In the footsteps of Van Gogh in Provence from Avignon

Exploring Van Gogh’s life and art in Provence becomes much easier with this small-group tour from Avignon. Priced at $115.24 per person, the tour lasts approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes and features round-trip transport in a climate-controlled minivan. With a maximum of 8 travelers, this tour promises a more personalized experience and is well-suited for art lovers and those interested in Van Gogh’s connection to the region.

The tour departs from Avignon’s Office de Tourisme at 8:00 am, making it ideal for visitors who want to combine sightseeing without a full day commitment. It covers top Van Gogh sites like Saint-Rémy-de-Provence and Arles, including reproductions of his paintings and the original Le café de nuit. The price includes entrance to Saint-Paul de Mausole but not additional monument tickets or food, making it a straightforward, accessible option.

Key Points

• Small-group tour with a maximum of 8 participants for a more intimate experience
• Round-trip transportation in a climate-controlled minivan from Avignon
• Visit Saint-Paul de Mausole, where Van Gogh was institutionalized, and see the reproduction of his bedroom
• Explore Arles, with highlights like the Roman amphitheater and famous Van Gogh paintings such as Café Terrace at Night
• Flexible, knowledgeable guides who share insights about Van Gogh’s life, art, and local history
• The tour lasts about 6.5 hours and is suitable for most travelers, with children under 4 not permitted

Van Gogh’s Provence: The Key Stops and Highlights

The tour begins with a pickup in Avignon, where the climate-controlled minivan ensures a comfortable journey through Provence’s scenic landscapes. The first stop is Arles, a town famous for its Roman ruins and its vital role in Van Gogh’s artistic career.

Exploring Van Gogh’s Artistic Inspiration in Arles

In Arles, visitors find the Roman amphitheater, a remarkably well-preserved site still used today for concerts and events. The tour also includes strolling through the streets that Van Gogh painted, such as the famous ‘La maison jaune’ and ‘Le jardin de l’hôtel Dieu’. These locations help illustrate how the environment influenced his work.

Van Gogh’s Connection to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Next, the journey takes travelers to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, where Van Gogh was hospitalized at Saint-Paul de Mausole. Entrance is included to see the bedroom reproduction and explore the asylum grounds, which Van Gogh depicted in his Wheat Field series. This stop also provides reproductions of his paintings in the former charity hospital—a chance to observe his art in context.

Time in Arles and Its Artistic Legacy

The tour dedicates around two hours in Arles, giving ample time to walk around and appreciate the landscape that Van Gogh immortalized. Visitors can view the famous Café Terrace at Night, one of his celebrated works, which depicts the lively Café La Nuit. The guide shares stories about the scenes and Van Gogh’s artistic process, making each site meaningful.

The Role of the Guides: Knowledgeable and Engaging

Multiple reviews highlight the importance of the guides who lead this tour. Names like Jos, Nicolas, Florian, Ghislain, Mathilde, Remy, and Jérémy are praised for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and friendliness. They provide insights into Van Gogh’s life, local history, and artistic techniques, making complex topics accessible.

The guides also excel at adapting the experience—finding parking solutions, giving extra stories, or providing extra time at certain sites. This flexibility and personal touch are often noted as key strengths.

Notable Guide Qualities

• Fluency in English and enthusiastic storytelling
• Deep knowledge about Van Gogh, Provence, and local history
• Friendly, funny, and engaging personalities that make the day enjoyable
• Willingness to answer questions and share extra insights

The Practicalities: Logistics, Timing, and Comfort

This half-day tour starts at 8:00 am and includes round-trip transport. The climate-controlled minivan seats 8, ensuring a comfortable ride. The meeting point is conveniently located at 41 Cr Jean Jaurès, Avignon.

The tour is not suitable for children under 4 and does not include lunch or additional monument entries beyond Saint-Paul de Mausole. Travelers should plan for limited free time in each stop to explore or take photos.

Pacing and Group Size

Most reviews agree that the pacing is well-managed, with enough time at each location to appreciate the sights and hear stories. The small group size enhances interaction, making it easier to ask questions and receive personalized attention from the guides.

Visiting Saint-Paul de Mausole: A Van Gogh Landmark

The Saint-Paul de Mausole asylum is a highlight, offering a reproduction of Van Gogh’s bedroom that visitors can see. The entrance fee is included, making this stop accessible and stress-free. It’s a chance to connect with Van Gogh’s personal struggles and artistic achievements in a historic setting.

Why It Matters

This site allows visitors to visualize Van Gogh’s environment during his time in Provence, which significantly influenced his later work. Seeing the reproduction of his bedroom gives a tangible sense of his life in Saint-Rémy.

The Artistic Legacy of Van Gogh in Arles

In Arles, the focus is on Van Gogh’s paintings and their connection to the landscape. The famous Café Terrace at Night is among the most celebrated works painted here, and the urban scenery still resembles what Van Gogh depicted. Walking through the streets provides a sense of how his surroundings inspired his art.

Art Reproductions and Interpretation

Throughout the tour, reproductions of Van Gogh’s paintings are shown, helping visitors visualize his creative process. The guide offers context about the paintings’ significance and artists’ techniques, enriching the experience.

The Unique Experience of a Small-Group Tour

Because the tour limits to eight participants, it offers a more intimate setting than large buses. This allows for closer interactions, more flexibility, and personalized storytelling. Many reviews praise guides like Jos, Mathilde, and Ghislain for making the day both informative and engaging.

Benefits of Small-Group Travel

• Easier to ask questions
• Better access to sites and viewpoints
• More relaxed atmosphere for exploring and photography

Value and Booking Insights

The $115.24 price covers transportation, guide services, and Saint-Paul de Mausole entrance. It does not include additional monument tickets, food, or drinks. The tour is generally booked 53 days in advance, indicating good demand and planning.

The free cancellation policy allows full refunds if canceled 24 hours before the start time, providing flexibility for changing plans.

The Sum Up: Who Will Appreciate This Van Gogh Tour?

This half-day, small-group tour from Avignon offers a convenient way to explore Van Gogh’s Provence without the need for a private vehicle. It suits art enthusiasts, history buffs, and those interested in Van Gogh’s personal story. Highly praised for knowledgeable guides and well-paced itinerary, it provides a balanced mix of sightseeing, art, and local culture.

While it may not include all sites or extensive free time, the tour’s personalized approach and key Van Gogh locations make it a worthwhile option. For a relaxed, informative day with small-group intimacy, this tour delivers a genuine connection to Van Gogh’s life and work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation in a climate-controlled minivan from Avignon is included in the tour price.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, entrance to Saint-Paul de Mausole is included. Other monument tickets are not included.

What stops are part of this tour?
Stops include Arles, with its Roman amphitheater and Van Gogh sites; Saint-Rémy-de-Provence and Saint-Paul de Mausole; and scenic locations associated with Van Gogh’s paintings.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 4 years old are not permitted. The tour is suitable for most other age groups.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, offering a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours before the tour start.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. Food and drinks are not included.

Do guides operate in multiple languages?
The tour may be operated by a multi-lingual guide, ensuring clear communication.

How does this tour compare to other Provence trips?
It focuses specifically on Van Gogh’s life and art, with a small-group setting and personalized insights, ideal for those seeking an in-depth, relaxed experience.