From Marseille: Arles, Les Baux & Saint-Rémy Full-Day Tour

Key Points

• Full-day tour of Provence including Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Les Baux-de-Provence, and Arles
• Price of $170 per person for approximately 10.5 hours of exploration
• Small group experience limited to 8 participants with expert English and French guides
• Highlights include Roman monuments, Van Gogh sites, and medieval ruins
• Optional visits to Saint-Paul-de-Mausole and Les Carrières de Lumière are available, but tickets are not included
• Tour departs from and returns to Radisson Blu Hotel, Marseille Vieux Port

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The Tour’s Main Focus

This full-day journey from Marseille offers a detailed look into Provence’s artistic, historical, and scenic treasures. The tour balances cultural sites, picturesque villages, and historical landmarks, making it ideal for those wanting a comprehensive day trip. The price of $170 includes transportation by air-conditioned minibus and the services of a knowledgeable driver/guide.

While the tour does not include entry fees or meals, it provides ample free time for exploring, shopping, and enjoying local markets. The small group size ensures more personalized attention, which many find enhances the overall experience. The tour is best suited for those comfortable with walking and moderate sightseeing.

Starting Point at Marseille Vieux Port

The excursion begins at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Marseille Vieux Port, where guests meet outside the hotel. The air-conditioned minibus quickly sets the tone for a comfortable day of travel. The driver-guide provides an overview of the itinerary, setting expectations for the day ahead.

This convenient starting location makes it easy for travelers staying in the city to join the tour without hassle. The small group limit of 8 helps keep the atmosphere relaxed and intimate. The departure time varies, so checking the availability for your preferred date is recommended.

Exploring Saint-Rémy-de-Provence’s Market and Streets

The first stop is Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, a town famous for its charming streets and weekly market on Wednesdays. During free time, visitors can stroll through the town’s narrow lanes, browse local artisanal stalls, and soak up the Provençal atmosphere.

A key highlight is the photo stop at Saint-Paul-de-Mausole, the Romanesque hospital where Van Gogh was interned. Although tickets are not included, standing in front of the site provides a tangible connection to the artist’s life. Visitors also have the option to visit the open-air market if their schedule aligns, which offers local produce and regional specialties.

Scenic Drive and Tour of Les Baux de Provence

Next, the tour moves to Les Baux de Provence, a medieval village perched on a rocky spur. Known for its narrow medieval streets, imposing castle ruins, and breathtaking views, this stop combines history with stunning scenery.

Visitors have free time for shopping and sightseeing within the village, exploring its medieval architecture. The scenic drive on the way up offers beautiful views of the Alpilles landscape. While tickets for Les Carrières de Lumière are not included, attendees can choose to attend the show at their own expense, which features spectacular light projections on limestone caves.

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Discovering Van Gogh’s Inspiration in Arles

The final main stop is Arles, a city renowned for Roman monuments and its connection to Van Gogh. The photo stop allows guests to admire the Roman amphitheater and other historic sites.

In Arles, the guide leads guests through key Van Gogh locations, such as the Café Terrace and places where he painted during 1888. The weekly market on Saturday mornings adds to the lively local scene. Visitors enjoy free time to explore or shop in the city’s charming streets.

Flexibility and Optional Activities

Throughout the day, there is time allocated for lunch, which guests arrange on their own. The tour provides free time at each stop, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace.

Optional tickets for attractions like Saint-Paul-de-Mausole and Les Carrières de Lumière are not included, giving travelers flexibility but also requiring advance planning if they wish to attend these highlights.

Transportation, Group Size, and Comfort

The air-conditioned minibus ensures comfort during the long drives between sites. The small group size of 8 enables a more personalized experience and the chance for more detailed explanations from the guide. The driver/guide speaks both English and French, making the tour accessible to a broader range of visitors.

Practicalities and What to Bring

Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on cobblestone and uneven streets. Sunglasses, a sun hat, and water are recommended for protection against the Provençal sun.

The tour does not allow pets, large luggage, or smoking, and luggage or big bags are discouraged for practicality. The meeting point is outside the Radisson Blu Hotel, with departures scheduled according to availability.

Limitations and Considerations

The tour does not include entrance fees for sites or attractions, so additional expenses may be incurred. Since Les Carrières de Lumière can be closed during winter, this optional experience might not be available year-round.

The duration of 10.5 hours means a full day of travel and sightseeing, so those seeking a relaxed pace or with mobility limitations may find it challenging. Children under 4 years are not suited for this tour, given the walking involved.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour

This full-day Provence tour suits history buffs, Van Gogh fans, and those interested in medieval villages and Roman heritage. The small group format makes it ideal for travelers seeking a more personalized experience.

While the price of $170 covers transport and guiding, it’s important to budget for additional entrance fees and meals. The tour provides a balanced mix of cultural exploration, scenic views, and free time, making it a satisfying choice for a comprehensive day trip from Marseille.

Final Thoughts on the Arles, Les Baux & Saint-Rémy Tour

This 10.5-hour experience offers ample opportunities to see iconic Provençal sights and understand their historical and artistic significance. The guides’ knowledge and friendly approach are frequently praised, making the day both informative and enjoyable.

The scenic drives, medieval streets, Roman monuments, and Van Gogh sites give a well-rounded glimpse of the region. The small group size and flexible optional activities add a personal touch.

While the tour’s pace is busy and some attractions require additional tickets, the overall experience delivers a meaningful exploration of Provence’s most beloved towns. It’s particularly well-suited for those wanting to combine cultural insights, scenic beauty, and Van Gogh inspiration in one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long is the tour? The tour lasts approximately 10.5 hours.
• What is included in the price? The price of $170 includes transportation and a driver/guide in a small group.
• Are entrance fees included? No, entrance fees for sites like Les Carrières de Lumière or Saint-Paul-de-Mausole are not included.
• What should I bring? Participants should bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, and water.
• Where does the tour start and end? The tour departs from and returns to Radisson Blu Hotel, Marseille Vieux Port.
• Is this suitable for children? The tour is not suitable for children under 4 or those with mobility impairments.
• Can I attend the market at Saint-Rémy? Yes, if your visit coincides with the Wednesday market, you can explore the local stalls.
• Are optional attractions available? Yes, you can choose to visit Saint-Paul-de-Mausole and attend the Les Carrières de Lumière, but tickets are not included.
• What is the group size? The tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• What is the main highlight? Many find Les Baux de Provence and the Van Gogh sites in Arles to be especially memorable.

This full-day Provence tour from Marseille offers a rich blend of history, art, and scenic beauty, making it a worthwhile option for those eager to explore the region beyond the city.

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