Arles, Les Baux and Saint-Remy Villages Full Day Trip From Aix

Discover the captivating Provençal villages of Arles, Les Baux, and Saint-Rémy on a full-day trip from Aix-en-Provence. Led by an expert guide, you’ll uncover the Roman heritage and artistic legacy of Arles, wander the medieval streets of Les Baux, and stroll through the charming town where Van Gogh found inspiration. Savor a leisurely lunch featuring local cuisine as you learn about the rich culture of these enchanting destinations. Whether you’re a history buff, art enthusiast, or simply seeking to experience the allure of southern France, this guided excursion promises an unforgettable day.

This experience made our list of the 6 Best Full-Day Tours In Aix En Provence.

Key Points

• A full-day trip from Aix-en-Provence to explore the historic and picturesque villages of Arles, Les Baux, and Saint-Rémy, with guided insights and a lunch break.
• Tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, along with a knowledgeable English-speaking driver/guide, and a maximum group size of 8 for a personalized experience.
• Highlights of the tour include the well-preserved Roman monuments in Arles, the medieval architecture and stunning views of Les Baux-de-Provence, and the cultural significance of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence.
• Travelers can enjoy a traditional Provençal lunch, independent exploration of the charming villages, and accessibility considerations for a smooth and enjoyable experience.
• The tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with praise for the expertise and friendliness of the guides, as well as the blend of guided tours and independent exploration.

Trip Overview and Inclusions

The full-day trip from Aix-en-Provence takes visitors to the historic city of Arles, the picturesque village of Les Baux, and the charming town of Saint-Rémy.

Travelers will explore these destinations in an air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver/guide. The tour includes visits to key sights in each location, as well as a lunch break.

With a maximum group size of 8 people, the experience offers a more personalized and intimate exploration of Provence.

The tour is rated 4.4 out of 5 based on 8 reviews, highlighting the expertise of the guides and their ability to provide historical insights and local recommendations.

Meeting Location and Departure Time

Travelers will meet at the Tourism Office of Aix-en-Provence, located at 300 Av. Giuseppe Verdi, 13100 Aix-en-Provence, France.

The tour departs promptly at 8:30 am from this meeting point. Participants should arrive a few minutes early to ensure a punctual start.

The tour ends back at the initial meeting location, allowing travelers to easily return to their accommodations or continue their exploration of Aix-en-Provence.

With a maximum group size of 8 people, travelers can look forward to a personalized and intimate experience throughout the day’s activities.

Exploring Historic Arles

First, the tour whisks guests away to the historic city of Arles, known for its well-preserved Roman monuments and influential role in art history.

Visitors explore the city’s ancient amphitheater, which once hosted spectacular gladiator events. They’ll also see the Romanesque cathedral of St. Trophime, admiring its intricate carvings.

The tour provides insight into Arles’ significance, as it was a major hub during the Roman empire and later influenced famous artists like Van Gogh.

With the guide’s expertise, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for Arles’ rich cultural heritage and can wander the atmospheric streets at their own pace.

Picturesque Les Baux-de-Provence

From Arles, the tour heads to the picturesque village of Les Baux-de-Provence, perched atop a rugged hilltop. Visitors are captivated by the breathtaking views of the surrounding Alpilles mountains and Provençal countryside. The village is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the impressive Château des Baux-de-Provence. Guests have the opportunity to explore the charming streets, browse local artisan shops, and enjoy a traditional Provençal lunch. The table below highlights key details about the visit to Les Baux-de-Provence:

Feature	Description
History	Medieval fortress and village
Highlights	Château, panoramic views, local shops
Activities	Self-guided walking tour, lunch
Duration	Approximately 1.5-2 hours
Access	Moderate physical fitness required

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence and Its Highlights

After exploring the medieval charms of Les Baux-de-Provence, the tour proceeds to the nearby town of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence.

This historical and picturesque town is a highlight of the day. Visitors can wander the winding streets, admire the Romanesque church, and discover ancient Roman ruins.

The most famous site is the Saint-Paul de Mausole monastery, where Vincent van Gogh was briefly a patient and created many of his iconic paintings. Guides offer insights into the town’s rich history and point out Van Gogh’s famous painting locations.

With its charming atmosphere and cultural significance, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence leaves a lasting impression on travelers.

Lunch and Independent Exploration

With the tour of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence complete, it’s now time for lunch.

The tour includes a stop for a leisurely lunch, which gives travelers a chance to enjoy the local cuisine and take a break from sightseeing. Guides provide recommendations for nearby restaurants that offer authentic Provençal dishes.

After lunch, there’s time for independent exploration, allowing visitors to wander the charming streets, browse local shops, or simply soak in the quaint atmosphere of these historic villages.

This balance of guided tours and free time ensures travelers get the most out of their day, experiencing the highlights while also having the flexibility to discover things on their own.

Transportation and Accessibility

The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle to transport travelers from the meeting point in Aix-en-Provence to the various destinations throughout the day.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s located near public transportation. Travelers should have a moderate level of physical fitness, as there’s no requirement for serious medical conditions.

The tour highlights:

1. Air-conditioned transportation for comfort and convenience.
2. Meeting point near public transit options for easy access.
3. Moderate physical fitness required, with no medical restrictions.

This setup ensures a smooth and accessible experience for travelers to explore the charming villages of Arles, Les Baux, and Saint-Remy.

Traveler Feedback and Recommended Guides

Traveler reviews for this full-day excursion from Aix-en-Provence have been overwhelmingly positive, with an impressive 4.4-star rating based on 8 reviews.

Travelers highlight the friendly and knowledgeable guides, who provide historical insights and recommendations for lunch. Specific guides mentioned with praise include Alex, Camille, Lucille, and Caroline.

Guests appreciate the blend of guided tours and independent exploration, allowing them to fully enjoy the charming villages of Arles, Les Baux, and Saint-Rémy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment?

No, you don’t need any special equipment for this tour. The only things you’ll need are comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and money for any personal expenses like lunch and souvenirs.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Meal?

You can request a vegetarian or gluten-free meal for the tour. The tour operator is accommodating and will work with you to meet your dietary needs. Just let them know your preferences when booking the tour.

Is There Flexibility in the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary is generally fixed, but there may be some flexibility. Travelers should contact the tour operator in advance to discuss any special requests or dietary needs. The guides aim to accommodate travelers’ needs when possible.

How Much Free Time Is Allotted for Independent Exploration?

The tour provides ample time for independent exploration, with an estimated 1-2 hours allotted at each main stop. Travelers can wander the streets, visit local shops and restaurants, and soak in the atmosphere of these historic Provençal villages.

Can I Extend the Tour to Stay Longer in One of the Villages?

You can’t extend the tour duration, but you can spend more time in one village by arranging a private tour or exploring on your own after the group tour ends. The tour has a fixed itinerary and schedule.

The Sum Up

This full-day trip from Aix-en-Provence allows visitors to discover the charm and historic significance of southern France’s picturesque villages. Explore Roman ruins, medieval architecture, and the legacy of Van Gogh, while savoring local cuisine and immersing in the rich Provençal culture. The comfortable transportation and expert guidance ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience exploring these enchanting destinations.