Arles is a treasure trove for lovers of history, art, and architecture. Its streets echo with over 2,000 years of stories, from Roman ruins to Vincent van Gogh’s colorful brushstrokes. What makes Arles stand out for historical tours is its remarkable preservation of ancient sites combined with a vibrant artistic legacy. Whether you’re wandering past the Roman theater or stepping into Van Gogh’s footsteps, you’ll find each experience offers a window into the city’s soul. We particularly enjoy tours that balance history with local flavors, like the Arles private tour – art/history and gastronomy, which pairs cultural discovery with a taste of Provence.
If you’re wondering which tour best suits your interests, this guide will compare three top options, highlighting their unique features, reviews, and practical details. From intimate private walks to comprehensive explorations, there’s something here to help you make the most of your time in Arles.
1. Arles private tour – art/history and gastronomy
For around $176 per person, this private tour of Arles offers an immersive experience combining art, history, and local cuisine. It lasts about three hours and is perfect if you want a personalized touch. Starting at the lively Brasserie L’Aficion, you’ll explore iconic sites like the Roman Theatre of Arles and the Saint-Trophime Church, both excellent examples of Roman architecture and medieval craftsmanship.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on Vincent van Gogh, with a walk through the Espace Van Gogh and visits to places that inspired his paintings. The guide also arranges a cheerful break with a scoop of ice cream—an ideal way to enjoy the Provençal flavors. The tour emphasizes a relaxed, private experience, making it suitable for travelers who desire a flexible itinerary and deeper engagement. The art and gastronomy focus means you’ll leave with a richer appreciation of how art, food, and history intertwine in Arles.
Bottom Line: This private experience is ideal for those wanting a tailored, culturally rich outing with a taste of local cuisine, perfect for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
2. Arles: Art and History Walking Tour
For $328 per group (up to 25 people), the Arles: Art and History Walking Tour offers a comprehensive 3-hour exploration. This tour is designed to cover more than two millennia of history, from Roman ruins to medieval and modern architecture, all while retracing Van Gogh’s footsteps.
What makes this tour stand out is its extensive itinerary, which includes stops at the Roman Theatre, Arles Amphitheatre, and the Place du Forum. The tour also offers 16 pickup and drop-off locations, making it flexible for different starting points. The guide’s storytelling style makes the ancient stories come alive, and the group size fosters a lively atmosphere. Guests find the balance of historical depth and artistic context very satisfying—one review mentions that it “felt like walking through a living museum.”
The tour is best suited for groups or travelers who want a broad overview of Arles’s historical layers without sacrificing depth. The inclusion of van Gogh’s sites, like the Espace Van Gogh, adds a personal touch for art fans.
Bottom Line: This tour provides excellent value for groups, with a wide-ranging look at Arles’s architectural and artistic history, perfect if you’re after a full, engaging experience.
3. Arles: Private Guide Tour – Explore History & Culture
At just $210 per person for a 2-hour private walk, this Arles private guide tour offers a more condensed, personalized introduction. It’s ideal if you’re pressed for time or prefer a focused, customizable experience. The tour starts at the Mémorial Charles de Gaulle and emphasizes sights like the Arles Amphitheatre, the Place de la République (home to the 4th-century Arles Obelisk), and the Hotel Dieu, where Van Gogh stayed during his time in the city.
What makes this tour unique is its flexibility—you can tailor it to your specific interests, whether that’s Roman architecture, Van Gogh sites, or local culture. The smaller time window makes it suitable for travelers who want a quick but meaningful overview, especially if you’re combining Arles with other nearby destinations.
Reviewers appreciate the personalized approach and the guide’s local knowledge, noting that “it felt very tailored to what I wanted to see.” While it’s shorter, the focus on key highlights makes it a great introduction, especially for first-timers.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a quick, customizable cultural fix with the intimacy of a private guide.
How to Choose Your Perfect Arles Tour
Choosing the right historical tour depends on your schedule, budget, and interests. If you love personalized experiences and want a culinary twist, the Arles private tour – art/history and gastronomy shines. For groups or those seeking a rundown of Arles’s history spanning over 2,000 years, the Art and History Walking Tour offers great value. If your time is limited but you want a focused, private introduction, the Private Guide Tour is an excellent choice.
Consider also the tour’s pacing, whether you prefer a relaxed, in-depth experience or a quick overview. Booking early is wise, especially during peak season, to ensure you secure your preferred time and guide.
Final Thoughts
Arles offers a variety of ways to explore its storied past. For a personal touch blending art, history, and local flavors, the private art/history and gastronomy tour is hard to beat. If you’d rather join a larger group to cover a broad timeline of Roman remnants and artistic sites, the Art and History Walking Tour provides excellent value. And if your schedule is tight but you still want a meaningful introduction, the Private Guide Tour will serve you well.
No matter which you choose, Arles is a city that rewards curiosity and a sense of adventure. Booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these engaging experiences—so plan ahead and enjoy uncovering the layers of history in this fascinating Provençal town.