Arles Cruise Port
Port d'Arles - Quai de la Roquette
Arles, France Port
UN/LOCODE FRARL Port of call Homeport
Arles Cruise Port Location
| Port Details | |
|---|---|
| Country | France |
| UN/LOCODE | FRARL |
| Contact | |
| Address | Quai de la Roquette, 13200 Arles, France |
| Port phone | +33 4 90 18 41 20 |
| Website | www.arles-tourisme.com |
| Geography | |
| Coordinates | 43.67500, 4.63500 |
| Accessibility | |
| Accessible | Limited |
River cruise vessels dock at the Quai de la Roquette, placing you exactly 400 metres from the Roman Amphitheatre, a level 5-minute walk that costs nothing in transfers. Arles is the primary river cruise gateway to the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region in southeastern France, situated where the Rhône River splits to form the Camargue delta. You are visiting a city that rewards those who navigate on foot; the historic core is almost entirely pedestrianized and compact enough to explore in a morning. It is worth knowing that most passengers waste their first hour following generic signs to 'Le Centre,' whereas the superior route follows the river path to avoid the initial uphill climb. This destination is situated just 40 km (25 miles) south of Avignon and 30 km (19 miles) east of Nîmes, making it a critical hub for exploring the wider Bouches-du-Rhône department. As one of the most frequented stops on the Rhône River route, Arles manages heavy crowds well, but it punishes travelers who arrive without sturdy footwear. The Roman stones are original, uneven, and unforgiving. You can realistically expect to see the three major UNESCO sites in a 4-hour window, but an 8-hour call is required if you wish to see the modern LUMA tower or the Van Gogh Foundation. Arles rewards the prepared and punishes the hurried.
Arles — Port Overview
History
Arles rose to prominence as a Greek colony, but its golden age began in 46 BC when Julius Caesar rewarded the city for supporting him against Pompey. It became a vital Roman capital, 'Arelate,' and served as a strategic hub for the Legionnaires because of its position on the Rhône River. By the 4th century, it was a favorite residence of Emperor Constantine, who built the sprawling thermal baths you can still visit today. The city’s history is etched into its limestone; the great Amphitheatre was constructed around 90 AD to hold 20,000 spectators for gladiatorial combat. After the fall of Rome, the city took a curious turn. During the medieval period, locals actually moved inside the Amphitheatre, building 200 houses and two chapels within its walls to create a fortified village. This unique defensive repurposing saved the structure from being used as a stone quarry. In 1673, the town hall on Place de la République was completed, showcasing a massive stone vault that still stands as a masterpiece of stereotomy. The 19th century brought Vincent van Gogh, who arrived in 1888 and painted over 300 works here in just fifteen months. Today, you see the result of this layered history: 17th-century mansions built directly atop Roman foundations, particularly visible along the Rue de la République where ancient columns are still embedded in modern shopfronts.
The Verdict
Those who make the most of Arles tend to be the ones who arrive with a plan and the flexibility to adapt it. This guide has been fact-checked by J. Richard and the Waterways Cruise editorial team. Arles is a city of layers, where a modern stainless-steel tower stands just minutes from a 2,000-year-old arena. Excursions that guarantee a return to the ship can be tailored to your mobility, interests, and pace, so missing departure is never a concern. No two travelers want the same day ashore.
