France · 2026 guide
Things to Do in Arras
Everything you need to explore Arras — top attractions, local dining, insider tips and transport.
Landmark in Arras
The two main squares of Arras, surrounded by 155 unique Flemish-Baroque buildings with arched arcades. The Place des Héros has the Gothic belfry at one end.
🕐 Always open
💡 Visit early morning or late evening when the squares are quiet and the setting sun lights up the sandstone facades. Tuesday and Saturday markets fill both squares if you want local bustle.
Hotels near Grand Place and Place des Héros →Historic in Arras
A 75-metre UNESCO-listed Gothic belfry offering panoramic views over the city and surrounding countryside from the top. Climb the 300-odd steps.
🕐 Daily 09:00-12:30 and 14:00-18:00 (shorter hours off-season, closed Mon in winter)
💡 Costs €6 (2024). Skip the queue by visiting on a weekday afternoon. The ticket also covers entry to the nearby Hôtel de Ville, but the belfry view is the main event. Weather-dependent: check visibility before climbing.
Hotels near Belfry of Arras (Beffroi d'Arras) →A network of medieval chalk tunnels and quarries beneath the city, used as bomb shelters in WW1. Guided tours show carved chambers and shafts.
🕐 Wed-Mon 10:00-12:00 and 14:00-17:00 (closed Tue, shorter hours Nov-Mar)
💡 €5 entry, but free on the first Sunday of each month (except July-August). Book ahead in summer as groups are limited to 25. Wear stout shoes – the floor can be damp.
Hotels near Les Boves (Arras Underground Quarries) →A restored WW1 underground quarry used by British and New Zealand troops to shelter 24,000 soldiers before the 1917 Battle of Arras. Guided tour includes a short film and a 20-minute walk through the tunnels.
🕐 Daily 09:30-12:30 and 13:30-18:00 (closed Mon in winter, last entry 1h before close)
💡 €8.50 (2024), but free for under-18s. Book online at least a day ahead – tours sell out. Entry includes a multilingual audio guide. Combine with the Wellington Memorial park just above – it's also free.
Hotels near Wellington Quarry (Carrière Wellington) →Cultural in Arras
An interactive museum focused on food, agriculture and nature, housed in a former art deco water tower. Exhibits include an indoor beehive, a vertical garden and a rooftop greenhouse.
🕐 Tue-Sat 10:00-18:00, Sun 14:00-18:00 (closed Mon)
💡 Adults €7, but the rooftop garden is free to access (no ticket needed). Good for kids or a rainy day. The café on site does decent local flatbreads for under €10.
Hotels near Cité Nature (Nature Museum) →Where to Eat in Arras
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do in Arras?
The top attractions include Grand Place and Place des Héros, Belfry of Arras (Beffroi d'Arras), Les Boves (Arras Underground Quarries), Cité Nature (Nature Museum), Wellington Quarry (Carrière Wellington).
How many days do you need in Arras?
Most visitors spend 2–4 days to see the main highlights. Three days is ideal for a first visit — see our Arras 3-day itinerary for a day-by-day plan.
What is Arras famous for?
Arras is known for its history, culture and distinctive character. Visitors come for the landmarks, food scene and local atmosphere.
Where should I eat in Arras?
Top options include La Grignotte, L'Artisan Gourmand, Tomate Cerise, La Pizzerie de Beaurains.