Créé par Emilie, le 20 juin 2026
Votre guide Ryo
Visit Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer: 15 Must-See Attractions
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In the heart of wild Camargue, where the Petit Rhône meets the Mediterranean, stands a legendary village steeped in history and tradition. Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, the spiritual capital of Camargue, attracts thousands of visitors each year who come to discover this unique territory where white horses, black bulls, pink flamingos and breathtaking landscapes blend together. Between preserved nature, exceptional cultural heritage and authentic atmosphere, this Provençal village offers an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you're a cultural discovery enthusiast, nature lover or seeking authenticity, visiting Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer promises total immersion into the Camargue soul. Here's our selection of 15 must-do things to fully enjoy this Mediterranean gem.
Although Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer doesn't yet have a dedicated audio-guided tour on Ryo, you can discover the region through the Arles audio-guided tour, gateway to Camargue located just 38 kilometers away. This visit will help you better understand the history and culture of this exceptional territory before setting off to discover Saintes-Maries.
1. Stroll through the village of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer
Start your discovery of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer by getting lost in the picturesque streets of the historic center. This authentic village with typically Provençal white houses exudes incredible charm with its colorful facades, local craft shops and numerous art galleries. The heart of the village is entirely pedestrian, allowing you to wander peacefully while admiring the local architecture.
Don't miss the waterfront promenade and small fishing port, where you can observe traditional Camargue boats. It's the perfect place to soak up the village's unique atmosphere, sit on a terrace to enjoy a refreshing drink while watching the ballet of boats and seagulls. The shopping streets are full of regional products: Camargue rice, fleur de sel, bull sausage and gypsy crafts testify to the cultural richness of this emblematic place.
2. Visit the fortified church of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer
The Notre-Dame-de-la-Mer church (Place de l'Église, 13460 Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, rated 4.5/5 on Google for over 5,000 reviews) is undoubtedly the city's most emblematic monument. This imposing Romanesque fortified church from the 9th and 11th centuries stands proudly in the village center, visible from afar with its crenellated walls and fortress-like appearance. Built to protect the village from Saracen invasions and pirates, it testifies to an era when faith had to defend itself with weapons.
Inside, don't miss the crypt that houses the relics of Saint Marie-Jacobé and Saint Marie-Salomé, discovered in 1448. This is also where the statue of Saint Sara, the Black Virgin, patron saint of gypsies worldwide and object of fervent devotion, is located. Be sure to climb to the church's roof terrace accessible by a spiral staircase to enjoy an exceptional 360° panorama over Camargue, the Mediterranean Sea and surrounding areas. This breathtaking viewpoint alone justifies visiting this classified historic monument.
Download the audio-guided tour to discover Arles on foot and independently
To deepen your knowledge of Camargue history and traditions, discover the audio-guided Arles itinerary on Ryo. This application offers you a guided tour of 18 points of interest throughout the capital of Camargue, just 38 kilometers from Saintes-Maries. You'll explore exceptional Roman heritage, connections with Van Gogh and better understand the historical context of the entire Camargue region.
3. Observe pink flamingos at Pont de Gau ornithological park
Just 4 kilometers from Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, the Pont de Gau ornithological park (D570, 13460 Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, rated 4.4/5 on Google for over 10,000 reviews) is an absolutely essential stop for all nature lovers. This 60-hectare site offers the unique opportunity to observe over 300 bird species in their natural habitat, including the famous pink flamingos that made Camargue famous.
Developed trails and observatories allow you to get as close as possible to grey herons, egrets, avocets, stilts and many other species of migratory or sedentary birds. The visit is educational and fun, particularly appreciated by families with children. Allow about 2 hours to tour the entire park and fully enjoy this immersion in the heart of the Camargue ecosystem. The aviaries also welcome injured birds in recovery. It's a magical place where wildlife evolves freely before your amazed eyes.