Things to Do & See in Arles
| Attraction | Type | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Admission |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Musée Départemental Arles Antique | Museum | Avenue de la 1ère Division Française Libre, 13200 Arles | +33 4 13 31 51 03 | 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Closed Tuesdays) | arles-antique.cg13.fr | EUR €8.00 |
| LUMA Arles | Landmark | 35 Avenue Victor Hugo, 13200 Arles | +33 4 65 88 10 00 | 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Daily | luma.org | Free |
| Roman Amphitheatre (Les Arènes) | Historical Site | 1 Rond-Point des Arènes, 13200 Arles | +33 4 90 49 36 36 | 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Summer) | arenes-arles.com | EUR €9.00 |
| Saint-Trophime Cloister | Cultural Site | 6 Place de la République, 13200 Arles | +33 4 90 49 33 53 | 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Daily | EUR €5.50 | |
| The Alyscamps | Historical Site | Avenue des Alyscamps, 13200 Arles | +33 4 90 49 36 87 | 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Daily | EUR €5.00 |
Musée Départemental Arles Antique · Museum
EUR €8.00While the outdoor ruins are evocative, this museum is where the history of Arles becomes tangible. It is built over the remains of the Roman Circus and houses an extraordinary collection of sarcophagi and mosaics. The centerpiece is a 31-metre Roman river boat that was found perfectly preserved in the mud of the Rhône River. You will notice that travelers who visit this museum first have a much better context for the ruins in the city center. It is modern, climate-controlled, and spacious—a perfect retreat from the Provençal sun. Look specifically for the bust of Julius Caesar, believed to be the only one sculpted during his lifetime. The museum provides a level of detail that generic walking tours skip, particularly regarding the city's role as a vital trade port in the Roman empire. Even if you aren't a 'museum person,' the sheer scale of the Roman barge is a sight that rivals the Amphitheatre for impact.
Avenue de la 1ère Division Française Libre, 13200 Arles ·+33 4 13 31 51 03 ·10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Closed Tuesdays) ·www.arles-antique.cg13.fr
LUMA Arles · Landmark
FreeLUMA Arles is the city's bold statement on the 21st century. Designed by Frank Gehry, the silver tower is clad in 11,000 stainless steel panels that mimic the rock formations of the nearby Alpilles mountains. Inside, you'll find experimental art installations and a slide that spans multiple floors. Even those skeptical of modern architecture are often impressed by the scale and the views from the observation deck. The surrounding park, designed by Bas Smets, uses sustainable water management to create a cool microclimate—a literal breath of fresh air during a hot August port call. It is a striking contrast to the Roman limestone found elsewhere. You should visit not just for the art, but to see how Arles is reinventing itself from a museum-city into a contemporary cultural hub. The tower is visible from almost everywhere in Arles, serving as a modern North Star for navigation.
35 Avenue Victor Hugo, 13200 Arles ·+33 4 65 88 10 00 ·10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Daily ·www.luma.org
Roman Amphitheatre (Les Arènes) · Historical Site
EUR €9.00This is the icon of Arles. Built just a few years after the Colosseum in Rome, it is one of the best-preserved structures of its kind. When you stand on the arena floor, you are standing where gladiators fought and where 20,000 Romans roared for blood. It is best to climb the watchtower on the northern side; it was added during the Middle Ages when the arena was a fortified city. From there, you see the Rhône River curving through the landscape like a silver ribbon. The sheer scale of the limestone blocks, hauled from nearby quarries without modern machinery, is humbling. Most visitors just take a photo of the exterior and leave, but paying the entry fee allows you to explore the vaulted galleries where the echoes of the past are loudest. It is a visceral connection to the power of Rome that a textbook cannot replicate.
1 Rond-Point des Arènes, 13200 Arles ·+33 4 90 49 36 36 ·9:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Summer) ·www.arenes-arles.com
Saint-Trophime Cloister · Cultural Site
EUR €5.50If the Amphitheatre represents the power of Rome, the Saint-Trophime Cloister represents the spiritual depth of the Middle Ages. This is widely considered one of the most beautiful cloisters in France. The stone carvings on the pillars are exceptionally detailed, telling biblical stories to a medieval audience that could not read. You will find scenes of the Resurrection, the Three Kings, and various saints carved into the corners with incredible lifelike expressions. Travelers often describe it as the highlight of their day because of the profound sense of peace. The architecture creates a perfect square of light in the center, and even in the height of summer, the stone galleries remain remarkably cool. It is the perfect place to sit for fifteen minutes and simply absorb the craftsmanship of workers from 800 years ago.
