While many travelers visit Arles to follow in the footsteps of Vincent van Gogh or to marvel at the Roman Amphitheater, the city’s true soul is often discovered through its vibrant commercial streets. From bustling Provençal markets to hidden ateliers, shopping here is less about consumerism and more about cultural immersion.
Unlike the polished boutiques of Paris or the glamorous promenades of the French Riviera, Arles offers a distinctly bohemian and artisanal experience. The city has become a haven for designers, antique dealers, and food purveyors who value tradition, craftsmanship, and the unique light that defines the Camargue region.
Understanding where to spend your time and money is essential to unlocking the best of this ancient city. Whether you are hunting for a vintage linen garment, a bottle of regional olive oil, or a piece of contemporary art, the retail landscape here is surprisingly diverse and deeply rooted in local history.
The layout of Arles is compact and pedestrian-friendly, meaning the best shopping spots are often just a short stroll from one another. As you wander through the narrow, winding streets of the historic center, you will find that many shops are tucked away in centuries-old stone buildings, adding a layer of atmosphere to every purchase.
To help you navigate this treasure trove, we have curated a list of the most compelling shopping destinations in the city. From bustling open-air markets that have operated for centuries to modern concept stores pushing the boundaries of design, these are the spots that define the retail character of Arles.
Below, you will find the essential places to visit if you want to bring a piece of Provence home with you. After the list, be sure to read our practical tips for navigating the local shopping culture and making the most of your budget and luggage space.
Shopping Promenade Arles

| Address | Centre Commercial Shopping Promenade, Avenue du colonel Arnaud beltrame, 13200 Arles |
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | — |
paolo★★★★★
I really like this mall, in a way it reminds me the Japanese shotengai although the shopping experience is not fully covered by a roof, I particularly like old school Fnac store
Thomas Adams★★★★★
Great selection of shops with amazing atmosphere!!
Super clean as well. As someone from Marseille I was shocked and how well everything's looked after.
Super easy parking
Gumilar Ramdani★★★★★
Wonderful place for shopping and fun.
michelle higgins★★★☆☆
Love all the cafés, and there's a good atmosphere. Nearly all the shops sell clothes or shoes, so not too much variety for browsing , but if you want to visit a specific shop, the ample car parking space is convenient.
A A★★★★☆
A good store in a nice complex... Prices could be a little cheaper.
La Galerie - Arles

| Address | Zone de Fourchon, Chem. de Fourchon, 13200 Arles |
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Thursday: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Friday: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Saturday: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 04 90 18 54 78 |
michelle higgins★★★★☆
Mainly a giant supermarket (Casino) which can be expensive but has a wide range and choice of products. Also other chain brand stores like Camaieu and Yves Rocher.
Chris Darge★★★★★
Amazingly varied shopping availability not just in this mall but also the surrounding business park area.....well worth a visit.
Gumilar Ramdani★★★★★
Nice big shopping area. Love it.
Elle Forrest★★★★★
Anything you could possibly want...5 euro caviar, that's good!
Alexander Brukhatski★☆☆☆☆
No restaurants are opened at dinner-time. So we have nothing bought and simply departed.
No way
The Arles market

| Address | 8 Bd des Lices, 13200 Arles |
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Thursday: Closed
Friday: Closed
Saturday: 8:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 04 90 49 36 36 |
David Slayback★★★★★
If you're here when it's open, you owe it to yourself to go. Nothing like your typical indoor boutique markets or upscale once a month things, this feels like a proper market for locals (and is a madhouse as such). Plenty of fresh produce at good prices, many places to grab a cheap, delicious meal for a picnic. A few more expensive places selling things like cured meats and nougat. I advise you to walk the length before buying anything if you have time to do it, many of the vendors sell the same things but at different prices.
Ruth Alegria★★★★★
Freshest vegetables and fruit, prepared foods ( paella for lunch)
Strawberries, small and sweet
Golden plums for tonight's sweet
Boulangerie - baguette and an almond religeuse
Provencal linens
Middle eastern breads and spices
AND SO MUCH MORE at the "small" Wednesday market .
Can't wait for Saturday!
Martin Ranger★★★★☆
Pretty large market with stalls selling everything from prepared food to clothes.
The Saturday market has more food, the Wednesday one ist more focused on second hand clothes, knickknacks, and is generally more utilitarian.
Both days are crowded and busy.
From a tourist perspective, there are more interesting markets.
Michael Moriarity★★★★★
This open air market provides an interesting opportunity to view such a very wide variety of crafts,fruits,vegetables,meat,honey and so much more and stretches two kilometres…capturing the energy of an open market with healthy interaction of customer with the seller…some suggest on the Wednesday Market there is a paradise for bargain hunters …
wolfgang steinhoff★★★★★
After the one in Carpentras the most beautifull large Provence market. Delicious food, specialities, little tourist merchandise, crowded but safe.
Manufactures de Camargue - Boutique d'Arles

