Arles, Les Baux & Saint-Remy de Provence from Aix

Touring Provence from Aix-en-Provence offers a wonderful blend of art, history, and landscape—the kind of day that leaves you with a deeper appreciation for this enchanting region. This particular day trip, rated 4.5 out of 5 from 48 reviews, takes you through some of the most iconic spots associated with Vincent van Gogh, along with stunning medieval villages and ancient Roman sites. The tour is designed for those who want to see the highlights without the hassle of planning, with a comfortable minibus, a knowledgeable guide, and plenty of free time at each stop.

What we genuinely like about this experience is the expert guidance that helps bring each place alive, combined with the flexibility to explore on your own. Plus, the scenery alone—rolling hills, historic towns, and panoramic views—are worth the price. However, some travelers noted that the time allocated in certain towns, especially Saint-Remy, felt a bit rushed, and the tour doesn’t include entrance fees to monuments or meals, so those are things to plan for.

This tour is well-suited for those who appreciate art and history, enjoy scenic drives, and are happy to spend a full day exploring at a relaxed but purposeful pace. If you’re after a curated experience that balances guided insights and independent wandering, this will suit you. But if you want more time in each town or private access to specific sites, you might prefer a more tailored or private option.

Key Points

• Balanced Itinerary: Combines guided commentary with free time, letting you explore at your own pace.
• Art & History Focus: Visits Van Gogh haunts, Roman ruins, and medieval villages for a well-rounded cultural experience.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned minibus with a small group (max 8 travelers) for an intimate feel.
• Authentic Experiences: Markets, scenic views, and spots like Saint-Paul de Mausole give insight into Van Gogh’s life.
• Value for Money: For around $167, you get a full day of sightseeing, expert guides, and transport, making it a solid investment.
• Some Time Constraints: Limited hours at each stop mean you’ll see highlights but might miss deeper exploration.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point and First Stop: Arles

The tour kicks off bright and early at 9:00 am from Aix-en-Provence, with a quick hop in a cozy, air-conditioned minibus. Our guide, often praised for their knowledge and personality, sets the tone with engaging stories and useful context throughout the day. The first major stop is Arles, a city bursting with Roman history and a key site for van Gogh fans.

On Saturdays, the open-air market in Arles is a highlight, offering the chance to browse local produce, crafts, and souvenirs amid a lively atmosphere. The market is situated within Roman walls, so you’re immediately immersed in history. The free time here usually lasts about two hours, giving you enough time to wander, grab a snack, or snap photos of the ancient amphitheatre.

One reviewer mentioned how the Roman amphitheatre in Arles is a jaw-dropper, with the impressive structure still standing strong after centuries. The guide’s role here is to provide background on the city’s Roman past and Van Gogh’s connection to the area—like how he painted the famous “Café Terrace at Night,” which features the yellow café you’ll see in Arles today.

Les Baux de Provence: Medieval Charm and Scenic Views

The next stop is Les Baux-de-Provence, a hilltop village famed for its medieval fortress and stunning vistas over the Provencal countryside. This part of the tour lasts about two hours, and most visitors find it worth every minute. Here, you can stroll through narrow streets, take photos of the panoramic views, and enjoy the charming atmosphere of one of Provence’s most photographed villages.

Many reviews praise Les Baux for its scenery and ambiance, describing it as a “beautiful” and “scenic” spot. You might also choose to attend the show at Les Carrières de Lumières, an immersive multimedia experience projected onto the ancient quarry walls (ticket not included). While some found the guided commentary sparse during this stop, the free time means you can explore at your own pace or relax with a coffee or local specialty.

A notable aspect is the chance to see La Cave des Baux—a wine cellar showcasing local wines, which pairs beautifully with the breathtaking landscape. The tour’s flexibility here is appreciated, although some reviewers wished they had more time to soak in the views or explore further.

Saint-Remy de Provence: Van Gogh’s Sanctuary

The final major stop is Saint-Remy de Provence, known for its connection with Van Gogh—who lived and painted here during his stay in the asylum at Saint-Paul de Mausole. The town is lively, with a vibrant market on Wednesdays, and exudes that quintessential Provencal charm, with narrow streets and local shops.

