Top Things to See
 Arles’s Roman and Romanesque monuments, protected by UNESCO as a World Heritage site, are the highlight of any sightseeing trip to the city. Still standing today are the Roman Theatre, Arles Amphitheatre and the Roman necropolis among other Roman era sights. Several of these ancient relics have been an inspiration to famous artists over the years, including van Gogh, adding an extra element of interest to these already fascinating sites.
 Arles Amphitheatre
This impressive Roman amphitheatre gets a lot of attention, and for good reason. Not only is it of immense historical importance, but it is also host to modern day bullfights. Van Gogh chose the arena as the subject of his 1888 painting Les Arènes, and the upper levels of the amphitheatre provide outstanding views over Arles.
 Cryptoportico
This ancient covered walkway dates to the 1st century BC and demonstrates Roman building techniques of that time. Its original use is still debated yet it has been suggested that it was used as a storage place for civil slaves.
Les Alyscamps
Sitting on the outskirts of the city is this vast Roman necropolis, one of Arles’s major attractions. Here numerous tombs and mausoleums stand in ruins, with the site having been used as a burial ground for over 1,500 years. Several prominent Christian figures are interred here including Saint Trophimus, the first bishop of Arles, and Saint Genesius, a Roman civil servant executed and later martyred for disobeying orders to persecute Christians.
Rhone River Cruise
For many visitors to Arles, a highlight of their visit is a sightseeing trip along the Rhone River. Cruise the river night or day for local scenery, history and culture. Typically boats offer onboard dining facilities and an outdoor deck from which you can take in the sights. Some longer cruises offer the option of multiple stops along the way.
 Roman Theatre
Built during the reign of Augustus in the 1st century BC as a venue for theatrical performances and bloodthirsty entertainment such as gladiator fights, the Roman theatre in Arles is a fine example of Roman theatre architecture. Following typical Greek theatre form, the theatre is semi-circular in shape and has a capacity of 12,000. Today the theatre is protected as a World Heritage site and is still used for cultural performances.
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