Saint Remy de Provence is a perfect spot to explore by tour, thanks to its charming villages, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural sites. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of art, or simply want a fun way to see the countryside, the tours here offer something for all. We’re especially fond of the Carrières de Lumières experience, which combines a scenic e-bike ride with the awe-inspiring multimedia art exhibit. It’s a wonderful way to blend active exploration with mesmerizing visuals, all set in a beautiful quarry setting.
While some visitors prefer the flexibility of independent touring, guided experiences like the Following the steps of Van Gogh provide in-depth insights into the painter’s time in Provence. No matter your style or pace, these tours will deepen your appreciation of this region’s unique charm.
Quick Overview
This list features a variety of tours in Saint Remy de Provence designed to suit different interests and schedules. You’ll find e-bike adventures, which make easy work of Provence’s hilly terrain, and cultural excursions that trace Van Gogh’s footsteps. There are full-day trips exploring multiple villages like Les Baux de Provence, Saint Rémy, and Isle sur la Sorgue, as well as immersive experiences like wine tastings and cooking classes. Each tour offers a unique perspective, from half-day bike rides to full-day cultural tours. Below, we detail what makes each stand out.
1. The Carrières de Lumières by e-bike
At number 1, this e-bike tour offers a flexible and fun way to explore the Provençal countryside. For about $71.15 per person, you get a 5 to 8-hour experience, cycling comfortably along scenic routes with provided maps and itineraries. The highlight is visiting the Carrieres de Lumières, a vast old quarry turned multimedia art space that exhibits stunning projection shows—most recently showcasing Van Gogh’s works set to music. The tour starts at the Sun-e-Bike shop, where staff will give a quick briefing and fit you with an easy-to-use electric bike, making uphill climbs a breeze.
What makes this tour stand out is its perfect balance of independence and structured exploration. You choose whether to depart in the morning or afternoon, allowing flexibility for your plans. The ride takes you through breathtaking villages like Les Baux de Provence, with plenty of spots to recharge your bike. Past visitors comment on how easy the e-bikes are to handle and praise the immersive Carrières de Lumières exhibit, calling it “beyond expectation.” The combination of cycling, sightseeing, and art makes it ideal for active travelers who enjoy self-guided adventures with a cultural punch.
Bottom line: Excellent for independent travelers who want the freedom to set their own pace while enjoying remarkable art and scenery.
2. The Carrières de Lumières by bike for half-day
For around $59.34, this half-day bike experience offers a shorter, more focused adventure—perfect if time is limited but you still want a taste of Provence’s highlights. Starting in Saint-Rémy, you’ll use an electric bike to explore the charming streets and then ride out to the rocky plateau of Les Baux-de-Provence. Along the way, you’ll enjoy quiet roads and panoramic lookout points that showcase the region’s landscape.
The tour includes your bike, helmet, map, and a ticket to the multimedia Carrieres de Lumières, making it a comprehensive package. Reviewers consistently praise the well-maintained bikes, friendly staff, and stunning views. One said, “It felt especially good to go down from a mountain, and the scenery was exceptional,” highlighting how electric bikes make challenging terrain accessible. It’s best suited for those who want a quick but meaningful experience of Provence’s art and scenery.
Bottom line: A compact, well-paced option for travelers with limited time who want a full taste of the region’s highlights.
3. Following the steps of Van Gogh
This Van Gogh-themed tour takes you deep into the places where the artist lived and painted during his time in Provence. For $105, over five hours, you’ll visit iconic sites like the Saint Paul de Mausole asylum in Saint-Rémy, where Van Gogh created many of his masterpieces, and the picturesque hilltop village of Les Baux de Provence. The tour also includes the Roman Amphitheatre in Arles, a UNESCO site, and the lively Arles Forum square.
What makes this experience unique is the storytelling—your guide will share detailed insights into Van Gogh’s life and the inspiration behind his works. It’s particularly appealing if you’re interested in art history and want to see the landscapes that stirred Van Gogh’s creativity. Past visitors note how the tour offers a “deep understanding of Van Gogh’s Provence period,” enriching their appreciation of his paintings. It’s a good choice for art lovers, history buffs, and those wanting a leisurely, educational day.
