In the footsteps of Van Gogh in Provence from Avignon

If you’re planning a trip to Provence and have a soft spot for Van Gogh, this tour promises a thoughtful journey through the landscapes and places that shaped his art and life. We’ve looked into the experience, and while we haven’t been on it ourselves, the reviews and details paint a pretty compelling picture. It’s a well-rounded half-day outing that balances art, history, and scenic views—all in a small-group setting that feels intimate and personalized.

What really caught our eye are the expert guides who seem passionate about Van Gogh and the region, and the beautiful stops like Saint-Paul de Mausole and Arles, which are steeped in history and visual inspiration. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour is about six and a half hours long, with a fairly packed itinerary, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing in a small group.

This experience appears to be a good fit for art lovers, history buffs, and travelers who appreciate the convenience of organized tours. If you like learning about Van Gogh’s life while seeing the actual places he painted, and you’re okay with a structured day, this could be just right.

Key Points

• Small-group format offers a more personalized, engaging experience.
• Visit iconic sites linked to Van Gogh’s life, including Saint-Paul de Mausole and Arles.
• Reproductions of Van Gogh’s paintings help bring the artist’s world to life.
• Expert guides enhance storytelling, making the details about Van Gogh and Provence more vivid.
• Comfortable transport by climate-controlled minivan makes the day easy and relaxed.
• Good value for the price considering the sites visited and the insights gained.

An In-Depth Look at the Van Gogh in Provence Tour

Starting Point and Duration

The tour kicks off early in the morning at 8:00 am from the Office de Tourisme d’Avignon. For just over six and a half hours, you’ll be immersed in Van Gogh’s world, visiting a handful of historically and artistically significant locations. The small size of the group—limited to 8 travelers—means fewer crowds and a chance for the guide to tailor the experience a bit more to the group’s interests.

Transportation: Comfort and Convenience

Your journey begins with round-trip transport in a climate-controlled minivan. This is a definite plus, especially after spending time wandering in the Provençal sun—no overheating or cramped bus rides here. Plus, the vehicle’s size allows for easy access to smaller streets and parking spots, which can be a challenge in some of these historic towns.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

The tour is segmented into several key stops, each offering distinct insights into Van Gogh’s life and the region’s beauty.

Stop 1: Arles (Approx. 2 hours)

The day starts with a visit to Arles, a city famous for its Roman antiquities and for being a significant place in Van Gogh’s story. You’ll see the well-preserved Roman amphitheater, still used today for concerts and festivals, giving you a taste of the ancient history that surrounded Van Gogh during his time here.

Many reviews highlight how much they appreciated the chance to see the actual settings Van Gogh painted, with comments like “the psychiatric hospital at St. Remy de Provence was a memorable experience,” which shows how these locations are more than just scenic spots—they’re pieces of history that directly connect to Van Gogh’s art.

Stop 2: Place du Forum

A quick stop here gives you a closer look at the Café La Nuit, which Van Gogh famously painted. It’s a perfect photo opportunity and a moment to imagine what it might have felt like to sit there as Van Gogh did. Reviewers liked how accessible these sites are, and some mention how walking through these streets feels like stepping into Van Gogh’s paintings.

Stop 3: Espace Van Gogh

This is where you see reproductions of Van Gogh’s works in the former charity hospital, which adds context to his life in Provence. Many travelers found it rewarding to see how the environment inspired his art, especially in the tranquil courtyard and the recreated bedroom at Saint-Paul de Mausole.

Stop 4: Saint-Remy-de-Provence & Saint-Paul de Mausole

The Saint-Paul de Mausole asylum is a highlight. Entrance is included to see the bedroom reproduction, and the site itself is remarkable for the collection of Van Gogh’s paintings created here, especially his Wheat Field series. The reviews sing its praises, with travelers describing it as “a very good tour of Van Gogh’s time in Arles and St. Remy,” and “seeing the actual settings for Van Gogh’s paintings was very worthwhile.”

Final Stop: Arles (Optional extra time)

You’ll be given some free time to wander the streets of Arles, soaking in the atmosphere that once inspired Van Gogh. Many comments mention how much they enjoyed roaming independently after the guided parts, taking in the atmosphere and snapping photos.

Guides and Expertise

According to reviews, the guides are a major selling point. Names like Jos, Nicolas, and Florian come up repeatedly in positive feedback, often praised for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and ability to share stories in a friendly, engaging manner. This makes the experience more than just a sightseeing trip — it’s a storytelling session that makes Van Gogh’s life and art feel personal.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price, around $115 per person, covers transportation, guide services, and entrance to Saint-Paul de Mausole. Food, drinks, and other monument entries are not included, so plan for a snack or lunch on your own if needed.

The Review Landscape

Most reviewers give high marks, praising the guide’s knowledge, the scenery, and the insights into Van Gogh’s life. People especially loved how the locations connected to his paintings helped them understand his story better. The small-group size is a hit for those who prefer a more intimate setting and more interaction with the guide.

However, not everyone loved every part. One reviewer felt the Arles segment was a bit rushed and not very memorable beyond the Roman ruins, but this seems to be the exception rather than the rule.

The Price and Value

Considering the price, this tour offers a lot: multiple significant sites, expert guiding, comfortable transport, and an intimate group. If you’re an art lover eager to connect Van Gogh’s paintings with real-life locations, it’s a solid investment. The reviews indicate that guides go above and beyond by sharing extra stories and offering flexible options, which adds to the overall value.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for art enthusiasts wanting to see Van Gogh’s Provence with knowledgeable guides. It also suits travelers who prefer organized trips so they can relax and focus on the sights without worrying about navigation or logistics. Given the full day’s schedule, it’s best for those comfortable with a few hours of sightseeing in a small group. It’s not tailored for very young children, and the walking involved is moderate, so consider that if you’re traveling with seniors.

If you’re looking for a deeper dive into Van Gogh’s artistic process or a leisurely day exploring on your own, this might not be the best fit. But for a balanced, insightful, and scenic day, this tour hits many of the right notes.

FAQ

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transport from Avignon in a climate-controlled minivan, making the day more comfortable and convenient.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, giving ample time at each stop without feeling overly rushed.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the guide, transport, and entrance to Saint-Paul de Mausole. Food and additional monument tickets are extra.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Children under 4 are not permitted, but it’s suitable for most travelers who are comfortable with the schedule.

How many people will be on the tour?
The group is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour good for art lovers or families?
It’s especially well-suited for art lovers and those interested in Van Gogh’s life. Families with older children who enjoy history and art will likely enjoy it too.

In short, if you want to see the Provençal landscapes that inspired Van Gogh, learn stories from passionate guides, and visit iconic sites in a small-group setting, this tour offers a well-rounded and satisfying experience. It’s an easy way to connect with the artist’s world without the hassle of planning, making it an appealing choice for many visitors to Avignon.