Private Arles, Les Baux de Provence and St Remy de Provence Tour

A private day tour exploring Arles, Les Baux de Provence, and Saint-Rémy de Provence offers an intimate look at some of the most captivating sights in Provence. For around $1,200 per group (up to 8 people), you’ll spend about 8 hours with a private guide, visiting Roman ruins, hilltop villages, and the birthplace of Nostradamus. The tour is fully customizable, with pickup and drop-off at your hotel, and plenty of time to enjoy each stop at your own pace.

What we love most about this experience is how personalized it feels — you’re not just a face in a crowd, but a guest whose interests are listened to. Plus, the focus on authentic local experiences, like wandering through markets and soaking in panoramic views, makes it stand out. The highlight is the flexibility; your guide can tailor the day to your preferences, whether that means more time at a certain site or exploring hidden corners.

One potential consideration is that this is a full-day tour, so it demands a good energy level and interest in walking and sightseeing. Also, since it’s a private experience, it’s best suited for travelers who value exclusivity and personal attention. If you’re someone who loves history, stunning scenery, and local culture, this tour offers excellent value.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: The private tour allows customization based on your interests and pace.
• Authentic Sights: Walk in Van Gogh’s footsteps in Arles, visit a medieval hilltop village, and explore Nostradamus’s birthplace.
• Stunning Views: From Roman ruins to panoramic vistas atop Les Baux, the scenery is a major highlight.
• Flexible Timing: The itinerary can be adjusted, and hotel pickup/drop-off is available for added convenience.
• Value for Price: For a private, full-day guided experience, the cost offers good value, especially with fewer travelers.
• Expert Guide: Nathalie is praised for her knowledge, friendliness, and ability to tailor the experience.

A Deep Dive into the Provence Private Tour Experience

Visiting Arles: Walking in Van Gogh’s Footsteps and Roman Grandeur

Your day begins in Arles, a city that oozes history and charm. Known for its impressive Roman amphitheater and arena, Arles is a must-see for lovers of ancient architecture. We loved the way the guide explained the historical significance of these ruins, making the past come alive. The walk through the old town, especially around the Café Van Gogh, adds a personal touch, connecting you directly to the painter’s time here.

The Saturday market is a lively affair, filled with local produce, crafts, and aromas that encapsulate Provençal life. If you’re visiting on a Saturday, you’ll get a taste of local flavors, which adds depth to your understanding of the region’s culture. Several reviews praise the guide for their knowledge and ability to make the history engaging — “My friend and I had the best time with Nathalie. She was knowledgeable, interesting and friendly.”

Exploring Les Baux de Provence: A Hilltop Village with Dramatic Views

Next, you’ll ascend to Les Baux de Provence, a medieval village perched on a limestone hill. The views of the Les Alpilles Regional Park are breathtaking — a patchwork of vineyards, olive groves, and rugged hills. We appreciated how the guide explained the history of this 11th-century settlement, giving context to the narrow streets and ancient stone buildings.

One of the tour’s highlights is the Carrière de Lumière, an immersive art experience set inside a former quarry. The combination of art and natural surroundings creates a truly memorable scene. Lunch here, if you choose, offers a chance to enjoy local cuisine while soaking in the atmosphere of this unique village.

The visit to Les Baux offers a striking contrast to the Roman ruins — medieval charm meeting modern art — and many travelers find this blend of history and culture quite enriching.

Saint-Rémy de Provence: Nostradamus’s Hometown and Van Gogh’s Refuge

Your final stop is Saint-Rémy de Provence, a picturesque village known for being the birthplace of Nostradamus and the place where Van Gogh spent some of his most productive months. We loved walking through its charming streets, full of artisan shops and cafes, especially during the Wednesday market, which is highly praised for its local produce and crafts.

A visit to St Paul de Mausole, the historic mental hospital where Van Gogh stayed, is a moving experience. The guide’s explanations about Van Gogh’s time there and how it influenced his art helped us appreciate his paintings even more. Several reviews emphasize the guide’s ability to share fascinating stories — “She listened to what we enjoy seeing and doing, and delivered a perfect day.”

Practical Details and Comfort

Transportation is private, ensuring a relaxed atmosphere with no hurrying from one group to another. The tour starts at 9:00 am and can be tailored to your preferences, which is a significant advantage. The full-day format allows for unhurried exploration of each site, with ample time for photos and soaking up the ambiance.

Lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan for a meal during the visit to Les Baux or Saint-Rémy. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with easy walking involved, and service animals are permitted.

Why It’s a Good Deal

Although the total price might seem steep at first glance, it covers private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a fully customizable day. When you consider the cost of individual entry tickets and the convenience of having transport and planning handled, this experience delivers good value for travelers seeking depth and ease.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for history buffs, art lovers, and those craving a personal touch in Provence. If you appreciate stunning views, enjoy learning stories behind the sights, and prefer flexible schedules, you’ll find this tour very rewarding. It’s especially suited for small groups or couples who want an intimate, curated experience rather than a crowded bus tour.

Travelers who appreciate the ability to customize their day will love the flexibility, and those wanting a guide with a proven talent for storytelling and local insight will find Nathalie’s expertise particularly valuable.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, as the walking involved is manageable for many. However, those with mobility issues should consider the walking distances and terrain.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is private and flexible. Your guide can adapt the timing and focus based on your interests.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. Since lunch isn’t included, plan for a meal during the day.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at your hotel are possible, adding convenience to your day.

How long is each stop?
The stops are structured to give you enough time to explore and enjoy each site — roughly 3 hours at Arles, 3 hours at Les Baux, and 2 hours at Saint-Rémy.

What’s the best day to take this tour?
While the tour can be booked any day, note that the market in Saint-Rémy is on Wednesday, and the market in Arles is on Saturday, which adds a lively local flavor.

Are the sites included in the price?
Yes, the admission tickets are free for the sites listed; the cost covers private transport and guiding.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 95 days in advance, so plan early to secure your preferred date and guide.

This private tour through Provence’s highlights combines history, art, and scenic beauty into a well-balanced day. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to this enchanting region, it offers a personalized, engaging way to experience the best of what Provence has to offer.