Arles, Saint Rémy & Les Baux : A Cultural Tour in Provence
About this activity
Discover Roman heritage and Provençal villages on a full-day small-group tour from Aix-en-Provence. Explore UNESCO-listed Arles, follow Van Gogh’s footsteps in Saint-Rémy, and visit the spectacular hilltop village of Les Baux-de-Provence.
Highlights
- Explore Arles' UNESCO-listed Roman monuments
- Wander through Saint-Rémy-de-Provence's art scene
- Visit the stunning hilltop village of Les Baux
- Experience scenic views in Alpilles Natural Park
- Enjoy a personalized small-group setting
Full description
Travel through the heart of Provence on a full-day small-group journey combining history, art, and breathtaking landscapes. Departing from Aix-en-Provence, this experience explores the Roman city of Arles, famous for its UNESCO-listed monuments and its deep connection to Vincent van Gogh.
Continue into the Alpilles mountains to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, where Van Gogh created some of his most celebrated works while staying at Saint-Paul-de-Mausole. The day concludes in Les Baux-de-Provence, a spectacular hilltop village overlooking olive groves and limestone cliffs. Designed as a complete introduction to Provence’s cultural heritage, this tour blends ancient history, artistic inspiration, and authentic village atmosphere.
Arles — Roman Provence
Arles is one of southern France’s most historically significant cities, renowned for its exceptionally preserved Roman monuments listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Highlights include the Roman Amphitheatre, built around 90 AD and once capable of hosting over 20,000 spectators, and the Roman Theatre dating from the time of Emperor Augustus.
Walking through Arles reveals layers of Roman and medieval history alongside locations immortalized by Vincent van Gogh during his prolific stay in 1888–1889.
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence — Van Gogh’s Inspiration
Nestled in the Alpilles countryside, Saint-Rémy embodies the peaceful Provençal lifestyle. Nearby stands the Monastery of Saint-Paul-de-Mausole, where Van Gogh stayed in 1889 and painted masterpieces including The Starry Night.
Today the town combines Roman ruins, shaded squares, and vibrant markets that reflect authentic southern French life.
Les Baux-de-Provence — A Spectacular Hilltop Village
Perched dramatically on a rocky spur within the Alpilles mountains, Les Baux-de-Provence offers panoramic views across olive groves and valleys. Its medieval streets and fortress ruins make it one of Provence’s most iconic destinations and a highlight of any regional journey.
Small-Group Comfort
Limited to eight guests, the tour allows relaxed exploration with time to walk, photograph, and enjoy each destination. Travel takes place in a premium air-conditioned Mercedes minivan accompanied by an expert English-speaking driver-guide.
Included / Excluded
- Transportation in premium air-conditioned minivan
- English-speaking driver-guide
- Guided commentary throughout the day
- Small-group tour (maximum 8 guests)
- Lunch and personal expenses
- Hotel pickup and drop-off.
- Gratuities for the driver/guide.
Meeting point
Meeting point in front of Aix en Provence Tourism office.
Important information
Know before you book
- Instant confirmation upon booking
- Tour involves walking and is not suitable for wheelchairs.
- Minimum 2 participants required
- Prices are per person
Know before you go
- Moderate walking required in historic villages
- Uneven cobblestone streets and slopes
- Comfortable shoes recommended
- Sun protection advised in summer
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund.
Reviews
Great experience, guide was super knowledgeable and friendly. Victor brought us around the different sites and showed us so many cool sites
Alex was the most experienced, knowledgeable, and chilled tour guide of all the 5 tour guides we experienced. We learned a lot from him about the culture, history, and geology of the region. He also provided great context to understand the regions' wines. This tour to Cassis and the calanques was beautiful and would get a 5 stars if it weren't for the fact that this expensive tour did not include lunch. The wine tasting was good but I had better in Bordeaux and it included lunch.
Matt was an awesome tour guide. His passion for D-day made the experience that much better. He was very knowledgeable. Even my children were glued to his every word. Great experience!
Additional information
Please note that we do not distribute water bottles anymore to limit our environmental impact. We strongly recommend that you bring a reusable bottle.