Hotel Boussicaud Visiting Guide: Arles, France — Tickets, Hours, and Tips

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Hotel Boussicaud, situated in the historic heart of Arles, France, is a symbol of the city’s layered heritage. Whether you are interested in Roman antiquity, the artistic legacy of Vincent van Gogh, or simply wish to experience Provençal hospitality, Hotel Boussicaud serves as an ideal gateway. This guide presents a detailed overview of both the historic Hôtel Boussicaud (a private 17th-century mansion) and the adjacent Hotel Boussicaud accommodation, offering practical advice on visiting, nearby attractions, and how to make the most of your stay in Arles.

For official resources and travel planning, consult the Arles Tourist Office, European Heritage Days, and France Today.

Contents

Overview and Visitor Experience

Hotel Boussicaud blends historic Provençal charm with modern amenities, making it a favored base for exploring Arles’ UNESCO-listed monuments and vibrant festivals. Guests enjoy well-appointed rooms, attentive service, and easy access to the city’s cultural highlights. The hotel concierge can assist with ticketing, guided tours, and recommendations for local experiences.

The adjacent Hôtel Boussicaud—a 17th-century hôtel particulier—stands as a testament to Arles’ architectural evolution. While primarily a private residence, it occasionally opens its doors for special heritage events, allowing visitors to glimpse its remarkable interiors.


Historical Background of Hôtel Boussicaud

Located at 38–40 rue Génive, Hôtel Boussicaud has roots tracing back to a medieval plot, with its current form established in 1616 by Charles Gros, known as Boussicaud (Culture Gouv PDF). The mansion became a symbol of the 17th-century urban renewal driven by Arles’ burgeoning bourgeoisie.

The Huet family’s acquisition in 1762 brought about the elegant late-18th-century façade that defines the building today. A vertical division in 1797 resulted in two distinct properties, each evolving separately through the 19th and 20th centuries (POP Culture Gouv).


Architectural Features and Preservation

Hôtel Boussicaud exemplifies the hôtel particulier genre with its harmonious façade, classic Provençal details, and rare interior features. Highlights include:

  • Painted Ceilings: Original early 17th-century artworks.
  • Gypserie Fireplaces: Ornate plasterwork unique to the region.
  • Stone Staircases and Tiled Floors: Showcasing period craftsmanship.

These elements reflect the refined tastes of Arles’ elite during the Ancien Régime. The mansion has been protected by the French government since 2016, with several rooms and the main façade recognized for their historical value (Monumentum).


Practical Visitor Information

Visiting Hours and Tickets

  • Hôtel Boussicaud (Historic Mansion): Not open for regular public visits. Access is granted during the European Heritage Days (September) and select guided tours.
  • Hotel Boussicaud (Accommodation): Open year-round with 24-hour reception. No tickets required for hotel guests.

Accessibility

  • Hôtel Boussicaud: Due to its historic structure, accessibility for those with mobility impairments is limited. Stairs and uneven surfaces are present.
  • Hotel Boussicaud: Modern amenities include elevators, accessible rooms, and family-friendly facilities.

Booking and Tours

  • Hotel Boussicaud: Book directly via the hotel website or major booking platforms. Early reservations are recommended, especially during festival periods.
  • Guided Tours: Arrange through the Arles Tourist Office or during special heritage events.

Nearby Attractions & Suggested Itineraries

Hotel Boussicaud’s central location puts you within walking distance of Arles’ most celebrated sites:

  • Arènes d’Arles (Roman Amphitheatre): Iconic 1st-century Roman arena hosting events and festivals. (France Today)
  • Ancient Theatre of Arles: A well-preserved Roman theatre from the 1st century BC.
  • Alyscamps Necropolis: Famous Roman burial ground.
  • St. Trophime Cloister: Noted for Romanesque sculpture and UNESCO status.
  • Place du Forum: Central square, inspiration for Van Gogh’s paintings.
  • Espace Van Gogh: Historic hospital and gardens tied to Van Gogh’s legacy.

Suggested One-Day Itinerary:

  1. Morning: Tour the Arènes d’Arles and Ancient Theatre.
  2. Lunch: Enjoy local cuisine on Place du Forum.
  3. Afternoon: Visit Espace Van Gogh and St. Trophime Cloister.
  4. Evening: Return to Hotel Boussicaud for relaxation.

For more ideas, explore World of Wanderlust and France Adventurer.


Tips for Visitors

  • Check Event Schedules: Access to Hôtel Boussicaud is mainly during European Heritage Days or by special arrangement.
  • Plan Parking: Use public lots like Parking des Lices or Parc du Centre, as the historic center is pedestrianized (The Empty Nest Explorers).
  • Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes for cobblestone streets.
  • Photography: Respect privacy; interior photos may be restricted during tours.
  • Sustainability: Walk or cycle to reduce your environmental impact (Arles Guide).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I visit the interior of Hôtel Boussicaud?
A: Only during European Heritage Days or special guided tours. Otherwise, it remains a private residence.

Q: Are tickets required for the historic mansion?
A: Usually free during heritage events; some tours may require a small fee.

Q: Is Hotel Boussicaud (accommodation) accessible to those with disabilities?
A: Yes, it features accessible rooms and an elevator.

Q: What are the check-in/check-out times for Hotel Boussicaud?
A: Check-in from 3:00 PM, check-out by 11:00 AM.

Q: Where can I park nearby?
A: Use Parking des Lices or Parc du Centre for convenient access.

Q: What festivals or events might affect my visit?
A: Major events like Les Rencontres d’Arles and La Féria draw crowds—book accommodation early and expect busy attractions.


Additional Resources and Sources


Conclusion

Hotel Boussicaud—both as a historic mansion and a welcoming accommodation—reflects the enduring cultural richness of Arles. While the mansion can be appreciated for its exterior elegance year-round and accessed during special events, the nearby hotel ensures guests a memorable stay at the heart of the city’s vibrant life. Plan your visit using official resources, respect heritage guidelines, and immerse yourself in the Provençal traditions that make Arles a unique destination.

For the latest updates and personalized audio tours, download the Audiala app and follow official channels for event news and travel inspiration.


Visit The Most Interesting Places In Arles

|
  Ancienne Église Saint-Blaise D'Arles
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Arelate
Arelate
Arles Amphitheatre
Arles Amphitheatre
Arles Bust
Arles Bust
Arles Prison
Arles Prison
Arles Rhône 3
Arles Rhône 3
Arles, Roman And Romanesque Monuments
Arles, Roman And Romanesque Monuments
Barbegal Aqueduct And Mills
Barbegal Aqueduct And Mills
Bridge Of Constantine
Bridge Of Constantine
Chapel Of Hôtel-Dieu Of Arles
Chapel Of Hôtel-Dieu Of Arles
Church Of St. Trophime, Arles
Church Of St. Trophime, Arles
Église Des Trinitaires (Arles)
Église Des Trinitaires (Arles)
Église Saint-Jean-De-Moustiers
Église Saint-Jean-De-Moustiers
Fondation Vincent Van Gogh Arles
Fondation Vincent Van Gogh Arles
Gallo-Roman Theatre At Arles
Gallo-Roman Theatre At Arles
|
  Gare D'Arles
| Gare D'Arles
Hotel Boussicaud
Hotel Boussicaud
|
  Hôtel De L'Hoste
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|
  Hôtel De L'Œuvre Du Bouillon
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Hôtel De Truchet
Hôtel De Truchet
Hôtel Des Amazones In Arles
Hôtel Des Amazones In Arles
Hôtel Perrin De Jonquières
Hôtel Perrin De Jonquières
Langlois Bridge
Langlois Bridge
Laurens De Beaujeu Mansion
Laurens De Beaujeu Mansion
Laval-Castellane Mansion
Laval-Castellane Mansion
Luma Arles
Luma Arles
Méjanes Bullring
Méjanes Bullring
Montmajour Abbey
Montmajour Abbey
Musée De La Camargue
Musée De La Camargue
|
  Musée Départemental De L'Arles Antique
| Musée Départemental De L'Arles Antique
Musée Réattu
Musée Réattu
Museon Arlaten
Museon Arlaten
Place Du Forum
Place Du Forum
Roman Gaul
Roman Gaul
Roure Mansion
Roure Mansion
Saliers Concentration Camp
Saliers Concentration Camp
|
  Temple Protestant D'Arles
| Temple Protestant D'Arles
The Alyscamps
The Alyscamps
|
  Théâtre D'Arles
| Théâtre D'Arles
Thermes De Constantin
Thermes De Constantin
Tour De La Roquette
Tour De La Roquette
Tour Des Mourgues
Tour Des Mourgues
Via Julia Augusta
Via Julia Augusta