Private Day Trip to Arles Les Baux de Provence and Saint Remy de Provence

If you’re visiting Marseille and craving a full day soaking in some of Provence’s most captivating sights, this private tour might just be your answer. Designed for up to eight people, it promises a personalized experience that covers Roman monuments, medieval charm, and artistic inspiration — all in about seven and a half hours.

What we love most about this trip is how it balances structured sightseeing with the freedom to explore at your own pace. Plus, the stunning views from Les Baux and the chance to walk in Van Gogh’s footsteps are genuinely special.

A potential consideration is that the guide provides an overview at each stop but doesn’t stay with you during your explorations. This means you’ll need to manage your time at each site, which can be a plus or a minus depending on your travel style.

Overall, if you’re a history buff, art lover, or simply someone who wants a taste of Provence’s diverse scenery without the hassle of driving, this tour is well worth considering. It’s especially great for those who appreciate comfort, flexibility, and authentic local insights.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour for up to 8 people ensures a tailored, comfortable day.
• Rich Cultural Highlights: From Roman ruins to medieval villages, the itinerary offers a broad view of Provence’s history.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect breathtaking views from Les Baux de Provence and picturesque old towns.
• Flexible Exploration: Guide offers an overview, but you’re free to explore sites at your own pace.
• Van Gogh Connection: Visit Saint-Paul de Mausole and walk through the landscape that inspired Van Gogh’s art.
• Value for Price: The tour’s customization, private transport, and expert guiding offer good value for a full-day experience.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Pickup and Departure

Starting at 9:00 am from Marseille, the tour begins with a pickup service that takes you comfortably in an air-conditioned minivan. This ensures a smooth transition from the bustling city to the scenic countryside, making the most of your day.

Stop 1: Saint-Paul de Mausole

Your first stop is the monastery of Saint-Paul de Mausole in Saint Remy de Provence. This former psychiatric hospital is where Van Gogh lived for a year and created some of his most renowned works, including Starry Night. Although admission is not included, just walking through the peaceful grounds and imagining Van Gogh’s time here adds a poetic touch to your day.

Visitors have noted how inspiring the setting is, with one reviewer mentioning, “even the sunlight looked different,” highlighting how the landscape and light influence the atmosphere. While the guide gives a brief overview, you’re encouraged to explore independently, soaking in the tranquil environment that Van Gogh found so compelling.

Stop 2: Arles – A Roman Architectural Treasure

Next, you’ll head to Arles, a city famous for its Roman remnants. With about two hours allocated to this stop, you’ll stroll past highlights like the Roman arena, the Roman theater, and the Alyscamps necropolis — a sprawling Roman burial ground. The free entry means you can take your time wandering these ancient sites, which are remarkably well-preserved.

Roberta_K’s review emphasizes how enchanting the landscape and sunlight are here, stating, “I can see why artists are drawn to Provence… the landscape was enchanting,” though she noted that the guide provided an overview rather than guiding you through every detail. That approach allows you the freedom to explore the atmospheric ruins at your own pace, which many travelers find more enriching.

Stop 3: Les Baux de Provence – A Medieval Marvel

The highlight for many is Les Baux de Provence, perched atop a rocky spur at 245 meters. In about an hour, you’ll wander through narrow streets lined with quaint shops and historic buildings, all while admiring breathtaking views over the Alpilles. The panoramic vistas are a major selling point, and you’ll discover why this village has been a magnet for artists and visitors alike.

The town’s dramatic setting and well-preserved medieval architecture give you a real sense of stepping back in time. Reviewers have expressed admiration for the scenery, with the view from the highest spot being a particular highlight. Walking these streets offers an authentic taste of Provençal history and charm.

Return to Marseille

After a full day of sightseeing, the tour concludes with a drop-off back at your starting point in Marseille, typically around 4:30 pm, allowing you to relax after a day packed with history, art, and scenery.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price covers the driver/guide, private transport, and pickup and drop-off. The private setting makes this more intimate and flexible than typical group tours — ideal for travelers who value personalized attention.

However, note that food and drinks are not included, nor is lunch, giving you the freedom to choose where and what to eat along the way. The admission tickets to Saint-Paul de Mausole are also not included, so budget for that if you plan to explore inside.

Practical Details

The tour is scheduled to start at 9:00 am, with a pickup from your Marseille accommodations or designated meeting point. You should be prepared for moderate physical activity, such as walking through uneven streets or archaeological sites, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. For cruise ship passengers, it’s vital to provide ship details, including docking and re-boarding times, to ensure punctuality.

Authentic Experiences and Review Insights

One reviewer, Roberta_K, shared how the landscape’s enchanting quality and the quality of the guide’s commentary made the trip memorable. She appreciated the overview approach, which allowed her to explore sites independently, enhancing her sense of discovery. She also noted the gentle influence of the sunlight, which contributed to the overall magic of Provence.

Another notable point from reviews is the stunning views at Les Baux, which many found worth the visit alone. The scenery, combined with the historical architecture and artistic connections, makes this tour a well-rounded immersion into Provençal culture.

How We View the Value

At approximately $1,042 for a group of up to 8, this tour offers personalized service, flexible exploration, and the chance to see some of Provence’s most iconic sites. While it may seem pricey compared to self-guided visits, the private transport, expert guidance, and curated itinerary deliver a seamless experience that’s hard to replicate independently.

The absence of entrance fees included might add some expense, but this allows you to customize your visit at Saint-Paul de Mausole and elsewhere. The comfort and convenience of door-to-door pickup and private transport are significant advantages, especially if you want to avoid public transport or the hassle of driving yourself.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who prefer a private, flexible day out, especially those interested in Roman history, medieval towns, and Van Gogh’s Provence. It’s well-suited for small groups or families who want a curated day without the crowds and with the comfort of a private vehicle.

If you’re someone who appreciates stunning landscapes, artistic inspiration, or medieval architecture, this tour will cater to your interests. Those on a tight schedule will also appreciate the efficient use of time, hitting all the highlights without feeling rushed.

Final Thoughts

This private day trip from Marseille packs a lot into one day — from the ancient Roman ruins of Arles and the artistic allure of Saint Remy to the fairy-tale feel of Les Baux de Provence. With personalized attention, flexible exploration, and scenery that keeps surprising, it offers a compelling way to experience Provence beyond the city.

While the guide provides an overview rather than detailed guided tours at each site, this actually allows you to discover and soak up the atmosphere on your own. The views, especially from Les Baux, are unforgettable, making it a trip well worth considering if you want a blend of history, art, and natural beauty in a manageable, private package.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. The tour involves walking and some uneven surfaces, so consider your child’s comfort with moderate activity.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 9:00 am and ending back in Marseille in the late afternoon.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You’re free to bring your own or buy something locally during the stops.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to walking on uneven surfaces and exploring outdoor sites.

Is the tour private?
Yes, only your group participates, making it a more intimate experience than typical group excursions.

What if I want to visit inside certain sites like Saint-Paul de Mausole?
Admission tickets are not included, so you’ll need to purchase them separately if you wish to explore inside.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Exploring Provence with this private day trip offers a focused, authentic experience that balances storytelling, scenic beauty, and personal freedom. It’s an excellent way to see the highlights without feeling hurried or overwhelmed, especially if you value comfort and tailored attention.