The rolling countryside surrounding Arles makes for the ideal place to enjoy outdoor activities, with dozens of pursuits suitable for all members of the family available. For many, hot air ballooning across Provence is a highlight, while a trip to the Camargue river delta is sure to please little ones with its large flamingo population.
Ballooning
A unique way to enjoy the rolling Provençal landscape that surrounds Arles, ballooning will take you and your kids to new heights. Trips start at nearby Gordes and take passengers over and above Arles and its neighbours, pretty lavender fields and vineyards. Phone: +33 4 90 05 76 77 (Hot Air Ballooning Provence).
Bullfighting
Not suitable for young children, bullfighting is nevertheless a popular family activity in Arles and can be watched at Arles Amphitheatre. Unlike the Spanish version of the sport, the bull does not get killed in France and matadors rarely get injured.
Camargue
Touring the Camargue makes for a wonderful family activity in the vicinity of Arles. Boasting nearly 580 square kilometres of marshy plains and wetlands that are home to large populations of black bulls, flamingos and Camargue white horses, the river delta offers a fascinating insight into local wildlife.
Cycling
Biking is one of the best ways to appreciate the Provence countryside that surrounds Arles. Cycle past picture-postcard scenes of sunflower and lavender fields, through rolling hills and traditional villages and get a feel for the region. An ideal activity for all members of the family, cycling is also one of the least expensive ways to get around Arles.
Horseback Riding
Arles is famous as the home of the Camargue horse, and local equestrian centres and riding trails offer abundant opportunities for young ones to ride these gentle creatures. Lessons are available for beginners while experienced riders can explore the trails in pairs or larger groups.
As one of the most culturally rich cities in the south of France, Arles is bursting with cultural gems to check out. Among the most visited sites are Arles’s art museums, where contemporary works can be enjoyed alongside pieces by prominent 18th century French artists. For ancient works of art, the Ancient Museum of Arles houses one of the best Roman sarcophagi collections in the world.
Ancient Arles Museum
Centrally located, this museum houses one of France’s—if not the world’s—best collections of Roman sarcophagi and plentiful other antique treasures from Arles’s Roman past. Highlights of the museum include a marble representation of Augustus and detailed mosaics. Phone: +33 4 90 18 88 88
Church of Saint Trophime
Located on Place de la République and named after a one-time bishop of Arles, this striking Romanesque church is best known for its intricate façade that represents scenes from the Last Judgment. Dating to the 12th century, the church features an attractive cloister and a tapestry-lined nave and is today classified as a World Heritage site. Phone: +33 4 90 49 33 53
Réattu Museum
Opened to commemorate French artist Jacque Réattu(1760-1833), this interesting art gallery exhibits works by 18th century Provençal artists as well as selected 19th century works and a contemporary section with contributions from Picasso. A rare gem of a gallery, Musée Réattu is a must-visit for the artistically inclined. Phone: +33 4 90493758.
Saturday Market
Arles Saturday Market provides a feast for the senses and is an ideal place at which to observe local activity and way of life. Here you can pick up lavender infused soaps, locally grown herbs de Provence (a mixture of basil, rosemary, bay leaf, marjoram and thyme) or decorative items among other souvenirs.
Van Gogh Foundation
Arles boasts a wonderful artistic heritage, having once attracted the likes of van Gogh and Picasso. Today visitors can view modern works by Roy Lichtenstein and David Hockney among others at the Fondation Van Gogh, thought by many to be southern France’s best modern art gallery.
With seemingly endless quaint squares, charming winding alleys and year-round mild weather, Arles presents its visitors with abundant choices when it comes to al fresco dining. Place du Forum, immortalised in Vincent van Gogh’s Café Terrace at Night, is just one of the city’s attractive dining spots where you can indulge in any number of hearty French dishes.
If you want to splurge, Arles has classy upmarket restaurant options featuring Mediterranean and Provençal specialities made using local ingredients such as truffles, artichokes, herbs, honey and even lavender. Alongside gourmet-style French cuisine you will find extensive wine lists, with the region producing some of France’s best loved labels. Mid-range dining options tend to be more casual yet the food is typically no less appetising than at Arles’s more expensive choices.
A shopping trip in Arles isn’t complete until you’ve visited the city’s outdoor markets. From antiques to locally grown produce, brightly coloured Provençal fabrics to artworks, Arles markets offer you the chance to pick up unique souvenirs. Local market days and locations vary so you will need to ask your hotel for up-to-date information.
Popular buys in Arles include lavender based products such as body creams and soaps, local wines and cheeses. Aside from outdoor markets, the city has a range of ubiquitous patisserie selling delicious French pastries, breads and sweets and newsagents (tabac) stocked with essentials.
