Arles, Les Baux & Saint-Rémy-de-Provence From Aix

Set out on a captivating journey through the heart of Provence as you explore the enchanting towns of Arles, Les Baux, and Saint-Rémy. From the vibrant open-air markets to the haunts of the legendary Vincent van Gogh, this tour promises to immerse you in the region’s rich artistic and historical heritage. Witness the well-preserved Roman ruins in Arles, marvel at the breathtaking vistas of the medieval village of Les Baux, and step into the iconic yellow café terrace that inspired one of Van Gogh’s most renowned works. With the guidance of a knowledgeable local expert, you’re in for an unforgettable experience that will leave you craving more of Provence’s remarkable cultural wonders.

Key Points

This full-day tour explores the charming towns of Saint-Rémy de Provence, Arles, and Les Baux de Provence, delving into the haunts of the legendary artist Vincent van Gogh.
Visitors can enjoy the vibrant open-air markets of Saint-Rémy and Arles, discovering the region’s centuries-old tradition of community gathering and sampling local delicacies.
The tour includes a visit to the Saint Paul de Mausole monastery where Van Gogh was a patient, as well as the iconic yellow café from his painting The Café Terrace.
Arles boasts a wealth of well-preserved Roman ruins, including the Arles Amphitheatre, the Roman Theatre, the Cryptoporticus, and the Constantine Baths.
The medieval village of Les Baux de Provence commands sweeping vistas over the Provençal countryside, with the majestic Alpilles mountain range and the Mediterranean Sea in the distance.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour from Aix-en-Provence takes visitors on an immersive exploration of the charming towns of Saint-Rémy de Provence, Arles, and Les Baux de Provence.

Travelers will explore the haunts of the legendary artist Vincent van Gogh, discovering the St Paul de Mausole monastery where he was a patient.

In Arles, they’ll marvel at the iconic yellow café from his painting The Café Terrace and uncover the remarkable Roman ruins, including the impressive Arles Amphitheatre.

The tour also includes a visit to the picturesque Les Baux de Provence, where sweeping views over the Provençal countryside await.

With a professional guide and air-conditioned transportation, this comprehensive tour promises an unforgettable journey through the region’s rich history and natural beauty.

Vibrant Open-Air Markets

The vibrant open-air markets of Saint-Rémy de Provence and Arles provide visitors with a rich sensory experience, where the sights, sounds, and smells of local Provençal produce come to life.

Wandering through these lively marketplaces, travelers can enjoy the region’s centuries-old tradition of community gathering and exchange. The markets offer an abundance of fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, breads, and artisanal goods, each with its own unique story.

Visitors can:

Haggle with friendly vendors for the best deals
Sample local delicacies like fragrant lavender honey or tangy olivade
Admire the colorful displays of vibrant produce
Chat with locals about their favorite recipes and cooking tips
Discover one-of-a-kind handcrafted items and trinkets.

Haunts of Van Gogh

Although Van Gogh’s time in Saint-Rémy de Provence was marked by mental anguish, the serene landscapes and historic landmarks he frequented there continue to captivate visitors today.

Travelers can follow in the artist’s footsteps by visiting the Saint Paul de Mausole monastery, where he was a patient, and exploring the vibrant open-air market that would have supplied his canvases with an abundance of colorful subject matter.

Just a short drive away, Arles also boasts strong connections to Van Gogh’s artistic journey. Here, visitors can see the iconic yellow café from his painting The Café Terrace and wander among the ancient Roman ruins that inspired his unique style and perspective.

Discovering these ‘haunts of Van Gogh‘ offers a profound connection to the tortured genius’ creative spirit.

Roman Ruins in Arles

Beyond Van Gogh’s iconic café, Arles also boasts a wealth of well-preserved Roman ruins that offer a glimpse into its storied past as a major center of ancient Gallo-Roman civilization.

Among the must-see sites are:

The Arles Amphitheater, a remarkably intact Roman arena that once hosted thrilling gladiator battles and chariot races.
The Roman Theatre, an impressive structure that could seat up to 20,000 spectators and is still used for cultural events today.
The Cryptoporticus, an underground tunnel network that was part of the ancient forum and is noted for its striking vaulted ceilings.
The Constantine Baths, the remains of an extensive bathing complex that showcases the architectural prowess of the Romans.
The Alyscamps, a famous ancient Roman necropolis lined with sarcophagi that inspired many artists, including Van Gogh himself.

