Provence: Arles & The Camargue Full Day Private Tour

Experience a full day itinerary with your knowledgeable English speaking driver seamlessly blending the historical discovery of Roman heritage through impressive ruins in Arles with the rare natural wilderness of a unique region in France, Camargue.

At your first stop in Arles, a UNESCO World Heritage site. immerse yourself in a remarkable journey through time, exploring its rich Roman and medieval history. Meander along the narrow cobblestone streets of medieval Arles, making stops at iconic landmarks such as the Roman arenas, the Great Amphitheater (90 AD)  accommodating 25,000 spectators at the time, and the 12th-century St. Trophime's church with its renowned cloister, showcasing the mastery of Romanesque and Provençal architecture. Take a leisurely stroll along the Alyscamps ("Champs-Élysées"), once considered one of the most prestigious necropolises in the ancient world.

Arles is also renowned as the inspirational home of Van Gogh, where he created approximately 300 paintings and drawings. The city preserves the spirit of the artist through marked panels at the locations where he set up his easel, each reproducing one of his masterpieces.

You will next be driven to the wild and picturesque Camargue region, a landscape blending sea and sky with marshes, horses, flamingos, black bulls and diverse wildlife in the largest river delta in Europe, the Rhone Delta.

Spend the rest of the day soaking up the atmosphere of one of Europe's most vital nature reserves. Seize the chance to explore ranches that provide horseback rides and bicycle tours through the marshes and along the seaside, offering glimpses of bulls and flamingos. Alternatively, embark on a 4x4 tour or quad tour, or opt for a leisurely exploration on foot along the numerous trails in this distinctive terrain. The flat landscape caters to walkers of all skill levels. For bird enthusiasts Pont de Gau's Ornithological Park is a haven. Here you will be able to explore, observe, and photograph various bird species, including pink flamingos, in their natural habitat. 

Discover Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, capital of Camargue and a sanctuary in Provence known for its unique character and festive atmosphere during the summer, featuring bull events, flamenco dance, and concerts. The 12th-century Notre-Dame-de-la-Mer Church, situated at the village's heart, beckons as a must-visit with its breathtaking platform view. Originally a fortress guarding against pirates, this unique church features a single, unadorned nave towering at 15 meters, making it visible from 6 miles away!

With an extraordinary spiritual history amid the Camargue wilderness, the church commemorates the arrival of Saint Mary of Jacob and Saint Mary Salome, along with Saint Sara, to the beaches of Camargue while escaping Palestine. Since they were close to Jesus Christ, this event marked the beginning of the spread of Christian faith throughout Gaul. Saint Sara became the Saint patroness of the Gypsies, and her statue can be found at the rear of the crypt on the right, adorned in vibrant robes and jewelry.