From Avignon: In the Footsteps of Van Gogh in Provence

Discover Van Gogh’s Provence on this engaging half-day tour that departs from Avignon for only $117 per person. In just 6.5 hours, the journey takes you to key locations that inspired the artist’s most famous paintings, with a focus on Arles and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. This tour is ideal for those interested in art, history, or the stunning landscapes that Van Gogh loved.

What makes this experience stand out is the inclusion of a ticket to Saint Paul de Mausole, where Van Gogh was interned and created some of his most celebrated works. The tour is led by a live guide in English or French, and the small group size—limited to 8 participants—ensures a personalized atmosphere. Keep in mind, the tour’s order can change due to market days, but the highlights remain consistent.

Key Points

• Price: Only $117 per person for a comprehensive Van Gogh-themed experience.
• Duration: 6.5 hours, making it a perfect half-day escape from Avignon.
• Highlights: Focus on Arles, Saint Rémy-de-Provence, and the Saint-Paul-de-Mausole Asylum.
• Transport: Travel in an air-conditioned minibus with a driver-guide.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 participants for a more intimate experience.
• Flexibility: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point in Avignon: Meeting at 41 Cr Jean Jaurès

The tour begins at the tourist information center of Avignon, located at 41 cours Jean Jaurès. From this central starting point, the guide leads the group on a well-organized journey into Van Gogh’s world. The meeting location is easy to find and is convenient for travelers staying in the city.

The tour includes transportation by a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus, ensuring a smooth ride between stops. Travel times between locations are brief, with approximately one hour to reach Van Gogh’s significant sites, keeping the focus on exploring rather than long transit periods.

Van Gogh’s Inspiration in Provence

Provence’s vibrant landscapes, golden fields, and colorful villages deeply inspired Van Gogh during his time in the region. The tour emphasizes how these surroundings feature prominently in his paintings, especially the famous Sunflowers and Starry Night. The guide discusses how Van Gogh’s artistic style was shaped by the bold colors and sweeping vistas of Arles and Saint-Rémy.

Travelers gain a deeper appreciation for how the sunny climate and provincial scenery fueled Van Gogh’s creativity, which is vividly evident in the artworks created here. The tour’s pacing allows ample time to soak in the atmosphere that Van Gogh found so compelling.

Exploring Arles: Van Gogh’s Artistic Hotspot

In Arles, the group stops at several sites that inspired Van Gogh’s most renowned paintings, including Café Terrace at Night and The Yellow House. A photo stop allows travelers to capture the charming streets and vibrant facades associated with Van Gogh’s work.

The free time in Arles provides an opportunity to walk through the town, visit local sights, or simply enjoy the ambiance that Van Gogh captured in his art. The guide shares insights into the city’s Roman ruins and its role in Van Gogh’s life, adding historical depth to the visit.

Expect approximately 105 minutes of sightseeing and walking in Arles, giving enough space to explore comfortably without feeling rushed.

Saint Paul de Mausole: Van Gogh’s Asylum and Studio

The highlight for many is the visit to Saint Paul de Mausole, the asylum in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence where Van Gogh was interned. The ticket is included with the tour, allowing visitors to enter this historic site.

Within the asylum, the guide explains Van Gogh’s time here, including his struggles and artistic achievements. Visitors can see the room where Van Gogh stayed, along with the landscape that he painted during his stay. Many of his famous works were created in this environment, making it a deeply meaningful stop.

The 45-minute visit combines history, art, and personal insight, enriching the understanding of Van Gogh’s life and work during this period.

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Lunch and Free Time in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

The tour allocates 75 minutes in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence for a leisurely lunch and exploration. Travelers can choose to dine at local cafes or markets, enjoying Provençal cuisine in this picturesque town.

The free time also allows for additional visits to shops or nearby sights, providing a relaxed break before the final stretch of the tour. This unstructured period is appreciated for offering a personal touch, enabling travelers to tailor the experience to their interests.

Returning to Avignon: End of the Journey

After exploring Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, the tour departs for the return trip, with about 30 minutes of travel back to the starting point at 41 Cr Jean Jaurès. The journey concludes comfortably within the scheduled timeframe, leaving travelers with ample time to continue their day in Avignon.

The guide wraps up the experience with a summary of Van Gogh’s influence and the Provence scenery that continues to inspire artists today.

Practical Details: Logistics and Comfort

This tour is suitable for those who enjoy small group travel and prefer a personalized experience. The group size is limited to 8 people, fostering a relaxed, informative atmosphere.

The tour requires comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, a camera, and water — essential for exploring Provence’s sunny landscapes. It’s not recommended for children under 4 years or individuals with mobility issues due to walking and site access.

The tour operates in English and French, with flexible booking options that allow free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Payment can be deferred until booking, making it easy to plan ahead.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

At $117, the tour provides a thoughtfully curated itinerary that covers key Van Gogh sites with expert local guides. The inclusion of entry tickets and transportation simplifies the experience, making it accessible and stress-free.

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and personalized attention, which enhance the overall value. Visitors especially appreciate the timing, pacing, and the opportunity to see Van Gogh’s world through the eyes of someone who understands his art and life intimately.

Final Thoughts on the Van Gogh Provence Tour

This half-day experience from Avignon offers a well-balanced mix of art, history, and scenic landscapes. It suits those with a moderate interest in Van Gogh or Provence’s provincial charm, providing a meaningful connection to the artist’s inspiration.

The small group size and expert guides are strong points, ensuring a friendly and informative atmosphere. The inclusion of Saint Paul de Mausole as a ticketed site adds depth to the visit, while the flexible booking options make it easy to plan.

While the itinerary might shift on market days, the core highlights remain accessible and engaging. Travelers who enjoy artistic history, beautiful scenery, and small-group tours will find this experience offers excellent value and memorable moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts 6.5 hours, making it a perfect half-day excursion from Avignon.

What locations are included in the tour?
Stops include Arles, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, and the Saint-Paul-de-Mausole asylum.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes transportation by an air-conditioned minibus.

Are tickets to Saint Paul de Mausole included?
Yes, the entry ticket to Saint Paul de Mausole is included in the tour price.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, a camera, and water.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for children under 4 years or for people with mobility impairments.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

What languages are available for the guide?
Guides operate in English and French.

Is this tour good for art enthusiasts?
Absolutely. The tour focuses on Van Gogh’s connection to Provence and includes visits to sites directly linked to his works.

How many participants are in each group?
Groups are limited to 8 people for a more personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby