Arles, Les Baux & Saint-Remy de Provence from Aix

Discover Provence’s Artistic and Ancient Heart with This Day Trip from Aix

A typical full day from Aix-en-Provence takes you through some of southern France’s most iconic sights: the towns where Vincent van Gogh lived and painted, stunning Roman ruins, and picturesque villages with sweeping views. For around $168 per person, you’ll spend about 8 and a half hours soaking in history, art, and Provençal charm—all in a small group that keeps the experience personal and engaging.

What we especially appreciate about this trip are the tailored visits to sites that inspired Van Gogh, like the monastery of Saint-Paul de Mausole and Arles’s famous Roman amphitheatre, alongside time to explore the colorful markets and unique villages. The comfortable transportation with an air-conditioned minibus means you can relax without worrying about navigation, and the expert guide helps you understand the significance of each stop.

One thing to consider is that the tour does not include entrance fees, so you’ll want to budget extra if you plan to visit certain monuments or attend shows like Les Carrières de Lumières. Also, small group size means more personalized attention but might limit the flexibility for spontaneous changes. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of guided insights and free exploration, especially those keen on Van Gogh’s Provence or Roman history.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Van Gogh’s famous sites, Roman ruins, and scenic villages.
• Small group experience with a maximum of 8 travelers for a more personal connection.
• Expert guides like Emanuel and Sebastian, praised for their knowledge and cheerful attitudes.
• Flexible free time at each stop, perfect for independent explorers.
• Affordable value considering transportation, market visits, and guided commentary.
• Limited entrance fees mean extra planning if visiting specific sites or attending shows.

The Full Experience: A Day in Provence’s Artistic and Ancient Spirit

If you’re looking to get a true sense of Provence’s charm and history in one day, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of culture, scenic beauty, and artistic inspiration. From the outset, you’ll board a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus at 9:00 am in Aix, heading out into the Alpilles mountains—a landscape that’s as beautiful as the paintings Van Gogh created during his time here.

The First Stop: Arles — Roman Heritage and Market Charm

Your first destination is Arles, one of the region’s most storied towns. On Saturdays, the lively open-air market is a highlight, bursting with local produce, textiles, and crafts. It’s a perfect place to get a feel for everyday Provençal life. Our guide, like many reviewers noted, provides a wealth of historic insight while you wander the bustling stalls.

What makes Arles special is its Roman architecture, most notably the amphitheatre—a marvel of ancient engineering that still hosts events today. You’ll get about two hours to explore and soak in the atmosphere, which many find just enough time to browse the market and admire the ruins. As one visitor put it, “the arena at Arles took my breath away,” and you’re likely to feel the same.

The Art of Van Gogh in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Next, you’ll visit Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, a quintessential Provencal town with a famous market on Wednesdays. Here, the monastery of Saint-Paul de Mausole is a key highlight, as it’s where Van Gogh spent his last year and painted some of his most iconic works. Many say that visiting the cell where Van Gogh stayed adds a personal and emotional layer to the experience.

While the town itself is charming, some reviews suggest that Saint-Rémy can feel somewhat touristy and may seem a bit crowded for those expecting tranquility. Still, the connection to Van Gogh’s life makes it a meaningful stop, especially for art lovers.

The Crown Jewel: Les Baux de Provence

The third major stop is Les Baux de Provence, a hilltop village famous for its spectacular views and medieval architecture. You’ll have roughly two hours here, giving plenty of time to stroll through narrow streets, admire the ruined castle, and sip in the sweeping panoramic vistas of the Provençal countryside.

Many visitors rave about Les Baux’s stunning scenery—the kind of place that makes you want to linger longer. A notable optional activity is attending the Les Carrières de Lumières, an immersive art show projected onto the quarry walls. Although tickets aren’t included, it’s a popular add-on if the site is open during your visit.

Free Time and Flexibility

One of the strengths of this tour, as highlighted in reviews, is the ample free time you get at each stop. This is perfect if you’re someone who loves exploring independently or wants to soak up the atmosphere without being rushed. You can wander markets, sit in cafés, or simply enjoy the views—an offering that many find well worth the price.

The Guides and Transportation

Throughout the day, guides like Emanuel, Sebastian, and Morgan receive high praise for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and personable approach. Many reviews mention how their insights add depth to the visits—transforming simple sightseeing into a more meaningful experience.

The mini-bus offers a smooth ride, especially appreciated after a busy morning of walking and exploring. The journey is designed to keep you comfortable, with most travelers noting that the small group size fosters a more intimate, chatty atmosphere.

How the Tour Balances Cost and Value

At $167.68, this tour offers a lot for anyone interested in art, history, and Provençal scenery. While entrance fees aren’t included, the combination of guided commentary, market visits, and scenic stops provides a solid value—especially for those who prefer a guided, flexible day over DIY exploring.

Some reviews mention that the free time is more than enough to enjoy each town’s highlights, and the small group aspect makes for a more friendly, less rushed experience. The tour is especially suited for travelers who appreciate expert guides and want a well-organized day without the hassle of planning logistics themselves.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for art lovers, history buffs, and those seeking a relaxed, culturally enriching day in Provence. It suits travelers happy to explore independently during free time but who also value knowledgeable guides to highlight the significance of each site.

If your main goal is to see Van Gogh’s Provençal haunts and Roman ruins without the cost or effort of planning multiple separate visits, this tour hits a sweet spot. Plus, small groups and expert guides ensure a personalized experience that many reviews note as a key highlight.

FAQ

• What is the duration of the tour?
  About 8 hours 30 minutes from start at 9:00 am to return to Aix.

• What is included in the price?
  Transportation in an air-conditioned minibus, a professional guide, and visits to the markets in Arles and Saint-Rémy. Entrance fees are not included.

• Are meals included?
  No, lunch and drinks are not included. There are options for you to buy lunch during your free time.

• What should I bring?
  Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera for the stunning vistas.

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  Children under 4 years old are not allowed on this tour. The small group setting is best suited for older children and adults.

• How much free time do I get at each stop?
  Approximately two hours at Arles, Les Baux, and Saint-Rémy, allowing for independent exploration.

• Do I need to book in advance?
  Yes, most travelers book about 59 days in advance. The tour is popular due to its value and intimate size.

• Are there any optional activities?
  Yes, you can attend the Les Carrières de Lumières show at Les Baux, but tickets are not included.

• What is the group size?
  A maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

• How do I meet the guide?
  At 300 Av. Giuseppe Verdi in Aix-en-Provence. The tour starts promptly at 9:00 am.

In Summary, this tour offers a satisfying mix of art, ancient architecture, and Provençal scenery in a well-organized, small-group setting. It’s best suited for travelers who want to see key Van Gogh sites, Roman landmarks, and charming villages without the hassle of DIY planning. The guides’ enthusiasm and local insights, combined with the flexibility of free exploration, make it a valuable addition to any Provence itinerary. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply craving a taste of rural France, this trip will leave you with plenty to ponder—and plenty of beautiful photos.