St Rémy de Provence & Arles Julius Caesar to Vincent Van Gogh

About this tour

Trace two millennia of Provençal history across Saint-Rémy and Arles in a single day. Start in the hilltop village where Van Gogh sought refuge at the Saint Paul monastery, then head to Arles—Caesar's Roman outpost turned 19th-century artistic muse. You'll walk Roman amphitheatres and cloisters, stand where Van Gogh set up his easel, and absorb the particular light that captivated generations of creators. Seven hours, air-conditioned transport, refreshment breaks included.

Highlights

• Saint Paul monastery where Van Gogh stayed and painted
• Arles amphitheatre: one of France's best-preserved Roman structures
• Saint-Trophime cloister with Romanesque carved capitals
• Streets Van Gogh depicted in canvas and ink
• Alpilles mountain views framing medieval village cores
• Guided context on Roman settlement and 19th-century artistic migration

What to expect

You'll spend the morning in Saint-Rémy, exploring narrow lanes and the monastery where Van Gogh underwent treatment, then move to Arles for the afternoon. Expect to walk uphill sections and navigate cobbled streets; the pace is leisurely with scheduled breaks. Your guide will point out the actual locations Van Gogh painted from, the surviving Roman theatre and arena where gladiatorial games once played, and architectural details spanning centuries. You'll enter two major historical sites on foot. Bring comfortable shoes and a hat for sun exposure, especially in summer months.

Good to know

Admission to all sites and bottled water are included; lunch isn't, so plan accordingly. The tour suits all fitness levels but involves uneven surfaces and stairs. Solo travellers get a discounted rate through the website only. Public transport is nearby if you prefer independent arrival. Service animals welcome.