Arles, Les Baux & Saint-Remy De Provence From Aix

Explore the captivating charm of Provence’s historic towns on this full-day tour from Aix-en-Provence. Wander the Roman ruins of Arles, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and uncover the rich artistic legacy of Van Gogh. Venture to the hilltop village of Les Baux and browse the vibrant market of Saint-Rémy, all while marveling at the stunning Alpilles mountain scenery. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, you’ll discover the enchanting beauty and fascinating history that make this region so alluring.

Key Points

• A full-day tour from Aix-en-Provence exploring the highlights of Arles, Les Baux, and Saint-Rémy de Provence with a focus on Vincent van Gogh’s life and works.
• The tour includes visits to significant sites like the St Paul de Mausole monastery and the Arles Amphitheatre, with ample time for an authentic Provençal experience.
• Explore the Roman ruins of Arles, a UNESCO World Heritage site, including the Arles Amphitheatre, Thermal Baths of Constantine, and Van Gogh’s Café Terrace.
• Discover the charming hilltop village of Les Baux, with its medieval streets, picturesque stone buildings, and the Château des Baux.
• The tour is limited to 8 travelers and includes round-trip transport by air-conditioned minibus, with pickup and drop-off at the Tourist Information Center in Aix-en-Provence.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour from Aix-en-Provence takes travelers to the historical towns of Arles, Les Baux, and Saint-Rémy de Provence, with a focus on exploring the life and works of renowned artist Vincent van Gogh.

Along the way, you’ll drive through the picturesque Alpilles mountains. Stops include significant sites like the St Paul de Mausole monastery and the Arles Amphitheatre.

In each town, you’ll have 1.5-2 hours to explore, from the vibrant open-air market in Saint-Rémy to the Roman ruins and Café Terrace in Arles.

The tour is limited to 8 travelers per group and includes round-trip transport by air-conditioned minibus.

Highlights of St Rémy De Provence

As the tour makes its way to St Rémy de Provence, visitors will discover the town’s vibrant open-air market nestled within ancient Roman walls.

This quaint Provençal town is known for its lively market bustling with local artisans and producers selling fresh produce, fragrant flowers, and traditional crafts.

Beyond the market, St Rémy’s historic center offers a charming array of cafés, boutiques, and galleries.

Visitors can explore the narrow streets lined with stone buildings and soak in the town’s tranquil, medieval atmosphere.

With ample time allotted, travelers can truly enjoy the authentic Provençal experience.

Exploring the Roman Ruins of Arles

The tour then ventures to the historic town of Arles, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its well-preserved Roman ruins.

Visitors will marvel at the imposing Arles Amphitheatre, one of the best-preserved arenas from the Roman era.

Other highlights include:

• The Thermal Baths of Constantine, a vast complex showcasing the grandeur of Roman architecture.
• The Cryptoporticus, an underground passageway that once supported a Roman forum.
• The Obelisk of Arles, a towering monument that stands as a testament to the city’s Roman heritage.
• Van Gogh’s famous Café Terrace, immortalized in the artist’s painting.
• The Alyscamps, an ancient Roman necropolis lined with sarcophagi.

The Charm of Les Baux

Leaving the historic Roman ruins of Arles behind, the tour now ventures into the rugged Alpilles mountains, where the charming hilltop village of Les Baux awaits.

Perched atop a rocky outcrop, Les Baux offers sweeping views of the Provençal countryside. Visitors can wander through the medieval streets, admiring the picturesque stone buildings and historic landmarks.

The Château des Baux, a former fortress, is a must-see, providing an opportunity to learn about the region’s rich history.

With its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, Les Baux enchants travelers, offering a glimpse into the essence of Provence.

Tracing Van Gogh’s Footsteps

After exploring the charming village of Les Baux, the tour delves deeper into the life and work of one of the most renowned artists in history – Vincent van Gogh.

Travelers will visit several sites integral to the Dutch painter’s time in Provence, including:

• St. Paul de Mausole monastery, where Van Gogh was treated for mental illness and created some of his most famous works
• The Arles Amphitheatre, which inspired his painting "The Arena at Arles"
• Café Terrace at Night, one of his iconic café scenes, set in Arles

These thought-provoking stops provide a window into the profound impact of Van Gogh’s turbulent yet visionary years in southern France.

Scenic Drive Through the Alpilles Mountains

Next, the tour takes visitors on a scenic drive through the Alpilles mountains.

This rugged, limestone range offers breathtaking views of the Provencal countryside. Along the way, the guide points out historic landmarks and shares insights into the region’s rich culture and heritage.

Travelers can gaze upon the dramatic cliffs, olive groves, and medieval villages that dot the landscape. The drive provides a peaceful transition between the tour’s stops, allowing guests to soak in the natural beauty of this stunning corner of southern France.

Inclusions and Meeting Details

The tour includes round-trip transport by air-conditioned minibus and the services of a professional guide.

Pickup and drop-off are provided from the Tourist Information Center in Aix-en-Provence.

Travelers have the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

The tour has a max of 8 participants, ensuring a small-group atmosphere.

Key details:

• Transport by comfortable minibus
• Professional guide
• Hotel pickup/drop-off
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior
• Meeting point at the Aix Tourist Information Center

This well-organized tour offers a convenient and personalized way to explore the Provençal gems of Arles, Les Baux, and Saint-Rémy.

Customer Feedback

How have travelers responded to this tour? Based on 41 reviews, the tour earns an overall rating of 4.2 stars. Guests praise the knowledgeable guides and well-organized itinerary. Some want more guided time in the towns, especially Arles. Common highlights include the beautiful landscapes and unique local markets. Here’s a snapshot of the customer feedback:

Rating	Positive Remarks	Requests for More	Top Highlights
4.2/5	Knowledgeable guides	Guided time in towns	Landscapes
	Well-organized trips	More time in Arles	Local markets

Ask Away

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour overview doesn’t specify any restrictions on outside food and beverages, so you’re free to pack your own lunch or snacks to enjoy during the stops.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code, but it’s best to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes. The tour involves some walking, so you’ll want to dress for mobility and exploration.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment?

No special equipment is needed for this tour. Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and any personal items you may want are recommended. The tour provides round-trip transportation in a climate-controlled minibus.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary can’t be customized, but you can explore the towns at your own pace during the allocated time. The tour provides a rundown of the key sights, so you don’t need to worry about planning your own route.

Are There Any Discounts Available for This Tour?

This tour doesn’t offer any specific discounts, but group sizes are limited to 8 travelers, which can help keep costs down. You may also want to check if there are any ongoing promotions or bundle deals available.

Final Words

Enjoy the enchanting landscapes and rich history of Provence on this captivating full-day tour. Discover the UNESCO-listed wonders of Arles, the charming hilltop village of Les Baux, and the vibrant market of Saint-Rémy, all while tracing the footsteps of Van Gogh. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, you’re sure to have an unforgettable Provençal adventure.