Arènes des Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer - Image 1
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Arènes des Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer

4.4
·1k reviews·Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, France

Historic arena in Camargue hosting thrilling 'courses camarguaises', family-friendly 'taureau piscine', and vibrant cultural events.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer evenings

Cooler temperatures, lively atmosphere

CrowdHigh
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Arènes des Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer - Image 1

Arènes des Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer

Best Time

Summer evenings

Cooler temperatures, lively atmosphere

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic arena in Camargue hosting thrilling 'courses camarguaises', family-friendly 'taureau piscine', and vibrant cultural events.

4.4
(1k reviews)

"Great shows for families! Highly recommended for an unforgettable experience."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Course Camarguaise

Course Camarguaise

Arènes des Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer

Witness brave 'raseteurs' attempt to snatch rosettes from bulls' horns in this traditional sport.

Instagram
Taureau Piscine

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.

Instagram
Pèlerinage des Gitans

Pèlerinage des Gitans

Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer

Experience the vibrant pilgrimage of the Romani people, a deeply rooted cultural event.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Camargue Spirit

Experience the unique traditions of the Camargue at the Arènes des Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. Witness thrilling 'courses camarguaises' and other taurine games. Book tickets in advance, especially for popular events, to secure your spot for an unforgettable cultural immersion. TikTok

Timing is Key for Events

The Arènes host a variety of events, from traditional bull races to concerts and equestrian shows. Check the schedule for specific dates and times, as performances are seasonal. Arrive early to find good seats and soak in the atmosphere before the action begins. Instagram

Best Times

When
Summer evenings
Why
Cooler temperatures, lively atmosphere
Crowd
High
When
May (Pilgrimage)
Why
Witness unique cultural event
Crowd
High
When
Off-season weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Fusillade saintes maries de la mer 2025 @Négrita officiel @ZINGAR 🦁 OFFICIEL 🙏 #saintesmariesdelamer
@dalton_industrie.34
16K likes • 889.4K views

🎟️ Book Tickets Ahead

Popular events sell out fast! Secure your spot for 'courses camarguaises' and concerts online. Instagram

👨‍👩‍👧 Family Fun Guaranteed

Many shows, like 'taureau piscine', are great for all ages. Kids often enjoy the arena experience. Instagram

🤍 Un moment hors du temps approche… Le pèlerinage des gens du voyage revient aux Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer : un événement vibrant, profondément ancré dans les traditions et l’âme de la Camargue. 🐎🙏 ✨ Pour vivre cet événement au plus près, séjournez chez nous, au cœur du village ! 🗓️ Rendez-vous du 24 au 26 mai 2025. Infos et réservations : 📞 + 33 (0)4 90 97 06 68 : ⌨️ contact@viladelamar.com 💻 ww...
@viladelamar
14K likes • 246.7K views
Nous vous remercions sincèrement d’être venus aussi nombreux aujourd’hui aux arènes des Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer #capitaledelacamargue #saintesmariesdelamer #camargue #camarguetourisme #coursecamarguaise☀️🐂🤞🏻
arenesdessaintesmariesdelamer
79 likes • 1.8K views

🐎 Witness Abrivados

See the impressive 'abrivados' where bulls are herded to the arena along the beach. Instagram

☀️ Beat the Heat

Summer shows can be hot. Bring water and wear light clothing. Consider shaded seating if available. Instagram

#spectacle #toropiscine et #clowns #saintesmariesdelamer #camargue #france 🐂 Le #jeu se passe aux #arènes avec des #vachettes aux cornes emboulées 🐄 A voir absolument! ✔️✔️✔️✔️✔️ #taureaupiscine #jeuxtaurins #traditions #folklore #sortie #sortieenfamille #sortieenfant #camarguetourisme #saintesmariesdelamer⚓️ #lifestyle #momlife #testéetapprouvé
teste_et_approuve_by_maya
61 likes • 389 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Tickets Ahead

Popular events sell out fast! Secure your spot for 'courses camarguaises' and concerts online. Instagram

👨‍👩‍👧 Family Fun Guaranteed

Many shows, like 'taureau piscine', are great for all ages. Kids often enjoy the arena experience. Instagram

🐎 Witness Abrivados

See the impressive 'abrivados' where bulls are herded to the arena along the beach. Instagram

☀️ Beat the Heat

Summer shows can be hot. Bring water and wear light clothing. Consider shaded seating if available. Instagram

🎶 Concerts Can Start Late

Be prepared for potential delays at concerts; entertainment may fill the wait time. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(1k reviews)

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. Reddit

"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

Thrilling traditional shows
Family-friendly entertainment
Reasonable ticket prices

What People Dislike

Concerns about animal welfare
Concert start time delays

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

The town is quite walkable, especially around the Arènes and the main attractions. For exploring further afield, consider local buses or renting a bike. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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'. Instagram+1

Ticket prices vary depending on the event, but they are often considered reasonably priced, offering good value for the experience. Reddit

Yes, seating options usually range from general admission to more premium seats, offering different views of the arena. Reddit

While possible for some events, it's not guaranteed, especially during peak season or for high-demand shows. Booking ahead is strongly recommended. Instagram

Children often have reduced ticket prices, and many events are considered family-friendly. Check the specific event details for age restrictions and pricing. Instagram

🎫 🐂 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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

'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. Instagram

During breaks in some shows, visitors may have the opportunity to go down onto the arena floor, adding to the immersive experience. Reddit

🎫 🎶 Concerts & Events

The Arènes host a range of concerts, including popular music acts and traditional performances. The Gipsy Kings have performed here, for example. TikTokReddit

Yes, equestrian shows featuring skilled riders and horses are also part of the Arènes' event calendar, offering a different kind of spectacle. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. TikTok+1

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Arènes des Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer are a fantastic destination for families. The 'taureau piscine' events are particularly recommended for their fun and engaging nature, suitable for all ages. Instagram Many visitors find the overall experience to be a great family outing with reasonably priced tickets. Reddit

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. Instagram

🏇 Culture & Tradition Enthusiasts

For those seeking authentic cultural experiences, the Arènes are a must-visit. Immerse yourself in the 'course camarguaise', a thrilling display of bravery and skill, or witness the impressive abrivados that highlight the gardians' horsemanship. Instagram+1

Attending during the Pèlerinage des Gitans offers a profound insight into the Romani culture and its deep connection to this region. TikTok+1 These events are not just performances but living traditions that offer a genuine glimpse into the soul of the Camargue. Instagram

🎶 Music & Event Lovers

The Arènes also serve as a vibrant venue for concerts and special events. From performances by renowned artists like the Gipsy Kings to unique equestrian spectacles, there's a diverse range of entertainment on offer. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Thrill of Course Camarguaise

The Course Camarguaise is the quintessential sport of the Camargue, deeply ingrained in local culture. It's a unique spectacle where 'raseteurs' (athletes) compete to snatch a red rosette and two small ribbons, known as 'gland' and 'cocarde', from the horns of a Camargue bull. These bulls are bred for their agility and temperament, making the chase a test of skill and nerve for both man and beast. The objective is not to harm the bull, but to demonstrate agility and courage in retrieving the prizes. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+1

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. Reddit

Family Fun with Taureau Piscine

Taureau Piscine offers a more lighthearted and family-friendly take on taurine games. In this popular event, a bull (often with blunted horns for safety) is introduced into a shallow pool within the arena. The goal for participants, which can include children, is to try and grab a tag or ribbon attached to the bull's horns. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

The Spectacle of Abrivados

The Abrivado is a traditional Camargue event that showcases the skill of the 'gardians' (cowboys) and their horses. It involves herding a group of bulls from the pastures to the Arènes, often along a route that includes the village streets and even the beach. This is not just a simple procession; it's a display of horsemanship and control as the gardians guide the bulls through various terrains. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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