Arles, Les Baux and Saint Remy de Provence from Marseille

Exploring Provence through the lens of Van Gogh offers a vivid blend of art, history, and stunning landscapes. This full-day tour from Marseille provides an immersive experience for those eager to see the iconic sites that inspired the artist. For $177.69 per person, you’ll enjoy approximately 10.5 hours of visiting Arles, Les Baux de Provence, and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence with a knowledgeable guide. The tour features scenic transportation, guided commentary, and free time to explore each destination, making it ideal for travelers seeking a mix of guided insights and self-discovery.

While the tour is well-rated and features many highlights, be aware that lunch and entrance fees are not included, and the day involves a fair amount of driving. It’s best suited for those comfortable with a long day of sightseeing, with some walking at each stop. The tour’s structure and flexibility—such as optional shows and free exploration—add to its appeal for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Key Points

• Full-day experience visiting Arles, Les Baux, and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
• Cost of $177.69 per person, with 10.5 hours of scenic travel and sightseeing
• Expert guides provide engaging narratives about Van Gogh, Roman heritage, and Provençal villages
• Includes transportation by air-conditioned vehicle departing from Marseille Vieux Port
• Free time in Les Baux and Arles for personal exploration or optional shows
• Stops at iconic sites, such as the Arles amphitheatre and Les Antiques in Saint-Rémy

The Pickup and Transportation from Marseille Vieux Port

This tour begins with a morning pickup at the Radisson Blu Hotel at Marseille Vieux Port. The journey is made comfortable with air-conditioned minivans, allowing travelers to settle in for a scenic drive through Provence’s countryside. The departure time of 8:00 am ensures a full day of sightseeing, making the most of daylight hours.

The group is private, meaning only your booking group participates, which enhances the experience’s intimacy and flexibility. The drive offers views of the Plain of La Crau — a landscape appreciated by artists and nature lovers alike — setting the tone for a day immersed in Provençal beauty.

Exploring Arles: Van Gogh’s Artistic Playground

The first stop at Arles provides a chance to see the Roman and Van Gogh landmarks that make the town so significant. The archeological site of Les Arènes—a well-preserved Roman amphitheater—is a highlight, allowing visitors to imagine ancient spectacles.

The Church of Saint Trophime and Forum Place are also on the itinerary, with the latter famously featuring in Van Gogh’s “Café Terrace at Night.” The town’s open-air markets on Saturdays add a lively atmosphere, perfect for wandering and soaking in local life.

The guide offers rich commentary, helping visitors appreciate how Van Gogh was inspired by these surroundings. There’s free time to explore, take photos, or visit local cafes, making this stop both educational and leisurely.

The Charm of Les Baux de Provence

The medieval hilltop village of Les Baux de Provence is renowned for its 16th-century architecture and spectacular views. The visit includes about 2 hours for exploration and lunch (at your own expense).

Tourists can admire the Museum of Santons, the Hôtel des Porcelets, and St Vincent Church, all showcasing Provençal history. The free time allows for wandering through cobbled streets and discovering local shops.

An optional visit to the Les Carrières de Lumières—an immersive art show at the former quarry—can be added, with tickets purchased separately. The spectacular light projections here are an additional highlight but require individual planning.

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence’s Ancient Ruins and Van Gogh Connection

Next, the tour moves to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, notably for the Les Antiques—a funeral monument and triumphal arch from the ancient Glanum site. This spot offers a 15-minute photo stop with free access, providing a taste of Roman history in Provence.

Perched near the Saint-Paul-de-Mausole asylum, where Van Gogh was voluntarily committed, this area is often linked to the artist’s paintings. The settings evoke the scenes Van Gogh captured, making this stop especially meaningful for art fans.

On Wednesdays and Saturdays, visitors can experience the local open-air markets, adding a lively local flavor to the visit.

Optional Visits to Aix-en-Provence and Additional Activities

Depending on the day, the tour may include a drive through Aix-en-Provence for a quick glimpse of this elegant town’s fountains and café-lined streets. While not a core part of the itinerary, this optional drive offers a chance for additional sightseeing en route back to Marseille.

At each location, the guide provides tips and suggestions, including options for visiting the Les Carrières de Lumières or exploring local markets, if time allows. The flexibility ensures travelers can tailor the experience to their interests.

The Scenic Countryside and Rural Villages

Throughout the day, the provençal landscape unfolds in front of travelers’ eyes—olive groves, cypress trees, and rolling hills define the scenery. The long drive is well-managed, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the beautiful countryside in comfort.

The small communities visited in this tour, such as Saint-Rémy and Les Baux, reveal aspects of rural life that are often missed by visitors to more touristy coastal areas. The knowledgeable guides enhance this experience with stories about local history and art.

The Tour’s Length, Pace, and Physical Considerations

This tour spans approximately 10.5 hours, with roughly 2 hours at each major stop. The schedule involves moderate walking around historic sites and villages, so travelers should be prepared for some standing and strolling.

The air-conditioned vehicle and comfortable transfer make the long day manageable, but it’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes and bring water. The group size is limited to private groups, providing a more personalized experience.

Highlights of the Guide-Led Experience and Optional Shows

The guides are praised for their passion and storytelling skills, with specific mentions of Melissa, Bernardo, and Florance. Their depth of knowledge and friendly approach make the historical and artistic elements come alive.

Optional attractions, such as the Les Carrières de Lumières show, offer an additional layer of artistic immersion, but require extra tickets purchased separately.

The guides’ enthusiasm and personalized attention stand out as key strengths of this tour.

Practical Details: Booking, Cancellation, and Contact

The tour can be booked up to 68 days in advance, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the start. The meeting point is accessible near public transportation, at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Marseille.

The supplier, A La Française Marseille, can be contacted via +33 490147000 or email [email protected] for questions or additional arrangements.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour appeals most to art lovers, especially those interested in Van Gogh and Roman history. The mix of guided storytelling and free exploration suits those who appreciate a flexible itinerary.

It’s ideal for adults comfortable with a long, full day of sightseeing, and those who enjoy scenic drives through Provençal landscapes. The private group format ensures a relaxed environment for discussions and personal interest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included; travelers should plan to purchase their own meals during the free time in Les Baux or Arles.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees to monuments and museums are not included. Visitors can explore sites at their own expense if desired.

Can I customize the tour?
The tour offers flexibility with optional activities and free time at stops, but the core itinerary remains fixed. Some optional shows, like Les Carrières de Lumières, are extra.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 4 years old are not allowed. The tour involves some walking and a long day, so it’s best suited for older children and adults with good mobility.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

This well-balanced day trip from Marseille offers a blend of art, history, and scenic beauty in Provence, perfect for those eager to see Van Gogh’s inspiration sites without the hassle of organizing individual trips.