6 Place de la République, 13200 Arles ·+33 4 90 49 33 53 ·9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Daily
The Alyscamps · Historical Site
EUR €5.00The Alyscamps was one of the most famous necropolises of the ancient world. For nearly 1,500 years, people clamored to be buried here, and their sarcophagi once lined the route for miles. Today, you walk down a narrow avenue of trees flanked by simple stone tombs. It is hauntingly beautiful and was a favorite subject for Van Gogh and Gauguin, who sat side-by-side painting this exact scene in 1888. The atmosphere is different from the rest of Arles; it is wooded, quiet, and slightly melancholy. You feel the weight of centuries as you walk toward the ruined church at the end. While most of the truly elaborate sarcophagi have been moved to the museum, the 'ghost' of the ancient road remains. It is recommended for those who want to escape the crowded city center and walk in the footsteps of the artists who made Arles famous.
Avenue des Alyscamps, 13200 Arles ·+33 4 90 49 36 87 ·9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Daily
Eating & Drinking in Arles
The culinary identity of Arles is defined by the 'Taureau de Camargue'—the black bulls that roam the nearby delta. This is not beef as you know it; it is leaner, grass-fed, and has a slightly gamey richness. The classic dish is 'Daube Camarguaise,' a slow-cooked stew with red wine, carrots, and black olives. You should also look for 'Tellines,' tiny wedge-shell clams sautéed with garlic and parsley, usually served as an appetizer. Drink the local 'Vin de Pays des Bouches-du-Rhône' or a crisp 'Rosé de Provence.' For something non-alcoholic, try 'Sirop de Lavande' with sparkling water. Most tourists expect to find 'Ratatouille' on every menu, but locals actually prefer 'Bohémienne,' a similar dish that uses only eggplant and tomatoes. For the most authentic experience, head to the Saturday morning market on Boulevard des Lices; this is where locals buy their 'Saucisson d'Arles,' a distinct donkey-and-pork sausage that has been made here since the 17th century.
| Place | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Le Galoubet | 18 Rue du Docteur Fanton, 13200 Arles | +33 4 90 93 18 11 | 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM, 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM (Closed Sunday/Monday) | €30–€45 (~$34.50–$52.00 USD) | |
| L'Apsara | 7 Rue du Cloître, 13200 Arles | +33 4 90 93 30 00 | 12:00 PM - 2:30 PM, 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM | €25–€35 (~$29.00–$40.50 USD) | |
| Le Cargo de Nuit | 7 Avenue Sadi Carnot, 13200 Arles | +33 4 90 49 55 99 | 6:00 PM - 12:00 AM (Check for concert schedule) | cargodenuit.com | €6–€12 (~$7.00–$14.00 USD) |
Le Galoubet
€30–€45 (~$34.50–$52.00 USD)Eat under a canopy of lush vines on a hidden terrace. Visitor feedback is consistent: the 'Daube de Taureau' is life-changing. The service is professional and brisk, perfect for a port call. Note that it is very popular; you should have your ship's concierge call for a 12:00 PM reservation the night before. The wine list features excellent, affordable rosés from the nearby Alpilles.
18 Rue du Docteur Fanton, 13200 Arles ·+33 4 90 93 18 11 ·12:00 PM - 2:00 PM, 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM (Closed Sunday/Monday)
L'Apsara
€25–€35 (~$29.00–$40.50 USD)Arles has a deep connection to former French Indochina, and L'Apsara is the best reflection of that history. The food is light, aromatic, and expertly prepared. Sitting in the stone-walled dining room just steps from the Cloister feels like a secret. It's an honest alternative if you've already had three days of heavy cruise ship dining. The portions are sensible, and the service is exceptionally warm.
