Arras
Looking for your next getaway or vacation? Fascinated by historic cities, monuments museums festivals and gastronomy? Arras is your ideal destination! Located in the Pas-de-Calais region, region In the Hauts-de-France region, 180 km from Paris, 110 km from Lille and 80 km from Calais, Arras, with its 43,000 inhabitants, is the historic heart of the Artois region, rich in events since Antiquity.
Find out more about the region Hauts de France, read our detailed article here.
This article guides you through the charms of Arras: its emblematic monuments, museums, cultural and folkloric events, and its best gourmet and accommodation addresses. Discover why Arras is a jewel for culture and heritage enthusiasts, promising to captivate you with its authenticity.
Arras must-sees
Arras, a city rich in architectural and historical treasures, offers its visitors three exceptional sites: the Place d'Arras, the Belfry and the Citadel. These emblematic monuments bear witness to Arras' identity and resilient history through the ages.
Arras squares and their unique architecture
The Place d'Arras, comprising the Grand'Place and the Place des Héros, are two splendid Baroque squares, forming an architectural ensemble unrivalled in Northern Europe. Lined with 155 Flemish Baroque facades and punctuated by 345 columns, these squares were faithfully rebuilt after their destruction during the First World War. They are home to a traditional market on Wednesday and Saturday mornings, offering local produce, crafts and culinary specialties. As a venue for festivities such as the Andouillette Festival, the Christmas Market and the lighting of the Belfry, the Place d'Arras is a real place for living and sharing.
The Belfry, symbol of freedom and resistance
The Arras Belfry, built in the 15th century by Vauban and Jacques le Caron in a flamboyant Gothic style, rises to a height of 75 meters. Rebuilt twice, in 1833 and 1914, due to its fragility and wartime destruction, it is now listed historical monument since 1840 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2005. Voted Monument Préféré des Français in 2015, it once served as a watchtower and prison. Today, it offers visitors a panoramic view of Arras and its surroundings, as well as a carillon of 37 bells playing folk melodies.
The Citadelle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Built by Vauban between 1668 and 1672, the Arras Citadel is a pentagonal fortress designed to defend the town. Nicknamed "la belle inutile" for never having been besieged, part of Unesco's World Heritage List since 2008. Demilitarized in 2010, the Citadelle is now open to the public and houses historic buildings such as the Porte Royale and the Chapelle Saint-Louis. It also offers walks through green spaces and fun activities such as the Timescope, an augmented reality experience, and hosts the Main Square Festival, an international music event.
Dive into thehistory
Arras, a town marked by major historical upheavals, is home to a heritage rich and varied. Three sites in particular stand out: Les Boves, the Musée des Beaux-Arts, and the Cathedral and Abbey of Saint-Vaast. These emblematic sites offer a journey through time, revealing the many facets of Arras' history from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.
Find out more about cathedrals in France, read our detailed article here.
Les Boves, a mysterious underground labyrinth
Originally chalk quarries dug as early as the 9th century, the Boves were used for the construction of religious buildings and fortifications. Later, these underground galleries became storage areas for merchants. Today, they form an impressive network 20 kilometers long and 12 meters underground.
During both world wars, the Boves provided a vital refuge for local residents and soldiers alike. A guided tour, departing from the Tourist Office located in the Town Hall, allows visitors to explore this unique heritage. Visitors discover extraction shafts, vestiges of electrification and historical elements linked to the 1917 Battle of Arras. Les Boves is a fascinating immersion in Arras' mysterious past.
The Musée des Beaux-Arts and its hidden treasures
The Musée des Beaux-Arts d'Arras, housed in the former Saint-Vaast Abbey, is a showcase for 18th-century art and history. Its rich and diverse collection spans the ages and artistic currents, with works by Rubens, Brueghel, Bassano and many others. In addition to paintings, the museum exhibits sculptures, objets d'art, tapestries, photographs and even natural history specimens.
Temporary exhibitions enrich the cultural offering by highlighting particular facets of the museum's collection or history. It's a place of discovery and wonder, inviting visitors on a journey through art and history.
Saint-Vaast Cathedral and Abbey, jewels of religious history
The Cathedral and Saint-Vaast Abbey, a landmark in Arras' religious landscape, bear witness to the city's rich spiritual heritage. The cathedral, built in 1778, is neo-classical in style. It contains treasures such as sculptures of saints, reliquaries and a 19th-century organ dedicated to Notre-Dame and Saint Vaast, the patron saint of Arras.
Saint-Vaast Abbey, founded in the 7th century and rebuilt in the 18th century, is an imposing classical monument. Today, it houses the Musée des Beaux-Arts and a media library, continuing to enrich the culture and history of Arras. The Cathedral and Saint-Vaast Abbey embody the splendor of the city's religious heritage.
Cultural and folklore experiences
The city of Arras offers a rich array of activities for entertainment and cultural enrichment. Three major events stand out, offering a unique immersion in local folklore and culture: the Main Square Festival, the Arras Christmas Market, and the European Heritage Days. Each of these events is an opportunity to experience Arras from a new perspective, in an atmosphere that's both festive and welcoming.
Main Square Festival: a must-see event for music lovers
Every year, at the beginning of July, the Main Square Festival brings the Citadelle d'Arras, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to life. This music festival welcomes artists of international stature on two stages, embracing diverse musical genres: rock, pop, electro, hip-hop, folk... Attracting over 100,000 spectators, the festival promises four days of memorable concerts in a historic and verdant setting, establishing itself as one of Europe's most prestigious festivals and offering an exceptional musical experience.
The Arras Christmas market, a winter wonderland
An annual tradition running from the end of November to the end of December, the Arras Christmas Market transforms the Grand'Place into a magical village of over 130 chalets. These offer a variety of artisanal products, festive decorations, unique gifts and gastronomic specialties. The market is also the scene of a host of family activities: Ferris wheel, ice rink, carousel, toboggan run, and even Santa's house. Renowned as one of the biggest and most enchanting Christmas markets in France, it immerses visitors in a warm, magical atmosphere.
The European Heritage Days, a new way to explore Arras
Held every year in September, the European Heritage Days offer the opportunity to discover, free of charge or at a reduced rate, heritage sites that are usually closed to the public or not easily accessible. This event is a unique chance to see Arras from a different angle, thanks to guided tours, shows, exhibitions and workshops that highlight its historical, architectural, artistic and natural heritage. The European Heritage Days are an invitation to marvel and enrich your cultural experience by exploring the treasures of Arras and the surrounding region.
Arras news and events
To keep abreast of the latest news and events in Arras, it is advisable to consult local media such as :
La Voix du Nord Regional daily newspaper covering the Pas-de-Calais region, including Arras.
France 3 Hauts-de-France Regional TV channel offering local and regional news.
L'Avenir de l'Artois Local weekly covering news from the Artois region, of which Arras is a part.
These sources provide up-to-date information on events, news and local initiatives in Arras.
Conclusion
Arras, with its rich heritage, vibrant culture, delicious gastronomy and welcoming atmosphere, has everything to seduce visitors. Whether your passion is history, art, music, nature or tradition, Arras offers a fascinating and enriching experience. It's a city to discover and rediscover, as the seasons and festivities change.
Arras awaits you, ready to welcome you with the smile and generosity that define it.
Don't delay, plan your trip to Arras now and come and explore its many attractions and sights. It's a decision you won't regret!
FAQ
What to do in Arras
Arras, located in the Hauts-de-France region, offers a rich palette of activities for its visitors. Not to be missed:
Visit the Arras Belfry The summit: a UNESCO World Heritage site, it offers a panoramic view of the city from its summit.
Exploring Boves A network of underground passages dating back to the Middle Ages, offering a fascinating insight into the city's subterranean history.
Stroll through the squares The famous baroque squares, the Grand'Place and Place des Héros, are surrounded by houses with Flemish facades and brimming with cafés and restaurants.
Discover the Wellington Quarry An underground memorial dedicated to the soldiers of the First World War, offering a moving perspective on history.
Visit the Arras Citadel Vauban's fortress, nicknamed "Little Versailles", is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What to do in Arras this weekend
To find out what specific events and activities are planned in Arras this weekend, we recommend consulting local agendas such as Infolocale, which lists upcoming concerts, exhibitions, shows and other events.
What to do in Arras as a couple
Arras is an ideal destination for a romantic getaway. Here are a few suggestions for couples:
Stay in a manor house with spa : Manoir de Bellacordelle, dating from the XVIIᵉ century, offers romantic suites with spa and sauna, perfect for a relaxing romantic night in.
Dinner in an intimate restaurant : Enjoy a candlelit dinner in one of the many restaurants located under the arcades of the squares.
Hand-in-hand stroll Stroll through the cobbled streets of the historic center, admire the colorful facades and soak up the warm atmosphere of the city.
What's Chez Marcel in Arras?
Chez Marcel is a craft beer bar located at 30 rue de la Taillerie, between the Grand'Place and Place des Héros in Arras. Opened in December 2017 by Luka Antonic, a former lawyer turned beerologist, the establishment offers a wide selection of local and international craft beers. Introductory beerology workshops are also organized here, enabling beer lovers to discover the secrets of beer tasting.
What's Entre Nous in Arras?
Between us is a restaurant located in Arras, renowned for its traditional French cuisine and friendly atmosphere. The restaurant offers a varied menu featuring fresh local produce, all in a warm and welcoming setting.
Where to go for a walk in Arras?
Arras offers a wide range of walks to suit all tastes. For history and culture buffs, don't miss the Wellington Quarry, a World War I memorial, the Arras Belfry, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Squares, famous for their Flemish gabled houses. If you're looking for tranquility and nature, head for the Citadelle polygon, a green space ideal for observing flora and fauna, the Jardin du Gouverneur, with its bandstand and boulodrome, or the Jardin Minelle, a haven of peace with a pond and birdlife.
Why is Arras famous?
Arras is renowned for its rich historical and cultural heritage, highlighted by its impressive Baroque squares, its iconic belfry, its underground passages (boves), its trouvères and its importance during the world wars. The city is also dynamic, hosting major events such as the Main Square Festival and Christmas Town.
Is Arras a beautiful town?
Indeed, Arras is a magnificent city, rich in historical and cultural heritage. Its tourist attractions include squares adorned with Flemish gabled houses, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed belfry, an enchanting Christmas market and the Main Square festival. The city also shines for its residential appeal, thanks to initiatives to renovate facades, develop public spaces, promote sustainable mobility and support local commerce.
What are Arras' specialities?
Visit culinary specialties of Arras are diverse and tasty. Among the must-tries are andouillette d'Arras, made from pork or veal strawberries; rat d'Arras, a dark chocolate with a praline coating; cœurs d'Arras, gingerbread cookies with white honey; ptit dieu, a soft cheese with a washed rind, mascaron, marzipan figurines, confits d'chicons, endives cooked in sugar and vinegar, and gâteau artésien, a sponge cake filled with pastry cream and covered with marzipan.