Yellow Café Terrace

While Arles is renowned for its well-preserved Roman ruins, one of its most iconic attractions is the Yellow Café Terrace, immortalized in Van Gogh’s famous painting. This vibrant outdoor café, with its sunny yellow facade and lively atmosphere, was a favorite haunt of the Dutch artist during his time in Arles. Visitors can step back in time and imagine Van Gogh himself sipping coffee and observing the bustling scene around him. The café’s charming ambiance and connection to the renowned painter make it a must-see for anyone exploring Arles and the Provence region.

Café Terrace at Night	The Starry Night
Van Gogh’s iconic painting capturing the café’s lively atmosphere	One of Van Gogh’s most famous works, inspired by his time in Arles
Depicts the café’s yellow façade and bustling nighttime scene	Showcases the artist’s bold, expressive style and fascination with the night sky

Sweeping Provençal Views

Towering above the sun-dappled Provençal landscape, the medieval village of Les Baux de Provence commands sweeping vistas that captivate visitors with their breathtaking grandeur.

From the ancient stone ruins and ramparts of this iconic village, travelers can feast their eyes upon:

Rolling hills blanketed in lush olive groves and vineyards
The majestic Alpilles mountain range, which forms a dramatic backdrop
The shimmering expanse of the Mediterranean Sea in the distance
Quaint villages nestled amidst the picturesque countryside
A patchwork of lavender fields, their fragrant purple hues painting the horizon

These sweeping panoramas exemplify the timeless beauty and allure of Provence, inviting visitors to pause, breathe deeply, and fully enjoy the region’s captivating splendor.

Professional Guide Assistance

Exploring the highlights of Provence is made all the more enriching with the guidance of a knowledgeable local expert. As visitors traverse the picturesque villages and uncover the region’s storied past, a professional guide provides invaluable insights that bring the experience to life.

From recounting the artistic legacy of Van Gogh in Saint-Rémy to unveiling the Roman heritage in Arles, the guide’s deep knowledge and passion for the area elevates the tour, painting a vibrant picture of Provence’s culture and history.

With a keen eye for detail and an ability to seamlessly navigate the itinerary, the guide ensures guests maximize their time and leave with a profound appreciation for this enchanting corner of France.

Transportation and Inclusions

This full-day tour from Aix-en-Provence provides air-conditioned minibus transportation, ensuring a comfortable and efficient journey between the picturesque towns of Saint-Rémy de Provence, Arles, and Les Baux de Provence.

The tour also includes access to the vibrant Provençal markets in Arles and Saint-Rémy, allowing visitors to enjoy the local culture and purchase regional specialties.

Along With the reliable transportation and market access, the tour includes the services of a professional guide, who’ll share insights and historical context about the sites visited.

With these inclusions, visitors can sit back, relax, and enjoy the sights without having to worry about the logistics.

Air-conditioned minibus transportation
Access to Provençal markets in Arles and Saint-Rémy
Professional guide services
Comfortable and efficient journey
Opportunity to immerse in local culture

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

There is no specific minimum age requirement for this tour. It’s suitable for travelers of all ages, though the tour may not be appropriate for very young children as it involves some walking. The tour operator can provide more details on age suitability.

Can I Bring My Own Lunch and Snacks?

Sure, you can bring your own lunch and snacks on the tour. The tour doesn’t include meals, so you’re free to pack a picnic or grab something along the way. Just be mindful of any guidelines or restrictions the guide may have.

Do We Have Free Time to Explore on Our Own?

Yes, the tour provides free time for travelers to explore the towns on their own. Participants can wander the markets, check out additional sites, and discover local eateries during the stops in Saint-Rémy, Arles, and Les Baux.

Are There Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?

Sadly, there don’t appear to be any discounts for students or seniors on this tour. The tour pricing seems to be set at a flat rate for all travelers. However, be sure to inquire about any special offers when booking.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Focus on Specific Interests?

While the tour has a set itinerary, the guide can customize the experience to focus on your specific interests. Just let them know what you’d like to prioritize, and they’ll adapt the tour accordingly.