Arles, Les Baux and Saint Remy de Provence from Marseille

Taking a day to explore Provence away from the bustling streets of Marseille offers a chance to see some of the most picturesque villages, Roman ruins, and Van Gogh-inspired landscapes in the region. This full-day tour promises a blend of history, art, and charming scenery—perfect for those wanting to soak in the essence of Provence without the hassle of planning.

What we love about this experience is the well-rounded itinerary that balances guided insights with free exploration. Plus, the chance to walk through places that Van Gogh himself painted or visit medieval towns with centuries of stories is priceless.

On the flip side, the tour’s duration means a lot of time in the van—so if you’re not a fan of long drives or tight schedules, it’s worth considering. Still, the overall value lies in the carefully curated stops that reveal Provence’s character, making it ideal for art lovers, history buffs, and those craving authentic Provençal vibes.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Provence in one day, especially those interested in Van Gogh’s artwork, Roman history, or medieval villages.

Key Points

• Authentic Provençal Experience: Combines art, history, and village charm in one day.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides bring stories to life, making each stop engaging.
• Flexible Free Time: Opportunities to explore iconic sites at your own pace.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned vehicle ensures a relaxed journey.
• Cultural Highlights: Roman ruins, medieval villages, Van Gogh sites, and open-air markets.
• Value for Money: At $177.69, the tour provides a thorough day out with local insights, though meals and entrance fees are extra.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point and Departure

The day kicks off early, with pickup at the Marseille Vieux Port around 8 a.m., making the most of the cooler morning hours and scenic views en route. The comfortable, air-conditioned minivan is a highlight—being a private tour means your group gets personalized attention, and reviewers like Alan_E appreciated the friendly environment created by guides like Melissa.

First Stop: Arles – Van Gogh’s Inspiration

Your first major stop is Arles, a city steeped in Roman history and art lore. The tour hits key sites like Les Arènes d’Arles (the Roman amphitheater) and Saint-Trophime church, famous for its intricate portal and medieval architecture. These sites are more than just ruins—they’re the backdrop for Van Gogh’s famous paintings, such as La Maison Jaune and Le Jardin de l’Hôtel Dieu.

Many visitors mention how the guide’s storytelling adds depth, especially when recounting Van Gogh’s time in Arles. As Jeremy_B notes, the visit to the asylum at Saint-Paul-de-Mausole is a highlight, giving a glimpse into the artist’s world—an experience that truly resonates with art fans.

Free Time and Market Experience in Arles

On Saturdays, Arles hosts an open-air market that visitors love to explore. This is a genuine local experience, bustling with fresh produce, crafts, and food stalls. It’s a chance to absorb the lively Provençal atmosphere and maybe pick up some unique souvenirs or snacks.

Continuing to Les Baux de Provence

Next, the tour takes you to Les Baux de Provence, a medieval village perched dramatically on a rocky hill. This part of the day offers about two hours of free time, giving you freedom to wander narrow cobblestone streets, admire the well-preserved stone houses, and take in views over the Alpilles mountains.

While exploring, you might visit sights like the Museum of Santons or the Hôtel des Porcelets. Reviewers rave about the photogenic scenery and the chance to indulge in local cuisine (lunch is at your own expense). If you’re interested in audiovisual experiences, you can choose to attend a show at Les Carrières de Lumières—an immersive light show in an old quarry, which many find captivating.

Final Stop: Saint Remy de Provence

The last major stop is Saint Remy, a village famous for its connections to Van Gogh, who was institutionalized at the Saint-Paul-de-Mausole asylum nearby. Here, you’ll see the Glanum ruins, Les Antiques, and the funeral monument, which Van Gogh painted during his stay.

In Saint Remy, the Wednesday market is another highlight for travelers, offering local foods, crafts, and a lively Provençal vibe. The village’s small streets are perfect for wandering, shopping, or simply soaking in the scenery.

