Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is a jewel of Provence, combining elegance and authenticity. With its refined historic center, exceptional ancient heritage and the moving footsteps of Van Gogh, this village won us over. You’ll be charmed by the unique atmosphere of this place where history and the art of Provencal living meet in harmony.
Discover our ideas for what to do in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, illustrated with photos that will make you want to go there. Bonus: useful tips and additional activities.
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Is the village of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence worth a visit?
The village of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is well worth a visit. We were seduced by this place where Provence reveals its most beautiful facets. Between remarkable ancient remains, Van Gogh’s footprints and elegant streets lined with refined boutiques, Saint-Rémy offers a complete and authentic experience of the South of France.
1. Stroll through the historic center and its deco boutiques
We loved strolling through the narrow streets of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence’s historic center. The atmosphere is resolutely chic and refined, with art galleries, shady squares and a host of designer boutiques!
But if shopping is one of Saint-Rémy’s top activities, don’t forget to look up! Numerous 17th- and 18th-century townhouses line the streets (Hôtel de Lagoy, Hôtel Mistral de Mondragon).
Don’t miss the peaceful Place Favier, and of course, the fountain dedicated to Nostradamus, the famous astrologer and physician born here in the 16th century, whose birthplace still stands in the center.
- The center is within walking distance of the surrounding parking lots
- Choose a morning visit to take advantage of the peaceful atmosphere.
- Many stores close between 12:30 and 3 p.m.
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2. Ancient travel at Glanum
The archeological site of Glanum has transported us two millennia back in time. This ancient city, founded by the Gauls and later developed by the Romans, reveals exceptionally well-preserved remains. We strolled along the original cobbled streets, admiring the Roman baths, the forum and the temples dedicated to the divinities. You’ll also discover a sacred spring sanctuary, central to the city’s foundation. Archaeological digs, begun in 1921, continue to reveal new discoveries. The site is nestled in a magnificent valley at the foot of the Alpilles mountains, making the walk as historic as it is bucolic!
- Opening hours: open daily from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm from April to September, from 10 am to 5 pm from October to March (closed on Mondays).
- Price: €9 (adults)
- Accessibility: although the lower part of the site is accessible, climbing up to the lookouts or moving around the Roman remains can be difficult in a wheelchair (stony, uneven terrain).
- See the latest news on the official website here
3. Admire the Antiques (The Arch and the Mausoleum)
Just opposite the Glanum site, we discovered two perfectly preserved Roman monuments that are among the most beautiful in Provence. The Arc de Triomphe, dating from the 1st century, marks the entrance to the ancient Roman city. Just a few metres away is the Mausoleum of the Julii, an 18-metre-high funerary monument adorned with remarkable sculptures depicting battle and hunting scenes. These monuments, nicknamed “the Antiques”, are accessible free of charge from the road. We were impressed by their exceptional state of preservation after more than 2000 years of existence. It’s a quick visit, but an obligatory photo stop.
- Free access from the D5 road
- Visible all year round, day and night (illuminated)
- Tip: Come and watch the sunset here.
OUR TPS FOR RENTING YOUR CAR IN Provence
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that is powerful enough (the roads are steep) but compact (some passages are narrow).
- Think of thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
4. Walking in Van Gogh’s footsteps at the Monastère Saint-Paul de Mausole
Our visit to the Monastery of Saint Paul in Mausole was a deeply moving experience. It was in this former 12th-century monastery, now a nursing home, that Vincent Van Gogh voluntarily stayed from May 1889 to May 1890. We were able to see the reconstructed bedroom where the artist lived and painted some of his most famous canvases. The Romanesque cloister, with its sculpted columns and interior garden, exudes an atmosphere of serenity. You’ll also discover the surrounding wheat fields and cypress trees that inspired so many of his works, including “Starry Night”. Reproductions of his paintings are installed in the very places where he set up his easel.
- Opening hours: open daily from 9:30 am to 7 pm from April to September, from 10:15 am to 5 pm from October to March.
- Price: €9 (adult rate)
- See the latest news on the official website here
5. A dreamy night in the village
We highly recommend spending at least one night in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence to fully appreciate the village atmosphere. Accommodation is varied and often remarkable. You’ll find charming guest houses set in typical Provencal residences, with their colorful shutters and plane tree-shaded gardens.
We particularly liked theHôtel Château des Alpilles. This majestic 19th-century manor house, set at the end of an avenue of century-old plane trees, offers discreet luxury in the heart of a 7-hectare park. In fine weather, you can enjoy the swimming pool, tennis court and gourmet table in absolute calm.
