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France > France regions > Nord-Pas-de-Calais > Pas-de-Calais > Arras

Arras

Arras is found to the south-west end of the Pas de Calais department, in the Nord-Pas de Calais region of northern France.

The highlight of Arras is its old-town centre, which has been carefully and attractively restored following very great damage suffered during the First World War.

There are two large open squares in the town - the larger is the Grand Place and the smaller is the Place des Heros. Both are surrounded by Dutch style houses and mansions above arcades at street level.

It is in the smaller of the two squares that you will find the Town Hall, and the entrance to the belfry, one of the belfries of France  that has now been designated as a World Heritage site (the photo above was taken from the belfry viewing platform). After ascending the belfry, and still in the town hall, you can descend into the subterranean world below - rooms and tunnels carved out of the ground below - and learn the history of the region.

The other notable attractions in Arras are the cathedral (18th century and very grey, the cathedral was apparently built on the site of an earlier cathedral which was is said to have been one of the architectural gems of France); and the moving war cemetery and memorial towards the edge of the town.

 

Arras: tourist information, map, travel plans and gites


The view from the belfry in Arras

Plan a visit to Arras, France

 

Hotels Arras

Holiday rentals / travel

Property for sale Arras

Map of Arras, France
Places to visit - Arras

Explore places within about 70 kilometres on a map at Visit Arras.

Some of the closer places are listed below (distances from Arras are approximate and direct - as the crow flies. Only places listed on the france this way site are shown!)

 

Tourist Classifications for Arras

- Town is "Ville Fleurie category 4" (ie good attention to gardens and flowers)

 

Information and photos

This travel guide has information, holidays and photos of Arras when available. If you have any photos or relevant information please send them to us! Full credit will be given if they are used.