Arles is a city that seems to spill over with stories—Roman ruins, Van Gogh scenes, and Provençal charm all wrapped into one compact place. But what makes Arles truly special for travelers is the range of tours available, offering everything from wild safaris in the Camargue to art-focused walks through Van Gogh’s footsteps. We love tours that provide authentic, immersive experiences, like the Half-Day 4×4 Camargue Safari, which gets you up close with wild horses, flamingos, and bulls. Whether you’re a nature lover or an art enthusiast, Arles offers something to match your interests—and the quality of these experiences will ensure you get your money’s worth.
If you’re trying to decide, this list covers a broad spectrum: scenic safaris, private day trips, aromatic distillery visits, and art walks. For those seeking adventure, the Camargue safaris promise wild encounters and stunning landscapes. Art fans will enjoy wandering in Van Gogh’s footsteps, while lovers of local produce can indulge in lavender and olive oil tours. Read on to find the perfect tour that suits your style.
1. From Arles: Half-Day 4×4 Camargue Safari
Explore Camargue Natural Regional Park on this guided 4×4 safari, a highlight for wildlife lovers. This tour, rated 4.6/5 by over 1,700 reviews, offers a behind-the-scenes look at the marshy landscapes home to wild horses, bulls, and flamingos. Your guide shares fascinating insights into the region’s flora and fauna while you enjoy the thrill of riding in a sturdy 4×4. You’ll also stop in Saintes Maries de la Mer, a picturesque village famous for its festivals and history.
What makes this tour stand out is its blend of wildlife viewing and cultural stops, all within a manageable four hours. It’s ideal for travelers who want an authentic encounter with Provençal nature without sacrificing comfort or time. The price of $69 per person makes it a good value, especially considering the high ratings and engaging guide commentary.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts or families, this safari combines scenery, wildlife, and local culture in an unforgettable half-day adventure.
2. 4×4 Camargue Safari 4h – Departure from Arles
Adding a bit of flexibility and local flavor, this 4×4 Camargue Safari offers a relaxed four-hour trip through the marshlands, led by a professional driver-guide. With a rating of 4.5/5 from over 400 reviews, it’s praised for its friendly, informative approach. The highlight is the stop in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, where you can enjoy a quick look around and soak up Provençal life.
This tour stands out because it doesn’t require you to worry about navigating or driving—leave that to the expert guide while you sit back and enjoy the scenery. It’s especially well-suited for those who want a seamless, hassle-free way to see Camargue’s unique wetlands and wildlife. The tour’s cost of around $68 makes it a budget-friendly way to experience the region without sacrificing depth or quality.
Reviews point out the guide’s multilingual skills and extensive knowledge, making this a popular choice for first-timers.
Bottom Line: An easy, friendly introduction to Camargue’s landscape and animals, perfect for travelers who prefer a guided experience with minimal fuss.
3. Lavender Field & Distillery Tour between Nimes & Arles
For a sensory escape, the Lavender Field & Distillery Tour offers a one-hour journey into Provence’s fragrant world. Rated 4.8/5, it’s a delightful peek into how lavender and other aromatic plants are cultivated and turned into essential oils. You’ll visit a distillery where the secrets of extracting natural perfumes are shared, and you can enjoy sniffing the pure, organic scents.
The tour’s charm lies in its hands-on approach—learning how to incorporate these oils into daily life and discovering why lavender is called the “blue gold of Provence.” For only $9, it’s a very affordable way to add a fragrant touch to your trip, especially if you love perfumes or natural remedies.
Bottom Line: Short but sweet, this aromatic tour is ideal for anyone curious about Provence’s fragrant traditions and the art of perfume making.
4. 4×4 Camargue Safari 4h – Private Tour – Departure from Arles
Offering a more personalized experience, this Private 4×4 Camargue Safari is perfect for small groups wanting exclusive access to hidden corners. Rated a perfect 5.0/5 from 35 reviews, it’s a premium option that costs about $514 per group (up to six people). The guide takes you through ponds, marshes, and past horses, bulls, and many bird species while providing detailed commentary on the landscape and local culture.
What sets this tour apart is the private format, allowing for a flexible, tailored experience. You’ll also have ample time for photography and to enjoy the private, intimate atmosphere. The guide’s enthusiasm and deep knowledge turn this into more than just a safari—it’s a personalized discovery of Camargue’s most secret spots.
Reviews highlight the passionate guides and the stunning photo opportunities.
Bottom Line: Best suited for couples or small groups who want a custom, private adventure in Camargue, with the chance for personalized attention and deeper discovery.
5. Arles Small Group Tour: Private Day Trip to Luberon Villages
If you prefer a tailored experience, this Private Day Trip to Luberon Villages offers a personalized exploration of Provence’s most charming towns. Rated 5.0/5 from 14 reviews, it takes you from Arles to L’Isle-sur-Sorgue, “the little Venice of Provence,” then on to Gordes, Roussillon, and others, with optional wine tastings and scenic walks.
