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Place du Forum

4.6
·491k reviews·Reims, France

The iconic square that inspired Van Gogh's 'Café Terrace at Night,' offering a vibrant atmosphere and rich Roman history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Place du Forum - Thank you for your support ⏩ https://www.buymeacoffee.com/a.lep

Place du Forum

Best Time

Early mornings

Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

The iconic square that inspired Van Gogh's 'Café Terrace at Night,' offering a vibrant atmosphere and rich Roman history.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Experience the magic of Van Gogh's inspiration at this lively Arles square, day or night!"

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture Van Gogh's View

Visit both day and night to see the cafe terrace that inspired Van Gogh's masterpiece.

🍷 Explore Roman Cellars

Check out Les Caves du Forum for great wine in ancient Roman cellars. Friendly staff!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Van Gogh's Café Terrace

Van Gogh's Café Terrace

North side of Place du Forum

The iconic cafe terrace that inspired Van Gogh's famous painting. Experience its vibrant colors and atmosphere.

Place du Forum Ambiance

Place du Forum Ambiance

The entire square

Soak in the lively atmosphere of this historic square, a hub for locals and visitors alike.

Roman Forum Ruins

Roman Forum Ruins

Adjacent to the square

Discover remnants of ancient Roman history, including the cryptoporticus.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

To truly capture the magic of Place du Forum, aim for the golden hours. Early mornings offer a serene atmosphere before the crowds arrive, perfect for appreciating Van Gogh's inspiration. Evenings, especially during warmer months, come alive with a vibrant ambiance, ideal for enjoying a drink at one of the cafes.

Embrace the Van Gogh Connection

Place du Forum is famously known as the setting for Van Gogh's 'Café Terrace at Night.' Immerse yourself in the artist's vision by visiting during daylight to see the vibrant colors and then again at night to experience the illuminated terrace that inspired his masterpiece. Consider a guided tour to deepen your understanding of its artistic significance.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Vibrant ambiance, illuminated terrace
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Visiting Reims for a day and night. Besides the cathedral any suggestions?

📸 Capture Van Gogh's View

Visit both day and night to see the cafe terrace that inspired Van Gogh's masterpiece. TikTok

🍷 Explore Roman Cellars

Check out Les Caves du Forum for great wine in ancient Roman cellars. Friendly staff! Reddit

reddit.com

Buy not sparkling/champagne wine in Champagne

reddit.com

Epernay / Reims advice

🚶‍♀️ Wander the Square

Enjoy the lively atmosphere of Place du Forum, a perfect spot for people-watching. Instagram

🏛️ Discover Roman History

Don't miss the nearby Roman Forum ruins for a glimpse into ancient Arles. TikTok

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture Van Gogh's View

Visit both day and night to see the cafe terrace that inspired Van Gogh's masterpiece. TikTok

🍷 Explore Roman Cellars

Check out Les Caves du Forum for great wine in ancient Roman cellars. Friendly staff! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Wander the Square

Enjoy the lively atmosphere of Place du Forum, a perfect spot for people-watching. Instagram

🏛️ Discover Roman History

Don't miss the nearby Roman Forum ruins for a glimpse into ancient Arles. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Place du Forum is cherished for its iconic Van Gogh connection and vibrant atmosphere, especially at night. Visitors appreciate the lively cafes and the historical significance of the Roman ruins nearby. Some find the cafe prices a bit high, and parking can be a challenge, but the overall experience is highly rewarding.

What People Like

Van Gogh's inspiration
Lively evening ambiance
Historic Roman ruins

What People Dislike

Tourist-priced cafes
Parking difficulties

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Place du Forum is centrally located in Arles, France. It's easily accessible on foot from most parts of the city center. If arriving by train, it's a pleasant walk from the Arles train station (Gare d'Arles), taking about 15-20 minutes. Taxis are also available from the station. TikTok

Parking can be challenging in the historic center. The closest public parking garages are Parking Arles Centre and Parking de la Cavalerie. It's often recommended to park a bit further out and walk to enjoy the city's charm. Instagram

Yes, local buses serve the area around Place du Forum. Check the Arles public transport schedules for routes that stop near the city center. TikTok

Absolutely! Place du Forum is a pedestrian-friendly area, and walking is the best way to explore its charm and discover hidden corners. Reddit

The easiest way is by train from Marseille Saint-Charles station to Arles. The journey takes about 20-30 minutes. From Arles station, you can walk or take a short taxi ride to Place du Forum. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Place du Forum itself is a public square and is free to enter and explore at any time. TikTok

Place du Forum is always open, as it's an outdoor public space. The surrounding cafes and shops have their own operating hours. Instagram

The cafe itself, 'Café La Nuit' (formerly Café Terrace), is a functioning establishment. You don't pay an entrance fee to see it, but you can choose to dine or have a drink there. TikTok

To fully appreciate the Van Gogh connection, visit during the day to see the colors and then again at night to experience the illuminated terrace that inspired his painting. TikTok

Yes, guided tours focusing on Van Gogh's life and work in Arles often include a stop at Place du Forum. These can provide deeper historical and artistic context. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

For capturing the essence of Van Gogh's 'Café Terrace at Night,' visit at dusk or after dark when the cafe is illuminated. For general square photos, early morning offers soft light and fewer people. TikTok

The iconic yellow and blue facade of the cafe terrace is a must-capture. Also, look for interesting architectural details around the square and the nearby Roman ruins. Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed for personal use, but it's always best to ask the staff at Les Caves du Forum if you plan on taking extensive photos. Reddit

