Arles is a city that breathes art, history, and Provence charm. Unlike larger cities, its small size makes it perfect for immersive experiences—whether you want to learn about lavender farming, walk in Van Gogh’s footsteps, or explore picturesque villages. We’ve selected four standout tours that showcase different facets of what makes Arles and its surroundings so special. Our favorites include the Lavender Field & Distillery Tour for aromatic relaxation and learning, and the Arles: Express Walk with a Local for a quick, authentic taste of the city. Each offers a different way to connect more deeply with Provence, whether through scent, sight, or local insight.
If you’re eager to explore beyond the city, the 7-hour tour of Saint-Rémy, Les Baux, and Arles offers a full day of Roman ruins, medieval villages, and vineyard visits. For art lovers, the Van Gogh Walking Tour with an app makes Van Gogh’s scenes come alive on your own schedule. Keep reading to find the best fit for your trip.
1. Lavender Field & Distillery Tour between Nimes & Arles
This Lavender Field & Distillery Tour is a delightful hour exploring Provence’s fragrant side. It’s perfect if you’re curious about how lavender and other aromatic plants are cultivated and processed into essential oils. The tour is led by a family-run farm where you’ll learn about the distillation of lavender, verbena, and more. The highlight is the chance to smell natural perfumes and understand their benefits for your mind and body—an aromatic journey that’s both relaxing and educational.
What makes this experience stand out is the hands-on approach: you’ll see the actual distillation process and even get a chance to imagine becoming an alchemist. The guides are friendly and multilingual, making English speakers feel right at home. It’s a short visit, but packed with insights, and the store sells a wide range of essential oils and related products. Perfect for travelers passing between Nîmes and Arles, it offers great value at just $9 per person.
Bottom Line: If you love natural scents and want to understand Provence’s signature lavender, this small, family-owned tour offers an authentic, inexpensive peek into traditional farming and distillation.
2. Arles, Saint-Rémy & Les Baux De Provence -7 hours
For a full-day immersion in Provence’s Roman and medieval past, the 7-hour tour of Arles, Saint-Rémy, and Les Baux is a comprehensive choice. This guided experience covers several highlights: you’ll follow in Van Gogh’s footsteps in Arles, explore the Roman ruins that still dominate the landscape, and visit Saint-Rémy’s olive oil production and vineyards. Then, you’ll venture into the stunning medieval fortress town of Les Baux de Provence, known for its dramatic cliffs and historic château.
The tour’s unique appeal lies in its blend of art, history, and regional flavors. You’ll taste local wines, learn about olive oil production, and see the landscapes that inspired Van Gogh’s paintings. The guide’s commentary makes the history come alive, especially when wandering through the charming villages and Roman sites. Although the price is steep at $1,112 for a group of up to 8, it provides an all-in-one Provence experience that’s ideal for travelers wanting a deep, guided overview.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those with a full day to spare and a keen interest in Roman history, art, and regional gastronomy. It offers excellent value for an all-inclusive big tour.
3. Arles Vincent Van Gogh Walking Tour with an APP
This Van Gogh Walking Tour with an app is perfect for art fans who prefer exploring at their own pace. For just $10, you get an easy-to-use GPS-enabled app guiding you through Van Gogh’s Arles—covering the scenes that inspired some of his most famous paintings. The tour focuses on places like Alyscamps Necropolis, the Arles Amphitheatre, and the Place du Forum, giving you a visual and historical context.
What makes this experience special is its flexibility. You can start whenever you like and spend as much time as you wish at each site. The app includes audio descriptions and maps that help you imagine Van Gogh’s perspective, making it feel like a private tour. Reviews note that it’s best suited for those comfortable with self-guided walking and looking for an affordable, independent way to explore Van Gogh’s influence on the city.
Bottom Line: Ideal for art lovers who enjoy self-guided exploration, especially if you want to see Van Gogh’s Arles without the pressure of a scheduled tour.
4. Arles: Express Walk with a Local
If you’re short on time but want an authentic taste of Arles, the Express Walk with a Local is a fantastic option. In just 1 to 2 hours, you’ll discover the city through an insider’s eyes, visiting key landmarks like the Arles Amphitheatre, Saint-Trophime Church, and various charming squares. With a maximum of 8 travelers, the small group ensures an intimate experience and personalized tips from your local guide.
This tour excels at showcasing Arles’ Roman architecture, artistic spirit, and lively street life. The guide shares valuable recommendations for local cafes, bars, and restaurants, helping you enjoy an authentic meal or drink afterward. The tour’s quick pace makes it perfect for travelers who want to see the main sights without sacrificing depth or local flavor.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers with limited time who want a personalized, insider perspective on Arles’ sights and culture.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding among these options, consider your schedule, budget, and interests. If natural scents fascinate you, the lavender distillery tour is a charming, inexpensive choice. For a full immersion into Provence’s history and art, the 7-hour village tour offers a comprehensive experience. Art enthusiasts will love the Van Gogh app tour for its flexibility and focus on the artist’s scenes, while those pressed for time should consider the Express Walk for a quick, personal introduction.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time slot and avoid last-minute disappointment. Think about your fitness level—most tours involve walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. For a relaxed, in-depth day, opt for the full-day tour; for a quick overview, the local walk or self-guided options work well.
To sum it up, Arles offers a variety of tours that fit different interests and schedules. Whether you want to indulge your senses with lavender, walk through Van Gogh’s Arles, or explore historic villages, there’s an experience waiting for you. For those truly keen, booking a couple of these tours in advance will ensure you make the most of your visit. Now, get ready to uncover the many stories hidden in this remarkable Provençal city.