4. Relax on the beaches of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer
Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer boasts several kilometers of fine sand beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see along the Mediterranean. The main beach, located in immediate proximity to the town center, is easily accessible on foot and offers all necessary services for a pleasant day at the seaside: restaurants, deckchair rental, showers and lifeguard stations.
For more tranquility and authenticity, head to the wilder beaches located east and west of the village. The beach of l'Arnelle or that of the Gacholle lighthouse offer more preserved landscapes where you can swim in a more intimate atmosphere. These wild expanses are perfect for long invigorating walks, for practicing kitesurfing or simply to enjoy the spectacle of sunset over the sea. Don't forget your camera to immortalize these magical moments when the sky is adorned with flamboyant colors.
5. Discover Camargue regional natural park
Camargue regional natural park extends over more than 86,000 hectares and constitutes one of Europe's most important wetland areas. Created in 1970, this exceptional territory harbors remarkable biodiversity and unique landscapes shaped by the meeting of the Rhône and the Mediterranean. Visiting Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer without exploring this natural sanctuary would be an unforgivable mistake.
You can observe the famous white Camargue horses galloping freely in the marshes, black bulls peacefully grazing in wet meadows, as well as exceptional birdlife. Ponds, reed beds and salt marshes create a patchwork of landscapes changing with the seasons. Several hiking routes on foot, by bike or even on horseback allow you to explore these wild territories. The Vaccarès pond, the largest in Camargue with its 6,500 hectares, is a privileged site for ornithological observation. Let yourself be guided by the Ryo application during your visit to Arles to better understand the history and formation of this unique territory.
6. Attend bull traditions in the arenas
The arenas of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer (Avenue Théodore Aubanel, 13460 Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, rated 4.3/5 on Google for over 1,500 reviews) are an emblematic place of Camargue culture. Built in 1930, these all-white arenas regularly host Camargue races, a typical spectacle quite different from Spanish bullfighting. In Camargue racing, the bull is not killed: the raseteurs simply have to catch attributes fixed between its horns.
Throughout the year, but particularly during the summer season and major votive festivals, you can attend these traditional spectacles that make the stands vibrate. The arenas also host equestrian shows featuring the famous Camargue horses and their guardians, as well as concerts and cultural events. The festive and authentic atmosphere that reigns in these arenas will immerse you in the heart of Camargue identity. It's a unique experience to understand the visceral attachment of inhabitants to their bull traditions.
7. Visit a traditional Camargue manade
Visiting a manade, traditional breeding of bulls and Camargue horses, constitutes an absolutely essential authentic experience. Several manades around Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer open their doors to visitors to share their passion and ancestral know-how. You'll discover the daily work of guardians, these Camargue cowboys who perpetuate centuries-old traditions.
On the program: presentation of Camargue breed bulls, demonstration of cattle sorting on horseback, discovery of breeding techniques and sometimes even the possibility to participate in certain activities. Some manades also offer traditional Camargue meals in a convivial and family atmosphere. It's the ideal opportunity to taste local specialties like gardiane de taureau, the region's emblematic dish. This immersion will make you understand the importance of bull and horse in local culture and economy. Don't hesitate to book your visit in advance, especially in high season.
8. Walk or cycle along the sea dike
The sea dike offers an exceptional 20-kilometer route along the Rhône delta. Built in the 20th century to protect lands from storm surges and erosion, it now constitutes a privileged path to discover the wild landscapes of coastal Camargue. Accessible on foot, by bike or even on horseback, this walk takes you through changing scenery between sea, lagoons, marshes and wet meadows.
The path starts near the beach of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer and stretches east towards the Gacholle lighthouse. Throughout the route, you'll have the opportunity to observe exceptional fauna and flora: migratory birds, free-roaming horses, bulls in pastures, and if you're lucky, maybe even pink flamingos. The changing light over water expanses and infinite horizons create magical atmospheres, particularly at sunrise or sunset. Bring water, sunscreen and binoculars to fully enjoy this unique nature experience.
