Here’s a good address down a quiet backstreet in the atmospheric centre of Arles. (And, by the way, Arles is such a maze of narrow alleys that what little traffic there is has to move at a snail’s pace.)
Once you have found the hotel, you will be impressed by its great ‘presence’. This comes from the high ceilings of the grand 17th century buildings, the deep red walls of the club-style salon and the majestic stone staircase that leads to the bedrooms. Most of the accommodations have plenty of space, belying their two-star status and beguilingly low rates. Bath wc is preferred but to shower wc but, for the ultimate experience if you manage to book well ahead, go for the Belvedere suite. With nine windows and its own terrace, it is the hotel’s dearest accommodation but still represents incredibly good value.
At breakfast, choose between sweet (sucré) or savoury (salé - must be pre-ordered) and consult the courteous staff about the best restaurants for dinner. All the best eating options are within easy walking distance as indeed are the major sights of this all-absorbing treasure house. If you arrive by car, dump it in the municipal car park (payable) which is fairly close to the hotel. You will not need it for the duration of your stay.
If only every historic city had a hidden gem like the Hotel Amphithéâtre.