| Address | 14 Pl. de la République, 13200 Arles |
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 2:30 – 7:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 2:30 – 7:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 2:30 – 7:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 2:30 – 7:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 2:30 – 7:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 2:30 – 7:00 PM
Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 04 90 18 21 52 |
Mélanie Gillet★★★★★
Beautiful shop. Quality clothing. Warm welcome. I recommend it!!
Carole Bache★★★★★
Whether you're looking for a gift or a treat for yourself, I highly recommend this superb boutique in Arles. Professional service and clothing that blends Camargue tradition with quality.
Caroline★☆☆☆☆
Great shop, discreet service and pleasant checkout. The staff aren't spying on you. I made an impulse purchase of a handbag for myself.
And luckily it wasn't a gift! What a surprise the next day when I got home (over a 2.5-hour drive) and went to use the bag... I found the 2022 Christmas menu in one of the pockets! Along with the purchase receipt and a list of guests and their debts! In short, I unknowingly bought secondhand! At this price point, a little respect and a "pre-owned" label would be appreciated! You think you're buying something new, but you're not at all! Luckily I didn't give it as a gift! I feel shamefully duped! Beware, and watch out for scams! A smile isn't everything in this shop!
Guenille Guenille★★★☆☆
Following my previous comment and conversation with Jacques on the phone, there was undoubtedly an unfortunate series of events leading to the bag being returned for an exchange.
The customer who requested the exchange hadn't completely emptied the bag, and it hadn't been thoroughly checked before being put back on the shelf. Hence my disappointment with the purchase and my doubts about the item being new.
My initial enthusiasm for the bag remains undiminished, and I appreciate Jacques' apologies during our phone conversation. Despite this setback, I maintain that the service is pleasant and the shop is inviting. If you appreciate beautiful things, don't hesitate!
Thierry CHAIX★★★★★
A very nice shop, with superb shirts and a lovely selection of Barbour jackets. And many other very stylish items. The manager was also very welcoming.
In short, nothing to complain about. See you soon!
Folies de Provence

| Address | 12 Pl. de la République, 13200 Arles |
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM, 2:00 – 7:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM, 2:00 – 7:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM, 2:30 – 7:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM, 2:30 – 7:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM, 2:30 – 7:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | 09 67 57 50 48 |
grazia★★★★★
Super cute place. Very lilac.
FIRMIN Anaïs★☆☆☆☆
Lovely shop with nice, fragrant products, but I didn't like the way the saleswoman spoke to me! A shame, because I love perfume and I was going to buy some...
Anzhela Lupakova★★★★★
A wonderful shop with a wide selection of handmade soaps. Citrus, lavender, and a dozen other scents. I bought six almond oil soaps for 10 euros and was very pleased with the quality. They have lavender bears in various sizes. A heartwarming shop and shopkeeper.
bouet luna★★★★★
Un accueil attentionné, des conseils avisés, vous pouvez y aller les yeux fermés. Je recommande vivement !
Une petite boutique proposant des produits de Provence comme on les aime, où l’on vient autant pour la beauté du lieu que pour les différentes senteurs et saveurs.
La boutique propose une sélection de produits locaux, tout ce que nous avons goûté est d'excellente qualité surtout le miel de Lavande .
Idéal pour se faire plaisir ou pour offrir.
Nesrine Zouari★★★★★
Great shop with products from Arles! Soap trio for 6 euros
Honey from the Garrigue and lavender fields
Black olive tapenade
I'm happy with my purchase
PEOPLE'S SQUARE ARLES

| Address | SHOPPING PROMENADE, 22 Av. de la Libération, 13200 Arles |
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 90 97 03 18 |
Sandra Bertolin★☆☆☆☆
Deserves a zero.
Shameful.
I wanted to buy (on behalf of my 13-year-old son, who was buying a gift for his brother) an item priced at €24.90.
When I went to the checkout and she asked me how I was paying, and I said "cash," the woman replied, "Then it's €25." Excuse me??? No, the price was clearly €24.90. "Well, I don't have the exact change, and I won't get very far with 10 cents."...
Of course, I didn't buy anything.
How shameful. It's not about the 10 cents, but Madam, you could have had the decency to find another solution since you couldn't give me change...
Mel N★☆☆☆☆
As for friendliness, forget it...!
I was practically told to stop because I didn't want to take what they offered! 🤦♀️🤦♀️
Aude BONNELY VIGNON★★★★★
Great products, a lovely selection of trendy brands, and a very attentive sales assistant!
A great find at Shopping Promenade
Oriane Pacaud★★★★★
Quality products and knowledgeable staff.
Shopping in a joyful and cheerful atmosphere, just the way we like it.
Estelle chevalier★★☆☆☆
It's a shame it says it's open on Sundays when it's actually closed.
L'espace Van Gogh

