Marseille Shore Excursion: Private Day Trip to Arles, Les Baux de Provence and Saint Remy de Provence

If you’re cruising into Marseille and want to experience the best of Provence without the hassle of public transport or crowded tours, this private day trip could be just what you’re looking for. It offers an intimate, guided journey through three iconic destinations—Arles, Les Baux de Provence, and Saint-Rémy—covering history, scenic vistas, and charming village life all within around seven hours.

What makes this tour appealing is the personalized experience: a dedicated guide and private transport mean flexibility and comfort. The stops are thoughtfully chosen to showcase both UNESCO-listed Roman ruins and breathtaking natural scenery. However, the tour’s price tag of over $1,100 per group might raise eyebrows, especially considering optional extras like the Van Gogh-related visit.

This trip is ideal for travelers craving a tailored, hassle-free Provence adventure—especially those interested in history, art, and stunning landscapes. If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive taste of the region’s highlights, this private tour offers a practical and engaging option.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience: Your own guide and vehicle create a relaxed, flexible day.
• Cultural and scenic highlights: Visits to UNESCO sites, Roman ruins, and picturesque villages.
• Comfortable transportation: Air-conditioned minivan makes the day easy and cool.
• Time-efficient itinerary: Focused stops ensure you see the key sights without feeling rushed.
• Additional expenses: Some sites, like Saint-Paul de Mausole, are extra, so budget accordingly.
• Mixed reviews: While many loved the guide and views, some encountered logistical issues.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting point and timing

Your day begins at 9:00 am with pickup at the Marseille port or the nearby Marseille Provence Airport. From there, your private guide—likely a knowledgeable local—transports you in a comfortable air-conditioned minivan. This setup means fewer crowds and a more tailored experience, which many travelers appreciate. The tour wraps up back at the starting point, making it convenient for cruise schedules or other plans.

Stop 1: Arles – Roman Ruins and Artistic Heritage

About an hour and ten minutes into your day, you’ll arrive in Arles, a city packed with Roman ruins and a UNESCO World Heritage designation. Here, the standout feature is the Roman amphitheater, famously painted by Van Gogh and Picasso. We loved the way the ruins are spread out, allowing you to stroll and soak in history without the overwhelming crowds of Italy.

One reviewer praised the guide Paco, describing him as friendly, helpful, patient, and very knowledgeable. He shared insights about the ruins and the artistic history tied to Van Gogh’s paintings. Because admission to Arles is free, you can spend your time exploring the impressive old town, the baths, or the theatre at your own pace.

A potential drawback mentioned was that some guests struggled with navigating the area or felt the guide wasn’t very helpful when they got lost. This highlights the importance of clear communication and a knowledgeable guide—something to keep in mind if you prefer a very structured visit.

Stop 2: Les Baux de Provence – A Medieval Fortress with Panoramic Views

Next, the tour ventures to Les Baux de Provence, perched atop a 250-meter-high rocky outcrop with sweeping views over the Alpilles, Arles, and the Camargue. This village’s dramatic setting is truly breathtaking; the ancient stone buildings look like they’ve been part of the landscape for centuries.

We loved the way Les Baux’s history dates back to 6000 BC, and you can sense the centuries of human presence here. The fortified village offers a mix of medieval architecture, art galleries, and scenic vistas that make it a photographer’s dream. The two-hour stop allows plenty of time to wander through the streets, soak up the views, and imagine life in medieval Provence.

While admission to the village is free, remember that any additional activities or visits, like the Château des Baux, may incur extra charges. Many visitors found the views and atmosphere well worth the time, though one reviewer pointed out that the steep, uneven streets could be tiring for those with mobility issues.

Stop 3: Saint-Rémy de Provence – Art and Tranquility

The last major stop is Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, a charming town famous for its Provençal ambiance and as the place Vincent Van Gogh stayed while painting. A highlight for art lovers is the Monastery Saint-Paul de Mausole, where Van Gogh resided and created some of his most iconic works. Visiting this site can be an extra expense, but many feel it’s worth it for the connection to the artist.

The 30-minute visit here might be brief but is packed with atmosphere and history. The monastery’s peaceful gardens and monastery walls evoke a sense of tranquility that visitors find appealing. Note that entrance fees are not included, so plan accordingly.