Book your enchanted break now!
- Book in advance during high season (May to September)
- Prices range from €100 to over €300 per night, depending on standing.
- Choose accommodation with parking to make life easier
BEFORE OUR TIPS + PHOTOS
HERE ARE OUR GOOD PLACES IN Provence
Our favorite car rental platform: DiscoverCars
Our guide to planning your road trip: eBook
Our must-see tour: the abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel – reserve your time
Our unforgettable outdoor activity: Via Ferrata in Suisse Normande
Our favorite places to stay:
Honfleur – see the best rated accommodations
Bayeux – see the best rated accommodations
Cabourg – see the best rated accommodations
6. Follow the “Walk in the world of Van Gogh” tour
This landscaped walk links the town center to the Monastery of Saint-Paul de Mausole along a pleasant 1.5km footpath. We really enjoyed this trail, lined with explanatory panels featuring reproductions of Van Gogh’s paintings and explanations of the places that inspired the artist. You’ll walk through the landscapes that so influenced the painter: olive groves, towering cypress trees, wheat fields and views of the Alpilles. The promenade is shaded on some sections and offers fine views. We recommend you do it at the end of the day, when the golden light is reminiscent of that which bathes so many of the master’s paintings.
- Departure from downtown, arrival at the monastery
- Distance: approx. 1.5km (30-40min leisurely walk)
- Free access all year round
7. Immerse yourself in the local culture
Saint-Rémy is home to two complementary museums that help us better understand the identity of the village and its region:
- The Musée des Alpilles, housed in a Renaissance mansion, presents Provencal traditions and folklore through traditional costumes, antique farming tools, santons and reconstructions of Provencal interiors.
- TheHôtel de Sade, a magnificent Renaissance residence, houses archaeological collections from the Glanum excavations, including sculptures, mosaics and everyday Roman objects. We appreciated the building’s remarkable architecture, with its inner courtyard and mullioned windows.
- Musée des Alpilles: open Wednesday to Sunday, 1 to 5:30 p.m.
- Hôtel de Sade: open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in season (except Mondays)
- Prices: €5 and €7 per museum respectively
- See the latest news on the city’s official website here
8. Experience the excitement of the Provencal Market
Wednesday mornings in Saint-Rémy are particularly lively for the famous Provencal market. We loved wandering between the colorful stalls that fill the alleys and squares of the historic center. Smells mingle: dried lavender, goat’s cheese, marinated olives, Provencal herbs, sun-kissed fruit. You’ll find local producers selling fresh vegetables, Alpilles honey and artisanal tapenades, as well as clothing, pottery and Provencal fabrics.
- Opening hours: Wednesday mornings, from 8 a.m. to approx. 1 p.m.
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and summer heat
9. Hiking in the Alpilles Natural Park
Nature lovers will appreciate the many hiking trails from Saint-Rémy to the Parc Naturel Régional des Alpilles. The paths wind between limestone rocks sculpted by erosion, offering magnificent panoramic views over valleys planted with centuries-old olive trees. Several signposted itineraries allow you to discover Mediterranean flora: thyme, rosemary, kermes oak. The trails are suitable for all levels, from family walks to more challenging hikes to the Alpilles peaks and their 360-degree views.
- Bring plenty of water, a hat and sunscreen.
- Maps available from the Tourist Office
- More info on the Park website here
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Other attractions near Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
We’ve also discovered a number of other places that are well worth a visit during your stay in and around Saint-Rémy-de-Provence.
Explore the nearby Alpilles villages
- Les Baux-de-Provence, a spectacular hilltop village with ruined castle and exceptional panoramic views, just 20 minutes away by car. Find out more about all the attractions in our dedicated article!
- Eygalières, a charming authentic Provencal village renowned for its art galleries and gourmet restaurants, just a 15-minute drive away.
- Maussane-les-Alpilles and its traditional olive oil mills, where you can sample local produce, 12min away.
Explore the Camargue
A radical change of scenery as you leave the relief of the Alpilles for the vast wet plains of the Camargue. Less than 1 hour’s drive away, this unique territory in France offers a fascinating natural spectacle where the sky merges with the ponds. This is the kingdom of pink flamingos, black bulls and the famous white horses.
To observe birds at close quarters without difficulty, head for the Parc Ornithologique du Pont de Gau (ideal for families). For an authentic experience, opt for a horse ride in a manade or visit the Salins d’Aigues-Mortes for their spectacular pink waters.