| Address | Pl. Félix Rey, 13200 Arles |
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Thursday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Friday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Saturday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | — |
popo po★★★★★
Must go if you’re Van Gogh’s fans. It is so worthy (I spend 16hours flight time + 4 hours train/ bus to get there). In summer time, the garden is so lush, perfectly match with the sunlight. A very calm and relaxed place.
Mike Z★★★★★
Very cute garden at the courtyard of the former hospital whose most famous patient was Vincent Van Gogh after his mental breakdown.
Blossom Circle★★★★★
We went there as Van Gogh spent some time there after he cut off his ear. He painted some scenes whilst there.
I thought it was a beautiful space with a garden which remains very much the way he painted it.
There’s an extensive souvenir shop there.
Entry to the space is complimentary.
Agnieszka Dietrich★★★★★
To me it was an amazing experience to stand in the courtyard where Van Gogh used to be. Nice and peaceful place with the little fountain inside.
John Gadsdon★★★★★
If you are interested in the life of Vincent Van Gogh and his art, then this is a must visit. We had fun trying to figure out exactly where Vincent was sitting when he painted the picture. I think he liked to use a slightly different perspective when painting.
L'ÉTÉ DE JEANNE

| Address | 43 Rue Voltaire, 13200 Arles |
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:30 AM – 7:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:30 AM – 7:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:30 AM – 7:00 PM
Thursday: 10:30 AM – 7:00 PM
Friday: 10:30 AM – 7:00 PM
Saturday: 10:30 AM – 7:00 PM
Sunday: 10:30 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | 06 70 41 99 47 |
Lillian Freedman★☆☆☆☆
Rudest owner. Ugly personality of the owner says everything you need to know. Beautiful designs but pretty much just cheaply made product you can find anywhere.
Serge Labrousse★★★★★
Last summer, while on holiday in the Gard region, I discovered the shop and bought a beige dress with brown polka dots. Every time I wear it, I get compliments...
Dominique CAVERIVIERE★★★★★
A truly lovely boutique, full of treasures and beautiful colors. A warm and welcoming atmosphere.
A unique place not to be missed under any circumstances.
Sylvie BRIÈRE★★★★★
I first discovered these creations years ago during a stroll through Collioure, and I've remained a loyal customer ever since. Every spring, I eagerly await the summer collection. There's something for every taste and body type; they're always delightful surprises, full of color and lightness. Congratulations on the 2024 collection!
PETIT Isabelle★★★★★
Très joli lieu où l'on trouve de très belles robes et bijoux assortis. Une belle finition et une créatrice très agréable. Je recommande pour celle qui aime les vêtements unique.. 😊
La Boutique De L'Olivier Souvenir

| Address | 14 Rue Louis Blanc, 13200 Arles |
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | 06 66 07 34 97 |
Mark Williams★★★★★
Most lovely lady. A truly charming story told over 22 years.
Nanette Schneider★★★★★
A very nice selection of souvenirs and santons! Among other things, I bought a small Camargue horse here, which will surely bring joy to the family at Christmastime for many years to come, as it will join the other santons. The saleswoman is very friendly and knows a great deal about the santons, the santonniers (santon artists), and their history. She was also able to tell me quite a bit about the old santons that we have in our family.
Jeremy Souzy★☆☆☆☆
We came to the shop to make some purchases. The saleswoman, who seemed to be the owner, was unpleasant and cold... She preferred chatting with a friend to attending to customers!
Avoid at all costs!
MIN P★★★★★
I wanted to buy a traditional doll from the Provence region in southern France, and I was glad to find a variety of sizes and designs available. Since they are handmade clay dolls, they all have different expressions, making it fun to choose.
. FixO★★★★★
The saleswoman, a passionate shopkeeper, gives excellent advice. Her shop is charming, and you can find wonderful souvenirs to take home, both small and large, like Legrand's paintings. 😌
LUMA Arles, Parc des Ateliers