The tour is ideal for those who want a bespoke visit, with a guide managing logistics and customizing stops to your interests. For around $1,187, it’s a premium experience suited for families or groups who value privacy and flexibility. A highlight is exploring the artist-infused villages, following the footsteps of Picasso and others.
Guests appreciate the guide’s flexibility and knowledge, as well as the convenience of pickup and drop-off in Arles.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a private, flexible way to see Provence’s most picturesque villages in one day.
6. From Arles: Alpilles Regional Park Provence 4×4 Safari
This Alpilles Regional Park Safari takes you through the rugged beauty of Provence’s Alpilles. Rated 4.5/5, it offers a four-hour drive in an all-terrain 4×4, passing Roman ruins, olive groves, vineyards, and the charming Baux de Provence. Your guide shares insights into the region’s history and agriculture, with a stop in Les Baux de Provence for a taste of local olive oil.
This tour makes a great choice for those interested in combining natural scenery with historical sites, all packed into a manageable half-day trip. The focus on local food, history, and panoramic views makes it engaging yet relaxed. It’s well suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of culture and nature, with the chance to sample regional products.
Reviews commend the guide’s expertise and the stunning sights.
Bottom Line: An excellent pick for those who want a balanced mix of history, scenery, and Provençal flavors in a half-day adventure.
7. Arles private tour – art/history and gastronomy
For a deep dive into Arles’ artistic and culinary culture, this Private Art and Gastronomy Tour offers a 3-hour walk through the city’s highlights. Rated 5/5 from 11 reviews, it features visits to Roman architecture, Vincent van Gogh sites, and local eateries. You’ll enjoy a sweet break with ice cream and learn about Provençal flavors along the way.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want to combine art, history, and food into a digestible experience. It’s perfect for those with limited time but a desire for culture. The small group setting ensures personalized attention, and the guide’s passion for Arles’ cuisine and art makes it memorable.
Bottom Line: Great for art lovers and foodies wanting a compact, enriching walk through Arles’ most notable sites.
8. From Avignon: Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence & Saint-Rémy Tour
This full-day tour covers Arles, Les Baux de Provence, and Saint-Rémy with additional visits to an olive oil farm and the renowned Carrières de Lumières (a multimedia art show). Rated 4.9/5, it’s a comprehensive experience blending history, art, and Provençal flavors. This itinerary includes scenic drives, tastings, and free time in Saint-Rémy.
It suits travelers wanting a structured, all-in-one day to see highlights without the hassle of planning. The combination of Roman ruins, art projections, and a Provençal picnic makes it diverse. The cost of around $128 offers a lot of value, considering the extensive sightseeing.
Guests note the efficient schedule and engaging commentary, making it a well-rounded choice.
Bottom Line: Ideal for visitors who want a full, guided day exploring Provence’s cultural gems.
9. 4×4 safari – 4h Alpilles Provence – Departure from Arles
Another option to explore the Alpilles region, this 4-hour 4×4 Safari takes you past Roman aqueducts, medieval ruins, and olive groves. Rated 4.5/5, it’s a shorter adventure emphasizing local history and landscape. The highlight is the stop at Les Baux de Provence, where you can explore at your own pace.
This tour offers a practical, middle-ground experience for those short on time but eager for Provençal scenery. The knowledgeable guide and scenic stops make it a worthwhile choice for lovers of history and landscape. The $73.52 price point reflects good value for a half-day trip.
Reviews commend the guide’s storytelling and the region’s beauty.
Bottom Line: A compact, engaging tour ideal for history buffs or those wanting a quick taste of Provence’s rugged beauty.
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour
When selecting a tour in Arles, consider your budget, interest area, and how much time you have. If wildlife is your focus, the Camargue safaris (numbers 1, 2, and 4) offer immersive experiences. For art and history lovers, the Van Gogh walks (number 14) or Arles art and history tours (number 13) are excellent choices. Meanwhile, those seeking a private, customizable experience might prefer the Luberon villages private tour (number 5) or the private Camargue safari (number 4).
Budget travelers will find value in shorter, aromatic excursions like the Lavender Distillery Tour (number 3), while history enthusiasts may appreciate the full-day guided explorations (number 8). For special interests, the Camargue secrets tour offers a more intimate, customized experience.
Booking early is advised, especially for private and small-group tours, as spots fill quickly during peak seasons.
Final Thoughts
The diversity of tours in Arles means you can tailor your experience to your interests and schedule. Wildlife lovers should not miss the Camargue safaris, while art and history buffs will enjoy wandering Van Gogh’s Arles or exploring Roman ruins. For a more personal touch, private tours bring added flexibility and insider access.
Overall, whether you’re after a quick scenic drive or an in-depth culture, Arles has a tour that will make your visit memorable. Just remember—these experiences are popular, so booking early can ensure you don’t miss out. Now, go plan your Provençal adventure and get ready for one of the most authentic trips in Southern France.