Arles, Les Baux & Saint-Remy de Provence from Aix

A full-day tour from Aix-en-Provence for $167.68 per person offers a blend of art history, Roman ruins, and scenic Provencal towns. Spanning approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes, this trip takes visitors through the landscapes that inspired Vincent van Gogh, with visits to Saint-Remy de Provence, Arles, and Les Baux de Provence. The tour features a professional guide, air-conditioned transport, and free time at each stop to explore independently. With an average booking 59 days in advance, it suits those interested in art, history, and stunning scenery, looking for a well-paced, informative experience.

While the tour does not include entrance fees or meals, it provides the convenience of round-trip transport from Aix-en-Provence and flexible free time to soak up local atmospheres. The tour’s reviews highlight the expertise of guides and the quality of sightseeing, making it a strong option for those who appreciate both structured insights and personal exploration.

Key Points

• Full-day trip from Aix-en-Provence to three key Provençal towns
• Visits to Van Gogh landmarks including Saint-Paul de Mausole and Arles
• Time in Les Baux de Provence with panoramic views and optional show at Les Carrières de Lumières
• Market experiences in Saint-Remy and Arles, depending on the day of the week
• Transport in a comfortable air-conditioned minibus with a professional guide
• Free time to explore each stop independently, with guides providing explanations during travel

Exploring Van Gogh’s Provence: The Tour’s Focus on Art and History

This tour centers on the landscapes and towns connected to Vincent van Gogh, starting with Saint-Remy de Provence, famous for its Provencal market and Saint Paul de Mausole monastery. This former psychiatric hospital is where Van Gogh was treated after his infamous ear incident, and it continues to draw visitors interested in his life and work. The guide offers insights into Van Gogh’s time here, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing.

In Arles, the tour emphasizes Van Gogh’s stay and inspiration, including a visit to the Arles Amphitheatre, a striking Roman ruin that dates back to the 1st century. The town itself echoes Van Gogh’s paintings, with a view of the yellow café terrace—a spot famously depicted in his artwork. The free time allows for independent exploration of the Roman architecture and local charm.

The overall focus on Van Gogh’s Provence experience is complemented by visits to Les Baux de Provence, a village renowned for its spectacular views over the Provencal countryside. Tourists have the chance to wander its narrow streets, enjoy the scenery, and optionally attend the show at Les Carrières de Lumières, with a light and sound exhibition in a former quarry. Though tickets for this show are not included, many find it a highlight if available during the season.

From Roman Ruins to Art Scenes in Arles

Arles is at the heart of Roman history in Provence, and this tour offers a two-hour window to explore its famed Roman amphitheatre and other ancient structures. Located within the UNESCO World Heritage site, the amphitheatre stands as a testament to Roman engineering and is often a highlight for visitors interested in archaeology.

The town’s atmosphere reflects its past, with bustling markets on Saturdays and charming streets lined with cafes and shops. The free time here is perfect for those wanting to see the Arles Arena and walk in Van Gogh’s footsteps—though some reviews note that the guided component mainly occurs during transport, leaving the town’s exploration largely independent.

Market days are prime times to experience local life and taste Provencal produce, although the tour notes that market visits may depend on the day of the week. For example, Saint-Remy hosts its market on Wednesdays, adding a lively local flavor to the visit.

Scenic Drive Through the Alpilles and Time in Les Baux de Provence

The tour includes a two-hour stop in Les Baux de Provence, a village perched atop rocky hills offering sweeping views over the Provencal landscape. Travelers can enjoy self-guided exploration through its historic streets, discovering art galleries, shops, and scenic vistas.

During this stop, there is an option to attend the Les Carrières de Lumières show, a multimedia light installation projected onto quarry walls—though ticket costs are not included and the show may be closed in winter. Visitors appreciate the breathtaking scenery and the opportunity to take photographs of the medieval ruins and panoramic views.

A highlight is the free time allocated here, which many use for a leisurely lunch or to soak in the vistas. The village’s unique atmosphere makes it a favorite stop for those appreciating Provencal architecture and landscape.

Saint-Remy de Provence: Market and Van Gogh’s Inspiration

Saint-Remy de Provence offers a provencal market on Wednesdays, providing a glimpse into local life. The market is lively, with stalls selling fresh produce, regional specialties, and crafts, set within charming narrow streets.