| Address | 35 Av. Victor Hugo, 13200 Arles |
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 65 88 10 00 |
Godswill Egegwu★★★★★
It’s really amazing here!!!
Planning to visit ? Good place to explore with free tours. There are also two paid and guided tours in the morning around 11:30am and at noon around 2:30pm.
The staff are welcoming and accommodating.
The 9/8th, 3, 2, 1 floors are all free to explore.
Taking photos and touching sensitive items is prohibited within the library.
You’ll enjoy your visit, and there are lots of places nearby to relax, have a drink, or launch.
Now, Go exploooooorrrrreeeeee!!!!!
Thomas Kaupert★★★☆☆
I used to be a fan of Frank Gehry, a long time ago when I had the chance to admire his studios and sketches. The way he guided his hand whilst sketching was also admirable. But then I visited the much-admired and famous museum in Bilbao and saw how his architecture and fame pushed the art on display into the background... indeed, stifled it. Unfortunately, I was already sceptical upon entering here in Arles, and my suspicions were confirmed. Admittedly, some of the galleries were undergoing renovation, but the striking and celebrated building seemed to be celebrating itself above all else.
Only in the basement was there an exhibition – no, two – that truly deserved to be called an art exhibition. The art was allowed to take centre stage. Unfortunately, there was little in the way of explanation, but the pictures managed to make an impression in those cramped, dark rooms. Upstairs, a great deal of effort and staff were devoted to guiding visitors. The fact that a different department was responsible for every query says a lot about the lack of understanding of intuitive design. Ms Hoffmann’s initiative is brilliant, but the result is too elitist. One definite plus: the building looks fantastic, provides a wonderful platform for viewing Arles from above, and brings tourists and employment to the south of France.
Nathan Eddy★★★★★
Gehry’s designs are almost always divisive—this museum is no exception—but inside it works in surprising ways… airy, playful, easy to navigate and full of intelligent details and a rotating selection of contemporary art, as well as a trippy site specific installation by Olafur Eliasson at the top of the spiral staircase. Ninth floor terrace offers a spectacular view over Arles and the surrounding area. Overall impressive and worth a couple hours of your time!
Ivy Mac★★★★★
Fantastic building and grounds are worth it alone. We actually didn't see the exhibitions (short on time), just wandered around the building and grounds, but even that was amazing! The Tower is surreal.
It's about a 7 minute walk from the historical Alychamps, so easy to combine the 2.
popo po★★★★★
This is absolutely a gorgeous place to visit. It’s free to visit the park and most of the building floors, including the library, terrace and more. You can admire Frank Gehry’s work closely in detail.
H&M

| Address | 22 Av. de la Libération, 13200 Arles |
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 09 70 01 81 81 |
Thomas Adams★★★★★
Great little H&M tucked away in the corner of the shopping district.
Very clean and staff super attentive. Great selection of women's clothing although the mens section is a little small.
Didn't stop my daughter picking lots of different things! Pricing is pretty standard, same with overall quality. Can't expect to much!
Big dressing room!
Eric BERNARD★★★☆☆
Cheap clothing.
Eve Marie Krikorian★☆☆☆☆
This morning at 10 am, I arrived at H&M to find the doors closed, even though it said all the stores were open that day... no worries, a delay can happen... and then a woman, probably the manager, came in, smoking her e-cigarette, shuffling along, sunglasses on, walked past us, opened the door, and announced, "We won't be opening at 10 am." I asked, "Why?" She took off her sunglasses and said, "My sales assistant isn't here, I'm alone, I'm not going to open the door," and closed the door... Oh well, have a nice day, madam... We all have problems, but there are ways to say them...
Laila Laïla★☆☆☆☆
I was very disappointed with my visit to H&M Arles. When I returned three dresses, the sales assistant curtly asked me to turn them right side out, explaining that she didn't have time to do it herself. I completely understand that everyone can be in a hurry, but the way you speak to a customer matters a great deal.
What surprised me even more was that she then took the time to put security tags back on the items I had just returned, while I was waiting and in a hurry myself.
I found this attitude particularly unpleasant and unprofessional. Working in retail myself, I would never allow myself to speak to a customer like that. I am truly disappointed by this experience and I hope this feedback will be taken into account.
Karima Tahri★☆☆☆☆
Unpleasant service. A saleswoman or manager was insulting people in her corner while she was putting away clothes next to my children! Very awkward! I hope the one in Avignon is better. In any case, I'll never set foot in that store in Arles again! And on top of that, I had to give it one star to leave a review; it doesn't even deserve it...
La Provencale - Le Pueblo

