Nice vs Arles

My personal choice would be Arles because I felt very comfortable there; there are many layers of history to enjoy, more a daytime place; I usually had a nice lunch, instead of dinner. More casual and relaxing pace than big City Nice. Old part of Nice is Charming and Chagall Chapel is a must see! Nice is probably closer to your departure Airport. Bon Voyage!

I didn't love either one of them, but my expectations were lower for Nice, which I expected to be more of a sunny beach vacation spot with some culture - and that's about what it was to me. So it met my expectations. Arles on the other hand was disappointing - my expectations were higher I guess. It was very dead at night the two nights I was there (May 2017) - both it wasn't easy to find a restaurant that was open (or that looked open). More of a work town. Avignon, where I day tripped, was more touristy for sure but would have been more interesting to me at night.

That said, at the end of a long tour, Nice would be relaxing - it's an easy place to replace to relax and vibrant though full of tourists.

You will have already been in Provence so I suggest Nice. It offers a seaside location, excellent art museums and it’s own wonderful Nicoise food and culture.

Travel logistics will be easier from Nice, which has an airport for you to fly back home (with a direct flight available on Delta!).

I enjoyed both Arles and Nice. We ended our Loire to the South of France tour in Nice. Two days was wonderful to relax in Old Town, appreciate the architecture, stroll the Promenade des Anglais, and enjoy the wonderful cuisine... We enjoyed the Chagall and Matisse Museums as well.

Having just been to both a week ago, I would say Nice. As everyone mentioned, easier to get to your next destination, and the Old Town is nice. Arles was a little too sleepy for us. Once we walked through the town, we were done. Also, easy day trips to Monaco or Antibes if you choose.

Since we are talking this month, have you set your departure? If you are flying from Nice, then that is perfect. You can take a train (or bus) at the end of the tour to Nice and not need a car to explore the city or the nearby towns. The Grand Prix in Monaco is at the end of the month so points east of Nice will be a bit more congested.

If you are already departing from Marseilles, then you might consider the short stay in Arles. There are the ruins and the Van Gogh related sights, and it is fine enough.

Thanks to all for their imput. STILL undecided. Argh.

If your tour is ending on the 27th we are on the same tour. I have 4 nights before my flight out of Nice. I am looking at smaller towns on the coast so I can get back to Nice for the flight. Haven't decided where yet. The Mercure Hotel where the tour ends is booked. Can't stay there.