Arles, Les Baux and Saint Remy de Provence from Marseille

Exploring Provence: Arles, Les Baux, and Saint Remy de Provence from Marseille

A full-day trip from Marseille that highlights the best of Provence’s artistic, historic, and scenic treasures—this tour takes you to Arles, Les Baux, and Saint Remy-de-Provence. For about $177.69 per person, you’ll spend roughly 10.5 hours traveling comfortably in an air-conditioned van, with plenty of opportunities to explore on your own. With a high recommendation rate of 94%, this experience is a favorite among travelers who want a taste of the region’s authentic charm.

We love how this tour balances guided storytelling with free time to wander at each stop. The knowledgeable guides share engaging insights into Van Gogh’s inspiration, Roman ruins, and medieval villages—giving you both context and space to soak it all in. Plus, the scenic drive through Provençal landscapes is a highlight in itself.

One consideration: it’s a long day, with about 2 hours of driving each way, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are sensitive to long travel days, this may feel a bit intense. But if you’re eager to see iconic sites and enjoy a well-organized, comprehensive experience, this tour suits active travelers who appreciate a mix of guided narration and independent exploration.

This trip works particularly well for art lovers, history buffs, and anyone intrigued by picturesque villages. From Van Gogh fans to lovers of Roman architecture, most participants find this combination of highlights very satisfying.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary offers guided insights plus free exploration time.
• Expert guides provide detailed stories that enrich your understanding of each site.
• Comfortable transportation ensures a smooth, scenic journey through Provence.
• Cultural and artistic highlights like Van Gogh’s Saint-Paul-de-Mausole asylum and Roman ruins.
• Optional extras like the show at Les Carrières de Lumières and exploring local markets.
• Long but rewarding day with memorable scenery and authentic village visits.

A Deep Dive into the Provence Experience

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $177.69, the core value of this tour lies in the transportation, guided commentary, and access to some of Provence’s most beloved spots. The price doesn’t include meals or entrance fees, so plan for your own lunch and any museum or monument tickets. The tour does not offer hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll meet at the Marseille Vieux Port—an easy central location.

The Journey Begins: Marseille to Arles

Your day kicks off early at 8:00 am with a pickup from the Radisson Blu Hotel at Marseille Vieux Port. As you leave the city behind, you’ll enjoy views of the Plain of La Crau and the surrounding Provençal landscape, which many find as enchanting as the sites themselves.

Your first stop is Arles, a town bursting with Roman history and artistic inspiration. The highlight here is the Arles Amphitheatre, which dates back to the 1st century AD. It’s not just a relic; it’s a living monument still used today for festivals and events, giving you a real sense of the Roman roots.

Another favorite stop is the Saint Trophime Church, a stunning example of Romanesque architecture. The intricate cloister and ornate carvings transport you back centuries. And for Van Gogh fans, the sites associated with his time here are especially poignant—many of his famous paintings, like “La maison jaune” and “Le jardin de l’hotel Dieu,” were inspired by this landscape.

The Charm of Les Baux de Provence

Next, the tour heads to Les Baux de Provence, a medieval hilltop village that exudes rustic charm. Here, you get about two hours of free time, which is ample to stroll its narrow cobblestone streets, browse shops, and soak in the panoramic views.

A favorite feature for many travelers is the show at Les Carrières de Lumières—a stunning multimedia exhibit projected onto ancient quarry walls. While this is an optional activity at your own expense, many reviews mention it as a mesmerizing experience. Even without the show, the village’s 16th-century architecture, St Vincent Church, and Hôtel des Porcelets provide plenty of photo-worthy moments.

Saint Remy: Van Gogh’s Inspiration and More

Your final major stop is Saint Remy-de-Provence, famed for its association with Van Gogh. The Glanum archaeological site, featuring the Les Antiques (a funerary monument and triumphal arch), paints a picture of the ancient Graeco-Roman city. From this vantage point, you can imagine Van Gogh’s “Starry Night” and “The Café Terrace at Night,” inspired by the local scenery.

In addition, many travelers enjoy wandering through the provencal markets (Wednesdays in Saint Remy and Saturdays in Arles), which offer local produce, crafts, and a taste of daily Provençal life. The town also boasts a charming open-air market atmosphere, where you can soak in local colors and flavors.

The Long Drive—Worth It?

Yes, this is a full-day tour, with roughly 2 hours each way in the van. The comfort of the vehicle and the scenic views make the long drive part of the experience rather than a chore. Many reviewers find the journey relaxing and enjoy the commentary along the way.

Authentic, Personal Touch

What sets this tour apart, according to reviews, is the knowledgeable guides like Melissa, Bernardo, and Florance. Travelers consistently praise the passion and expertise of their guides, who tell stories that connect the sites to art, history, and everyday Provençal life. The small group size enhances this experience, allowing for personal interaction and tailored suggestions.

Flexibility and Optional Add-Ons

While the tour covers a lot, some travelers wish they had longer at certain stops. The optional show at Les Carrières de Lumières is a highlight for art lovers, and exploring the local markets adds a lively, authentic touch. The tour is designed to offer ample free time, which many find ideal for personal discovery.

What We Love and What Could Be Better

We appreciate how the guided narration deepens our understanding of the sites’ artistic and historical significance. The scenic drive through Provencal landscapes is peaceful and inspiring. The free time in Les Baux and Saint Remy lets you set your own pace, which many travelers find refreshing.

One possible drawback is the length of the day—for some, it may be tiring, especially if you’re not used to long travel days. Also, since the tour doesn’t include entrance fees, you’ll need to budget for tickets if you wish to visit museums or participate in shows.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience suits art enthusiasts, history lovers, and those eager to see picturesque villages without the hassle of planning logistics. It’s perfect for travelers who want a rundown of Provence’s highlights with knowledgeable guides. If you’re a small-group traveler who appreciates personal attention, this tour will fit the bill.

Final Words

This full-day Provençal adventure offers a well-rounded blend of art, history, and scenic beauty. From the Roman grandeur of Arles to the medieval allure of Les Baux and the Van Gogh-inspired landscapes of Saint Remy, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Provence’s enduring charm.

While it’s a full day with some long drives, the comfortable transport, expert guides, and flexible free time make it a worthwhile choice for those wanting to see iconic sites with ease. It’s particularly suited to travelers eager to enjoy the artistic and historic roots of this captivating region.

If you’re looking for a thoughtfully organized, engaging, and picturesque tour that captures the spirit of Provence, this trip from Marseille offers good value and authentic experiences that won’t soon be forgotten.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours and 30 minutes, including travel time, with about 2 hours of free exploration at each major site.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a local guide, and visits to Arles, Les Baux, and Saint Remy. Entry fees to monuments and museums are not included.

Is there any optional activity?
Yes, you can attend a show at Les Carrières de Lumières at your own expense during your free time in Les Baux.

Where do we meet?
The tour starts at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Marseille Vieux Port, with pickup at 8:00 am.

Are children allowed?
Children under 4 years old are not permitted on this tour.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

Are there any markets included?
Yes, open-air markets operate on Wednesdays in Saint Remy and Saturdays in Arles, which many travelers enjoy exploring.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and some cash for optional purchases or snacks are recommended.

This tour balances a busy day of sightseeing with the opportunity to experience Provence’s authentic charm, guided by passionate experts who help bring the region’s stories to life. Whether you’re an art fan, history buff, or just in love with the scenic countryside, it offers a meaningful and memorable slice of Provence.