7 Rue du Cloître, 13200 Arles ·+33 4 90 93 30 00 ·12:00 PM - 2:30 PM, 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Le Cargo de Nuit
€6–€12 (~$7.00–$14.00 USD)While many passengers head to the hotel bars, the 'Cargo' is where the actual culture of Arles happens. If your ship has a late departure, come here for a Pastis—the quintessential licorice-flavored spirit of Provence. The terrace overlooks the river area, and the atmosphere is effortlessly cool without being pretentious. It’s the best place to feel the 'real' Arles away from the Roman monuments.
7 Avenue Sadi Carnot, 13200 Arles ·+33 4 90 49 55 99 ·6:00 PM - 12:00 AM (Check for concert schedule)
Getting There & Around
The only practical way to navigate Arles is on foot. The historic center is a compact maze of medieval streets where cars are either prohibited or physically unable to fit. The walking time from the furthest northern monument (The Alyscamps) to the southern river dock takes about 18 minutes. For those who need to save their legs, the 'Navia' is a small electric shuttle bus that loops the city center every 15 minutes; a single ticket costs €1.00 (~$1.15 USD). Uber does not reliably operate in Arles; do not count on it for a timely return to the ship. Taxis must be called via the central dispatch (+33 4 90 96 90 00). One navigation tip: most maps are oriented with the river at the top, but the city actually slopes gently upward as you move away from the Rhône. To avoid stairs, always use the Rue de la République as your primary north-south spine; it is the flattest route through the city.
Itineraries & Sample Walks
4-Hour Shore Excursion in Arles
Roman Amphitheatre (Les Arènes)
9:00 AM (60 min)
Climb to the top of the medieval watchtower added to the Roman rim. It offers the single best panoramic view of the Rhône River and the terracotta rooftops of the city. Most visitors miss the small museum section on the ground floor explaining the 'fortified village' era of the arena.
- Walk east from Quai de la Roquette via Rue du Grand Prieuré. (Free)
- Entry: €9.00 ($10.50)
- Arrive at opening time. By 10:15 AM, the tour bus groups create a bottleneck at the narrow stairs leading to the watchtower.
Place de la République & Saint-Trophime
10:15 AM (45 min)
Admire the facade of Saint-Trophime; it is the finest Romanesque portal in France. Inside the City Hall, look up at the stone ceiling—it is held by its own weight without mortar. Most visitors walk past the Obelisk in the center without realizing it is a 4th-century Roman original from the circus.
- Walk 3 minutes west via Rue de la Calade. (Free)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Enter the City Hall and ask for the 'Cryptoportiques' entrance. It costs €5.00 (~$6.00 USD) and takes you into the silent, cool Roman foundation tunnels.
Place du Forum
11:15 AM (45 min)
This is the site of the famous 'Cafe Terrace at Night' painting. While the 'Cafe Van Gogh' is a tourist trap, the square itself is magnificent for people-watching. Look for the two Roman columns embedded in the corner of the Nord-Pinus Hotel.
- Walk 5 minutes north via Rue de la République. (Free)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Do not eat at the yellow cafe. Sit at the fountain and look at the statue of Frédéric Mistral, the Nobel-winning poet who saved the Provençal language.
Lunch Recommendation
Le Galoubet
Unlike the nearby Cafe Van Gogh which serves microwaved tourist fare, Le Galoubet offers a shaded terrace under vines and a fixed-price menu that locals actually eat.
Order: Daube Camarguaise (bull stew with red wine and olives), Tarte au Citron
18 Rue du Docteur Fanton, 13200 Arles
Cost: €35.00 (~$40.50 USD)
8-Hour Full Day Experience in Arles
Roman Amphitheatre
9:00 AM (60 min)
Explore the primary tiers and the watchtower.
- Walk from dock
- Entry: €9.00 ($10.50)
- Use the 'Pass Liberté' if visiting 3+ sites; it costs €12.00 (~$14.00 USD) and saves money.
Cloître Saint-Trophime
10:30 AM (45 min)
A sanctuary of quiet. The medieval carvings in the cloister are some of the most detailed in Europe.
