Private Tour: Arles and Les Baux de Provence Day Trip from Marseille

Leave your central Marseille hotel by luxury air-conditioned minivan, and then travel west along the coast with your private guide. Your first destination is Arles, the ancient city that’s made its way onto the UNESCO World Heritage list in recognition of its beautifully preserved Roman monuments – some of which date back to 1st century BC.

Besides the city’s Roman heritage, Arles is also known for its strong sense of cultural identity. Once the home of Vincent van Gogh, the city is home to striking architecture that attracts art and architecture lovers from around the world, and you’ll see several of its finest examples on a walking tour with your guide.

As you stroll around, your guide will talk to you about Van Gogh’s life in the city, and show you several places that inspired the artist’s works, like the imaginatively named Café Van Gogh in Forum Square. The distinctive yellow-fronted café is said to be the building in Van Gogh’s acclaimed The Café Terrace painting.

Marvel at the ruins of Arles Amphitheatre where some 12,000 people could once be seated, and then explore the city’s intriguing ancient theater. Only two of its original Corinthian columns are still standing, but the ruins certainly hint at its former glory. Walk past St-Trophime church, admiring its carved 12th-century doorway, and then take some time out for lunch in town (own expense).

After your break, meet your guide and travel away from the coast toward the Chaîne des Alpilles mountain range. Your afternoon is spent at leisure in Les Baux de Provence – a charming medieval village that clings to the top of a rocky cliff. Admire postcard-perfect views over the Provencal countryside, and then wander around the village’s cobblestone streets, gazing at the old fortress ruins (admission is at your own expense).

At the pre-arranged time, meet your guide for the journey to Marseille. Your tour ends back at your Marseille hotel in the early evening.