I will be traveling to Arles and Cassis and will have about four nights. Should I break it up two nights in each or should I only devote one night in Cassis?... Also, is there a train readily available between the two?
I haven't been to Arles and I've only driven through Cassis without staying there. However, after checking the train timetables, I found that you can easily take the train between the towns; but you'll have to connect in Marseille. For most departure times the total time for the ride will be around two hours.
I've stayed in both towns. I'd suggest 2 nights in each.
Both Arles and Cassis were around 8-10 years ago and I can't remember where I stayed. I just remember that in Cassis it was a modest hotel right at the edge of the port. Sorry I can't be of any help. If it comes to me I'll repost.
Thanks for the suggestion!
Where did you stay in Cassis?
It depends what you want to do. The town of Cassis is quite small, so you can "see" it in an afternoon. But it's a beach town so it's really a nice place to sit on the beach, relax in a cafe, etc. Plus there's the boat ride to the calenques, or you could be more adventurous and hike to them. There's also wineries nearby you can visit. Keep in mind that the train station in Cassis is waaay up on a hill a couple miles outside of town. You can't walk to/from it. There is a shuttle bus that runs, but it stops running earlier than you'd expect. Taxis are available too (most of the time - we were there during a strike!) So be sure and note the schedule of the shuttle if you use it. I would personally stay 2 days in Cassis, it's just a wonderful place.