Arles Ancient Museum
Discover Arles' Roman legacy through sarcophagi, mosaics, and the astonishing Arles Rhone 3 barge.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Arles Ancient Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Arles' Roman legacy through sarcophagi, mosaics, and the astonishing Arles Rhone 3 barge.
"Must visit to understand the great past of this area, with incredible artifacts gathered in this museum!"
🎟️ City Pass for Savings
Get the Arles Advantage Pass for discounts on this museum and other monuments. :ticket:
👜 Bag Storage Available
Lockers are available for larger bags with a 1 euro deposit. :handbag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Arles Rhone 3 Barge
Main Exhibition Hall
Marvel at the remarkably preserved ancient Roman barge, a spectacular discovery from the Rhone riverbed.
Roman Sarcophagi & Busts
Various Galleries
Explore a compelling collection of intricately carved sarcophagi and lifelike busts from the Roman era.
Augustinian Era Mosaics
Mosaic Gallery
Admire vibrant and detailed mosaics that showcase the artistry and daily life of Roman Arles.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Unlock Arles' Roman Past
Navigating Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ City Pass for Savings
Get the Arles Advantage Pass for discounts on this museum and other monuments. :ticket:
👜 Bag Storage Available
Lockers are available for larger bags with a 1 euro deposit. :handbag:
Arles, Avignon or Nimes? Someone just tell me what to do!!! I beg!!
Advice on itinery: Provence and French Riviera
🗣️ English Subtitles/Translation
Some exhibits have English subtitles, but translation apps may be needed for other info. :iphone:
🚶♀️ Mind Bike Paths
Be cautious of bike and pedestrian tunnels when walking to the museum. :athletic_shoe:
Southern France for 9 days.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ City Pass for Savings
Get the Arles Advantage Pass for discounts on this museum and other monuments. :ticket:
👜 Bag Storage Available
Lockers are available for larger bags with a 1 euro deposit. :handbag:
🗣️ English Subtitles/Translation
Some exhibits have English subtitles, but translation apps may be needed for other info. :iphone:
🚶♀️ Mind Bike Paths
Be cautious of bike and pedestrian tunnels when walking to the museum. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Arles Ancient Museum for its impressive collection, particularly the remarkably preserved Roman barge and detailed sarcophagi. Many recommend it as a highlight of their Arles visit and a must-see for understanding the region's Roman past. The museum is noted for being manageable in size, making it an enjoyable experience even for those with limited time.
"Very interesting place. I went there because of the combined ticket (pass), and left impressed by the incredible collection gathered in this museum! Must visit to understand the great past of this area."
elaDevilara
"Prob the highlight of my 4 hours in Arles. This museum is small enough to not get bored. And it has a good amount of well preserved cool artifacts like the barge or the different busts."
V H
"The historical journey of the region is complete and have all living cultural and industrial aspects special ..Roman versus local mix report"
Jeanpierre Koeltgen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is centrally located in Arles, making it easily accessible on foot from most parts of the city. If arriving by car, there are parking options nearby. Public transport within Arles is limited, so walking is often the most convenient method.
Yes, the museum is a pleasant walk from the Arles train station, typically taking around 15-20 minutes. The route is generally straightforward and allows you to see some of the city.
There are several public parking lots in Arles, some of which are within a short walking distance of the museum. It's advisable to check local signage for the nearest and most convenient options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary seasonally, so it's best to check the official museum website or local tourist information for the most up-to-date times before your visit.
Admission fees apply, but purchasing an Arles Advantage Pass can offer significant savings if you plan to visit multiple historical sites and museums in Arles.
While not always explicitly stated, it's often possible to purchase tickets in advance online through the museum's official website or the Arles tourist office to save time.
Yes, the Arles Advantage Pass is highly recommended as it covers entry to the Ancient Museum and many other key Roman monuments and museums in the city, offering excellent value.
Discounts are often available for students, seniors, and children. The Arles Advantage Pass also represents a form of discount for visiting multiple sites.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The museum is relatively compact, so a visit typically takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest level in the exhibits.
Yes, the museum offers fascinating exhibits like the ancient barge that can capture children's attention. The historical context provides an educational experience for younger visitors.
Information is primarily presented through displays. While an audio guide might not be standard, some exhibits feature films with English subtitles. Consider using translation apps for additional text.
Yes, lockers are available at the entrance for larger bags, requiring a 1 euro deposit for the key.
Visitors often highlight the incredibly preserved Roman barge, the collection of sarcophagi, and the detailed mosaics as standout exhibits.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally permitted inside the museum, but flash photography might be restricted to protect the artifacts. Always check for posted signs.
The ancient Roman barge is a unique and impressive subject. The detailed sarcophagi and vibrant mosaics also offer excellent photographic opportunities.
The main hall housing the barge, as well as the galleries displaying the sarcophagi and mosaics, are considered the most photogenic areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit smoother, utilize the lockers for bags to keep hands free for exploring. While not all information may be in English, the visual nature of the exhibits and the film about the barge can be understood by most. Consider a translation app for deeper engagement with the text panels.
🏛️ History Buffs & Archaeology Enthusiasts
Combine your visit with the Arles Advantage Pass to explore other key Roman sites like the Amphitheatre and Theatre, creating a full immersion into the city's ancient past. The museum's well-preserved artifacts offer a direct link to the lives of those who inhabited this region centuries ago.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Arles Advantage Pass: Your Key to History
When considering the pass, think about how many of the included sites you realistically plan to visit. For most visitors aiming to see the major Roman landmarks, the pass pays for itself quickly. It's a smart investment that enhances the overall experience by providing comprehensive access to the historical heart of Arles.
Discovering the Arles Rhone 3
The museum dedicates a significant space to showcasing the barge, often accompanied by informative displays and even a film with English subtitles that details its discovery and restoration. This exhibit is frequently cited by visitors as a highlight, offering a profound sense of history and the ingenuity of ancient civilizations. It's a testament to the rich archaeological finds that Arles has yielded.



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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit