Your Essential Travel Guide To Arras
Discover Things To Do In Arras
Arras is the capital of the Pas de Calais region of Northern France and sits on the River Scarpe.
When visiting Arras, you’ll be bowled over by the architecture, culture, and history. A great deal of its history comes from the two world wars. In the First War Arras was only six miles from the front line and after the hostilities ended, three quarters of the city had to be rebuilt. It fared better in the Second World War, although it was occupied by the Germans until it was liberated by the British in 1944.
The city is dominated by two great squares around which the Flemish style of architecture is predominant. The biggest of France’s Christmas markets outside Paris takes place here.
A visit to the markets is also the ideal opportunity to sample some unique local delicacies including Coeurs d’Arras biscuits and chocolate rats.
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Getting to Arras
Whether you choose our Dover-Dunkirk crossing or our Newhaven-Dieppe route both have great road access to Arras. The former takes less than an hour and a half to drive and the latter is an hour further away. Arras is also a great base from which to reach Paris which is around 115 miles away and two hours by car or you can make the trip in under an hour by rail on the high speed TGV.
What to see in Arras?
At Nemetacum you can see the results of an archaeological investigation that showed what life may have been like in the 4th Century.
The Vauban Citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of twelve fortified buildings built by the famous military engineer. It is here that you will also find the Arras memorial to 218 members of the French Resistance who were executed next to the Citadel.
The second World Heritage Site is the city’s famous town hall and belfry.
Heading underground, there is a huge network of tunnels called the Boves Maze__text in bold__ which were built in the 10th Century.
La Grand Place and La Place des Héros squares are surrounded by no less than 155 townhouses built in the Flemish Baroque style.
Visit Musée des Beaux Artes which has a number of masterpieces by Breughel, Rubens and Rousseau and many examples of medieval art and sculpture.
Travel guides
Amiens
Visit Amiens, a popular weekend destination with many historical sights, including Notre-Dame Cathedral.
Lille
Explore museums and beautiful architecture in the largest city in northern France.
Calais
Travel to Calais, France and discover a unique coastal town. Read our travel guide to discover what to see and do in Calais, plus where to stay and how to get there.
Our routes to France
Dover-Dunkirk Ferry Crossings
With a journey time of just 2 hours, our Dover to Dunkirk ferry crossing gives you access to Belgium, France, the Netherlands and more. Enjoy dining and duty free shopping on board.
From
£89
per car + up to 4 people, one way*
Dover-Calais Ferry Crossings
Hop aboard our most popular ferry crossing, Dover to Calais, and arrive in Calais in just 100 minutes. There are many ways to spend time onboard, from dining to duty free shopping.
From
£89
per car + up to 4 people, one way*
Newhaven-Dieppe Ferry Crossings
Arrive in Dieppe in 5 hours with our Newhaven to Dieppe ferry crossing. Enjoy our facilities while you sail, including restaurants and an onboard shop.
From
£100
per car + 4 people, one way*
Rosslare - Dunkirk Ferry
Sail between Ireland and France with DFDS on our new Rosslare – Dunkirk overnight ferry. With shopping onboard, comfy cabins and all meals included you can reach your destination ready to explore.
15%
off 2026 sailings
Prices are subject to availability. Telephone booking fees apply. Terms and conditions apply.