Nestled in the heart of the Alpilles, between Avignon and Arles, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is a must-see destination for lovers of history, culture and nature. Known for its rich heritage, this small Provencal town attracts many visitors every year thanks to exceptional sites such as the Glanum archaeological site, the Monastère Saint-Paul de Mausole and the famous Provencal market. Whether you're an art lover, history buff or simply looking to relax in the heart of Provence, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence offers an unforgettable experience. Here are the 15 must-sees for a successful stay!
1- Glanum archaeological site
The archeological site of Glanumlocated at the foot of the Alpilles mountains, is a must-see for history buffs. Founded in the 6th century BC, this Gallo-Roman site plunges you back into antiquity with its impressive remains, including theArc de Triomphe and the Mausoleum of Julius. During your visit, you'll discover temples, thermal baths and civil monuments that bear witness to the wealth of this ancient city. Glanum also offers magnificent views of the surrounding area, ideal for combining culture and nature. Allow around two hours to explore this exceptional site.
2- Monastère Saint-Paul de Mausole
Visit Monastery of Saint-Paul de Mausole is a must-see for art and history lovers in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. Known for having welcomed Vincent van Gogh in 1889, this peaceful place is the setting where the artist painted over 150 major works. When you visit the monastery, you can explore the reconstruction of his bedroom and stroll through the gardens that so inspired him. In addition to its historical importance, the monastery houses a wellness and therapy center, blending art and serenity. The perfect place to combine culture and rejuvenation.
3- Stroll through the world of Van Gogh
La Walk in the World of Van Gogh is a unique experience that plunges you into the world of the artist, through the landscapes that inspired him during his stay in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. This walking tour, illustrated with 21 reproductions of Van Gogh's works, lets you follow in his footsteps and discover the places that shaped his creativity, such as the Monastère Saint-Paul de Mausole and the surrounding fields. Along the way, you'll find explanatory panels linking the actual landscapes to the artist's famous paintings, offering total immersion in his creative process. It's the ideal way to combine cultural discovery with a walk in the fresh air. Book your visit in Van Gogh's footsteps and discover where he lived and what he painted during his stay in Provence.
4- Musée Estrine
The Musée Estrine, located in the heart of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, is a must-see for modern and contemporary art enthusiasts. Housed in a magnificent 18th-century mansion, the museum exhibits works by 20th- and 21st-century artists, with a particular focus on Vincent van Gogh. In addition to its permanent collection, the museum offers temporary exhibitions highlighting the diversity of graphic arts and painting. Don't miss a visit to the Vincent van Gogh Interpretation Center, which sheds modern light on the artist's life and work. It's an ideal place for art lovers in search of inspiration and discovery.
5- Musée des Alpilles
Le Musée des Alpilleslocated in theHôtel Mistral de Mondragon in the heart of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, is a must for discovering the cultural and natural wealth of the region. The museum focuses on localethnology, highlighting Provencal traditions, crafts and the relationship between man and his environment. During your visit, you'll be able to admire exhibitions on daily life in Provence, works by local artists and collections linked to the geology and agriculture of the Alpilles. The museum also offers creative workshops to enrich your experience. A perfect visit to combine culture, history and learning.
Discover also our 11 most beautiful places to visit in the Alpilles!
6- Les Antiques
The Antiques of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence are two major monuments located at the entrance to the Glanum archaeological site. Comprising an Arc de Triomphe and the Mausoleum of Julius, they bear witness to the grandeur of Gallo-Roman civilization. The arch, erected in the early 1st century, celebrated the victories of Rome and served as a monumental entrance to the city of Glanum. Next to it, the perfectly preserved mausoleum pays homage to a wealthy local family. These two emblematic buildings are a must-see if you want to immerse yourself in the region's ancient history, while enjoying exceptional views of the Alpilles mountains.
7- Lac de Peïrou
Lac de Peïrou, nestled in a natural setting a few kilometers from Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, is an ideal spot for a relaxing break in the heart of nature. This man-made lake, fed by water from the Alpilles mountains, is appreciated for its picturesque scenery and surrounding hiking trails. It's the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, a family picnic or simply to enjoy the peace and quiet. Nature lovers will find an oasis of freshness, just a stone's throw from the town center, in an unspoilt setting conducive to serenity.
