Arènes des Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer
Historic arena in Camargue hosting thrilling 'courses camarguaises', family-friendly 'taureau piscine', and vibrant cultural events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, lively atmosphere
Arènes des Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, lively atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic arena in Camargue hosting thrilling 'courses camarguaises', family-friendly 'taureau piscine', and vibrant cultural events.
"Great shows for families! Highly recommended for an unforgettable experience."
🎟️ Book Tickets Ahead
Popular events sell out fast! Secure your spot for 'courses camarguaises' and concerts online.
👨👩👧 Family Fun Guaranteed
Many shows, like 'taureau piscine', are great for all ages. Kids often enjoy the arena experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Course Camarguaise
Arènes des Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer
Witness brave 'raseteurs' attempt to snatch rosettes from bulls' horns in this traditional sport.
Taureau Piscine
Arènes des Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer
A fun, family-friendly game where participants try to grab a tag from a bull's horns in a pool.
Pèlerinage des Gitans
Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer
Experience the vibrant pilgrimage of the Romani people, a deeply rooted cultural event.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Camargue Spirit
Timing is Key for Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Ahead
Popular events sell out fast! Secure your spot for 'courses camarguaises' and concerts online.
👨👩👧 Family Fun Guaranteed
Many shows, like 'taureau piscine', are great for all ages. Kids often enjoy the arena experience.
🐎 Witness Abrivados
See the impressive 'abrivados' where bulls are herded to the arena along the beach.
☀️ Beat the Heat
Summer shows can be hot. Bring water and wear light clothing. Consider shaded seating if available.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Ahead
Popular events sell out fast! Secure your spot for 'courses camarguaises' and concerts online.
👨👩👧 Family Fun Guaranteed
Many shows, like 'taureau piscine', are great for all ages. Kids often enjoy the arena experience.
🐎 Witness Abrivados
See the impressive 'abrivados' where bulls are herded to the arena along the beach.
☀️ Beat the Heat
Summer shows can be hot. Bring water and wear light clothing. Consider shaded seating if available.
🎶 Concerts Can Start Late
Be prepared for potential delays at concerts; entertainment may fill the wait time.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Arènes des Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer offer a unique cultural experience, particularly for those interested in Camargue traditions like 'courses camarguaises' and 'taureau piscine'. While some find the events thrilling and family-friendly, others express concerns about animal welfare. The venue itself is often described as nice with good views, and ticket prices are generally considered reasonable.
"Older arena where this barbaric "show" that is corrida is taking place. And what is the pleasure to attend these other races or games of Camargue cowhide or pool bull or people having fun at the animal's expense ?
It is unthinkable that there are still such "shows" today.
To experience pleasure in seeing a tortured animal then killed seems to be more psychiatry than a pseudo culture !
When will this bloody stain on the beautiful Camargue land be erased ?
Tourists who go there out of curiosity, most of them leave the arenas before the end as they are disgusted by what they see, and those who brought their children to it even more !"
Enjoy life
"Who am I to judge? I attended vachette dans la piscine & 🤡. I don't know, we went with children. Children 4&6 years old. They liked it. I was heartbroken. First vachette seemed in distress. All this noise for an animal who lives calmly in the Camargue field. Overall all this Camargue experience shows how different it can be from what I would think is normal. Overall very nice arena with very nice view from it."
Lina Laurynaite
"great shows for families! during the break you can go on the arena! tickets for very reasonable price, highly recommended to visit for unforgetable experience"
Krzysiek Wojcik
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Arènes are located in the heart of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. If you're driving, there is parking available nearby. Public transport options might be limited, so checking local bus schedules is recommended.
Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer can be a good option for a beach town that's potentially less crowded and more budget-friendly than larger cities like Nice, especially outside of peak festival times.
The town is quite walkable, especially around the Arènes and the main attractions. For exploring further afield, consider local buses or renting a bike.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can typically be purchased online through the official Arènes website or authorized ticketing platforms. It's advisable to book in advance, especially for popular events like concerts or major 'courses camarguaises'.
Ticket prices vary depending on the event, but they are often considered reasonably priced, offering good value for the experience.
Yes, seating options usually range from general admission to more premium seats, offering different views of the arena.
