From Avignon: Van Gogh’s sites and Roman monuments

Discover Van Gogh’s Provençal Landscape and Roman Monuments in a Day

This 8.5-hour tour from Avignon offers a captivating blend of art, history, and stunning scenery for $123 per person. Led by a live English-speaking guide, the trip takes you through Van Gogh’s favorite locations like Saint Rémy de Provence and Arles, alongside impressive Roman sites such as Pont du Gard. The tour is designed for those who love art, history, and beautiful landscapes, with a small group experience limited to 8 participants. While the tour provides exterior views of Van Gogh’s former asylum and free time at key stops, it does not include interior museum visits or Van Gogh’s room replica, making it suitable for travelers who enjoy outdoor sightseeing and guided commentary.

The tour’s highlight is the chance to see Saint Rémy de Provence, where Van Gogh painted “The Starry Night” and “The Irises”. It also explores Les Baux de Provence, a medieval hilltop village offering breathtaking views and charming shopping streets. In Arles, visitors can stroll through UNESCO World Heritage sites and follow in Van Gogh’s footsteps, while the journey to Pont du Gard features one of Europe’s most impressive Roman aqueducts. Practicalities include parking, tolls, and gas fees included, with no need for hotel pickups or additional entrance fees beyond Pont du Gard.

This tour has earned an exceptional rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 15 reviews, with many praising the knowledgeable guides, comfortable transport, and well-paced schedule. It’s a reliable choice for those wanting an immersive day exploring Provence’s artistic and ancient Roman marvels without the hassle of planning each stop themselves.

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Key Points

• Includes a drive from Avignon with live commentary in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
• Visits Saint Rémy de Provence to see Van Gogh’s landscape scenes and the exteriors of his former asylum.
• Explores Les Baux de Provence, a picturesque medieval village perched on a rocky plateau.
• Offers an extended stop in Arles to see UNESCO-listed monuments and walk Van Gogh’s streets.
• Features a visit to Pont du Gard, with the option to dip your feet in the river or view the aqueduct from unusual angles.
• Small group size of up to 8 participants enhances the personalized experience.

Starting at Avignon: Easy Meeting at the Tourism Office

The tour departs from the Avignon Tourism Office, providing a convenient starting point in the heart of the city. After a brief drive, your small group is introduced to the day’s itinerary, with live commentary from your guide about each site’s significance. The organized transport ensures a relaxed journey, allowing you to enjoy the scenery of vineyards and olive groves en route to your first stop.

Van Gogh’s Saint Rémy de Provence: See the Landscape Painted by the Master

Your first major stop is Saint Rémy de Provence, where Van Gogh created many of his famous works. While the hospital remains operational, visitors only see the exterior and some informative boards representing Van Gogh’s most famous paintings. The tour does not include interior visits or the Van Gogh room replica, but the outdoor views and commentary help bring his inspiration to life. The peaceful surroundings of Saint Rémy provide a chance to appreciate the landscapes that influenced his art.

Exploring Les Baux de Provence: Medieval Charm with Spectacular Views

Next, the tour takes you to Les Baux de Provence, a hilltop village perched on a rocky outcrop within the Alpilles massif. The free time here lasts approximately an hour, during which you can stroll along narrow cobbled streets, enjoy stunning panoramic views of the surrounding plains, and browse the local shops. The medieval fortress and eagle’s nest setting make this stop visually impressive, with plenty of photo opportunities. The tour guide provides insights into the history of this ancient fortress town and tips for local shopping.

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Arles: Relive Van Gogh’s Artistic Footsteps and UNESCO Monuments

The afternoon’s highlight is Arles, a lively old town recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. You are given approximately 2.5 hours to explore the monuments and walk Van Gogh’s streets, following the paths he painted. The tour guide supplies maps and information about historic sites, allowing for independent exploration. Notable sights include the Roman Theatre and Amphitheatre, both dating back over 2,000 years. The stop also offers local specialties—though lunch is not included, suggestions are provided. On Wednesdays and Saturdays, the market in Arles adds a colorful local flavor.

Pont du Gard: Roman Engineering Marvel and River Relaxation

The final major stop is Pont du Gard, arguably the most iconic Roman monument in France. This ancient aqueduct spans the Gardon River and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The free hour here allows visitors to admire the imposing structure, walk along shaded alleys, or even dip feet into the river for a fresh view of the aqueduct from a different angle. The tour includes entrance fees for Pont du Gard, making this stop both informative and relaxing.

Return to Avignon: Comfortable and Stress-free

After a full day of sightseeing, your driver returns you to the Avignon Tourism Office. The easy return trip makes it simple to plan the rest of your day in the city or head to your accommodations. The small group size and professional guide ensure a smooth, engaging experience from start to finish.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This tour suits travelers who are interested in Van Gogh’s art and Provence’s Roman history, but prefer outdoor sightseeing rather than interior museum visits. The small group format and expert guides make it ideal for those who appreciate personalized explanations and flexible exploration. It’s especially recommended for visitors who enjoy scenic drives, walking through historic villages, and taking photos of breathtaking views.

Final Thoughts on the Provençal Art and Roman Heritage Tour

This well-rated tour offers a balanced mix of artistic sites, medieval towns, and ancient Roman monuments. The $123 price includes comfortable transport, guided commentary, and entry to Pont du Gard, presenting good value for a full day of cultural exploration. While interior Van Gogh museum visits are not part of the package, the outdoor views and storytelling bring the artist’s world vividly to life.

The expert guides, praised for their friendliness and knowledge, enhance the experience, making it both educational and enjoyable. The limited group size ensures a more personal feel, though travelers should be prepared for a day spent mostly outdoors and walking. This tour provides a convenient, enriching way to experience key highlights of Provence without the hassle of self-planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include interior visits to Van Gogh’s asylum or museums?
No, the tour only offers exterior views and boards representing Van Gogh’s paintings. The interior or Van Gogh room replica are not included.

What should I bring for this tour?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the itinerary involves walking through villages and Roman sites.

Can I join this tour if I have mobility impairments?
No, the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to walking and site access limitations.

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included, but guides provide suggestions and information to help you choose local dining options during your free time in Arles.

What language is the tour guide in?
The tour is led in English, and groups may be international, with guides possibly doing the tour in multiple languages.

This Provençal journey from Avignon combines art, history, and scenic beauty in a manageable, well-organized day. It’s a compelling choice for travelers eager to see Van Gogh’s inspiration and Roman engineering without extensive planning or long museum visits.

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