Arras France Travel Guide
The Grand'Place and Place des Héros are masterpieces of Flemish Baroque architecture, surrounded by over 150 stunning 17th and ONE8th-century houses with distinctive stepped gables. Although largely rebuilt after World War I, they faithfully replicate their original designs, standing as a reflection of the city's post-war resilience and commitment to its heritage.
The squares serve as a bustling hub for markets, cafes, and city life.
The Belfry provides the best panoramic views. Cafe terraces offer relaxing vantage points.
Musée des Beaux-Arts is the main art gallery, hosting temporary exhibitions. Other venues may hold occasional art exhibitions.
A venue for contemporary music concerts and events, adding a modern cultural dimension.
Stages plays, concerts, dance performances, and other cultural events happening throughout the year.
Beyond gaming, it sometimes hosts shows and entertainment, including concerts and comedy.
Check the Musée des Beaux-Arts and Arras Tourist Office websites for current temporary exhibitions and cultural programming.
Arras and its surroundings are steeped in history, with many sites recounting its diverse past, from ancient times to 20th-century conflicts.
Most prominent historical districts, showing Flemish Baroque architecture, painstakingly rebuilt after WWI.
Unique underground network of chalk tunnels and cellars dating to the Middle Ages. They offer a perspective on the city's foundations.
Rebuilt after WWI destruction, this neo-classical cathedral sits on the former Saint-Vaast Abbey site. A peaceful space.
A significant WWI memorial site, with guided tours through tunnels used by Allied soldiers. A non-stop connection to the Battle of Arras.
On the Faubourg d'Amiens Cemetery, this Commonwealth War Graves Commission memorial commemorates over 34,000 WWI soldiers with no known grave.
A short drive north of Arras, this moving memorial commemorates Canadian forces in WWI. It sits on a preserved battlefield with original trenches and craters.
Saint-Vaast Abbey (now Musée des Beaux-Arts) and Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste add to the city's religious past.
Arras's military heritage connects deeply to WWI, with sites like Wellington Quarry and the Fortressle of Arras (Vauban's 17th-century fortification).
Europe's largest French military cemetery, with the "Ring of Remembrance" memorial, featuring names of fallen soldiers from all nations.
While known for historical and architectural sites, Arras also has pleasant natural spaces for relaxation.
Beyond the prominent landmarks, Arras holds several lesser-known spots that offer additional charm and distinctiveness.
These off-the-beaten-path attractions and local favorites provide a more intimate feel of the city.
Hôtel de Guînes: A beautiful 18th-century private mansion, now a hotel. Its elegant courtyard and exterior architecture are worth admiring.
Arras is the starting point for exploring other less-visited towns in Hauts-de-France. Consider venturing to places like Douai or Lens for different regional experiences.
Arras’s Roman origins (Nemetacum) are well-documented, with findings in the Musée des Beaux-Arts. The city's growth has built over these earlier layers.
The meticulous reconstruction of Arras after WWI speaks volumes about its dedication to preserving its historical architectural style.
The harmony of Flemish Baroque design provides an unique visual landscape for visitors.
A lot of places offer poignant reminders of the conflict's scale and sacrifice.
These locations are powerful tributes to shared sacrifice and historical events.
Consider combining a visit to the Belfry and Boves, as they are centrally located and offer combined tickets.
Dedicate a half-day or full day to the WWI sites outside the city center, especially Wellington Quarry and Vimy Ridge, booking tours in advance.
Guided tours at major historical sites offer deep context from history and stories.