- Walk 3 minutes
- Entry: €5.50 ($6.50)
- Look for the corner pillar depicting the Three Kings; it is a masterwork of 12th-century sculpture.
LUMA Arles
1:30 PM (90 min)
The Frank Gehry tower is a vertical village of stainless steel. The park (Parc des Ateliers) is a reclaimed industrial site that represents the new Arles.
- 12-minute walk south via Boulevard Victor Hugo. (Free)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Take the elevator to the top floor for a view that includes the Camargue on a clear day.
Fondation Vincent van Gogh
3:30 PM (60 min)
They do not have a permanent collection of his work, but host incredible rotating exhibitions pairing his influence with modern artists.
- 15-minute walk north. (Free)
- Entry: €10.00 ($11.50)
- Check the roof terrace for the glass installation by artist Urs Fischer.
Getting back to the ship
For a standard 6:00 PM departure, you must leave the Place de la République by 5:15 PM at the latest. This allows a 15-minute slow walk back to the Quai de la Roquette and a 30-minute safety buffer. If you are on the Quai de Trinquetaille, leave 10 minutes earlier to account for the bridge crossing. A taxi from the Boulevard des Lices to the dock will take 5 minutes and cost roughly €12.00 (~$14.00 USD), but they are hard to find after 5:00 PM. If you miss the ship, contact the Port Authority at +33 4 90 49 36 36. Note that river cruise ships rarely hold for late passengers as they must meet strict lock-timing schedules on the Rhône River; missing the ship will require a €100.00 (~$115.00 USD) taxi ride to the next port, usually Avignon.
Weather & Best Time to Visit Arles
Weather & What to Pack
Cruise season: March to November
15°C–30°C (59°F–86°F). Very dry with frequent high winds (Mistral).
What to wear: Layers are essential due to the Mistral wind, which can drop temperatures by 10 degrees in an hour. Wear thick-soled walking shoes; thin sandals will not protect your feet from the heat and uneven stones of the Roman sites. A wide-brimmed hat with a chin strap is mandatory in summer to block the limestone glare and resist the wind. Sunscreen is required even on cloudy days due to the high UV levels in Provence.
Weather risks: High winds (Mistral) can delay ship docking or prevent the use of top-deck sun canopies. Sudden heavy rain in October can cause flash flooding in the narrow streets.
Spring brings the clearest light for photographers, while autumn offers the most comfortable walking temperatures.
| Season | Conditions | Hazards | Affected areas | Visitor advice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer (June–August) | Intense dry heat and very high light levels. Temperatures regularly exceed 30°C (86°F). | The white limestone of the Roman monuments reflects heat and glare intensely. Dehydration is a risk in the exposed stone tiers of the Amphitheatre. | The Roman Amphitheatre, Roman Theatre, and the Boulevard des Lices market area. | Wear polarized sunglasses to combat the limestone glare. Visit the outdoor Roman sites before 10:30 AM or after 4:00 PM. Carry a refillable bottle; there is no shade inside the arena. |
| Spring and Autumn (April–May, September–October) | Mild but prone to the 'Mistral' wind—a powerful, cold, dry wind from the north. | The Mistral can reach 90 km/h, making walking on the riverfront docks difficult and creating a significant chill factor despite the sun. | The Rhône River quays, the top tiers of the Amphitheatre, and the Pont de Trinquetaille. | Even if the forecast says 20°C (68°F), the Mistral will make it feel like 10°C (50°F). Bring a windbreaker and a secure hat with a strap; hats are frequently lost to the river here. |
Practical Information
Cultural etiquette
In Arles, the greeting is 'Bonjour, Monsieur' or 'Bonjour, Madame.' Simply saying 'Bonjour' can be perceived as slightly abrupt. When entering a small boutique, it is mandatory to acknowledge the owner with a nod or a verbal greeting; ignoring them is considered a major social slight. At dinner, the French do not rush; do not signal for the bill until you are truly finished, as it is seen as rude to 'push' guests out. Tipping is inclusive in the menu price ('Service Compris'), but it is customary to leave an additional €2.00 or €3.00 (~$2.50–$3.50 USD) for good service at lunch, and 5% at dinner. Photography of people at the Saturday market is generally tolerated, but you should always ask permission before taking a close-up of a vendor or their artisanal products. One common misunderstanding: Arles is not a suburb of Avignon—it has a fierce local identity and its own 'Arlésienne' costume and traditions. Referring to them as 'just another Provençal town' will get you a very cool reception from locals.
Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake |
|---|
Eating lunch at the yellow 'Cafe Van Gogh' in Place du Forum. |
Visiting the Alyscamps and the Musée Antique on the same morning. |
Wearing flimsy sandals or high heels in the historic core. |
Assuming all monuments are open on Mondays. |
Practical tips
Arles is a card-friendly city, and you can pay by 'Sans Contact' (tap-to-pay) for almost everything, including the small Navia shuttle. However, the Saturday market is strictly cash-only for small purchases under €10.00. Tipping is not expected but leaving the small change is a gesture of goodwill. Learn these five phrases: 'Bonjour' (Good day), 'Merci' (Thank you), 'S'il vous plaît' (Please), 'Où est le quai?' (Where is the dock?), and 'L’addition, s'il vous plaît' (The bill, please). Pickpockets are rare but do operate in the dense crowds during the Saturday market; keep your bag in front of you on Boulevard des Lices. Dress code is relaxed, but you must cover your shoulders and knees to enter the Saint-Trophime church. The best time to visit the Amphitheatre is 9:00 AM; the 'Golden Hour' for photography at the riverfront is 45 minutes before sunset when the light turns a deep honey yellow, a phenomenon Van Gogh captured perfectly.
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FAQ — Arles
What is the 'Mistral' and how will it affect my day in Arles?
The Mistral is a powerful, cold, dry wind that blows from the north down the Rhône Valley. It can occur at any time but is most frequent in spring. In Arles, it can reach speeds of 90 km/h (56 mph), making it feel 10 degrees colder than the thermometer suggests. On the plus side, it clears the atmosphere, leading to the exceptionally bright, sharp light that Van Gogh loved. If the Mistral is blowing, avoid the top tiers of the Amphitheatre and the river quays where the wind is strongest. Wear a windbreaker and secure your hat. You will find that the Mistral can last for three, six, or nine days at a time.
Is there a specific 'Van Gogh House' I can visit in Arles?
No. The famous 'Yellow House' where Van Gogh lived and worked was tragically destroyed by Allied bombing in 1944. Today, a commemorative plaque marks the site at Place Lamartine. To see his influence, visit the Fondation Vincent van Gogh, which houses temporary exhibitions of his work and modern art inspired by him. You can also visit the 'Espace Van Gogh,' the former hospital where he was treated after cutting off his ear; the courtyard has been replanted to match his famous painting of the site, and a map of the ten 'easel' spots where he painted his most famous works is available.
Can I realistically walk to the Camargue salt flats from the ship?
No. The salt flats (salins) and the wilder parts of the Camargue delta start approximately 15 km (9 miles) south of the city center. There is no continuous walking path, and the roads are narrow and dangerous for pedestrians. To see the flamingos and salt flats, you must book a guided 4x4 tour or take the local Envia Bus Line 20 toward Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, which takes 35 minutes and costs €1.00 (~$1.15 USD). However, bus frequency is low, and a missed return could cause you to miss your ship's departure. A structured excursion for this specific interest is recommended.
When is the best time to visit the Arles market?
