From Aix : Arles, Saint Rémy, & Les Baux Provence Day Trip

Experience the Heart of Provence in a Day
This 8.5-hour guided tour from Aix en Provence takes you through three of Provence’s most captivating spots: Arles, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, and Les Baux de Provence. For $176 per person, you’ll enjoy a carefully curated journey in a comfortable, recent minivan, with a local guide who’s passionate about sharing the region’s stories.

We love that this tour balances history, culture, and scenic beauty—from walking through Roman ruins in Arles to soaking in the views from Les Baux, it hits many highlights. Plus, the small group size (max 8) means you get a more personal, relaxed experience compared to larger tours.

One thing to consider is that timing is tight, so if you’re hoping for a very leisurely pace or more time in each spot, some might find it a bit rushed. Also, children under 4 are not allowed, so this is best suited for families with older kids or adults.

This tour is ideal if you want an authentic, well-rounded taste of Provence’s Roman heritage, charming villages, and stunning landscapes, all with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.

Key Points

• Thorough Itinerary: Visits to UNESCO-listed Arles, Saint-Rémy, and Les Baux showcase Provence’s diversity.
• Expert Guides: Local guides enhance understanding with engaging stories about art, history, and culture.
• Comfortable Transport: Recent, air-conditioned minivan ensures a pleasant ride and easy movement between sites.
• Authentic Experiences: Walk through Roman ruins, explore medieval streets, and enjoy breathtaking views.
• Flexible & Small Group: Limited to 8 participants for a more personalized and relaxed experience.
• Good Value: For around $176, the tour covers transportation, guiding, and entrance to major sites.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Provence Day Trip

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour departs from the Tourism Office in Aix en Provence. You’ll meet your English-speaking driver-guide and board a recent, air-conditioned minivan. This is crucial—after all, comfort during a full day of sightseeing makes a big difference. The small group size (limited to 8) ensures you’re not lost in a crowd, and your guide can tailor some of the commentary and timing to your interests.

Arles – The Roman Jewel

The first major stop is Arles, a city brimming with well-preserved Roman monuments. The UNESCO World Heritage Site status of Arles owes much to its remarkable Roman Amphitheater, which we loved imagining filled with ancient crowds watching gladiator games. Built at the end of the 1st century, this structure could hold up to 25,000 spectators—impressive even today.

Walking through the historic center, we found the Saint Trophime church and remnants of the Roman Theatre equally captivating. The Roman Forum (though only fragments remain) reveals foundations built atop a cryptoporticus, used as damp storage or possibly a barracks—fascinating details that breathe life into the ruins.

Reviews highlight the value of having a knowledgeable guide like Julien, who keeps the storytelling engaging and manages the pace well. One traveler from the United States noted how Julien’s attentiveness made the experience “well-curated,” giving ample time to explore without feeling rushed.

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence – Art, Quiet, and Van Gogh

Next, the tour takes you to Saint-Rémy, a picture-perfect village famed for its charming squares and Provençal markets. It’s a place that oozes authenticity, with small cafes and artisan shops lining narrow streets.

This stop is a highlight for many, especially art lovers, as Saint-Rémy is where Van Gogh spent a year and created some of his most famous works. While you may not visit the hospital Vincent painted, you’ll find that the town’s atmosphere helps you understand the artist’s connection to the landscape and light.

We appreciated the free time for personal discovery and lunch, and the note that there’s a market on Wednesdays adds an extra layer of appeal for those wanting a true local experience.

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Les Baux de Provence – Medieval Majesty

The final main stop is Les Baux de Provence, perched on a rocky spur in the Alpilles mountains. From the hilltop, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, vineyards, and olive groves.

Wandering the narrow, winding streets of this medieval fortress town, you’ll discover art galleries and the remains of a 10th-century fortress. It’s a place that feels like stepping back in time, with panoramic vistas that make every photo worth the effort. Reviewers love the free time to explore at their own pace, noting that the scenery is truly “outstanding.”

Returning to Aix — A Relaxed End to a Full Day

The day concludes with a comfortable drive back to Aix, giving you a moment to reflect on the sights and sounds of Provence.

Why This Tour Works

This experience is especially well-suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of history, scenery, and local culture. The expert guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, transforming what could be a simple sightseeing trip into an engaging narrative of Provence’s past and present.

The small group size encourages interaction and makes it easier to ask questions or customize the experience slightly. The value for money is strong—covering transportation, guiding, and major site entrances—making it a practical choice for travelers who want to see a lot without the hassle of self-driving or planning multiple day trips.

However, keep in mind that the tour’s tight schedule may not suit those who prefer a languid, unhurried day. If you love to linger over a meal or enjoy extended explorations, some of the stops might feel rushed.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a comprehensive, engaging, and affordable way to experience Provence’s Roman ruins, medieval villages, and stunning vistas, this tour checks all those boxes. It’s perfect for history buffs, art lovers, or anyone eager to get a genuine feel for the region’s charm without the stress of planning every detail.

Just remember to bring comfortable shoes and water, and prepare to enjoy a day filled with beautiful sights, fascinating stories, and a taste of Provençal life.

FAQs

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers English-speaking driver/guide, transportation in a recent and comfortable minivan, and visits to Arles, Saint-Rémy, and Les Baux de Provence.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so you might want to bring a snack or plan for a quick lunch during your free time in Saint-Rémy.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes are a must for walking on uneven surfaces and cobblestone streets. Also, bring water to stay hydrated during the day.

Can children participate?
Children under 4 years old are not allowed, but kids aged 4-12 can get a reduced price. The tour is best suited for families with older children or adults.

What is the tour’s duration?
It lasts approximately 8.5 hours, starting and ending in Aix en Provence, with scheduled stops and some free time.

Is this tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, it is not suitable for wheelchair users, as some sites involve walking on uneven or steep terrain.

How many people will be in the group?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience and better interaction with your guide.

To sum it up, this Provence day trip from Aix en Provence offers a well-rounded glimpse into the region’s Roman history, medieval charm, and stunning landscapes. With a knowledgeable guide, convenient transport, and a small group atmosphere, it’s an excellent way to see some of the best sights without the hassle. It’s particularly suitable for those who value authentic experiences, engaging storytelling, and scenic beauty—making the most of a single day in this enchanting part of France.

You can check availability for your dates here: