Arles and the Alpilles by van: 5 must-see highlights

From Roman heritage to Provençal landscapes and hilltop villages, Arles and the Alpilles offer an unforgettable road trip for vanlife enthusiasts. Discover our top picks.

Arles, the gateway to the Alpilles, is a magical stop for campervan travellers. Here, ancient history blends with the vibrant colours of Provence, among olive groves, vineyards and ochre cliffs. Ready to explore? Here are 5 unmissable spots, all easily accessible by van.

Arles Roman Amphitheatre

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this 1st-century amphitheatre is one of the best-preserved in the world. Picture gladiator battles as you walk its still-intact tiers.

Where to sleep nearby

Quay Saint-Pierre parking in Arles Parking ★ 4.1 Rhône riverside with stunning views of the old town. 7 min walk, free and well-rated (4.1). › Camping City Campsite ★ 3.3 Wooded and peaceful campsite, 17 min walk. Shaded pitches, full waste disposal area. › Canal bank parking near Van Gogh bridge Arles Parking ★ 3.8 Idyllic spot near Van Gogh Bridge, 32 min walk. Free, natural setting by the canal. › Camping l'Arlesienne Campsite ★ 3.1 3-star campsite with pool and slides, 34 min walk. Full amenities, ideal for families. › Downtown parking Arles Parking ★ 3.8 Free urban car park from 7pm to 9am, 2 min walk. Well-lit, easy access near the ramparts. ›

Les Baux-de-Provence

Perched on a rocky spur, this medieval village offers breathtaking views over the Alpilles. Its cobbled streets and ruined castle transport visitors back in time.

Where to sleep nearby

Wooded parking Les Baux-de-Provence Parking ★ 4.8 Secluded wooded car park, 15 min walk from Les Baux. Free, quiet and highly rated (4.8/5). › Mas Carlin Campsite ★ 4.8 Campsite in a vineyard estate, 6 km away. Warm welcome, flat and shaded pitches for self-sufficient campervans. › Alpilles view parking Saint-Rémy-de-Provence Parking ★ 4.3 Alpilles panorama among olive trees, 6 km away. Rough track, absolute peace and free. › Camping Pegomas Campsite ★ 4.3 3-star campsite 6 km from Saint-Rémy. Flat pitches, hedges, close to the historic centre. › Camping Les Romarins Campsite ★ 4.2 Shaded municipal campsite in Maussane, 33 min walk. Clean facilities, perfect base for the Alpilles. ›

Pont du Gard

A masterpiece of Roman engineering, this 50 km-long aqueduct bridge is a sight to behold. A walk on foot lets you admire its colossal structure from every angle.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping La Sousta Campsite ★ 4.4 Wooded campsite 10 min walk from Pont du Gard, with pool and shaded pitches. Rated 4.4, 365 reviews, easy access. › Camping-Car Park Remoulins Motorhome area ★ 3.7 Paid area (€16) by the Gardon, 2 km from the site. Flat and well-located car park, 335 reviews. › Parking shaded woods Cabrières Parking ★ 4.6 Free shaded car park in garrigue, 7 min drive. Quiet, easy access for campervans up to 7m. › Quiet parking near Pont du Gard Vers-Pont-du-Gard Parking ★ 4.4 Free, flat municipal car park, 27 min walk from the Pont. Quiet, ideal for an overnight stay, 38 reviews. › Camping Barralet Campsite ★ 4.1 Family-friendly 3-star campsite with pool and river access. 5 min drive, views of the Gardon. ›

Montmajour Abbey

Just minutes from Arles, this 10th-century Benedictine abbey is an oasis of calm. Its cloisters and abbey church are gems of Romanesque architecture.

Where to sleep nearby

La Ferme Lou Craven Campsite ★ 4.7 Family-run farm rated 4.7/5 with animals, authentic atmosphere. 6 km (7 min) drive, absolute peace. › D33, Fontvieille Motorhome area ★ 4.1 Shaded area rated 4.1/5 under pine trees, €10/night. 4 km (5 min) drive, near Daudet’s mill. › Camping Huttopia Fontvieille - Provence Campsite ★ 4.4 4.4/5-rated campsite in a pine forest, spacious pitches. 5 km (5 min) drive, ideal for families. › Parking by road with pine trees and olive grove Fontvieille Parking ★ 4.1 Free wild parking near the Roman aqueduct. 5 km (6 min) drive, natural setting under pine trees. › Parking near Alyscamps Arles Parking ★ 4 Free shaded car park, 10 min walk from the centre. 4 km (5 min) drive, quiet at night. ›

Mouries and its olive oil mill

The capital of AOP Vallée des Baux olive oil, Mouries is home to a traditional mill where you can uncover the secrets of production. A tasting is a must to take home local flavours.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Les Amandaies Campsite ★ 4.7 Family-run farm campsite with 10 pitches. New facilities, absolute peace (48 min walk). › Quiet parking Maussane-les-Alpilles Parking ★ 4.4 Large free car park 500 m from shops. Very quiet, perfect for a stopover (7 min drive). › Fromagerie les cabres d'or...Élie Campsite ★ 4.5 Free parking at a goat cheese maker. Excellent artisanal cheeses (5 min drive). › Camping Les Romarins Campsite ★ 4.2 Shaded, well-maintained municipal campsite. Perfect base for exploring the Alpilles (7 min drive). › Mouriès olive grove parking Parking ★ 4.2 Free picnic area among olive trees. Shaded table, hiking trail access (16 min walk). ›

Carrières de Lumières

Set in former limestone quarries, these galleries host spectacular immersive exhibitions. A unique place where art and nature meet.

Where to sleep nearby

Quay Saint-Pierre parking in Arles Parking ★ 4.1 Stunning Rhône views, 5 min walk. Free and central, perfect for sunset. › D33, Fontvieille Motorhome area ★ 4.1 Shaded area under pine trees, €10/night. Absolute peace at the foot of Daudet’s mill, card payment accepted. › Camping City Campsite ★ 3.3 Wooded campsite, 19 min walk, shaded pitches. Full waste disposal area for a practical stay. › Canal bank parking near Van Gogh bridge Arles Parking ★ 3.8 Idyllic spot by the canal, 32 min walk. Free and natural setting near Van Gogh Bridge. › Camping l'Arlesienne Campsite ★ 3.1 Pool and slides, 36 min walk. 3-star campsite with all amenities for families. ›

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