Arles and Les-Baux-de-Provence: The Splendor of Provence Lifestyle
Walk in the footsteps of Van Gogh and explore the medieval heart of the Alpilles
This full-day tour through Arles and Les-Baux-de-Provence immerses you in centuries of art, history, and Provencal culture. From a UNESCO-listed Roman amphitheatre to a perched medieval citadel, every stop rewards curiosity. The pace is easy, the scenery is exceptional, and the stories are unforgettable.
Arles is one of the most historically layered cities in southern France, where Roman monuments stand alongside galleries and lively market squares. Its ancient amphitheatre, built around the first century AD, still hosts concerts and traditional events today, making it one of the most living heritage sites in Europe. Your guide brings this dual identity to life with well-researched storytelling.
The artistic legacy of Vincent van Gogh adds a distinct dimension to the visit. During a fifteen-month stay in Arles, he produced more than 300 works, drawing constant inspiration from the quality of light and the vivid textures of Provencal life. Following his path through the streets connects the paintings you know to the exact places where they were created.
The afternoon takes you to Les-Baux-de-Provence, a village perched dramatically on a rocky spur within the Regional Natural Park of the Alpilles. Surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, its medieval streets and imposing citadel offer a sense of stepping into a preserved and deeply atmospheric past. There is also time to browse local boutiques or sit on a terrace with a glass of regional wine.
Tour Highlights
Visit the Roman Amphitheatre of Arles, a UNESCO World Heritage Site still used for live events today.
Follow the Van Gogh trail through Arles and see the real locations behind his most celebrated paintings.
Explore the Vincent Van Gogh Foundation and discover how Arles continues to champion his artistic legacy.
Discover the LUMA cultural complex, one of the most ambitious contemporary art venues in France.
Explore the medieval citadel and castle ruins of Les-Baux-de-Provence with sweeping views over the Alpilles.
Stroll through the Regional Natural Park of the Alpilles, surrounded by olive groves and limestone landscapes.
Enjoy free time in Les-Baux-de-Provence to taste local wine or browse artisan shops at your own pace.
Your Itinerary
Your tour begins at the heart of ancient Arles with a visit to its remarkable first-century amphitheatre, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your guide explains its history from gladiatorial combat to its present-day role hosting concerts and traditional bullfights.
Walk the streets that inspired over 300 paintings during Van Gogh's fifteen-month stay in the city. You will see the site of La Maison Jaune, the real setting of Le Cafe La Nuit, and the garden of the Hotel Dieu, each connected to iconic works in the history of art.
Visit the contemporary Vincent Van Gogh Foundation, dedicated to promoting the artist's heritage through rotating exhibitions. Your guide also introduces the LUMA complex, a landmark cultural project that has repositioned Arles as a major destination for contemporary art.
Travel into the Regional Natural Park of the Alpilles, where limestone ridges rise above terraces of olive trees and vines. The approach to Les-Baux-de-Provence reveals why this landscape captivated artists and writers for centuries.
Explore the well-preserved streets and squares of this perched village, one of the most visited medieval sites in Provence. The citadel and castle ruins dominate the rocky spur with remarkable views across the natural park.
Use the remaining time to sit at a terrace and sample a local wine, or browse the artisan boutiques for a regional souvenir. This is an unhurried end to a day rich in history, art, and Provencal character.
What Is Included
Included
- Professional licensed guide throughout the day
- Guided tour of the Roman Amphitheatre of Arles
- Van Gogh trail walking tour in Arles
- Visit to the Vincent Van Gogh Foundation
- Introduction to the LUMA cultural complex
- Guided exploration of Les-Baux-de-Provence village and citadel
- Transportation between Arles and Les-Baux-de-Provence
Not Included
- Personal meals and drinks
- Individual entrance fees not specified at booking
- Gratuities for the guide
- Personal travel insurance
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off unless stated at booking
Important Information
Ready to Explore Provence?
Secure your place on this full-day journey through Arles and Les-Baux-de-Provence and experience the art, history, and landscapes that define the soul of southern France.
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