Hôtel de Ville and Clock Tower
Majestic Baroque Hôtel de Ville and its iconic Clock Tower, anchoring the vibrant Place de la République in historic Arles.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Hôtel de Ville and Clock Tower
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Majestic Baroque Hôtel de Ville and its iconic Clock Tower, anchoring the vibrant Place de la République in historic Arles.
"A stunning architectural gem that perfectly captures the grandeur of Arles' historic heart."
📸 Capture the Details
Don't just photograph the whole building; zoom in on the intricate carvings and clock face for stunning close-ups.
🚶♀️ Explore the Square
Take time to wander around Place de la République. Cafes offer great views of the Hôtel de Ville.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Grand Clock Tower
Central Square
Marvel at the intricate architecture and impressive clockwork of this iconic landmark. A true testament to historical craftsmanship.

Hôtel de Ville Facade
Main Building
Admire the stunning Baroque facade, a masterpiece of 17th-century design. Its grandeur is a sight to behold.

Surrounding Square
Place de la République
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the main square, perfect for people-watching and enjoying the city's pulse.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Clock Tower Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
France trip Avignon attractions?
📸 Capture the Details
Don't just photograph the whole building; zoom in on the intricate carvings and clock face for stunning close-ups.
🚶♀️ Explore the Square
Take time to wander around Place de la République. Cafes offer great views of the Hôtel de Ville.
Arles, Avignon or Nimes? Someone just tell me what to do!!! I beg!!
Is it worth visiting Avignon and Nice?
⏰ Check Tower Access
Ascending the clock tower may require advance booking or specific tour times. Verify before your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Details
Don't just photograph the whole building; zoom in on the intricate carvings and clock face for stunning close-ups.
🚶♀️ Explore the Square
Take time to wander around Place de la République. Cafes offer great views of the Hôtel de Ville.
⏰ Check Tower Access
Ascending the clock tower may require advance booking or specific tour times. Verify before your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the stunning Baroque architecture of the Hôtel de Ville and the imposing presence of its Clock Tower, calling them iconic landmarks of Arles. The central location in Place de la République makes it a convenient and picturesque spot to experience the city's historic charm. Some note that access to climb the tower can be limited or require specific arrangements.
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katarína horváthová
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Ade Iafolla
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hôtel de Ville and Clock Tower are centrally located in Arles, France, in the Place de la République. If you're arriving by train, it's a pleasant walk of about 15-20 minutes from the Arles train station. Taxis are also readily available. For those driving, there are several parking garages near the city center, though navigating and parking can be challenging during peak season.
Yes, the Place de la République is a hub for local buses in Arles, making it very accessible. Several bus lines stop directly in or very near the square, connecting you to other parts of the city and surrounding areas.
The most scenic approach is often on foot through the charming streets of Arles. As you emerge into the Place de la République, the grandeur of the Hôtel de Ville and its Clock Tower unfolds beautifully.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The exterior of the Hôtel de Ville and the Clock Tower in Arles are public landmarks and can be viewed freely from the Place de la République. There are no tickets required to admire the architecture from the outside.
While the exterior is the main attraction for most visitors, parts of the Hôtel de Ville may be accessible for specific events or guided tours. It's best to check the official Arles tourism website for any current public access information or special openings.
Access to climb the Clock Tower is not always guaranteed and may be part of specific guided tours or require a separate ticket. Information on tower access and associated fees can usually be found through local tourist information offices or the Arles tourism website.
As it's a public square and building exterior, you can view the Hôtel de Ville and Clock Tower at any time of day or night. However, for the best experience and lighting, visiting during daylight hours is recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
For stunning photographs, aim for the 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise or before sunset. The warm light beautifully illuminates the facade. Weekday mornings also offer fewer people in your shots.
Try capturing the Clock Tower from different vantage points in the Place de la République. Including the surrounding architecture or people in the square can add context and life to your photos.
Drone usage is subject to strict regulations in France, especially in historic city centers. It's highly unlikely that drone footage is permitted over the Hôtel de Ville or Clock Tower without special authorization. Always check local drone laws before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While climbing the clock tower might be too strenuous or restricted for very young children, simply viewing the exterior and imagining its history can be engaging. Pack snacks and drinks, as cafes can be a bit pricey, and enjoy a leisurely afternoon soaking in the atmosphere.
📸 Photographers
Don't forget to incorporate the surrounding elements of the Place de la République into your shots – the cafes, the people, and even the Cathedral nearby can add depth and context. Wide-angle lenses are great for capturing the full scale, while telephoto lenses can isolate architectural details.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance
The Clock Tower, an integral part of the Hôtel de Ville complex, is equally striking. Its design complements the main building, featuring a prominent clock face that has kept time for the city for centuries. The tower's presence adds a vertical element to the square, drawing the eye upwards and emphasizing the scale of the civic structures. Visitors often marvel at the craftsmanship involved in both the construction and the clock mechanism.
Together, the Hôtel de Ville and its Clock Tower form a harmonious ensemble that dominates the Place de la République, Arles' main public square. They stand as enduring symbols of the city's rich history and architectural heritage, offering a glimpse into its past grandeur.
Experiencing Place de la République
Surrounding the square, you'll find other notable landmarks, including the Arles Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Trophime) and its cloister, as well as charming shops and restaurants. The open space of the square makes it an ideal place to relax, take photos, and simply absorb the atmosphere of this historic Provençal city.
During local festivals or markets, the Place de la République truly comes alive. The presence of the Hôtel de Ville and Clock Tower provides a majestic setting for these events, enhancing the overall experience and making it a memorable part of any visit to Arles. It's a place where history meets daily life.
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