This stop is about two hours long, giving travelers the chance to explore on their own. Many visitors appreciate the free time, but some noted that one hour felt a little rushed, especially if they wanted to see specific sites like Van Gogh’s asylum or walk Van Gogh’s footsteps. One review points out that Saint-Remy felt somewhat touristy, especially during busy days, which can dilute the authenticity for some.

The highlight here is visiting Saint-Paul de Mausole, the monastery where Van Gogh was treated. While entrance fees aren’t included, many find it a moving experience to walk the same halls where the artist found some peace and created several of his most famous works.

End of the Day: Return and Reflection

The tour wraps up back at the start point around 5:30 pm, closing a full day of sightseeing. The small group size means a more intimate experience, and the continuous commentary from guides like Emanuel, Sebastian, or Morgan (as some reviews mention) keeps the journey lively and informative.

What Travelers Love and What Could Be Better

Most reviews emphasize the guides’ knowledge, with comments like “Emanuel is an excellent guide,” or “Sebastian was cheerful and well-informed.” Their ability to share detailed insights about Van Gogh, Roman architecture, and Provencal culture makes the experience memorable. The scenic drives through the Alpilles mountains are another highlight, offering stunning views that make the long day worthwhile.

The inclusion of free time at each stop adds value, giving you the flexibility to explore or relax as you prefer. Many reviewers also appreciated the personal touch from guides, often describing them as personable and eager to share local stories.

However, some travelers expressed slight disappointment about the limited time—particularly in Saint-Remy—and wished for more in-depth historical information during specific visits. Since entrance fees aren’t included, you should budget extra if you plan to visit sites like Saint-Paul de Mausole or attend the Carrières de Lumières show.

Pricing at around $167.68 per person is reasonable considering the full day’s transport, guide, and access to top sites. For art lovers and history buffs, this tour offers a rundown of some of Provence’s most iconic locations without the stress of driving or planning.

Transportation & Group Size

A significant plus is the comfortable minibus, which keeps the group small (up to 8 travelers). This setup fosters a more personal experience and easier movement through busy towns. The journey itself is scenic, with commentary along the way that enhances your understanding of the region’s culture and history.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is perfect for art enthusiasts, history lovers, and those who want a relaxed, guided exploration of Provence’s most famous sites. It’s great if you enjoy small-group travel, as the intimacy allows for personalized attention and the chance to ask questions.

If you’re after an in-depth, full-day immersion with private access or more time in each place, you might prefer a more tailored or private option. But for those seeking a well-organized, engaging, and scenic introduction to Provence, this tour hits the right notes.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers excellent value, especially for first-time visitors wanting a curated taste of Provence’s highlights. The expert guides, scenic drives, and a chance to walk in Van Gogh’s footsteps make it a memorable choice. Despite some minor time constraints, the overall experience balances guided insights and independent exploration perfectly.

If you’re longing to see Roman ruins, explore picturesque villages, and gain a deeper appreciation for Van Gogh’s Provence years, this trip is a fantastic way to do it. It suits travelers who enjoy cultural sights but prefer a structured day with a friendly, knowledgeable guide to lead the way.

FAQ

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transport in a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience.

What is the duration of the tour?
Approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 9:00 am and returning around 5:30 pm.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees to sites like Saint-Paul de Mausole or the Carrières de Lumières are not included. You should budget extra if you plan to visit these attractions.

Can children participate?
Most travelers can participate, but children under 4 years old are not allowed on this tour.

Is there a minimum group size?
Yes, the tour requires a minimum number of travelers to run, but it’s limited to a maximum of 8, maintaining an intimate atmosphere.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking and a camera. Since food isn’t included, consider bringing snacks or purchasing during free times.

Can I customize the experience?
This is a guided group tour with a set itinerary. While the free time allows some flexibility, the overall schedule isn’t customizable.

In essence, this tour blends the best of Provence’s art, history, and scenery in a manageable, well-loved package. Perfect for those who want an enriching day without the hassle of driving or planning every detail.