Arles, Les Baux and Saint Remy de Provence from Marseille

Thinking about a day trip to Provence? This Arles, Les Baux, and Saint Remy tour from Marseille offers a chance to see some of the most iconic spots associated with Van Gogh, Roman history, and charming villages—all in one seamless day. While I haven’t done this exact trip myself, after digging into the details and reviews, I can tell you it’s a solid choice if you love history, art, and scenic drives.

What I love about this experience is its combination of guided insight and free time to explore—you get a good balance of structured visits and personal wandering. Plus, the expert guides seem genuinely passionate, which makes a huge difference when you’re trying to absorb a lot of info in one day. On the flip side, some travelers have mentioned that things can get a bit rushed, especially if you’re eager to see everything. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a full schedule and don’t mind a long day in the van.

If you’re someone who appreciates stunning landscapes, small villages, and art-inspired sites, this tour likely hits the right notes. It’s particularly good for travelers wanting a deeper dive into Van Gogh’s Provence but still want a taste of Roman ruins and medieval towns. It’s not the ideal choice if you’re looking for a leisurely, slow-paced day—more of an active exploration with lots packed in.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary with guided narration and free exploration time
• Excellent guides praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm
• Diverse stops including Roman ruins, picturesque villages, and Van Gogh landmarks
• Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned vehicles
• Long day (about 10.5 hours), so prepare for a full schedule
• Cost reflects visits to several key sites and expert commentary, offering good value for art and history lovers

What to Expect from the Tour

This full-day trip kicks off early in Marseille with a morning pickup at the Vieux Port, so you’ll want to be ready around 8:00 am. Once you’re underway, the scenic drive offers views of Provence’s rolling hills and lush fields—a visual treat before you even step out of the vehicle.

The Stop at Arles

Your first destination, Arles, is a city bursting with Roman history and art. The Arles amphitheater dominates the landscape, reminding you of its once grand Roman past, while sites like the Saint Trophime church and the Forum Square give you a sense of its medieval and modern layers. Van Gogh’s influence is everywhere—his famous paintings of La maison jaune and Le jardin de l’hotel Dieu are linked to this inspiring city.

Reviewers mention that the guide’s storytelling made these sites come alive. One said, “The guide shared her passion, and the environment created an engaging experience.” You’ll have some free time here to explore on your own, perhaps visiting local cafes or markets, especially if your visit coincides with the Saturday market or Wednesday market day.

Visiting Les Baux de Provence

Next, the tour takes you to Les Baux de Provence, a medieval village perched on a hill—truly picture-perfect. Here, you get about two hours to wander the narrow streets, admire the architecture from the 16th century, and soak in the views. Some travelers choose to attend a show at Les Carrières de Lumières, which is an immersive art experience (costs extra), but even without it, the village itself is a photographic gem.

One reviewer loved the free exploration, noting that the small winding roads and historic buildings were worth every minute. You can also stop for lunch here, but you’ll need to organize that on your own. The town’s attractions, like the Museum of Santons and St Vincent Church, offer a glimpse of local craftsmanship and history.

Saint Remy de Provence and Van Gogh’s Inspiration

The last major stop is Saint Remy, home to the Glanum ruins—noted as Les Antiques—which include a funeral monument and triumphal arch from the ancient city of Glanum. These sites are especially meaningful because they overlook the asylum where Van Gogh stayed—Saint-Paul-de-Mausole—and served as the backdrop for many of his paintings.

Here, you’ll have some free time, and many reviews highlight how the scenery and atmosphere of Saint Remy make it a memorable ending to the day. The Wednesday market and Saturday market are also fun opportunities to browse local produce, crafts, and food.

The Logistics: How the Day Unfolds

The itinerary spans roughly 10.5 hours, with pick-up at 8:00 am and return in the evening. The drive between stops is comfortable thanks to air-conditioned vans, which are especially appreciated during warmer months.

While most travelers find the schedule packed but manageable, a few reviews mention that the short time at each location can feel hurried—so if you prefer slow-paced travel, this might be a little intense. But if you’re eager to pack in as much Provence as possible, it’s a great way to see a lot in one day.

Cost and Value

At about $177.69 per person, this tour offers access to multiple highlights with a guide who shares a genuine passion for the region. The price includes transportation, guide services, and entry to sites that might otherwise be costly or hard to visit independently. You’ll want to budget separately for lunch and optional shows, like the Les Carrières de Lumières, which many find worthwhile.

What the Reviews Say

Travelers consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, often mentioning guides like Melissa, Bernardo, or Florence by name. The stories and personal touches they add elevate the experience beyond just visiting sites—something many reviews highlight as a major plus.

Several people enjoyed the scenery and art focus, especially the chance to see Van Gogh’s beloved landscapes and emulate his scenes. One reviewer even called it the “best tour ever,” citing Florence’s enthusiasm and detailed knowledge.

Downsides and Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, some mention the long hours and tight schedule—if you’re not used to full days of sightseeing, it might feel exhausting. There are also a few complaints about tour elements being skipped, like important sites such as the Abbey or Mill—this usually relates to timing issues that are sometimes out of the guide’s control.

On top of that, some logistical hiccups like disconnected phone numbers or slight schedule changes have been noted, so it’s good to stay flexible and double-check details when booking.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal if you’re passionate about art, history, and charming villages, and you enjoy organized, guided experiences. It’s perfect for those who want a rundown of Provence’s most famous sites without the hassle of planning individual visits.

Travelers with an interest in Van Gogh will particularly appreciate the stops at Saint Remy and Arles, where the painter’s influence is palpable. If you’re okay with a full day of touring and don’t mind a bit of being on the move, this is a rewarding way to explore Provence’s highlights.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 4 years old are not allowed, making it less ideal for families with very young kids. The schedule is quite full, and the focus is on cultural and historical sites.

What is included in the price?
Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle, a local guide, and visits to Arles, Les Baux, and Saint Remy are included. Entry fees to monuments are not included, nor are meals.

Can I attend the optional show at Les Carrières de Lumières?
Yes, but tickets for the show are purchased separately and on your own.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts about 10.5 hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning in the evening.

Are there any breaks during the day?
Yes, you’ll have free time in each major stop—perfect for stretching, exploring, or grabbing a bite.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, the meeting point is at the Radisson Blu Hotel at Marseille Vieux Port.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

Is the guide knowledgeable about Van Gogh and local history?
Based on reviews, guides are enthusiastic and well-informed, sharing captivating stories that bring sites to life.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera are advisable. Remember to budget for lunch and optional extras.

Will I have time to explore and shop?
Yes, each stop offers free time for exploration and shopping, especially in Saint Remy and Les Baux.

Final Thoughts

This full-day Provence tour from Marseille offers a well-rounded look at some of the most picturesque and historically significant sites in the region. If you’re a lover of art, Roman history, or charming villages, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. The guides’ passion and the scenic routes add depth to the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

While it’s a long day with a packed schedule, many reviewers find it worthwhile for the opportunity to see so much in one go. It’s especially worth considering if you’re eager to walk in Van Gogh’s footsteps and capture the essence of Provence’s timeless beauty.

For those who prefer a slower pace or more flexibility, it’s worth noting that the schedule can feel a bit rushed. But overall, this tour is a dependable, enriching way to explore Provence’s highlights with ease.