A group of 5 adults traveling in a rented VW mini-bus is planning separate day-trips to Arles & Cassis. We will have all of our luggage in our vehicle, and one of our group is particularly worried about parking and leaving our belongings.

What are our "safe" parking options in Arles & Cassis so we won't have to worry about theft? We don't mind paying for the "privilege."

Many thanks!

Has anyone parked a rental vehicle in Cassis or Arles loaded with luggage? Options?

I must say I'm amazed. Based on previous experience, I was expecting a dozen helpful responses in short order.

Perhaps parking a loaded vehicle in Cassis & Arles is not a concern?

Sorry no one has answered you. We never leave luggage unless we can see it where we stop for lunch on the road.
Othwise it's at a our B&B or hotel.

Gekko,
When we were in Cassis last month we were also very concerned about leaving our car, fully packed and clearly visible in a parking lot. I had read numerous warnings, and even saw a large sign on the cassis beach parking lot warning to not leave valuables in a parked car. It was the holiday weekend of the ascension with throngs of cars searching for a spot. The line to the underground parking lot was backed up and the public lot up the hill had swarms of cars jockeying for a spot, so we felt lucky to have gotten a spot at all. The entire two hours we were down in the town, I was sure we would go back to an empty vehicle, but it was just fine.

The bottome line is, use your own judgement, if it is daylight, especially, you should be OK.

Thanks for the helpful responses. We'll be there in September, after the high season ends, so hopefully we'll be able to get an underground parking spot in Cassis. We certainly don't mind paying for parking if it's monitored.

Anyone with experience/thoughts on Arles?

I parked in a public parking lot in Arles. Can't remember the exact location, but it was not far from the Roman arena. We had all our stuff in a 4 door car, with some luggage clearly visible in the back seat. We didn't have a problem and didn't hear anyone mention any such problem while we were there. Good luck.

We usually park in a free lot in front of the church just to the left of the Arles arena--never had a problem.

Gekko,
There is a public parking structure on the main street just outside the walled section of Arles. In regards to your safety issue - it's right next to the police station.
JoeG

Oh yeah, that's what I wanted to hear. Many thanks to everyone. I'm sure my worried friend will be happy to hear your advice & suggestions.

During our recent stay in Arles we parked at the municipal parking just on Blvd. des Lices. You have to turn down Rue des Alyschamps and come up behind it to get in. I think this is the same one as mentionned by the police station. It is the parking for Hotel Le Calendal. It was fine.~o)