Bottom line: An engaging, in-depth look at Van Gogh’s connection to Provence, perfect for art aficionados and curious travelers alike.
4. A day in Provence: Les Baux de Provence, Saint Rémy and more
If you’re after a full, immersive day, this guided day trip covers the best of Provence’s most photogenic towns and sites. For about $1,510 per group (up to 8 people), it’s a great value considering the comprehensive itinerary—visiting Les Baux de Provence, Saint Rémy, and L’isle sur la Sorgue.
During this 10-hour journey, you’ll stroll through colorful villages with fountains and narrow streets, walk in Vincent Van Gogh’s footsteps, and explore the canals and shops of L’isle sur la Sorgue. The tour is ideal for travelers wanting an all-in-one experience, combining sightseeing, culture, and some shopping. The day is paced comfortably, with plenty of time to enjoy each location. While the price may seem high, it includes transportation, guides, and access to key sites, making it a good value for those craving a comprehensive Provençal adventure.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a detailed, all-day introduction to Provence’s charming villages and famous sights.
$1,510 per group up to 8
5. Alpilles: Discover vineyards and farms by electric bike
This vineyard and farm tour offers a full 8-hour ride through the beautiful landscapes of the Alpilles, combining cycling with tastings and local product encounters. At around $246 per person, it’s a deeper dive into Provence’s culinary scene. Your guide will take you through carefully curated routes that highlight the region’s culture and history, with visits to local producers for tastings of wine, cheese, and other regional foods.
What sets this apart is the focus on authentic local products and direct conversations with producers, giving you insights into Provence’s agricultural traditions. The tour also includes a guided exploration of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, with stops at vineyards and farms that you wouldn’t easily find on your own. This experience is best suited for foodies and those interested in the region’s gastronomy. However, it requires a decent level of physical activity and time commitment.
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers wanting an immersive culinary experience combined with scenic cycling.
$246 per person
6. From Avignon: Cooking Class + Farmers Market in the Alpilles
For a truly hands-on experience, this cooking class and market tour offers six hours of culinary immersion. Priced at $573 per person, it’s an indulgence for those who love to cook and taste regional flavors. Starting from Avignon, you’ll visit a local market with a chef to select fresh ingredients, then learn to prepare traditional Provençal dishes in a professional kitchen.
This tour is perfect for food lovers eager to bring Provence’s flavors home. The highlight is the opportunity to discover regional products firsthand and then enjoy the dishes you’ve crafted, paired with local wines. Guests rave about the authentic experience of shopping with a chef and the delicious results. While the price is high, it’s justified by the intimate, educational nature of the experience and the quality of the culinary results.
Bottom line: Ideal for culinary enthusiasts seeking an authentic, interactive Provençal cooking experience.
$573 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
Selecting the best tour depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend. If you prefer active exploration with artistic flair, the Carrières de Lumières e-bike is a top pick. For a deeper dive into Van Gogh’s Provence, the Following the steps of Van Gogh offers a rich, art-focused experience.
Travelers short on time or seeking a quick overview might prefer the half-day bike, while those craving a full-day adventure exploring multiple villages will enjoy the Les Baux and Saint Rémy trip. For culinary lovers, the wine and farm tour or the cooking class offer immersive tastes and hands-on learning.
Practical tips include booking early in high season (spring and fall) when the weather is mild, and considering your fitness level—cycling tours require some stamina, but electric bikes make it accessible for most. Think about whether you want guided insights or prefer independence when choosing between guided and self-guided options.
Final thoughts
From scenic bike rides to cultural and culinary explorations, Saint Remy de Provence offers a wide range of tours to suit different tastes. If you’re an art lover, the Van Gogh and multimedia experiences are unmissable. For those wanting a comprehensive taste of Provence, the full-day guided trip covers plenty of ground. Active travelers and foodies will find plenty of options to indulge their passions.
Book your preferred tour early to secure your spot, especially in peak months. No matter which you choose, you’re sure to enjoy a memorable taste of this charming region.