Private Arles, Les Baux de Provence and St Remy de Provence Tour

Discover Provence: A Private Day Tour through Arles, Les Baux, and Saint-Remy

If you’re dreaming of a full day exploring some of the most captivating spots in Provence without the hassle of navigating on your own, this private tour could be just what you need. Offering a tailored experience that hits all the major highlights—Arles, Les Baux de Provence, and Saint-Remy—you’ll get to soak in history, stunning scenery, and local charm with the comfort of private transportation and a guide who really knows the area.

What we love about this tour is how it balances key sights with personal attention. The fact that you can customize the timing and that it’s only your group means you won’t feel rushed or lost in a crowd. And the guide, Nathalie, receives consistent praise for her knowledge, friendliness, and ability to adapt to her guests’ interests. A possible consideration is the price—at over $1,200 for up to eight people, it’s an investment, but if you value comfort and a well-curated experience, many say it’s worth it. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a flexible, in-depth look at Provence’s highlights, especially if you prefer a more personal touch over group tours.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience tailored to your group’s interests
• Includes expert guidance with knowledgeable local guides
• Visit iconic sites like Arles, Les Baux, and Saint-Remy with plenty of context
• Comfortable transportation provided, making it easier to relax and focus on the sights
• Flexible timing and optional hotel pickup/drop-off
• Price reflects a private, curated experience for up to 8 people

Exploring Provence’s Treasures on a Private Day Tour

This tour offers a wonderful way to see some of the most picturesque and historically significant spots in Provence in one day. It’s particularly appealing if you want a personalized experience without the headache of organizing transportation or navigating unfamiliar roads yourself. The fact that it’s a private tour means the schedule can be adjusted depending on your preferences, making the day more tailored and relaxed.

Why this tour stands out

What we really appreciate about this experience is the combination of famous sites and local flavor. Starting in Arles, you get a taste of Roman history with visits to the amphitheater and arena. The fact that you can walk in the footsteps of Van Gogh—visiting the famous Café Van Gogh—is a charming touch that adds a personal layer to the visit. Reviewers have raved about how knowledgeable and friendly the guide, Nathalie, is, which really elevates the experience.

Next, heading to Les Baux de Provence offers stunning views from a hilltop village that’s been around since the 11th century. The highlight here is the Carrière de Lumière, a mesmerizing immersive art exhibit that transforms a former quarry into a visual spectacle. The scenic vistas over Les Alpilles Regional Park make this stop especially memorable, and most travelers find it well worth the visit. Lunch in Les Baux gives you a chance to enjoy local flavors and take in the atmosphere of this historic village.

Finally, Saint-Rémy de Provence introduces you to the birthplace of Nostradamus and the town where Van Gogh spent his last months. Visiting Saint-Paul de Mausole, the mental hospital where Van Gogh painted many of his works, is a poignant experience. The Wednesday market in Saint-Rémy is another highlight, offering a lively local scene where you can browse fresh produce and crafts.

What the itinerary really offers

The itinerary is a carefully curated journey through Provence’s past and present. Each stop is designed to provide a different flavor—Roman grandeur in Arles, medieval charm in Les Baux, and artistic inspiration in Saint-Rémy. The total duration of about 8 hours allows enough time to enjoy each spot without feeling rushed, though you should be prepared for a full day.

The tour’s walking focus is perfect for those who want to see the sites at a leisurely pace—your guide will be there to explain the significance of what you’re seeing and to help you discover hidden gems along the way. The walking tours also mean you’ll get better photo opportunities and a closer look at the details that make each location special.

The value of a private tour

At the price of roughly $1,233 for the whole group, the cost might seem high compared to larger group tours. However, considering the private transportation, the personalized attention, and the flexible schedule, many find it a fair deal. The reviews consistently praise the guide’s ability to tailor the experience, which adds significant value for those seeking a more customized day.

The guide makes all the difference

Nathalie, the tour guide, is repeatedly praised for her friendly, knowledgeable approach. One reviewer mentioned, “She was knowledgeable, interesting, and friendly. She seemed to sense immediately the kind of travelers we were and tailored our experience perfectly.” It’s clear that her ability to adapt and connect makes a huge difference.

Practical considerations

This tour runs from 9:00 am, with pickup and drop-off at your hotel possible if arranged in advance. The tour is suitable for most travelers, given the walking involved and the manageable group size. The only notable caveat is the cost, which might be steep for some, but many consider it justified by the personalized experience and comfort.

In Summary: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private Provence tour is ideal for travelers who want a personalized, flexible itinerary and prefer to avoid the logistics of independent travel. If you’re keen on learning about history, art, and local culture from a knowledgeable guide, this experience delivers. It’s particularly appealing if you value comfortable transportation and a custom pace—perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed, less rushed day.

While the price is higher than standard group tours, the quality of the guide and the tailored approach make it worth considering, especially for those celebrating a special occasion or traveling with a small group of friends or family. It’s also suited to travelers with a curiosity for art and history, who want to see Provence’s highlights without feeling overwhelmed.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
Since the tour involves walking through historical towns and sites, it’s suitable for most travelers. However, it doesn’t specifically mention family accommodations, so consider the walking distance if you have very young children.

Can I customize the timing of the tour?
Yes, the tour can be modified depending on your preferences, making it more flexible to fit your schedule.

Is lunch included in the tour price?
No, lunch is not included, but there are options in Les Baux where you can enjoy local cuisine.

How long does each stop last?
Typically, each main stop is around 2-3 hours, giving you enough time to explore without feeling rushed.

What is the booking process?
You can book this tour in advance, with most bookings made approximately 95 days ahead. Confirmation is immediate unless booked within 10 hours of travel.

What do reviews say about the guide?
Reviews consistently praise Nathalie for her knowledge, friendliness, and ability to tailor the experience perfectly to her guests.

If you’re after a comprehensive, relaxed day exploring Provence with someone who truly cares about your experience, this private tour offers a thoughtful blend of history, scenery, and personalized attention. It’s a perfect choice for those who want to savor Provence’s charms without the stress of planning every detail themselves.