Private Day Trip to Arles Les Baux de Provence and Saint Remy de Provence

A Day in Provence: Discovering Arles, Les Baux, and Saint-Rémy from Marseille

If you’re looking for a way to experience some of France’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail, this private day trip from Marseille might just fit the bill. For about $1,040 per group (up to 8 people), you’ll spend roughly 7.5 hours exploring the Roman ruins of Arles, the medieval charm of Les Baux de Provence, and the artistic inspiration of Saint-Rémy — all with a knowledgeable guide, private transportation, and the flexibility to enjoy each stop at your own pace.

Two standout features make this tour particularly appealing. First, the personalized attention you get with a private guide means you can ask questions and focus on what interests you most. Second, the stunning scenery of Provence — with its golden light, rugged landscapes, and historic towns — truly makes this a memorable experience.

That said, a small consideration is that the guide does not stay with you at each site; instead, they provide an overview before you explore on your own. For some travelers, this may be a perk, giving freedom to roam, but others might prefer more guided time at each stop.

If you enjoy history, art, and picturesque villages, and want a flexible, private experience with plenty of breathtaking views, this tour is a good fit. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a mix of cultural sights and scenic landscapes, and who value the comfort and convenience of door-to-door service.

Key Points

• Private, Personalized Tour: Only your group participates, allowing for tailored experiences.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel is in an air-conditioned minivan, ideal for relaxing between sites.
• Flexible Sightseeing: The guide offers overviews, but you explore each site independently.
• Rich Cultural & Artistic Highlights: From Roman monuments to Van Gogh’s inspiration spots.
• Stunning Views: Expect breathtaking panoramas from Les Baux de Provence and scenic streets in the medieval village.
• Cost-Effective for Families or Small Groups: Up to 8 travelers can share this experience, providing good value for a full day.

Exploring the Provence Highlights: A Detailed Review

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting at Saint-Paul de Mausole (Saint-Rémy de Provence)

We begin our journey in Saint-Rémy, where Vincent van Gogh spent a year living and painting — most famously, his Starry Night. The monastery of Saint-Paul de Mausole is a tranquil, historic spot, and while the admission isn’t included, it’s well worth a visit for any art lover or history enthusiast. The quiet atmosphere and landscape where Van Gogh painted are palpable, and it adds a layer of depth to understanding his work.

One review notes, “We loved the way the guide gave an overview of Van Gogh’s stay here, which really helped us appreciate his paintings in context.” The opportunity to walk around these historic grounds allows you to connect with Van Gogh’s creative environment.

Next, Arles — Roman Heritage and Artistic Inspiration

After about two hours, you arrive in Arles, a city bursting with Roman ruins. The Roman arena, theater, and the Alyscamps necropolis are highlights that provide a tangible sense of history. The church of St. Trophime and Roman baths are also on the list, making Arles a treasure trove for lovers of ancient architecture.

Our guide emphasizes that Arles is a UNESCO World Heritage site for good reason. The well-preserved Roman monuments give you a real sense of how these structures have withstood centuries. “The Roman amphitheater was fascinating,” comments one traveler, “and we appreciated having the freedom to explore independently after the overview.”

Then, up to Les Baux de Provence — A Medieval Village with a View

After soaking in ancient history, we head to Les Baux de Provence, perched atop a rocky spur at 245 meters elevation. The views from here are breathtaking, with rugged landscapes and rolling vineyards stretching into the horizon. This village, with its narrow streets and historic castle ruins, feels like a step back in time.

An hour is enough to walk around, admire the scenery, and perhaps enjoy a coffee or a snack. The scenic view from the highest spot is especially memorable, captivating travelers who love picturesque settings.

Final stop: Saint-Rémy de Provence

Our last stop is the charming town of Saint-Rémy, where you can walk through the old town’s narrow streets, browse local shops, and soak up the Provençal atmosphere. If you wish, you can visit the church of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence or simply enjoy the town on your own.

The highlight here is the monastery Saint-Paul de Mausole (admission not included), where Van Gogh lived. Many visitors mention the powerful connection they felt standing where such a famous artist once created masterpieces.

Transportation and Group Size

Travel is in a private, air-conditioned minivan, making the journey comfortable and quiet, perfect for enjoying the scenery or resting. The tour is limited to up to 8 travelers, creating an intimate environment and allowing your guide to personalize the experience.

Timing and Pacing

Starting at 9:00 am, the schedule allows enough time at each site to see the essentials without feeling rushed. The total duration of 7.5 hours balances sightseeing and leisure, with enough flexibility to linger in places you particularly enjoy.

Price and Value

At just over $1,040 for a group of eight, this tour offers a good balance of convenience and depth. While the cost might seem high, it includes private transport, personalized attention, and the flexibility to explore French towns at your own pace. You won’t be stuck on a bus with strangers or hurried through sites — it’s all about your group’s experience.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Insights

From reviews, we see how much visitors appreciated the stunning scenery. One said, “Even the sunlight looked different,” highlighting how the Provençal landscape can transform the way you see the world. The guide’s overview at each stop allows you to then explore independently, which many travelers find enhances their experience.

A minor drawback noted is that the guide does not stay with you at each site, but most agree that this affords greater freedom to explore on your own. It’s a trade-off: more independence versus continuous guided commentary.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private experience is ideal for travelers who value personalized attention and want to see key sites without the hassle of self-driving or complicated planning. It’s well-suited for art lovers, history buffs, or anyone wanting a scenic, relaxed day in Provence.

If you’re traveling with family or friends and prefer a flexible schedule, this tour offers customization and a comfortable, intimate setting. It’s particularly perfect if you’re interested in Van Gogh’s life, Roman ruins, and medieval villages, and want a taste of Provence’s striking landscapes.

The Sum Up

This private day trip offers a thoughtful blend of history, art, and scenery. The focus on independent exploration after a brief guide overview allows you to soak up the atmosphere at each site without feeling overwhelmed. The breathtaking views from Les Baux and the chance to walk in Van Gogh’s footsteps at Saint-Rémy make this a memorable experience.

While the price may seem steep, the personalized service, comfortable transportation, and access to top sites justify the cost for those who value a relaxed, tailored experience. It’s perfect for art lovers, history aficionados, or anyone interested in experiencing Provence’s unique charm in an efficient, private setting.

If you’re seeking a day that balances cultural discovery with natural beauty, and you enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, and the moderate physical activity involved (walking through towns and sites) makes it appropriate for families with children who can manage this level of activity.

How long is each stop?
You’ll spend approximately 30 minutes at Saint-Rémy, about 2 hours in Arles, and an hour in Les Baux. The tour is structured to give ample time to see the highlights and explore independently.

Does the guide stay with us at each site?
No, the guide provides an overview before you explore each site on your own. This allows for more freedom to see what interests you most.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers private transportation, a driver-guide, and pickup/drop-off at your Marseille accommodation. Entrance fees to sites like Saint-Paul de Mausole are not included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours in advance, giving flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is food or lunch included?
No, meals are not included in the tour price, so you should plan to buy snacks or lunch during the day.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked about 127 days ahead, so early booking is recommended to secure your preferred date.

This private Provence tour offers a well-rounded, flexible way to experience some of France’s most inspiring sights — a perfect choice for those who value comfort, authenticity, and stunning views in a single day.