Return to Marseille

After a full day of exploring, your adventure concludes with a relaxed drive back to the Vieux Port, arriving in the evening—just in time for a well-earned dinner.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Knowledgeable Guides Who Bring Places to Life

Multiple reviews praise guides like Melissa, Emmanuel, and Florence for their enthusiasm and deep knowledge. They don’t just list facts—they weave stories that make the history, art, and local culture memorable. Guest Alan_E mentions how their guide’s passion made the journey engaging, and Margaret_N appreciated how her guide, Morgane, shared her enthusiasm for Van Gogh and art.

The Perfect Balance of Guided and Free Time

The itinerary thoughtfully offers guided insights combined with ample free time. This means you can follow the guide’s suggestions or explore independently, based on your interest. For example, the free exploration in Les Baux was a favorite for many, providing time to snap photos and enjoy the stunning vistas.

Scenic, Comfortable Transport

Traveling in a climate-controlled van makes a big difference, especially in warmer months. Reviewers like Albert_S noted the van’s comfort, making the long drives more tolerable. The small-group aspect also adds a personal touch, avoiding the chaos of large tours.

Highlights That Truly Resonate

Visitors consistently mention the Van Gogh sites—the asylum, the Café Terrace at Night, the views from Saint Remy—and how these moments deepen their appreciation of his work. The Roman ruins and medieval streets also stand out, providing tangible connections to history and architecture.

Cost and Value Consideration

At $177.69 per person, the price seems fair considering the full-day itinerary and expert guiding. However, meals, entrance fees to attractions, and optional shows like the Les Carrières de Lumières are extra. If you’re a fan of art and history, the guided insights and access to places Van Gogh loved make this a worthwhile investment.

Authentic Local Experiences

Many reviews appreciated the opportunity to wander local markets and see authentic Provençal towns rather than overly touristy spots. This adds a layer of genuine regional flavor to your day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, immersive day in Provence without the hassle of planning. Art lovers will appreciate the Van Gogh-inspired sites, while history buffs enjoy Roman ruins and medieval villages. If you’re after scenic views, local markets, and charming towns, this tour packs it all in.

However, if you dislike long drives or prefer more leisurely, less scheduled days, you might find the 10.5-hour duration a bit intense. Also, since meals and entrance fees are not included, budget accordingly if you want to try local cuisine or visit specific attractions.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, transportation is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle. The tour offers a comfortable way to travel between the stops.

Can I explore the sites on my own? Absolutely. The itinerary includes free time at key locations like Les Baux and Saint Remy, so you can wander at your own pace.

What about meals? Meals are not included, so you’ll need to plan for lunch and snacks during your free time—there are many cafes and restaurants in Les Baux and Saint Remy.

Are entrance fees covered? No, entrance fees to monuments and museums are not included, so expect to pay extra if you choose to visit specific sites.

Is this tour suitable for children? The tour is designed for most travelers, but children under 4 years old are not permitted.

What is the group size? It’s a private tour, meaning only your group participates, allowing for a more personalized experience.

What happens if I need to cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving some flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from Marseille offers a well-rounded taste of Provençal life, art, and history. The combination of expert guides, scenic drives, and opportunities for independent exploration makes it a compelling choice for travelers eager to see the region’s highlights in comfort and style.

You’ll leave with a richer understanding of Van Gogh’s connection to Provence, a collection of stunning photos, and a deep appreciation for these historic villages. It’s especially suited for those with a curiosity for art, Roman architecture, and authentic local markets.

While it’s a full day with a good amount of time in transit, the carefully curated stops and knowledgeable guides help make it feel worthwhile and engaging. If you want a structured yet flexible adventure that showcases Provence’s best-loved sites, this tour is worth considering.

Final recommendation:

If you’re someone who enjoys guided storytelling, appreciates historical sites, and dreams of walking through the same landscapes that inspired Van Gogh, this tour is a solid choice. It’s perfect for history buffs, art lovers, and travelers who value authentic experiences without the stress of planning each detail. Just be prepared for a full day, and pack some snacks for the journey!