| Address | Le resto du pueblo Mas Alivon Le Paty de la Trinité, 13123 Arles |
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | 06 15 10 26 01 |
T. A.-W.★★★★★
A great souvenir shop right on the road with parking, offering everything you could want as a memento or souvenir. Camargue salt and rice, wine, plush toys, and much more.
There are five small, very well-maintained pitches for campervans and a charming beer garden with snacks available.
Marta Putti★★★★☆
Ci siamo fermati qui per un pranzo veloce. Abbiamo trovato dei panini già riempiti in vario modo al costo di 6 euro, panini buoni. Bevande fresche anche artigiani tra cui la birra. Hanno frutta fresca e prodotti locali oltre a souvenir della Camargue. Si può mangiare all'aperto in un giardino ombreggiato. Ci sono spazi per fare pic nic. I bagni ecologici si trovano vicino all'ingresso.
Moi★★★★★
A very pleasant shop where you can find a variety of good quality local products at reasonable prices. Sandwiches are also available. The icing on the cake is the free parking for eight campervans on a grassy area, complete with tables and benches, as well as restrooms. Currently, there is no access to water or grey and black water disposal, which is understandable given that it's free. In addition, there's a lovely terrace where you can relax.
The owners are extremely friendly and welcoming.
A big thank you to them.
Don't hesitate to go, even if it means going out of your way. I highly recommend it.
Franck Marcé★★★★★
The perfect little stop on your holiday route or while visiting the Camargue. Fresh, high-quality local produce, sandwiches, salads, and a few pastries to enjoy on-site in the leafy patio to escape the heat, with the added bonus of a warm and friendly welcome behind the owner's feigned gruffness.
armelle Sitka★★★★★
A quick stop on our holiday road trip at Pueblo... A delightful moment enjoying bull sausage and local Camargue beers 👍 on a beautiful shaded terrace... A very warm welcome and great kindness... Thank you!
Practical Tips for Shopping in Arles
Navigating the shopping scene in Arles requires a bit of local knowledge to ensure you get the best value and experience. Unlike larger metropolitan areas, the city operates on a rhythm dictated by the Provençal sun and traditional French business hours. Understanding these nuances will help you avoid closed doors and maximize your time in the shops. Here are a few essential strategies to keep in mind as you explore.
1. Time Your Visit with Market Days
The open-air markets in Arles are not a daily occurrence; they are events. The main market typically takes place on Wednesday and Saturday mornings along the Boulevard des Lices. If your itinerary is flexible, plan to be in the city during these days. Arrive early—ideally before 9:00 AM—to see the best produce and vintage goods before the crowds arrive and the midday sun becomes intense.
2. Embrace the "Sacred" Lunch Break
One of the most common mistakes visitors make is assuming shops stay open through the afternoon. Most independent boutiques and art galleries in Arles close for a two-hour lunch break, typically from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM. Use this window to enjoy a long lunch at a café yourself, as you will find very few retail doors open during this time.
3. Carry Cash for the Markets
While credit cards are widely accepted in permanent brick-and-mortar stores, the rules change at the street markets. Many stallholders, particularly those selling fresh produce, spices, or small antiques, prefer cash and may have a minimum spend for card transactions. Withdraw euros from a bank ATM in the city center before heading to the market to make transactions smoother.
4. Look for the "Artisan" Label
To ensure you are buying an authentic local product rather than an imported souvenir, look for labels such as "Fabriqué en France" or specific regional certifications. Many leather workers, ceramicists, and textile designers in Arles create their goods in on-site workshops. If you are unsure, ask the shopkeeper about the origin of the item; most are proud to share the story of their craft.
5. Factor in the Siesta of Summer
If you are visiting during July or August, the heat changes the shopping schedule further. While tourist-focused shops may stay open longer, many local boutiques adjust their hours, opening earlier in the morning and closing later in the evening to avoid the hottest part of the day. Double-check the specific hours on Google Maps or the shop’s social media before making a special trip.
The joy of shopping in Arles lies in the unexpected discoveries. It might be a hand-thrown ceramic bowl in a workshop you stumbled upon, or a wedge of aged cheese wrapped in paper from a vendor who knows your face by the second visit. These are the purchases that carry the scent of the lavender fields and the warmth of the Mediterranean sun long after you return home.
As you pack your bags, leave a little room for the treasures you will inevitably find here. The city rewards the curious and the patient, offering a retail experience that feels personal, historic, and entirely unique to this corner of Southern France.
Freya Belle is a content writer and travel journalist specializing in European destinations. With experience exploring over 30 European countries, she focuses on providing in-depth guides to authentic cuisine, historical culture, and hidden gems often overlooked by mainstream tourists. Her writing helps travelers experience Europe like a local.