Arles, the jewel of Provencal heritage, transports you through the centuries with its exceptional legacy. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city offers a fascinating immersion in Roman history, Romanesque art and the world of Van Gogh. From the Le Clos du Rhône campsite, discover the ancient arenas, the Roman theater still in use and the Saint-Trophime cloister, a masterpiece of religious architecture.
But Arles is more than just its past: it’s also a lively, artistic and creative city. From the LUMA Foundation to Provencal markets, museums and festivals, Arles has something for everyone. On this page, you’ll find all the must-see places, not-to-be-missed walks and good reasons to stop off in Arles during your stay in the Camargue. An escape between heritage, modernity and the gentle way of life.
A UNESCO-listed city just around the corner
What to see near the campsite in Arles
Arles, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its Roman and Romanesque monuments, offers a veritable journey through time. The city is brimming with remarkably well-preserved remains that bear witness to its prestigious past. Discover:
- Les Arènes, a 1st-century Roman amphitheatre with a capacity of 20,000 spectators, still used for bullfights, concerts and summer shows. The monument dominates the city and is one of its most emblematic symbols.
- The Théâtre Antique, founded in the time of Augustus, whose tiers and stage today host a variety of cultural performances, particularly during summer festivals.
- The cloister and church of Saint-Trophime, jewels of Romanesque art, high spiritual places dating from the XIIᵉ-XIVᵉ centuries, listed by UNESCO for the exceptional quality of their sculptures.
- The Roman cryptoportico beneath the Hôtel de Ville and the remains of the ancient ramparts are other fascinating testimonies to ancient Arles.
You can also admire the classical facades, private mansions and religious buildings that line the historic center. Arles has a rich architectural heritage to be discovered in all seasons.
Les Arènes
The ancient theater
Saint Trophime Church
Culture, nature and strolls in Provence
What to do near the campsite in Arles
Arles offers a wide variety of activities combining culture, nature and discovery. Visitors can choose between historical, artistic or leisure experiences, according to their desires:
- Guided walks and tours of the old town, on foot or aboard the little tourist train, with commentary on the city’s history, traditions and emblematic figures.
- Explore places linked to Van Gogh: Café de la Nuit, Alyscamps, inspirational gardens, Fondation Vincent Van Gogh – all sites that evoke the artist’s time in Arles.
- Discover LUMA Arles, a contemporary art center housed in the former industrial wasteland of the SNCF workshops, rehabilitated by architect Frank Gehry. A unique venue for exhibitions, performances and monumental installations.
- Stroll along the banks of the Rhône, with magnificent views over the city and the Alpilles, and immerse yourself in the Provencal atmosphere at markets and festivals.
Throughout the year, Arles lives to the rhythm of numerous events: Rencontres internationales de la photographie, Festival du dessin, fêtes votives… There’s always something to do, on your own, as a couple or with the family.
From Van Gogh to Picasso, the legacy of Arles’ soul
Must-sees near Arles
Beyond the historic center, Arles’ surroundings also offer a wide range of sites to visit. Don’t miss :
- Les Alyscamps, a vast Roman necropolis lined with sarcophagi, immortalized by Van Gogh and Gauguin.
The site exudes a unique atmosphere, ideal for a cultural walk. - The Thermes de Constantin, remnants of Roman public baths, bear witness to the refinement of the ancient city.
- The paleochristian crypt beneath Saint-Honorat church offers a glimpse into the town’s religious past.
- The completely renovated Museon Arlaten retraces Provencal traditions and lifestyles through objects, clothing and personal accounts.
- The Fondation Réattu, an art museum housed in a former priory of the Order of Malta, exhibits classical paintings, works by Picasso and contemporary creations.
These sites are the perfect complement to a visit to Arles, offering multiple perspectives on local history, art and culture. Explore on foot, by bike or on organized tours.
The ideal starting point for discovering Arles
Campsite rental in Arles
For a holiday that combines heritage, nature and comfort, stay at a campsite near Arles. It’s an ideal option for enjoying both the city’s cultural richness and practical, pleasant outdoor accommodation. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends or a couple, you’ll find a package to suit your needs.
You’ll benefit from a strategic starting point for your excursions, while enjoying a relaxing setting. Many campsites offer modern mobile homes, shady pitches, aquatic areas with pools and slides, and a wide range of services (kids’ club, catering, summer entertainment). Some even offer bike rentals or organized activities to discover the region.
When you choose a campsite in Arles, you combine comfort, freedom and immersion in a region with a strong, welcoming identity.