Holiday rentals in Arles

Three iconic sites to discover in Arles

Arles exudes Roman history at every turn. The city boasts an exceptionally rich ancient heritage, recognised by UNESCO, which continues to shape its identity and atmosphere to this day. Three major sites embody this past grandeur and are well worth a thorough visit during your stay.

1. The Arles Amphitheatre

The Roman amphitheatre dominates the heart of the city with its imposing ochre-coloured stone architecture. Built in the 1st century, it could accommodate 20,000 spectators who came to watch games and gladiatorial combats. Today, its partially preserved tiers still retain this capacity to bring people together: bullfights, equestrian shows and cultural events are still held there, giving the monument a life that has never truly ceased. As you step through its gates, you can appreciate the feat of Roman engineering and the importance of Arles in antiquity.

2. The Ancient Theatre of Arles

Just a few steps away, the ancient theatre offers a poignant contrast: its ruins speak eloquently of the performances that took place there in the 1st century BCE. Two marble columns, nicknamed ‘the Two Widows’, stand alone amongst the ruins and have become the emblem of this site. Partially restored tiers of seating allow visitors to visualise the scale of the original building. This theatre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, illustrates how Arles flourished as the cultural centre of Roman Provence.

3. Arles Antique Departmental Museum

To deepen your understanding of this era, the archaeological museum houses collections of remarkable quality. Its most spectacular treasure remains the Gallo-Roman barge from the Rhône, discovered in the river and restored with meticulous care. Early Christian sarcophagi are also among the most prestigious artefacts from this period preserved in Europe. Each object on display tells a story of a fragment of daily, religious and political life in ancient Arelate.

These three sites form a coherent narrative: you can trace the course of the Roman centuries and the city’s successive transformations. A holiday in a holiday let in Arles becomes all the more enjoyable when you take the time to walk in the footsteps of this magnificent past.

The ideal time of year to book a holiday let in Arles

Each season transforms Arles and offers a unique atmosphere. The best time to visit depends on what you’re looking for: intense sunshine and summer vibrancy, the mild Mediterranean climate, or the tranquillity of the off-season.

Spring. From April to May, Arles comes to life under generous sunshine and mild temperatures. The terraces in the town centre buzz with activity, the gardens are in bloom, and the days are gradually getting longer. It’s a lovely time to explore the narrow streets without the summer crowds. Temperatures remain pleasant for walks or cycle rides through the neighbouring Camargue.

Summer. From June to September, Arles buzzes with festivals and events. The sun dominates the Provençal sky, the nights remain mild, and the characteristic southern light invites you to spend time outdoors. This season attracts the most visitors, which means a lively atmosphere but also large crowds. A holiday rental then becomes an air-conditioned refuge during the hottest hours.

Autumn. September and October remain warm and sunny, with temperatures gradually dropping. The Camargue displays its changing colours, and the streets become quieter after the summer rush. It’s a special time for those who enjoy mild weather without the tourist crowds. The air remains dry and pleasant, ideal for sightseeing and al fresco dining.

Winter. From November to February, temperatures drop but remain mild compared to the north. The days are short but often bright. Holiday rentals attract those escaping the cold of the city. You can enjoy a peaceful town, with reduced prices and easier access to monuments and attractions.

Renting a holiday let in Arles allows you to tailor your stay to your preferred time of year. There’s no such thing as a bad season: each one reveals a different side to this city steeped in history.

3 activities you simply must try during your holiday in Arles

Arles offers much more than just a cultural tour of the city centre. The region provides a wide range of experiences, from contemporary art to unspoilt nature and river excursions. Your holiday rentals are the ideal base from which to explore these three facets of Arles’ charm.

1. Explore the exhibitions at the Rencontres Internationales de la Photographie

Since 1969, the Rencontres has brought together the biggest names in world photography. The exhibitions take place across several iconic venues, including the Parc des Ateliers, a former railway site converted into a cultural centre. You’ll discover works from various continents, often in large format, in an atmosphere that is both urban and contemplative. It’s an opportunity to see how contemporary photographers capture the world, from intimate moments to landscapes.

Address: Parc des Ateliers, 35 avenue Victor Hugo, 13200 Arles.

2. Horse riding in the Camargue Regional Nature Park

The Camargue can be explored on foot, by bike, or on horseback – the latter being a more immersive way to experience the region. You’ll come face to face with wild white horses and flamingos, and take in the vast expanses of marshland and dunes. The trails vary in difficulty and duration: from short, accessible rides to long, full-day expeditions. It’s an authentic way to understand this delta, unique in Europe, where local horse-riders and guides know every nook and cranny.

Address: 13200 Arles.

3. Boat trip on the Rhône and exploring the Camargue delta

Cruising along the Rhône offers an unexpected perspective on Arles and its region. From the city’s riverbanks, the boat takes you towards the delta and its tributaries. You’ll spot the local wildlife from the water, the reed beds and the unspoilt natural areas. The cruises combine the history of the river, the geography of the delta and moments of relaxation in the open air. It’s an outing suitable for all ages, blending nature education with the simple pleasure of being on the water.

Address: 13200 Arles.

Our travellers’ favourite amenities when booking a holiday rental in Arles

When planning a holiday in Arles, the comfort of the accommodation becomes just as important as its proximity to monuments and museums. Travellers who choose a holiday rental look for facilities that make their daily lives easier and allow them to make the most of their free time. Between days spent sightseeing and relaxing evenings, certain amenities make all the difference.

• Air conditioning: essential in Arles during Provence’s hot, dry summers, it guarantees restful nights even at the height of the tourist season.
• Fully equipped kitchen: a major asset for preparing light meals, sampling local produce from the market or organising drinks with friends.
• Private or nearby parking: in the historic centre of Arles, having a secure parking space saves you the hassle of searching for a space.
• Terrace or balcony: for admiring the Rhône at sunset or enjoying breakfast in peace and quiet.
• High-speed Wi-Fi: essential for staying connected, checking reviews and planning your activities without wasting time.
• Washing machine: particularly appreciated for long stays or families with young children.
• Efficient heating: useful in winter to enjoy cosy accommodation during the off-season.
• High-quality bedding: essential for a restful night’s sleep after a day of exploring.
• Children’s facilities: a cot, high chair or toys all contribute to a comfortable holiday for families.

Choosing a holiday rental in Arles that meets your expectations in terms of facilities ensures a holiday without compromise. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, with your family or with friends, the important thing is to find accommodation that suits your lifestyle and specific needs whilst on holiday.

What is the average price of a holiday rental in Arles?

Holiday let prices in Arles reflect the town’s popularity with tourists. For a small property (studio or one-bedroom flat), you can generally expect to pay between €50 and €90 per night in the low season, with a significant increase during the summer. Family-sized properties (three- or four-room flats) tend to cost between €80 and €150 per night, depending on the layout and facilities. Larger properties or those offering more amenities command rates of €130 to €200 per night during the summer.

Several factors influence these price ranges. Proximity to the town centre, the presence of a swimming pool or garden, and the quality of the furnishings all contribute to significant differences in price from one property to another. Properties offering weekly stays generally benefit from sliding-scale rates, which can reduce the daily cost by 10 to 20 per cent. Booking for several weeks lowers the average price even further.

Seasonality plays a major role: Arles experiences a significant influx of tourists from May to September, a period when rates rise significantly. Autumn and spring offer more favourable conditions, whilst winter is more affordable. To get the best value for money, booking several weeks in advance often allows you to negotiate or access more competitive offers. Checking reviews from previous travellers also helps to verify whether the price matches the reality on the ground.