Grand'Place, Nord Pas De Calais Travel Guide

Discover Arras' Grand'Place: a historic square with stunning Flemish architecture, vibrant markets, and a rich cultural heritage.

The Grand'Place in Arras, France, is a stunning example of Flemish Baroque architecture. This historic square, dating back to the 11th century, is surrounded by 155 meticulously restored townhouses, offering visitors a captivating glimpse into the region's rich past and vibrant present.

A brief summary to Grand'Place

Arras, 62000, FR

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Grand'Place.

Visit on Wednesday or Saturday morning to experience the bustling market.
Explore the underground tunnels (Boves) beneath the Place des Héros to learn about the city's history.
Climb the Belfry for panoramic views of the city and surrounding area.
Enjoy a meal or drink at one of the many cafes and restaurants lining the square.
Visit during the Christmas Market to experience the festive atmosphere.

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Explore Grand'Place on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Grand'Place, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the Arras train station, walk north along Boulevard Faidherbe. Turn left onto Rue Gambetta, then right onto Rue de la Taillerie. The Grand'Place will be directly ahead. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes. No costs are involved.
Public Transport

Several bus lines stop near the Grand'Place, including C14, C36, L13, L14 and L15. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. Single tickets cost around €1.60.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Arras. A short taxi ride from the train station to the Grand'Place will cost approximately €8-€12. Ride-sharing services like Uber may also operate in the area.
Parking

Underground parking is available directly under the Grand'Place. Rates range from free for the first 30 minutes, €0.20 for 40 minutes, with a maximum of €1 between 18:00 and 02:00, and €12-€13 for 24 hours. Weekly rates are around €32-€36. Parking Grand'Place has 695 places.

Discover more about Grand'Place

Arras' Grand'Place, located in the Pas-de-Calais department, is an architectural treasure trove that attracts visitors from around the world. The square's origins trace back to the 11th century, evolving from a central marketplace to the heart of Arras. Some historians believe it was built on the former orchard of Saint-Vaast, while others suggest it dates back to the town's origins. Legend has it that Baldwin V of Flanders was born in a tent on the square in 1004.The Grand'Place is renowned for its 155 meticulously restored Hispano-Flemish mansions, showcasing the region's unique Baroque style. These buildings, constructed in the 17th and 18th centuries, feature ornate facades, scrolled gables, and arcades supported by 345 sandstone columns. Although each house is unique, they form a harmonious ensemble due to the strict adherence to urban planning codes during their construction. The Hotel Les Trois Luppars, dating back to 1467, is the oldest building on the square, showcasing Flemish Gothic brickwork and large ogival windows.Throughout history, the Grand'Place has served as a central hub for commerce, celebrations, and cultural events. During the First World War, the square suffered extensive damage, but it was painstakingly rebuilt to its former glory. Today, the Grand'Place hosts a variety of events, including markets, exhibitions, and festivals, such as the popular Christmas market and the Arras Film Festival. The Grand'Place is connected to the Place des Héros by the Rue de la Taillerie.