As a public space, general photography is permitted. However, be mindful of people's privacy when taking close-up shots. TikTok

For night shots, use a tripod if possible to avoid blur. Experiment with longer exposure times and a slightly higher ISO. Many smartphones now have excellent night modes. Instagram

🍽️ 🍷 Food & Dining

Place du Forum is lined with cafes and restaurants offering a range of options, from light snacks and coffee to full meals, often featuring Provençal cuisine. TikTok

While some cafes can be tourist-priced, you can find more affordable options by exploring side streets. Look for 'plat du jour' (dish of the day) specials. Reddit

Yes, you can sit at the terrace of 'Café La Nuit' and order drinks or food, experiencing the very spot that inspired Van Gogh. TikTok

Cafe hours vary, but most are open from morning until late evening, especially during peak tourist season. Some may close between lunch and dinner. Instagram

Yes, Les Caves du Forum is a highly recommended wine store located in ancient Roman cellars, offering a unique tasting experience. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Place du Forum offers a visually stimulating environment for families. The bright colors of the Van Gogh cafe are engaging for children, and the open square provides space to move around. Consider visiting during the day when it's less crowded and the Roman ruins nearby can offer a sense of adventure. Pack snacks and drinks, as cafe prices can be a bit high for younger budgets. TikTokReddit

Exploring the nearby Roman Forum and its cryptoporticus can be an exciting historical expedition for kids, sparking their imagination about ancient times. While the cafes are family-friendly, keep an eye on little ones in busier periods. The overall atmosphere is relaxed, making it a pleasant stop during a family day out in Arles.

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

For art lovers, Place du Forum is a must-visit pilgrimage site. Standing on the very spot that inspired Van Gogh's 'Café Terrace at Night' is a profound experience. Take time to compare the actual scene with reproductions of the painting and imagine the artist at work. TikTokInstagram

Consider joining a guided tour that focuses on Van Gogh's time in Arles to gain deeper insights into his artistic process and the historical context of the square. Visiting at different times of day, especially dusk and night, will offer varied perspectives on the light and color that so fascinated the artist. Reddit

🍷 Wine Connoisseurs

Wine enthusiasts should not miss Les Caves du Forum. This unique wine shop, set within ancient Roman cellars, offers an exceptional opportunity to explore and taste a curated selection of regional wines. The knowledgeable and friendly staff can guide you through their offerings, making it a perfect stop for discovering local vintages. Reddit

Beyond Les Caves du Forum, many of the cafes on Place du Forum offer local Provençal wines by the glass or bottle. Enjoying a glass of rosé or a robust red while soaking in the atmosphere of the square is a quintessential Arles experience. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Van Gogh Connection

Place du Forum holds a special place in art history as the setting for Vincent van Gogh's iconic painting, 'Café Terrace at Night' (1888). Van Gogh was captivated by the vibrant colors and lively atmosphere of the square, particularly the illuminated terrace of the cafe. He described the scene in a letter to his sister, noting the contrast between the bright yellow of the gaslight and the deep blues of the night sky. The painting is celebrated for its pioneering use of color and its evocative portrayal of a nocturnal scene. TikTokInstagram

Today, visitors can stand on the very spot where Van Gogh set up his easel and experience the same ambiance that inspired him. The cafe, now known as 'Café La Nuit,' still retains much of its original charm, with its distinctive yellow awning and outdoor seating. While the scene has evolved with modern Arles, the essence of Van Gogh's inspiration remains palpable, making it a pilgrimage site for art lovers and tourists alike. TikTokReddit

To truly connect with Van Gogh's vision, it's recommended to visit Place du Forum both during the day to appreciate the colors and architecture, and at night to witness the magical illumination that so inspired the artist. Many visitors find that seeing the square at different times of day enhances their appreciation of its artistic significance. Instagram

Exploring Arles' Roman Heritage

Beyond its artistic fame, Place du Forum is situated amidst the rich historical tapestry of Arles, a city with a significant Roman past. Adjacent to the square, you can explore remnants of the Roman Forum, including the cryptoporticus, a fascinating underground gallery that once supported the forum above. These ancient structures offer a tangible link to Arles' importance as a Roman provincial capital. TikTok

These Roman ruins, along with the nearby Arles Amphitheatre and Roman Theatre, are UNESCO World Heritage sites and provide a compelling glimpse into the city's ancient grandeur. Walking through these sites, you can almost imagine the bustling life of Roman Arles. The cryptoporticus, in particular, is known for its cool, echoing atmosphere and its intricate stonework, offering a unique subterranean experience. Reddit

For those interested in history, dedicating time to explore these Roman monuments is highly recommended. They offer a stark contrast to the vibrant, artistic present of Place du Forum and provide a comprehensive understanding of Arles' layered history. TikTok

Local Flavors and Wine Experiences

Place du Forum and its surroundings offer a delightful culinary journey, with numerous cafes and restaurants serving traditional Provençal dishes. Visitors can savor local specialties, enjoy a leisurely coffee, or simply soak in the atmosphere with a glass of regional wine. The lively ambiance of the square makes it an ideal spot for people-watching while enjoying a meal. TikTok

A unique local experience recommended by travelers is Les Caves du Forum. This establishment is housed within ancient Roman cellars, offering a distinctive setting to discover and taste a wide selection of wines. The staff are known for their friendliness and expertise, making it a memorable stop for wine enthusiasts. Reddit

When visiting the cafes on the square, look out for seasonal menus and local produce. Many establishments pride themselves on using fresh, regional ingredients, offering an authentic taste of Provence. Instagram

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