Arles, Les Baux & Saint-Remy de Provence from Aix

If you’re considering a full-day tour that hits some of the most captivating spots in Provence, this trip from Aix-en-Provence might catch your eye. It’s designed for those who want a taste of the region’s iconic towns, Roman ruins, and Vincent van Gogh’s haunts—all comfortably packed into around 8.5 hours. We haven’t done this exact tour ourselves but based on the details and reviews, here’s a comprehensive look at what you can expect.

What really draws us in are the stunning scenery — especially the views from Les Baux — and the insightful guides who make the history and art come alive. Plus, the inclusion of free time to explore each town means you aren’t just watching from a bus window; you get to wander, soak in the atmosphere, and take photos. That said, a potential downside is the dispersed schedule—some stops are brief, and those looking for in-depth exploration might find a few stops underwhelming or rushed.

This tour suits travelers who want a balanced mix of guided commentary and free time, especially if you’re keen on van Gogh or Roman architecture. It’s not ideal if you prefer multiple days to explore these towns more slowly, but for a quick, well-organized overview, it can be a good fit.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation makes a long day easier and more enjoyable
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with stories and insights
• Flexible free time allows personal exploration of each town
• Visiting Van Gogh’s haunts enriches the trip for art fans
• Stunning scenery and panoramic views at Les Baux
• Cost-effective for what you get—visiting three towns with expert guidance
• Limited monument entry included, so plan for additional costs if you want inside access
• Small group size creates a more personal, less rushed experience

What the Tour Includes and How it Works

This day trip from Aix-en-Provence is priced at about $167.68 per person, which is actually quite reasonable considering the location, transport, and guided experience. It runs for approximately 8.5 hours, starting at 9:00 am from a central meeting point in Aix. The tour is limited to 8 travelers, making it a more intimate experience than large coach trips.

Your transport is in an air-conditioned minibus, so you’ll be comfortable during the drive through the scenic Alpilles mountains, with plenty of room to relax and admire the views. The guide, who is often praised for their knowledge, will accompany you throughout the day, providing commentary during transit and at each stop.

Included in the price are visits to the Provencal markets in Arles and Saint-Remy, which are real highlights. These markets are lively and offer a genuine taste of local life, even if some reviews mention that timing can be tight and not all markets are available every day. Food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to bring some cash or snacks for the day.

Note that entrance fees to monuments are not included, so if you plan to go inside sites like the Roman ruins or van Gogh’s asylum, expect to pay extra. Also, there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off, which means you’ll need to get yourself to and from the meeting point.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Arles

Most travelers seem to kick off with a visit to Arles, especially on Saturdays when the open-air market is in full swing. It’s a lively, colorful place where you can browse local produce, crafts, and souvenirs. The guide provides some historical context during the drive, but you’re given about 2 hours here to explore on your own.

Many reviews highlight that this stop offers enough time to enjoy the market and see the Roman architecture, including the famous Arena. One traveler noted, “Arles was interesting and rich in history,” and appreciated having some independence to wander.

However, some found the free time a little limited, especially if they wanted to see more of the town or visit specific sites. Still, if you’re an art or history buff, you’ll find the Roman ruins and vibrant market worth the visit.

Stop 2: Les Baux de Provence

Next, the tour takes you to Les Baux, a hilltop village renowned for its sweeping views and medieval ruins. You’ll have about 2 hours here, which is generally enough to wander through the narrow streets, take photos of the scenery, and visit local shops or cafes.

Many guests rave about Les Baux’s scenery. One review called it “beautiful,” with “exceptional scenery” that offers “a mecca for local produce.” The panoramic vistas over the Provencal countryside are truly striking, making it a favorite for photographers and nature lovers.

If you’re interested, you might want to attend the Les Carrières de Lumières show—an immersive digital art experience in former quarry spaces—though the ticket isn’t included in the tour and can be seasonal. Some reviews note that this stop feels a bit rushed, especially if you want to linger or attend a show.

Stop 3: Saint-Remy-de-Provence

The final stop is Saint-Remy de Provence, another lively town with a Wednesday market. Here, you’re given about 2 hours to explore. This town has a “laid-back charm,” as one reviewer put it, with shops, cafes, and a notable monastery where Van Gogh stayed.

While some found Saint-Remy “touristy” and the town a bit “hot,” many appreciated the opportunity to walk in Van Gogh’s footsteps. Visiting the monastery where Van Gogh was treated (St Paul de Mausole) gives art lovers a tangible connection to the painter’s life and struggles.

A few reviews expressed disappointment that Saint-Remy felt less authentic or that the limited time didn’t allow visiting Van Gogh’s specific sites or artifacts, but generally, it’s a pleasant stop.

The Value of This Tour

When considering the price, think about what you’re getting: three different towns, guided commentary, and free time to explore. The overall cost balances out given the convenience of transportation and the chance to see diverse aspects of Provence — from Roman ruins to Van Gogh’s haunts to charming villages.

Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides who keep the trip engaging and informative. One guest said, “Our guide Sebastian was very knowledgeable, informative, and cheerful,” which highlights the importance of a good guide in making the day memorable.

Plus, the small group size (max 8 travelers) means you won’t feel lost or rushed, a significant perk for those who prefer a more personalized experience. On the downside, some travelers wished for more in-depth visits rather than brief stops, but that’s a trade-off for the overall pace of a day trip.

How It Fits Different Travelers

This tour is ideal for art and history enthusiasts wanting a curated overview of Provence’s highlights. It’s also suitable if you prefer to travel in small groups and value expert commentary. If you’re not keen on walking around towns or want to spend more time inside museums or ruins, this might feel a bit limited.

For families or travelers with mobility issues, the short walks through towns can usually be manageable, but consider the weather, as some stops are outdoors and might be hot in summer.

The Sum Up

This Arles, Les Baux & Saint-Remy day trip from Aix-en-Provence offers a well-balanced mix of guided insight and free exploration. It’s especially suited for those wanting a taste of Provence’s Roman history, Vincent van Gogh’s life, and breathtaking scenery—all in one manageable day.

The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it particularly appealing for travelers who appreciate a personal touch, while the inclusion of three diverse towns adds variety. If you’re a fan of art, history, or just scenic villages, this tour covers a lot of ground without feeling overly rushed.

While some might wish for more time at each stop or inside sites, the overall package provides excellent value for those who want a practical, hassle-free way to experience Provence’s highlights.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, you’ll be traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus from the meeting point in Aix-en-Provence.

Can I join if I don’t speak French?
The guide speaks English, and reviews mention they explain things well, making it suitable for English-speaking travelers.

Are entrance fees to monuments included?
No, they are not included. You should plan to pay separately if you want to visit inside sites like Roman ruins or the monastery.

What is the perfect age for this tour?
Most travelers of all ages can participate, but children under 4 are not allowed. The moderate walking and outdoor stops make it suitable for families with older kids.

How long do we stay in each town?
About 2 hours per stop, which allows time to explore, take photos, and enjoy some local food or shopping.

Is there a hotel pickup or drop-off?
No, the tour starts and ends at the specified meeting point in Aix-en-Provence.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, water, sun protection, and some cash for additional expenses or food.

Would I recommend this tour?
If you want a well-organized day with expert guides, a scenic drive, and stops at key sites, yes. It’s especially good if you’re interested in Van Gogh or Roman history but don’t want to plan every detail yourself.