The Arles Amphitheatre (Arènes d'Arles) is a Roman amphitheatre built around 90 AD, the largest ancient monument in the Provençal town of Arles and one of the best-preserved in the Roman world. Its two tiers of 60 arches once held some 20,000 spectators for gladiatorial games; in the Middle Ages it became a fortified town-within-a-town, and three medieval watchtowers still crown its rim today. In 2026 it remains a living arena — a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981 that still hosts bullfights, Camargue bull-running and concerts — so you can walk the same stone tiers as the Romans and climb a tower for sweeping views over Arles and the Rhône.
The two-level façade of 60 superimposed arches — the amphitheatre's iconic silhouette
Climbing one of the three surviving medieval towers for a panorama over Arles' terracotta rooftops and the Rhône
The oval arena floor and tiered seating (cavea) where you can picture Roman spectacles
Traces of its medieval past, when 200-plus houses and chapels filled the interior
The link to Van Gogh, who painted the arena during an 1888 feria
Good to know
SafetyThe 2,000-year-old steps and seating are worn smooth and slippery, with almost no handrails. Wear flat, non-slip shoes, and take care on the tower stairs, which are narrow and steep.
SeasonProvence summers (Jul–Aug) are very hot and the arena offers little shade — bring water, a hat and sunscreen. In spring, autumn and winter the Mistral wind can be strong and cold, so pack a layer.
RulesDuring ferias and events (Feria de Pâques, 3–6 Apr 2026; Feria du Riz, 11–13 Sep 2026) regular sightseeing may be restricted or suspended. Last entry is before closing, and it is shut on 1 Jan and 25 Dec, so check the calendar ahead.
CautionBuy tickets at the official box office or arenes-arles.com. Beware third-party resellers charging inflated 'skip-the-line' prices, and watch for pickpockets in the crowds during feria periods.
MannersThe bullfighting (corrida) staged here can end with the bull being killed and is ethically controversial — decide whether to attend with that in mind (the gentler course camarguaise does not kill the bull). Be respectful when photographing performers and locals.
RulesBullfights and feria performances are separately ticketed events not covered by the monument entry fee, and must be booked on their own.
Practical info
The amphitheatre sits in the heart of old Arles, an easy walk from the train station, and a visit takes about 1–1.5 hours. Opening hours are seasonal (roughly 9:00–19:00 in summer, shorter in winter) and it closes on 1 Jan and 25 Dec; standard admission is around €11, with combined 'Pass Liberté / Pass Avantage' options covering Arles' other Roman monuments — always confirm current hours and prices on the official site before you go.
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