Explore the life and artistic inspiration of the renowned Vincent Van Gogh through this captivating small-group tour. Enjoy the landscapes that shaped his iconic masterpieces as you visit key locations in Provence, including the historic Roman Amphitheatre in Arles and the asylum where Van Gogh spent time in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. With a focus on art and history, this unique journey offers travelers the chance to gain deeper insight into the man behind the brush strokes. Prepare to be transported back in time and discover the world that fueled Van Gogh’s creative genius.
Key Points
- Explore the Roman historical sites in Arles that served as a backdrop for Van Gogh’s paintings during his Provence period.
- Visit the Asylum of Saint Paul de Mausole in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, where Van Gogh was admitted and created renowned works like "The Starry Night".
- Discover the picturesque hilltop village of Les Baux-de-Provence, which inspired Van Gogh’s art and captures the essence of the Provençal landscape.
- Gain insight into Van Gogh’s life and the impact of his mental health struggles on his creativity during the tour.
- Appreciate the UNESCO-protected Roman Amphitheatre and other architectural wonders that showcase the evolution of Arles, a city that left an indelible mark on Van Gogh’s artistic legacy.
Tour Overview
The tour offers a chance to follow in the footsteps of the renowned artist Vincent Van Gogh through the picturesque Provence region.
Lasting 5 hours, the small group tour is limited to 8 participants and led by a live English-speaking guide. Priced from $94.86 per person, it allows visitors to explore Arles, St-Rémy-de-Provence, and Les Baux-de-Provence, discovering the locations that inspired Van Gogh’s iconic works.
Highlights include the Roman Amphitheatre in Arles, the Asylum of Saint Paul de Mausole where Van Gogh was treated, and the charming hilltop village of Les Baux-de-Provence.
Travelers can reserve their spot without upfront payment and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexible travel plans.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Saint Remy De Provence.
Booking and Cancellation
Booking the tour is effortless and flexible. You can reserve your spot without upfront payment by selecting the "Reserve now & pay later" option. This allows you to secure your place on the tour without the immediate cost.
If your travel plans change, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing you with the freedom to adjust your schedule. The tour’s flexible starting times make it easy to fit into your itinerary.
Whether you need to modify your booking or receive a refund, the streamlined process ensures a hassle-free experience from start to finish.
Tour Highlights
Visiting Arles, one is struck by the remarkable Roman heritage that has captivated Van Gogh. The tour explores the city’s iconic Roman Amphitheatre, a UNESCO monument, as well as the Hotel-Dieu and the famous Yellow House where the artist lived and worked.
In nearby Saint-Rémy de Provence, the group visits the Asylum of Saint Paul de Mausole, where Van Gogh spent a year and created some of his most renowned paintings.
The tour also stops at the picturesque hilltop village of Les Baux de Provence, immersing visitors in the Provençal landscape that inspired the Dutch master.
Historical and Artistic Significance
Exploring the blend of art and history that inspired Van Gogh is a key part of this tour. The walking tour includes visits to Roman historical sites in Arles, such as the UNESCO-protected Amphitheater and the Roman Theater. Guests will also see the 11th-century church and 12th-century portal gate of Saint Trophime, witnessing the architectural evolution of the city. This immersive experience allows visitors to understand the historical context that shaped Van Gogh’s artistic works during his time in Provence.
| Roman Arles | Ecclesial Architecture | Van Gogh’s Inspiration |
|---|---|---|
| Amphitheater | Saint Trophime Church | Asylum of Saint Paul |
| Roman Theater | 12th-century Portal Gate | Yellow House |
| Arles Forum | – | Alpilles Landscapes |
Arles: Roman Amphitheatre and More
The tour kicks off in Arles, a city rich in Roman history and the setting for many of Vincent Van Gogh’s iconic paintings.
Visitors will explore the well-preserved Roman Amphitheatre, a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back to the 1st century AD.
Next, they’ll visit the Hotel-Dieu, a former hospital where Van Gogh spent time as a patient.
The tour then moves to the famous Yellow House, the artist’s former residence and the site of his iconic painting.
Wandering through Arles’ charming Forum square, guests can enjoy a coffee break and soak in the atmosphere that captivated Van Gogh.
Saint-Rémy De Provence: Asylum Visit
From Arles, the tour now ventures on to Saint-Rémy de Provence, where Van Gogh spent a significant period of his life.
The group will visit the Asylum of Saint Paul de Mausole, where the artist was voluntarily admitted in 1889 after cutting off his own ear.
During his stay, Van Gogh created some of his most famous paintings, including "The Starry Night."
Guests will explore the hospital grounds and see the room where Van Gogh lived and worked.
This experience provides a deeper understanding of the artist’s state of mind and the impact of his mental health struggles on his creative process.
Les Baux De Provence: Picturesque Village
After exploring the Asylum of Saint Paul de Mausole, the tour continues to the picturesque hilltop village of Les Baux de Provence.
Nestled in the Alpilles mountain range, this medieval village is known for its stunning natural beauty and historical significance. Visitors can wander through the winding streets, admiring the stone buildings and castle ruins.
The tour includes a stop at this charming destination, allowing participants to soak in the serene atmosphere and capture breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
With its rich history and captivating scenery, Les Baux de Provence is a highlight of the Van Gogh-inspired tour, providing a glimpse into the artist’s inspirational Provençal surroundings.
Important Information
Some key pieces of important information for this tour are worth noting.
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so those with mobility issues may have difficulty. Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited during the tour, as the focus is on experiencing the historical and artistic significance of the sites.
Based on customer reviews, the tour overall has a rating of 4 out of 5, indicating a positive experience for most participants.
Prospective travelers should keep these details in mind when deciding if this Van Gogh-themed tour in Provence is the right fit for their interests and needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
There is no specific dress code for this tour. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes and casual, weather-appropriate clothing. The tour involves some walking, so dressing for comfort is recommended.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated?
The tour does not provide any special dietary accommodations. Participants are responsible for bringing their own snacks and meals. The focus is on exploring the artistic and historical sites related to Van Gogh’s time in Provence.
Can We Take Photos During the Tour?
Yes, participants can take photos during the tour. The tour encourages capturing the stunning historic sites and landscapes that inspired Van Gogh’s iconic paintings. Just be mindful not to disrupt the group or the guide’s commentary.
How Much Walking Is Involved Throughout the Tour?
The tour involves moderate walking, with visitors covering about 2-3 miles on foot. It includes walks through historic sites, streets, and scenic viewpoints. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for this active, immersive experience exploring Provence’s artistic and cultural heritage.
Is There an Option for a Private Tour?
This tour is a small group experience, but private tours may be available upon request for an additional fee. Customers should contact the tour operator to inquire about private tour options and pricing.
Sum Up
Enjoy the life and art of the legendary Vincent Van Gogh on this captivating tour through Provence. Explore the landscapes that inspired his masterpieces, visit significant sites, and gain unparalleled insight into the artist’s world. For art enthusiasts, this unique journey offers an unforgettable opportunity to walk in the footsteps of one of history’s most revered painters.
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