The Rencontres d'Arles photography festival returns to Arles from July 6 to October 4, 2026, transforming the city's churches, cloisters, and industrial spaces into exhibition venues. Whether you're planning a single day or a longer stay, choosing the right pass makes a difference to your budget and flexibility.
This guide breaks down the two main ticketing options – the Exhibition Pass and the Book Day Pass – explains who gets in free, and covers group rates. You'll also find practical advice on how to book and what to expect during the opening week.
For a broader overview of the festival, including its history and themes, consult our Rencontres de la Photographie Arles guide.
Key Facts: Dates, Pass Types, and What They Include
The 57th edition runs from July 6 to October 4, 2026, with the opening week taking place July 6–12. During this period, exhibitions are open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., but note that some venues may have different hours, so it's wise to check the official program before you go.
Two main passes are available: the Exhibition Pass and the Book Day Pass. The Exhibition Pass costs €42 at full price and €33 reduced, granting one entry per venue for the entire festival duration. The Book Day Pass costs €35 online full price and €29 reduced, valid only on the day of activation. Both passes include one entry per exhibition venue, but they do not cover workshops, guided tours, or special events unless stated otherwise.
Exhibition Pass: Full Festival Access
The Exhibition Pass is designed for visitors who want to explore the festival at their own pace over multiple days. Priced at €42 (full) or €33 (reduced), it offers one entry to each official exhibition venue from July 6 to October 4. This pass is ideal if you plan to spend several days visiting venues across Arles, such as the Palais de l'Archevêché, La Mécanique Générale, and the Abbaye de Montmajour.
With the Exhibition Pass, you can spread your visits across the entire festival period, returning to the city for multiple trips if needed. It also includes access to the exhibitions during the opening week, when many events like screenings and talks take place. However, the pass does not cover separate ticketed events such as portfolio reviews or special evening screenings unless they are explicitly included in the festival program.
Book Day Pass: One-Day Access
If your time in Arles is limited to a single day, the Book Day Pass is a more economical choice. Online, it costs €35 full price and €29 reduced, and it grants one entry per venue on the day you activate it. This pass is perfect for a whirlwind tour of the festival's highlights, allowing you to visit multiple venues in one day without the commitment of a longer pass.
Keep in mind that the Book Day Pass must be purchased online in advance to get the reduced rate; buying on the day may require a different process. Check the official festival website for the most current purchasing options, as ticket availability and prices can change.
Free Admission and Discounts
Admission is free for children under 18, Arles residents, people with disabilities, and certain social benefit recipients. If you fall into any of these categories, you'll need to provide proof of eligibility when you collect your ticket, so bring the necessary documents with you to the venue.
The reduced price for the Exhibition Pass and Book Day Pass is available to students, seniors, and other eligible groups, but the exact criteria are not detailed in official sources. Check the festival's ticketing page or contact the box office to confirm whether you qualify for the reduced rate.
Group Rates and How to Book
Groups of 10 or more can take advantage of preferential rates, but you must book in advance by filling out an online form at least 48 hours before your visit (working days only). For more information or to make a booking, you can call +33 (0)4 88 65 83 40 or email the festival's group sales team. The main festival contact number is +33 (0)4 90 96 76 06.
Tickets can be purchased online through the official Rencontres d'Arles website, which is the most reliable way to secure your pass. You can also buy tickets by phone at the numbers listed above. For the Book Day Pass, online purchase is required to get the reduced rate, so plan ahead.
Opening Week (July 6–12): What's Included with Your Pass
The opening week is the festival's most intense period, with the official launch of all exhibitions and a packed schedule of screenings, talks, and artist encounters. Most of these activities are accessible with either pass, but some special events, such as portfolio reviews or the Nuit de l'Année evening screenings, may require separate tickets or registration.
For a detailed day-by-day plan of the opening week, including specific events and times, consult the festival's official program or our guide to the Rencontres d'Arles Opening Week.
Practical Tips: Choosing Your Pass and Planning Your Days
Deciding between the Exhibition Pass and the Book Day Pass depends mainly on how many days you have in Arles. If you're visiting for two or more days, the Exhibition Pass offers better value per day and lets you revisit venues without additional cost. For a single day, the Book Day Pass is the simpler choice.
When budgeting, remember that your ticket does not cover travel, accommodation, or meals. Arles is a compact city, so you can easily move between venues on foot, but if you're staying further out, consider public transport or parking costs. Check our guide to where to stay for recommendations that suit your budget.
Book your tickets online in advance to save time and potentially money, especially if you qualify for a reduced rate. Also, note that the official sources do not specify a cancellation policy or refunds, so it's wise to be certain of your plans before purchasing. If you're unsure, contact the festival's box office for clarification.
Plan Your Visit
The Rencontres d'Arles offers two clear ticketing options: the Exhibition Pass for full festival access and the Book Day Pass for a single day. Both include entry to exhibition venues, but your choice should reflect how much time you have and what you want to see. To compare this visit with other celebrations, use our guide to festivals in France.
Remember to check the official website for the latest prices, opening hours, and any changes to the program. Since cancellation policies are not published, confirm before you buy. For more details on the festival's dates and program, see our dedicated page.
Once your passes are sorted, you can focus on enjoying the exhibitions and the unique atmosphere of Arles in summer. For a complete overview of venues and locations, consult our guide to plan your route.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Rencontres d'Arles Exhibition Pass cost?
It grants one entry per venue and is valid from July 6 to October 4, 2026. Check the official website for the most current pricing and to buy tickets. Check the organizer's current ticket information for the admission category you need; historical rates are not a current quote.
What is the Book Day Pass price?
It is valid for one day only, granting one entry per venue on the day of activation. Check the organizer's current ticket information for the admission category you need; historical rates are not a current quote.
Are there discounts for students or seniors?
Reduced prices are available for eligible visitors, but the exact criteria for students and seniors are not detailed in official sources. It is best to check the festival's ticketing page or contact the box office to see if you qualify.
Is admission free for children or Arles residents?
Yes, admission is free for children under 18, Arles residents, people with disabilities, and certain social benefit recipients. Proof of eligibility is required, so bring relevant documents when you visit.
Can I buy tickets at the door?
Tickets are available for purchase online and by phone. While you may be able to buy at the door, purchasing in advance is recommended, especially during peak times like the opening week. Check the official site for on-the-day options.
What does my ticket include?
Both the Exhibition Pass and Book Day Pass include one entry per official exhibition venue. Workshops, guided tours, and special events like screenings or portfolio reviews may require separate registration or fees, so check the program for specifics.
What are the festival dates?
The Rencontres d'Arles runs from July 6 to October 4, 2026, with the opening week from July 6 to 12. Exhibition hours are daily from 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., but some venues may vary.
How many days do you need at the Rencontres d'Arles?
You can see a good portion of the festival in one day by selecting highlights, but to fully explore the many exhibitions across Arles, you'd benefit from two or three days. The Exhibition Pass is more cost-effective for longer stays.