The main market takes place every Saturday morning from 8:00 AM to 12:45 PM along the Boulevard des Lices. It is one of the largest and most famous markets in Provence. Go early—by 9:30 AM it is incredibly crowded. You can find everything from local Camargue rice and sea salt to artisanal soaps and 'Indienne' fabrics. Be aware that prices are non-negotiable for food, but you can occasionally negotiate slightly for large fabric purchases. If your ship docks on a Wednesday, there is a smaller, more food-focused market on the same boulevard which is much easier to navigate.
Are the Roman ruins in Arles better than the ones in Nîmes?
It is a matter of scale versus variety. The Amphitheatre in Nîmes is slightly better preserved (it still has its original stone roof over the galleries), but Arles offers a higher concentration of UNESCO sites within a smaller, walkable area. In Arles, you have the Amphitheatre, the Theatre, the Baths of Constantine, and the Cryptoportiques all within 500 metres of each other. If you only have one day, Arles provides a more comprehensive 'Roman' experience without the need for transit. If you are a hardcore archaeology enthusiast, Nîmes is worth the 30-minute taxi ride, which costs roughly €60.00 (~$69.00 USD).
Is the tap water safe to drink in Arles?
Yes, tap water ('eau du robinet') in Arles is perfectly safe and tested to high standards. You will also find several historic stone fountains in the squares, such as the one in Place du Forum, which provide potable water for refilling bottles. If a fountain is not safe to drink, it will be clearly marked with a sign saying 'Eau non potable.' Using the public fountains can save you €3.00 (~$3.50 USD) per bottle compared to buying water at the kiosks near the Amphitheatre. Most river cruise ships also provide complimentary bottled water for excursions.
Where is the 'Van Gogh Bridge' located and is it worth the walk?
The 'Pont Van Gogh' (Langlois Bridge) is located 3 km (1.8 miles) south of the city center. It is a reconstruction of the original drawbridge he painted. The walk takes about 45 minutes each way along a dusty, semi-industrial road that is not particularly scenic. Unless you are a Van Gogh devotee, it is generally not worth the 90-minute round trip on foot during a short port call. If you must see it, it is a good idea to take a quick taxi, which will cost about €15.00 (~$17.50 USD) and take 10 minutes.
What should I buy as a 'genuine' Arles souvenir?
Skip the plastic gladiators. The most authentic Arles souvenirs are 'Fleur de Sel' from the Camargue (sea salt), a box of 'Arlésiennes' (chocolate-covered almond sweets), or a piece of 'Souleiado' fabric. For a small gift, a bag of 'Herbes de Provence' actually grown in the region (look for the 'Label Rouge' certification) is inexpensive and evocative. These items are available at the boutiques on Rue de la République for roughly €5.00–€25.00 (~$6.00–$29.00 USD), and specific artisans whose workshops are open for visitors can be found.
Is it safe to walk in Arles after dark if my ship stays late?
Arles is generally very safe for tourists. The historic center remains active until 10:00 PM in the summer, with many people dining in the squares. The riverfront path is well-lit near the cruise docks. As in any city, avoid the dimly lit alleys of the La Roquette district late at night if you are alone, and be mindful of your surroundings near the train station. The walk back to the Quai de la Roquette is along a main road and is used by many fellow passengers, making it a very safe route.
How much does a taxi to Avignon cost if I miss the ship?
If you miss the departure, a taxi to Avignon (the next major stop for most Rhône cruises) will cost between €90.00 and €110.00 (~$103.00–$126.50 USD). The journey takes about 45 minutes depending on traffic. You should call the central taxi dispatch at +33 4 90 96 90 00. To avoid this, always carry the ship's emergency contact number, which is printed on your daily program or room key. Visitors should return to the ship 30 minutes before the 'All Aboard' time to ensure no stress.
Fact-checked and co-written by J. Richard, Founder, Waterways Cruise, with the Waterways Cruise Content Team.
Published May 19, 2026 · Last updated October 8, 2026
This guide is researched and reviewed by our editorial team, but prices, hours, and availability change often. Confirm current details directly with venues, excursion operators, and your cruise line before you travel.