From the reviews, some guests appreciated the chance to stand where Van Gogh once walked, though others noted that the limited time made it more of a quick overview than an in-depth exploration.

The Practicalities: What to Expect

Transportation and Comfort

The air-conditioned minivan makes this tour comfortable, especially in the warmer months. The small group size—up to 8 people—means you’ll avoid large bus crowds and have more personalized attention from your guide. This setup is ideal if you prefer a more intimate experience and the flexibility to ask questions or customize your visit.

Duration and Pacing

Spanning roughly seven hours, the schedule balances sightseeing with enough time at each stop to enjoy without feeling rushed. Starting early at 9:00 am allows you to beat some of the crowds and make the most of your day.

Cost and Value

At $1,105.39 for up to 8 people, the per-person cost is quite reasonable considering the private nature of the tour, transportation, and guided insights. While optional visits like the Van Gogh site cost extra, the value lies in avoiding multiple bookings, waiting in lines, and having a guide tailor the experience to your interests.

Reviews and Insights

The majority of positive reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and stunning views. One guest, Ujjayan Banerjee, called it a “perfect trip” thanks to Paco’s friendliness and expertise. Conversely, some reviews noted logistical hiccups—like guides not entering port facilities or getting lost in Arles—which underscores the importance of clear communication and reliable coordination.

Limitations and Considerations

• The extra cost for visits, especially to sites like Saint-Paul de Mausole, may surprise some travelers.
• The logistical challenges with port access and guide familiarity could affect your experience, so clarify details beforehand.
• The timing at each stop is relatively brief, which suits those who want a snapshot rather than an in-depth exploration.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private tour is well-suited for history and art enthusiasts who want a personalized experience. It’s perfect if you prefer the comfort of private transport and the flexibility to customize your visit. The scenic stops and knowledgeable guides make it ideal for those seeking a balance of culture, history, and beautiful landscapes.

However, if you’re looking for an in-depth, lengthy exploration of each site or have mobility issues, you might find the brief stops and walking required a bit limiting. Travelers on a tight schedule or those who want a more budget-friendly, group-based experience might also consider other options.

Final Thoughts

This Marseille to Provence private day trip offers a solid balance of cultural sights, scenic beauty, and personalized service. The guides’ local knowledge, especially about Arles and Les Baux, enriches the experience and helps you connect to the region’s history and landscapes. The small-group setup and private vehicle make the day comfortable and flexible, allowing you to see what matters most to you.

While some logistical hiccups and optional expenses exist, these are outweighed by the value of having a dedicated guide and the chance to experience Provence in a relaxed, intimate setting. It’s best suited for travelers eager to explore Provence with a knowledgeable guide, without the crowds or rigid schedules of larger tours.

If you value comfort, customization, and authentic insights into the region’s art, architecture, and history, this tour could be a great choice for your Marseille shore experience.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 9:00 am and ending back at the meeting point.

Where does the tour start?
The pickup is at Marseille Provence Airport or the Marseille port, making it convenient for cruise travelers.

What is included in the price?
Price includes a driver/guide, private transport in an air-conditioned minivan, and port pickup and drop-off.

Are the sites included in the tour free?
Yes, the visits to Arles and Les Baux are free, but some sites like Saint-Paul de Mausole require an additional fee.

Can I visit Vincent Van Gogh’s house?
Visiting Van Gogh’s former residence at Saint-Paul de Mausole is possible for an extra cost, but the tour only allocates about 30 minutes here.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult; travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level due to walking and uneven terrain.

Are there options for food and drinks?
Food and drinks are not included, so you may want to bring snacks or plan for a quick meal during the day.

What if my cruise schedule changes?
Since the tour is private, flexible timing is possible if you inform the provider in advance, but cancellation policies require 24 hours’ notice for full refunds.

How do I book this experience?
Booking is typically done online in advance, with confirmation usually within 48 hours for bookings made less than 7 days before travel.

This detailed, honest review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from this private Provence tour. Whether it’s the stunning scenery or the passionate guides that draw you in, it offers a compelling way to explore some of France’s most beloved sights in a relaxed and personalized manner.