Provence: Van Gogh, Arles & Les Baux Small Group Afternoon

Van Gogh’s Provence in small groups from Avignon with art, history and village walks

You’ll walk where Van Gogh painted under Provençal sun, explore Arles’ ancient streets at your own pace, and get swept up in Les Baux’s hilltop views—all with live commentary from a local guide and comfy van rides between stops. This small group tour lets you slow down and really feel each place before heading back with new stories (and maybe some lavender soap).

What’s included

• Your afternoon includes comfortable travel in an air-conditioned van with live commentary along scenic routes through Provence.
• Stops feature guided walks outside Saint-Paul de Mausole Monastery (but not inside Van Gogh’s room), free time to explore Les Baux de Provence village and Arles’ historic center at your own pace.
• Parking fees are covered; specialized infant seats can be provided if requested.

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Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Van Gogh sites and Provence villages

• Drive from Avignon with guide commentary
• Visit Saint-Paul de Mausole asylum exteriors
• View remains of Roman town Glanum
• Drive through vineyards and olive groves
• Explore Les Baux de Provence village
• Meet driver and head to Arles
• Wander Arles streets and monuments
• Follow Van Gogh’s footsteps in Arles

The Experience

“That’s where he painted Irises,” our guide said, pointing through the iron gate at Saint-Paul de Mausole Monastery. The air smelled like wild thyme and something faintly medicinal—maybe from the hospital still running inside. We stood for a minute just listening to the cicadas (they’re louder than you’d think), and I tried to picture Van Gogh sketching here, probably sweating in the same sun. There are boards along the path showing his paintings right where he made them—seeing The Starry Night that way was oddly moving, even though it’s just a print on a sign. I didn’t expect to feel much, but I did.

The drive through Provence was all olive groves and vineyards—our guide told us which ones make the best tapenade, but honestly I forgot because I got distracted by how blue the sky was. When we reached Les Baux de Provence, she dropped us at the entrance and waved us off with a map (“Don’t get lost!”). The village is all stone lanes and little shops selling lavender soap or weird candies. There was a guy playing accordion near a terrace—I almost bought a tiny bottle of olive oil shaped like a castle but chickened out at the last second. You can see forever from up there; it’s windy on the plateau and my hat nearly flew off twice.

Arles was our last stop—a longer break so we could wander on our own. Our guide handed out maps with little circles around Roman ruins and Van Gogh spots (“If you get lost, just look for yellow café chairs”). I ended up sitting by the old amphitheater eating an ice cream that melted too fast in my hand. People were chatting in French and Spanish around me—felt good to just sit quietly for once after all that walking. It hits different seeing places you’ve only seen in paintings or books.

Top questions

How long is the afternoon Van Gogh tour from Avignon?

The tour lasts approximately half a day, starting in the afternoon.

Is hotel pickup included for this Provence tour?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet at a central point in Avignon.

Can I visit Van Gogh’s actual room at Saint-Paul de Mausole?

No, visiting Van Gogh’s room isn’t included due to time limits; focus is on exteriors and gardens.

How many people are in each group?

The tour is limited to 8 participants per group for a relaxed pace.

Are there breaks for food or drinks during the tour?

You have free time in Les Baux and Arles where you can buy snacks or drinks on your own.

Is this day trip suitable for children?

Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult; infant seats are available if needed.

Does this tour include entry fees to attractions?

No entry fees are included; focus is on outdoor sites and guided walks.

Is this Provence tour accessible for people with mobility issues?

The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with mobility problems due to uneven ground and walking distances.