Marseille Shore Excursion: Private Day Trip to Arles, Les Baux De Provence and Saint Remy De Provence

Discovering the enchanting Provençal region just outside Marseille is an opportunity worth seizing. This private day trip takes travelers on a captivating journey through some of the most historically and artistically significant destinations in the area. From the well-preserved Roman ruins of Arles to the medieval splendor of Les Baux-de-Provence and the serene landscapes that inspired Vincent Van Gogh in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, this excursion promises a rich culture. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, visitors can expect to uncover the unique stories and hidden gems that make this corner of France truly remarkable.

Key Points

• This private day trip from Marseille explores the Provençal region, visiting the historic cities of Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence, and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence.
• Highlights include seeing the well-preserved Roman Amphitheater in Arles, the medieval village of Les Baux-de-Provence, and the former residence of Vincent Van Gogh in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence.
• The 8-hour tour is conducted in an air-conditioned minivan, with pickup and drop-off available from the Marseille port or hotel.
• The personalized experience is led by a knowledgeable driver/guide, providing insights into the history and cultural significance of each destination.
• The tour caters to parties of up to 8 guests and requires a moderate level of physical fitness, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the experience.

Overview of the Excursion

This private day trip from Marseille allows travelers to explore the picturesque Provençal region, visiting the UNESCO-listed city of Arles, the medieval village of Les Baux-de-Provence, and the charming town of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence.

The 8-hour excursion is conducted in an air-conditioned minivan, with pickup and drop-off available from the Marseille port or hotel. Highlights include seeing Roman ruins and Van Gogh’s inspirations in Arles, admiring the striking vistas and château ruins in Les Baux-de-Provence, and the option to tour Van Gogh’s former residence in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence.

The private tour with a knowledgeable driver/guide ensures a personalized experience.

Arles: Exploring Roman Ruins

Typically, the first stop on the private day trip is the UNESCO-listed city of Arles, where visitors can explore the well-preserved Roman ruins that inspired many of Van Gogh’s paintings during his time in the region. The tour includes highlights such as the Roman Amphitheater, the Baths of Constantine, and the Church of St. Trophime. Visitors can also see the Café Terrace at Night, one of Van Gogh’s most famous works, which depicts the Place du Forum.

Arles Highlights	Description
Roman Amphitheater	Well-preserved Roman arena that once hosted gladiator events
Baths of Constantine	Extensive Roman bath complex with impressive architectural features
Church of St. Trophime	Romanesque church with intricate carved portals
Café Terrace at Night	Van Gogh painting depicting the Place du Forum

Les Baux-de-Provence: Medieval Charm

After exploring the Roman ruins and Van Gogh’s inspirations in Arles, the private day trip heads to the picturesque medieval village of Les Baux-de-Provence.

Perched atop a rocky outcrop, Les Baux boasts striking vistas and the impressive ruins of the Château des Baux, a former stronghold.

Wander through the narrow, winding streets lined with charming stone buildings and stop to admire the panoramic views over the surrounding Provence countryside.

Discover the village’s rich history and admire the architectural gems, from ancient churches to traditional artisanal shops.

This well-preserved medieval gem offers a delightful glimpse into Provence’s storied past.

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence: Van Gogh’s Legacy

The final stop on the private day trip is Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, the former residence of the renowned painter Vincent Van Gogh.

Guests can tour the Monastery Saint-Paul de Mausole, where Van Gogh lived and created several of his iconic paintings, including "Starry Night."

The guided visit provides insight into the artist’s life and work during his time in the asylum.

Travelers can wander the serene grounds and explore the cells that inspired Van Gogh’s masterpieces.

This stop offers a unique opportunity to connect with the legacy of one of the world’s most celebrated painters in the very location that fueled his creative genius.

Inclusions and Pricing Details

The private tour includes round-trip transportation from the Marseille port in an air-conditioned minivan.

The price starts at $1,025.13 per group of up to 8 people. This covers the private driver/guide and all necessary transportation, but doesn’t include lunch or gratuities.

Visitors will tour the UNESCO-listed sites of Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence, and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. An optional visit to Van Gogh’s former residence at Monastery Saint-Paul de Mausole in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is available at an additional cost.

Moderate physical fitness is required, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though collapsible wheelchairs can be accommodated with assistance.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

Confirmation and Important Information

Confirmation of the booking is received within 48 hours, or immediately for last-minute reservations.

Children must be accompanied by an adult, with infants sitting on laps.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but collapsible wheelchairs can be accommodated with assistance.

A moderate level of physical fitness is required.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Reviews and Guest Feedback

Based on the information provided, guests have shared their overall feedback and experiences with this private day trip to Arles and Provence.

With an average rating of 4.0 out of 5 based on 5 reviews, the tour has received positive feedback on the knowledgeable and friendly guides.

However, some guests reported issues with guide accessibility at the port and certain driver experiences.

Nonetheless, guests appreciated the balance of guided information and free exploration time during the excursion.

Booking and Inquiries

Upon booking, guests receive confirmation within 48 hours, or immediately for last-minute reservations.

The private day trip from Marseille caters to parties of up to 8 guests. Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult, with infants sitting on laps.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, collapsible wheelchairs can be accommodated with assistance. Guests should have a moderate fitness level, as the itinerary involves walking.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience starts. For any inquiries, travelers can contact the tour provider, who’ll promptly address their questions and ensure a seamless booking process.

The Sum Up

This private day trip from Marseille offers a captivating exploration of Arles’ Roman heritage, the medieval charm of Les Baux-de-Provence, and the artistic legacy of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, travelers can enjoy the region’s rich history and culture, all while enjoying the convenience of an air-conditioned minivan. This excursion provides a well-rounded and enriching experience for those seeking to discover the highlights of Provence.