Arles Private Tour – Art/History and Gastronomy

Arles, the picturesque Provençal town, beckons art enthusiasts and food connoisseurs alike with its Arles Private Tour. Led by expert art historians, this 3-hour experience seamlessly blends the town’s rich history, captivating art, and tantalizing local cuisine. Participants enjoy the ancient Roman Theater, the stunning Saint-Trophime Church, and the creative hubs of Espace Van Gogh and LUMA Arles, all while indulging in the region’s renowned delicacies. With a personalized approach and flexible itinerary, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through Arles’ cultural tapestry. Intrigued? Discover more about this exceptional opportunity to explore the heart of Provence.

Key Points

• This private tour of Arles focuses on art, history, and local gastronomy, led by an experienced art historian.
• The 3-hour tour includes visits to key historical sites like the Roman Theatre, Saint-Trophime Church, and Espace Van Gogh.
• Participants will also explore contemporary art complexes like LUMA Arles and enjoy a break for local delicacies and ice cream.
• The tour offers personalized recommendations for shops and restaurants, with a flexible itinerary to enhance the overall experience.
• Comfortable shoes are required due to the tour’s walking component, and the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 95 years old.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Arles Private Tour – Art/History and Gastronomy offers a comprehensive 3-hour experience, priced from $163.13 per person.

Customers can choose from Dutch, English, French, or Spanish language options. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now & pay later option is available.

The tour begins at Brasserie LAficion and includes visits to the Roman Theatre of Arles, Saint-Trophime Church, Espace Van Gogh, and LUMA Arles.

The tour focuses on art, history, food, and culture, and is led by an experienced art historian. Customers receive recommendations for shops, restaurants, and activities in the area.

Itinerary Highlights

Starting at Brasserie LAficion, the Arles Private Tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the city’s rich art and history.

The tour highlights include:

1. Exploring the well-preserved Roman Theatre of Arles, a testament to the city’s ancient roots.

2. Passing by the impressive Saint-Trophime Church, known for its Romanesque architecture.

3. Visiting the Espace Van Gogh, where the artist lived and worked, to discover his artistic legacy.

4. Sightseeing at the LUMA Arles, Parc des Ateliers, a contemporary art complex housed in a striking building.

The tour culminates at the Panorama du rivage, providing a scenic viewpoint to conclude the experience.

Tour Experience

Led by an experienced art historian (MA and PhD candidate) specializing in Old Masters and 19th-century European art, the Arles Private Tour provides a captivating experience of the city’s rich art and history. Guests will explore the Roman Theatre, admire the medieval Saint-Trophime Church, and visit the Espace Van Gogh to discover the artist’s legacy. A break for local delicacies, including an ice cream treat, adds a flavorful touch. The tour offers personalized flexibility, with recommendations on shops, restaurants, and regional activities to enhance the experience.

| Highlights | Description |

| — | — |

| Expert-led | Knowledgeable guide with art history expertise |

| Art & History | Discover Arles’ Roman architecture and Van Gogh’s influence |

| Culinary Experience | Enjoy local delicacies and an ice cream break |

Physical Requirements and Recommendations

While the Arles Private Tour offers a captivating journey through the city’s art and history, there are some important physical requirements and recommendations for guests to consider.

The tour involves walking on steep or cobbled streets, so comfortable shoes are a must. Plus, the tour may not be suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 95 years of age.

To ensure a pleasant experience, guests are advised to:

1. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes.

2. Bring sunscreen and a hat to protect against the sun.

3. Notify the tour operator of any mobility concerns prior to booking.

4. Prepare for uneven terrain and occasional steep inclines.

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Customer Feedback

Though the Arles Private Tour has only received one review so far, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.

The single review praises the tour guide, Valerie, for her extensive knowledge and engaging commentary. Customers describe the tour as "relaxing and informative," highlighting Valerie’s expertise in art history, particularly in Old Masters and 19th-century European art.

While the tour has yet to accumulate more reviews, this initial feedback suggests a high-quality experience that provides visitors with an insightful exploration of Arles’ rich cultural heritage and artistic legacy, led by a knowledgeable and personable guide.

The Roman Theatre of Arles

As one of the most impressive Roman archaeological sites in Arles, the Roman Theatre of Arles stands as a testament to the city’s illustrious past.

This well-preserved amphitheater, dating back to the 1st century BC, could once seat up to 20,000 spectators.

Key features include:

1. Elaborately carved seating blocks and stage walls

2. Acoustic design that allowed performers to be heard throughout the vast space

3. Integration of the structure into the surrounding landscape

4. Ongoing excavation and preservation efforts to uncover the theatre’s rich history

Today, the Roman Theatre remains a captivating attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into Arles’ ancient Roman heritage.

The Saint-Trophime Church

The Saint-Trophime Church stands as a stunning example of Romanesque architecture in the heart of Arles. Its impressive facade features ornate sculptural decoration, including scenes from the Last Judgement.

Visitors can admire the intricate cloister, known for its ornate capitals and carved columns. The church’s interior is equally captivating, with its vaulted ceilings and ornate altar.

As one of the most well-preserved Romanesque cathedrals in France, the Saint-Trophime Church offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history and artistic heritage. Its remarkable preservation makes it a must-see attraction for anyone exploring the cultural wonders of Arles.

The Espace Van Gogh and LUMA Arles

After exploring the grand Romanesque architecture of the Saint-Trophime Church, the Arles Private Tour next takes visitors to the Espace Van Gogh and the LUMA Arles, two fascinating art-focused destinations.

The Espace Van Gogh is a former hospital where Van Gogh was a patient, now housing a collection of his works.

Nearby, the LUMA Arles is an innovative arts center featuring:

1. Unique contemporary architecture by Frank Gehry.

2. Rotating exhibitions showcasing cutting-edge art, design, and photography.

3. Workshops and events fostering artistic experimentation and community engagement.

4. Impressive views of Arles and the surrounding Camargue region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during the tour, though visitors should be mindful of any restrictions at certain sites. Participants are encouraged to capture the sights and experiences throughout the guided exploration of Arles’ art, history, and local delicacies.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Different Group Sizes?

The tour can be customized to different group sizes. The provider offers private tours, allowing flexibility to tailor the experience based on the group’s interests and needs. Group size is not a limiting factor for this tour.

What Types of Local Delicacies Will Be Sampled During the Tour?

The tour includes a break for local delicacies such as regional cheeses, cured meats, and artisanal ice cream, allowing participants to sample the flavors of Provence during their exploration of Arles’ art, history, and culture.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour’s standard duration is 3 hours, but travelers can contact the provider to inquire about extending the experience. An extended tour may allow for visiting additional sites or spending more time sampling local delicacies.

Can the Tour Be Adjusted for Vegetarian/Vegan Dietary Requirements?

Yes, the tour can accommodate vegetarian or vegan dietary requirements. Travelers should inform the tour operator in advance so they can ensure the food options during the tour meet their dietary needs.

The Wrap Up

The Arles Private Tour offers a captivating blend of art, history, and gastronomy, led by an experienced art historian. Exploring key sites like the Roman Theatre and Saint-Trophime Church, while indulging in local delicacies, ensures a memorable journey through Arles’ rich cultural heritage. With its personalized approach and flexible itinerary, this tour is a perfect choice for art enthusiasts and food lovers alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: