arles: A traditional festival with bullfighting (April & September).
Les Suds à Arles: A world music festival in July.
Nature & Day Trips:
Explore the Camargue: wild horses, pink flamingos, salt flats, and beaches.
Go biking or horseback riding through the regional park.
Visit nearby towns like Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, Avignon, or Les Baux-de-Provence.