Discover Arles, its Roman remains and its cultural attractions
If you head south from the Alpilles, you’ll reach Arles (20 min). The town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its exceptional Roman monuments (the Arena, the Ancient Theater), which can be a great complement to a visit to medieval Les Baux. We advise you to stay for several days, as the city has a rich cultural offering, from its Rencontres de la Photographie every summer to its many museums (Luma Arles, Fondation Lee Ufan, Musée Arlatan, etc.).
DISCOVER the Alpilles
- Things to do in Les Baux-de-Provence (coming soon)
- Things to do in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence (coming soon)
- Best hotels in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence (coming soon)
- Best restaurants in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence (coming soon)
- Itineraries: 1 day (coming soon)
How to get to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence + parking
Where is Saint-Rémy-de-Provence?
- In Bouches-du-Rhône, in the heart of the Parc Naturel Régional des Alpilles en Provence
- Avignon: 20km, 40min drive
- Arles: 25km, 30min drive
- Marseille: 90km, or 1h10 drive
- Aix-en-Provence: 70km, 1 hour’s drive
How to get there
By car: from the A7 freeway, exit at Avignon Sud or Cavaillon, then follow the D99. The village is easily accessible and well signposted. We recommend a car to explore the region at your own pace.
By public transport: regular buses link Saint-Rémy to Avignon (line 57) with several departures daily. From Avignon TGV station, it’s a 45-minute bus ride.
Parking in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
We found several parking options around the historic center. The main parking lot is on Boulevard Marceau, a 5-minute walk from the center. It offers many free places but can be full in high season. The smaller Place de la République parking lot is also free and very close to the town center. Another free parking lot is on Avenue Frédéric Mistral. In summer and on market days (Wednesdays), arrive before 9 a.m. to find a place easily. The town center is pedestrianized, which makes for a pleasant stroll once you’ve parked.
Useful tips for visiting Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
How long and when?
Allow half a day to discover the essentials of Saint-Rémy. A two-day weekend also allows you to explore the surrounding area and take full advantage of the Provencal atmosphere. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer the best conditions: pleasant temperatures, magnificent light and fewer tourists. Summer can be hot and crowded, but it’s always lively. Winter remains mild, allowing you to discover the village in a more intimate atmosphere.
Tour directions, map and difficulty
We suggest you start your day in the south (Glanum and Monastère) in the cool of the morning. Then head downtown for lunch along the Promenade Van Gogh (15-20 min easy walk), where you can spend the afternoon strolling and shopping in the shady boutiques.
The town center is cobbled but flat, making it perfectly accessible to strollers and people with reduced mobility.
Visiting with children
Saint-Rémy lends itself well to a family visit. Children will particularly enjoy the archeological site of Glanum, where they can imagine Roman life as they wander through the ruins. The Van Gogh Promenade, with its illustrated panels, is an accessible walk for younger visitors. In summer, the natural pools of the nearby Alpilles offer a refreshing break.
Restaurants
If there’s one thing you’ll love about Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, it’s sitting on one of its terraces. The city’s varied culinary offering is sure to please every palate! We really liked the Edú restaurant, for its shady terrace under planted arbors and its Mediterranean tapas.
For a taste of local excitement, head to the Bar-Tabac des Alpilles (also known as Les Comptoirs du Gigot). People come here for its unmistakable specialty: roast leg of lamb.
And if you’re looking for an exceptional dinner? Book at L’Auberge de Saint-Rémy (1 Michelin star).
Visiting Saint-Rémy-de-Provence in winter
Winter in Saint-Rémy reveals a more authentic side of the village. Temperatures remain mild compared with the rest of France, generally between 8 and 14°C. We enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere of the almost deserted alleyways and the distinctive colors of the Alpilles in the winter light. The tourist sites are accessible with reduced opening hours, but you enjoy a more intimate visit.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Provence
- Inspiration
The most beautiful landscapes in 30 photos (coming soon)
What to do in Provence
Most beautiful cities in Provence (coming soon)
Most beautiful villages
Most beautiful castles (coming soon)
Most beautiful gardens (coming soon)
Best boat tours (coming soon)
Secret places (coming soon)
- Practical advice
A successful trip to Provence (coming soon)
Rent a car in Provence – in Nice – in Cannes – in Marseille – in Aix-en-Provence.
Itineraries: 5 days – 1 week – 10 days (coming soon)
Weekend ideas: best-of – romantic – luxury – unusual (coming soon)
- Where to stay
Where to stay in Provence (coming soon)
Best luxury hotels in Provence (coming soon)
- The must-dos
What to do in Marseille
What to do in Aix-en-Provence
What to do in Avignon (coming soon)
What to do in Arles (coming soon)
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Best things to do in Cannes
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