Private tour of the Alpilles, Arles and Baux de Provence

Exploring Provence: A Private Day Tour of the Alpilles, Arles, and Baux de Provence

When it comes to experiencing the best of Provence, a private guided tour of the Alpilles, Arles, and Baux de Provence offers a wonderful blend of history, art, and picture-perfect scenery. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, based on detailed descriptions and reviews, it promises an intimate, flexible way to soak in some of the region’s most iconic spots without the hassle of self-driving or crowded groups.

What really shines about this tour is the personalized touch—thanks to its private nature, you get to tailor the journey slightly and enjoy a more relaxed pace. We loved the way it combines cultural highlights like Roman ruins with artistic history, especially Van Gogh’s connections to Arles. However, one thing to keep in mind is that lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan that ahead of time. If you’re after a thoughtful introduction to this part of Provence, especially with a focus on authentic sites and scenic beauty, this tour could be a perfect choice.

Key Points:
– Private and personalized experience ensures a relaxed, flexible day.
– Expert-guided walk through Arles highlights Roman monuments and Van Gogh’s influence.
– Beautiful village visits in Saint Remy and Baux de Provence offer authentic Provençal charm.
– Comfortable transportation in a Mercedes-Benz air-conditioned van adds a touch of luxury.
– Flexible activities like olive oil tasting or visiting the light quarries are available, though some are paid separately.
– End-to-end convenience with pickup and drop-off makes it ideal for travelers focusing on comfort and efficiency.

The Itinerary: A Day Filled with Culture and Scenic Beauty

This tour kicks off at 9:00 am with a pickup in Marseille, setting the tone for a comfortable, all-inclusive experience. Over roughly 6 to 8 hours, you’ll get a taste of Provence’s rich history, artistic legacy, and charming villages. The private nature of this tour means your guide, Tony—a reviewer’s favorite for his engaging storytelling—can tailor the experience, making sure you see what interests you most.

Stop 1: Arles — Walking Through Ancient Rome and Artistic Inspiration

Your first stop is the ancient city of Arles, a place that feels like walking through a living history book. The Roman monuments here, including the amphitheatre and the ancient theater, are well-preserved and evoke a sense of awe. We loved how the guide brought history alive, pointing out details you might miss on your own.

One reviewer, who described the experience as “taking us in the footsteps of Vincent Van Gogh,” emphasized the emotional connection—the guide took care to show the spots where Van Gogh painted, like the iconic “Starry Night” scene. The hospital where Van Gogh was treated and the café where he hung out are included, making this a must-see for art lovers. The walk offers a blend of storytelling and immersion, perfect for those interested in history, art, or just stunning architecture.

Stop 2: Saint-Remy-de-Provence — Free Time to Explore and Lunch

Next, the tour moves to Saint Remy de Provence, a stunning village often depicted in paintings for its rustic charm and vibrant street life. Here, you’re given about 1.5 hours to roam freely—ample time to explore the picturesque streets, browse local shops or enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the many excellent restaurants. Several reviewers appreciated this free time, noting that they enjoyed wandering at their own pace and soaking up the Provençal atmosphere.

You might find that a sit-down meal here is a highlight, giving you the chance to sample local cuisine in a cozy setting. Just keep in mind, lunch isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

Stop 3: Baux de Provence — The Picturesque Hilltop Village

The last major stop is Les Baux de Provence, perched atop a rocky outcrop, offering sweeping views over the landscape. The village’s narrow streets are perfect for strolling, and many visitors enjoy visiting the famous light quarries, though this activity is paid separately. The quarries are renowned for their unique, shimmering light—ideal for photography or simply soaking in the extraordinary scenery.

Alternatively, some guests opt for a visit to an olive grove for tasting local olive oils, which adds a delicious, authentic touch to the day. The charming streets and panoramic vistas make Baux de Provence a fitting finale to the tour.

Comfort, Convenience, and Customization

Transport is handled in a Mercedes-Benz air-conditioned van, ensuring comfort throughout the day, especially during the warm Provence months. The private setup means only your group will participate, allowing for spontaneous questions, personalized focus, and a more relaxed atmosphere.

The tour includes bottled water and pickup at your preferred location, making it hassle-free. The flexibility in activities and stops means you can prioritize what interests you most—whether it’s art, history, scenery, or food.

Please note that the tour is priced at approximately $1,173.35 for up to 8 people, which, when split, offers good value considering the personalized guide service, private transportation, and curated itinerary. The price does not include lunch or optional activities like visiting the light quarries or olive groves, but these can be arranged or paid for separately.

What Travelers Are Saying

Although just one review is available, it highlights a strong impression: “We loved the tour of Arles. Our guide, Tony, took us in the footsteps of Van Gogh, showing us where he painted ‘Starry Night,’ his home, and the hospital where he was treated.” This insight suggests a guide who is knowledgeable and passionate, bringing stories to life.

Travelers who appreciate scenic views and cultural depth will find this tour particularly rewarding. The balance of guided walks, free time, and scenic stops makes it suitable for a variety of interests—art lovers, history buffs, or those simply looking to enjoy Provence’s beauty without feeling rushed.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This private tour is ideal for travelers seeking a personalized, comfortable, and culturally rich day in Provence. If you value the flexibility to explore at your own pace, enjoy in-depth storytelling, and want a hassle-free experience that covers key sights, this is a strong choice.

It’s well-suited for small groups, couples, or families who want to avoid crowded tours and prefer a more intimate, tailored experience. The focus on iconic sites like Arles and Baux de Provence, combined with the opportunity to enjoy authentic Provençal villages and scenery, ensures you’ll leave with memorable images and stories.

While the price might seem high at first glance, the private guide, luxury transport, and carefully curated stops justify it for those looking for a premium, hassle-free way to embrace Provence’s highlights. Just remember to plan for lunch separately, and consider optional activities if you want to expand the experience.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all age groups?
Yes, since most travelers can participate, and it’s a private experience, it’s flexible enough for families, friends, or couples of all ages.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, transportation is in a comfortable Mercedes-Benz air-conditioned van, making it easy to relax between stops.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts roughly 6 to 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am with pickup and ending back at the meeting point.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, so you should plan to buy your own at Saint Remy de Provence or Baux de Provence.

Can I customize the activities?
While the itinerary is curated, you can choose to visit places like the light quarries or an olive grove for tastings, but these are paid separately.

Is there a refund policy?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

This private tour of the Alpilles, Arles, and Baux de Provence offers a thoughtful, scenic journey through some of Provence’s most captivating sites. Whether you’re a history lover, art enthusiast, or simply seeking beautiful vistas and charming villages, it provides a comfortably curated experience that captures the essence of this iconic region.