9. Explore the Baroncelli museum
The Baroncelli museum (Rue Victor Hugo, 13460 Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, rated 4.2/5 on Google for over 400 reviews), also called the Camargue museum, pays tribute to Marquis Folco de Baroncelli-Javon, emblematic figure who dedicated his life to defending and promoting Camargue culture. Housed in the former town hall, this small museum presents a fascinating collection of objects, documents and photographs retracing the history, traditions and way of life of Camargue.
You'll discover the evolution of traditional costume, guardians' tools, the history of the Camargue breed, as well as exhibitions on fauna, flora and human activities in this unique territory. The museum also presents the life and work of Marquis de Baroncelli, Provençal poet and writer who created the Nacioun Gardiano in 1904 to preserve local traditions. This enriching cultural visit will help you better understand the deep identity of Camargue and its inhabitants. An instructive passage before or after exploring the territory to put into perspective everything you will have observed.
10. Take a horseback ride in Camargue
What could be more authentic than discovering Camargue on the back of a white horse, living emblem of this territory? Many equestrian centers and manades around Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer offer horseback rides adapted to all levels, from beginners to experienced riders. No prior experience is necessary to participate in an introductory ride, making this activity accessible to families with children from age 5 or 6.
The routes take you through marshes, deserted beaches, reed-bordered ponds and meadows where bull herds graze. You'll experience magical moments galloping on fine sand at the Mediterranean's edge or crossing postcard landscapes at a walk. The guides, true enthusiasts, share their knowledge of the territory and their anecdotes about life in Camargue. Several formulas are available: one-hour rides, half-day, full day or even multi-day stays for total immersion. This unforgettable experience will remain engraved in your memories as one of the highlights of your stay in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer.
11. Discover the Gacholle lighthouse
The Gacholle lighthouse, located about fifteen kilometers east of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, is an emblematic monument of the Camargue coast. Built in 1882, this 18-meter-high square lighthouse once guided ships along this sometimes dangerous coast. Now fully automated and solar-powered, it cannot be visited inside, but its characteristic silhouette makes it a landmark appreciated by walkers.
The surrounding site is really worth the detour for its wild and preserved landscapes. Accessible by the sea dike or by a departmental road, the lighthouse marks the starting or ending point of beautiful hikes along the coast. The surrounding beaches are of raw beauty, often deserted, offering an ideal setting to watch the sunset or simply enjoy the tranquility of the place. Photography enthusiasts will particularly appreciate this spot where sky, sea and land meet in perfect harmony. It's a place steeped in maritime history that testifies to the strategic importance of this coastline.
12. Enjoy the weekly markets
On Monday and Friday mornings, Place des Gitans comes alive to host the traditional market of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. It's an unmissable appointment to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere and discover Camargue flavors. The colorful stalls offer a profusion of regional products: seasonal fruits and vegetables, olives, tapenade, anchovy spread, goat cheese, charcuterie, lavender honey and of course the famous Camargue rice.
You'll also find specialties made with Camargue bull like sausage or gardiane, as well as typical artisanal products. The market is also an opportunity to meet local producers, exchange a few words and benefit from their advice for cooking or tasting their products. The atmosphere is friendly and authentic, mixing locals and tourists in joyful effervescence. Don't hesitate to wander between stalls, taste before buying and fill your basket with these culinary treasures that will extend the memory of Camargue at home. It's also the ideal place to find original and quality souvenirs.
13. Navigate the Petit Rhône by boat
A cruise on the Petit Rhône offers a unique and privileged perspective to discover Camargue from the water. Several companies offer boat trips departing from Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, allowing you to go up the river course for several kilometers. These commented excursions make you discover wild banks bordered by reed beds, habitat of many bird species.
Comfortably seated on deck, you'll observe herons, egrets, kingfishers and maybe even nutria or European beavers. Naturalist guides share their knowledge about the river ecosystem, Rhône history and local legends. Some cruises even include a stop at a manade to attend an equestrian show or taste local products. It's a relaxing and original way to explore Camargue, particularly appreciated during hot summer days. The different formulas offered (1h, 2h, half-day) adapt to all schedules and budgets. A refreshing experience that will please the whole family.
14. Visit a traditional guardian's hut
The guardian's hut is the traditional habitat of Camargue cowboys. Recognizable among all with its low walls whitewashed with lime and its reed roof (sagne) harvested from the marshes, this typical construction is perfectly adapted to the climate and constraints of Camargue. Its characteristic shape with a rounded gable on the north side allowed to deflect the mistral, this violent wind that blows regularly in the region.
Several sites around Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer allow you to discover these emblematic dwellings, sometimes transformed into small museums or tourist lodges. You can thus observe the architectural ingenuity of these ancestral constructions, understand the guardians' way of life and discover the spartan but functional interior arrangement. The roof is often topped with a cross or bull horn, supposed to protect the house from lightning and evil spirits. This visit allows better understanding of the daily life of these men who dedicate their lives to breeding bulls and horses in sometimes harsh conditions.
15. Admire Beauduc beach
Beauduc beach represents one of the last wild spaces of the French Mediterranean coast. Located about twenty kilometers east of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer on Arles territory, this immense expanse of fine sand is accessible only by an unpaved track that crosses the most authentic Camargue. This fascinating end of the world offers landscapes of raw and preserved beauty.
The informal village of colorful huts that borders the beach creates a unique atmosphere, almost out of time. It's a place prized by kitesurfing and windsurfing enthusiasts thanks to ideal wind conditions, but also by fishermen and contemplatives seeking absolute tranquility. The lagoons that border the access road are populated with pink flamingos and other birds, offering exceptional photographic opportunities. The beach itself stretches as far as the eye can see, allowing long meditative walks facing the Mediterranean's immensity. Be careful however, this site remains fragile and protected, it should be scrupulously respected to preserve its wild character.
In conclusion, visiting Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer offers a complete travel experience combining cultural discovery, nature immersion and seaside relaxation. This unique territory where land, water and sky meet reveals its treasures to those who take time to explore it. From gypsy traditions to wild Camargue landscapes, passing through gastronomic specialties and outdoor activities, each moment spent in this emblematic village will mark you durably. Whether you come for a few days or a week, these 15 must-sees guarantee you a stay rich in emotions and discoveries. Don't forget to complete your visit by also exploring the city of Arles with its Ryo audio-guided tour, historical gateway to this fascinating territory that is Camargue.
FAQ: Visiting Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer
What is the best time to visit Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer?
The best period extends from April to October, with a preference for spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) to avoid summer crowds while enjoying pleasant weather. The months of May and October also correspond to the great gypsy pilgrimages, unique moments to discover local traditions. Summer is perfect for seaside activities but much more crowded.
How long does it take to visit Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer?
A weekend of 2-3 days allows discovering the essentials: the village, church, ornithological park and some nature activities. For an in-depth discovery including horseback rides, manade visit, natural park exploration and beach relaxation, ideally plan 4 to 5 days. This will also allow you to reach out to Arles, Aigues-Mortes and the rest of Camargue.
Where to see pink flamingos in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer?
The Pont de Gau ornithological park, 4 km from the village, is the privileged place to observe pink flamingos up close. You can also spot them in surrounding ponds, notably Vaccarès pond, Fangassier pond (their breeding site) and along the sea dike. The best observation periods are spring and autumn during migrations.
Can you swim in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer?
Absolutely! Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer has several kilometers of fine sand beaches where swimming is supervised in season. The main beach in the town center offers all services, while more distant beaches to the east and west are wilder and quieter. The water is generally calm and shallow for several meters, ideal for families with children.
How to get to Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer from Arles?
By car, allow about 40 minutes via the D570 (38 km). By bus, the CarTreize 20 line connects Arles to Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer several times a day. By bike, the route is about 40 km on lightly trafficked roads crossing Camargue, a popular option for cycle tourists. To discover Arles before your visit, use the Ryo audio-guided tour.