While possible for some events, it's not guaranteed, especially during peak season or for high-demand shows. Booking ahead is strongly recommended.
Children often have reduced ticket prices, and many events are considered family-friendly. Check the specific event details for age restrictions and pricing.
🎫 🐂 Onsite Experience
The Arènes host a variety of traditional Camargue events, including 'courses camarguaises' (where raseteurs try to snatch rosettes from bulls), 'taureau piscine' (a fun game with bulls and a pool), and equestrian shows.
Many shows, particularly 'taureau piscine', are considered family-friendly and enjoyable for children. However, some traditional bull events might be intense for very young viewers.
This is a traditional sport where 'raseteurs' (athletes) use a small hook to try and remove a rosette from the horns of a Camargue bull. It's known for the bravery of the participants.
'Taureau piscine' is a playful event where participants, often including children, try to grab a tag from a bull's horns while navigating a shallow pool. It's a crowd-pleaser and less intense than other bull events.
During breaks in some shows, visitors may have the opportunity to go down onto the arena floor, adding to the immersive experience.
🎫 🎶 Concerts & Events
The Arènes host a range of concerts, including popular music acts and traditional performances. The Gipsy Kings have performed here, for example.
Yes, equestrian shows featuring skilled riders and horses are also part of the Arènes' event calendar, offering a different kind of spectacle.
Concerts can sometimes start later than scheduled, with DJs often providing entertainment during the wait. The overall experience can be memorable, though some attendees have noted varying show quality.
The Arènes are a focal point during significant cultural events like the Pèlerinage des Gitans (Romani Pilgrimage), which draws large crowds and offers a unique cultural insight.
Check the official website of the Arènes des Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer or their social media pages for the most up-to-date event schedules and information.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the arena, the town itself offers beaches and a relaxed atmosphere. Consider checking the schedule for equestrian shows or other family-friendly performances that might be happening during your visit. The combination of cultural spectacle and a seaside location makes it a well-rounded family trip.
🏇 Culture & Tradition Enthusiasts
Attending during the Pèlerinage des Gitans offers a profound insight into the Romani culture and its deep connection to this region. These events are not just performances but living traditions that offer a genuine glimpse into the soul of the Camargue.
🎶 Music & Event Lovers
While concerts can sometimes have a relaxed start time, the atmosphere within the historic Arènes, especially on a summer evening, is often magical. It's worth checking the event calendar for any musical or theatrical performances that align with your visit for a different kind of Arènes experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of Course Camarguaise
This tradition dates back centuries and is more than just a sport; it's a cultural expression that celebrates the bravery and heritage of the region. The Arènes des Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer serve as a historic venue for these exhilarating events. Spectators often describe the experience as incredibly tense and exciting, with the agility of the bulls and the daring of the raseteurs creating a captivating performance.
While the bulls are returned to their pastures unharmed after their performance, the intensity of the competition is palpable. It's a chance to witness a living tradition that is central to the identity of the Camargue, offering a glimpse into a world of courage and skill.
Family Fun with Taureau Piscine
This game is known for its playful atmosphere and the sheer amusement it provides to spectators of all ages. It's a less intense experience than the traditional 'course camarguaise', making it an ideal activity for families looking for entertainment that is both exciting and accessible. The Arènes des Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer frequently host these events, drawing crowds eager for a fun-filled afternoon.
Attendees often highlight the joy and laughter that 'taureau piscine' brings, with many visitors remarking on how much their children enjoyed the spectacle. It's a chance for everyone to participate or cheer from the stands, creating memorable moments and a true taste of Camargue festivity.
The Spectacle of Abrivados
Witnessing an abrivado is a powerful experience, with hundreds of horses and bulls moving in unison. The journey can be several kilometers long, culminating in the bulls' arrival at the Arènes for subsequent events. The sight of the bulls running along the sea or through the town, with the gardians expertly managing them, is a quintessential Camargue image.
Many visitors are captivated by the sheer scale and coordination of an abrivado. It offers a unique opportunity to see the close relationship between the gardians, their horses, and the bulls, embodying the spirit and traditions of the Camargue. It's a visual feast that often precedes the main events in the Arènes.


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