Along With the market, visitors can explore the town’s boutiques, cafes, and Van Gogh-related sites. The tour’s two-hour stop provides enough time for a casual stroll and some shopping, although some reviews mention that the town can feel somewhat touristy and that time may be limited to see Van Gogh’s artistic footprints or specific artifacts.

The guide assists with context and directions, helping visitors make the most of their visit, but the emphasis remains on independent exploration.

Logistics: Meeting Point, Transportation, and Group Size

The tour departs from 300 Av. Giuseppe Verdi, Aix-en-Provence, at 9:00 am. The round-trip journey is facilitated in a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus, allowing for a relaxed ride through the Provencal landscape.

The group size is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, fostering an intimate environment and personalized experience. The guide leads the group through explanations during travel, with free time at each stop for individual exploration. The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so participants need to meet at the designated location.

The Tour’s Pacing and Flexibility

This trip balances structured guiding during the drive with ample free time in each location. Most stops are around 2 hours, which allows for sightseeing, shopping, or resting at leisure. Some critiques note that the free time might be short for those wishing to explore every detail, especially in Saint-Remy, where a quick visit may feel rushed.

The timing is designed to keep the pace lively yet manageable, with guides providing insights and suggestions throughout. The tour is most suited for those who enjoy a combination of guided commentary and independent wandering.

Considerations and Limitations

While the tour offers excellent value and insightful guides, it does not include entrance fees to sights, so visitors should budget accordingly if they wish to visit specific monuments or attend shows. Some reviews mention that market visits depend on the day of the week, which may affect the experience.

The tour may feel rushed for those wanting more time in each town, especially Saint-Remy. For travelers seeking a deep dive into Van Gogh’s life or Roman history, this itinerary provides a broad overview but may not satisfy those looking for lengthy explorations.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This 8.5-hour Provençal adventure suits art enthusiasts, history buffs, and scenic lovers who prefer a well-organized, guided experience with free time for personal exploration. The small group size and expert guides make it ideal for travelers who enjoy personalized attention and informative commentary.

It is also perfect for visitors who want to see key Van Gogh sites, Roman ruins, and picturesque villages without the hassle of planning individual transport or schedules. However, those wanting more in-depth visits or entry to specific sites may need to supplement this tour with additional tickets.

Van Gogh-Inspired Sights and Provencal Charm in a Day

This tour offers a rundown of the towns and landscapes associated with Vincent van Gogh, combined with Roman ruins and Provencal scenery. It delivers expert guiding, scenic drives, and free exploration time at each stop, making it a flexible and engaging way to experience Provence’s artistic and historical heritage.

While limited in monument entry and with some short stops, the tour’s personalized approach and stunning vistas make it a worthwhile choice for those interested in art history, Roman architecture, and local markets. The small group size adds to the comfort and intimacy, ensuring a more tailored experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes transport by air-conditioned minibus and a professional guide. Market visits in Arles and Saint-Remy are included but entrance fees to monuments and shows are not included.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 9:00 am and returning to the original meeting point at the end of the day.

Are meals or snacks included?
No, lunch, food, and drinks are not included. Participants can purchase food during the free time in each town.

How big are the groups?
The group size is limited to 8 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience and easier movement through stops.

Can children participate?
Children under 4 years old are not allowed on this tour, due to the nature of the activity and group size restrictions.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The information does not specify accessibility details; potential participants should be prepared for walking in towns and uneven surfaces.

What if I want to attend Les Carrières de Lumières?
Tickets for Les Carrières de Lumières are not included but can be purchased separately if the show is open during your visit.

What happens if I cancel?
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are not refunded.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. Participants must meet at the designated starting point.

Would this tour be suitable for first-time visitors to Provence?
Yes, especially for those interested in Van Gogh, Roman history, and provincial towns. The combination of guided commentary and free exploration suits first-timers wanting a structured yet flexible day.

This Aix-en-Provence full-day trip offers a compelling way to explore Van Gogh’s Provence, blending art, history, and scenic towns. Its small-group format, expert guides, and mix of guided and free time make it a practical choice for those eager to see the highlights efficiently without sacrificing personal exploration.