Bonjour! Arles is one of those places that makes a fantastic base for exploring southern France. This historic city is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, fascinating towns, medieval villages, and some of the region’s most impressive sights. Within a short drive, you can visit ancient Roman monuments, wander through charming Provençal streets, explore the unique natural landscapes, or admire spectacular views from hilltop villages. We’ve explored quite a lot of this part of France, and there’s no shortage of places that make unforgettable day trips from Arles. So, let’s hit the road!
Note. All mentioned places in this post are a maximum of 1.5 hours away from Arles by car. Keep in mind that using other means of transport may take longer.
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Best day trips from Arles
Avignon
Avignon is located about 45km from Arles. Once the seat of the Popes, this UNESCO-listed city is full of medieval charm, remarkable landmarks, and vibrant life. From the iconic Papal Palace and ancient ramparts to a half-bridge that inspired a beloved French song, and lively squares filled with cozy cafés, Avignon perfectly blends rich history with the relaxed lifestyle. It’s definitely one of the most unforgettable day trips from Arles.
Travel tip. If you have time, you can also visit Villeneuve-les-Avignon. It’s a tiny medieval town just across the river, offering superb views over the city.
Saint-Remy-de-Provence
Saint-Rémy is located only 25km from Arles. It’s one of the most picturesque towns in Provence, very easy to fall in love with. With its pretty streets, impressive Roman ruins, and landscapes that inspired Van Gogh’s most famous paintings, this little gem offers a magic that’s hard to resist. It’s one of those places where everything feels beautiful, calm, and effortlessly French. It’s a delightful place to visit near Arles you definitely don’t want to miss.
Nimes
Nimes is located about 35km from Arles. It’s one of the most underrated cities in southern France, often called the Rome of France. If you love ancient history, charming towns, and a laid-back atmosphere, Nimes should be on your radar. There, you’ll find a blend of impressive Roman heritage, elegant streets, and a warm Mediterranean feel that makes exploring a real pleasure. Nimes is compact, easy to explore, and full of memorable sights.
Pont du Gard & Uzes
Pont du Gard and Uzes are located about 50km from Arles, and only 15km from each other. These two combined make one of the most fascinating day trips from Arles filled with history.
Pont du Gard is one of the most iconic landmarks in southern France, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient Roman aqueduct, gracefully spanning the Gardon River, is a place where history and nature come together perfectly. It was built in the 1st century AD and is one of the best-preserved structures of its kind in the world. It’s one of those impressive places that instantly makes you appreciate the scale of what humans created centuries ago.
Uzes is one of the most picturesque towns in southern France, yet it still remains one of the region’s hidden gems. With its well-preserved medieval center, grand ducal palace, honey-colored stone houses, and one of the most charming market squares in the region, Uzes feels like a place straight out of a postcard. It’s elegant, atmospheric, and filled with small details that make you want to slow down and linger a little longer. It’s one of the best destinations for a day trip from Arles if you want to escape the crowds.
Les Baux-de-Provence
Les Baux is located about 20km from Arles. It’s one of the most enchanting medieval villages in southern France, located high on a rocky hill. It’s a place where medieval charm, dramatic views, and Provençal beauty come together perfectly. With its ancient castle ruins, charming medieval streets, and fascinating immersive art shows, Les Baux de Provence is a magical place that has rightfully earned its spot among the ‘Most beautiful villages in France’, and of course on our list of the best day trips from Arles.
Marseille
Marseille is located about 90km from Arles. It’s the oldest city in France and one of its most fascinating destinations. Bold, raw, energetic, and full of character, it’s a place where ancient history, colorful streets, coastal views, and everyday local life blend into something unique. From the lively old port and historic neighborhoods to dramatic scenery and hidden coves, Marseille has so much to offer. Whether you’re looking for, Marseille won’t disappoint as a wonderful day trip from Arles.
Gordes & Roussillon
Gordes and Roussillon villages are located about 90km from Arles, and only 10km from each other. These two combined make one of the most scenic day trips from Arles.
If you’re dreaming of a postcard-perfect Provençal village and wonderful views, Gordes should be at the very top of your bucket list. Dramatically perched on a rocky outcrop and surrounded by vineyards and rolling countryside, Gordes will instantly capture your heart. Add ancient stone houses cascading down the hillside, an iconic abbey set among lavender fields, and a fascinating open-air museum of dry stone huts, and you’ll quickly understand why Gordes is named one of the most beautiful villages in France.
In Roussillon, every building glows in shades of deep red, burnt orange, vibrant yellow, and soft pink, beautifully contrasted by lush green pine forests. It’s a sigh that will leave you speechless! Add to that Sentier des Ocres, a scenic walking trail that winds through dramatic rock formations and vibrant landscapes, and you’ll get one of the most unforgettable places to visit near Arles.
Camargue & Ornithological Park of Pont de Gau
The Camargue region is located about 35km from Arles, and it’s one of the most unique natural areas in southern France. Known for its wild landscapes of wetlands, lagoons, and salt flats, it’s home to famous white horses, black bulls, and especially flamingos.
And the Ornithological Park of Pont de Gau is one of the best places to experience this natural beauty up close, with walking paths that let you observe birds in their natural habitat. It’s a peaceful and fascinating destination, and definitely one of the most memorable nature day trips from Arles.
Aix en Provence
Aix-en-Provence is located about 80km from Arles. It’s a vibrant city known for its elegant streets lined with pastel houses, countless fountains, and a rich artistic heritage. Aix perfectly blends history and elegance with a Provençal charm. There, every corner feels alive – from colorful markets filled with local produce to sunny terraces where you can sip a glass of wine. All of that makes Aix-en-Provence one of the best day trips from Arles, attracting thousands of people each year. We’re sure that it will capture your heart too!
Aigues-Mortes
Aigues Mortes is located about 45km from Arles. It’s one of the most fascinating medieval towns in southern France, surrounded by remarkably well-preserved stone ramparts and the flat landscapes of the Camargue. Walking through its historic gates, you’ll discover charming streets, lively squares, and impressive architecture. And just outside the town, endless salt marshes create a beautiful contrast of colors. With its unique history and distinctive atmosphere, Aigues-Mortes is definitely worth adding to your list of day trips from Arles.
Day trips from Arles – Summing up & our TOP3
Arles is a fantastic destination on its own, but its location makes it even better. Within a short drive, you can discover some of the most beautiful villages in Provence, fascinating Roman monuments, historic cities, and the unique landscapes of the Camargue. Whether you have just one extra day or several days to explore, there’s plenty to choose from!
We hope this guide helped you find some inspiration for your next southern French adventure. Now all that’s left to do is choose your favorite destinations, pack your bags, and hit the road! Have an amazing time exploring the beautiful surroundings of Arles. Bon voyage!
Wondering what our TOP3 day trips from Arles are? Saint-Remy-de-Provence, Avignon, and the Ornithological Park of Pont de Gau!
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