8- Nostradamus fountain
The Fontaine Nostradamus, located in the center of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, pays homage to the famous astrologer Nostradamus, born in this town in 1503. This elegant fountain, adorned with a bust of the illustrious soothsayer, is a must-see when exploring the old town. It is often surrounded by visitors eager to learn more about this mysterious figure and his prophecies. Strolling around the fountain, you can also appreciate the typical Provencal architecture of the area and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the small squares shaded by plane trees.
9- Hôtel de Sade
TheHôtel de Sade, located in the heart of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, is a must-see historic site for archaeology enthusiasts. This magnificent mansion houses exceptional collections from the Gallo-Roman site of Glanum, including ancient sculptures and objets d'art dating back to Roman times. As you wander through its rooms, you'll discover fascinating relics, such as statues of the emperor Augustus and his wife Livia. The hotel itself, with its Renaissance architecture, is a masterpiece in its own right, adding to the charm of the visit. It's an ideal place to immerse yourself in ancient history while admiring an exceptional site.
10- Provencal market
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence'sProvencal market is a must-see sensory experience for anyone visiting the region. Held every Wednesday morning, it stretches through the narrow streets of the historic center, offering a real immersion in local traditions. You'll find colorful stalls brimming with local produce such as olive oil, honey, Provencal herbs and seasonal fruits and vegetables. In addition to food products, the market also offers local crafts, textiles and typical Provencal souvenirs. It's the ideal place to sample local specialties while strolling through the warm, lively village atmosphere.
11- Les Baux-de-Provence
Les Baux-de-Provence, just a few kilometers from Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, is one of France's most beautiful perched villages. Overlooking the Alpilles mountains, this medieval village offers breathtaking views of the Provencal countryside. In the heart of the village, you can explore the Château des Baux, an impressive ruined fort that bears witness to the region's rich and eventful history. The cobbled streets are lined with art galleries, artisan boutiques and typical restaurants, perfect for sampling the local gastronomy. Nearby, the Carrières de Lumières offer immersive art projection shows in ancient stone quarries, a unique visual experience not to be missed.
Leave Avignon and visit the Pont du Gard, Saint-Rémy and Les Baux !
12- Montmajour Abbey
L'Abbaye de Montmajourlocated about 30 minutes from Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, is a treasure trove of Benedictine architecture dating back to the 10th century. This historic monument plunges visitors into nearly eight centuries of religious and military history. As you explore the abbey, you'll discover remarkable features such as the abbey church, the Romanesque cloister and the defensive tower offering panoramic views of the Alpilles and Camargue. In addition to its impressive architecture, the abbey regularly hosts exhibitions and cultural events, making it both a historic and lively venue. A must for history and heritage lovers.
13- Château Romanin
Le Château Romaninnestled in the heart of the Alpilles near Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, is much more than just a wine estate. Renowned for its exceptional organic wines, the château extends over vineyards cultivated with respect for nature and local traditions. When you visit the estate, you'll be able to taste a range of AOC Les Baux-de-Provence wines, renowned for their unique character, and discover the winemaking process in a spectacular troglodyte cellar. The château also offers guided tours that will immerse you in the history and winemaking know-how of the region, against a backdrop of breathtaking scenery. An unmissable experience for wine and heritage lovers.
14- Moulin du Calanquet
Visit Moulin du Calanquetlocated just a few minutes from Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, is a benchmark for lovers of artisanal olive oil. This family-run mill continues the Provencal tradition of producing high-quality olive oils from five local varieties. During your visit, you'll learn all about the production process, from the harvesting of the olives to their transformation into oil. The mill also offers tastings, allowing you to savor a range of authentic products, including tapenades and other Provencal specialties. An ideal place to combine gourmet discovery and immersion in local culture.
15- Traditional festivals
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence 's traditional festivals punctuate the town's life throughout the year and offer a unique immersion in Provencal customs. Among the most famous, the Fête de la Transhumance attracts thousands of visitors every spring, who come to watch the herds parade through the town. The féria and bullfighting events are also not to be missed, celebrating Camargue culture with bull runs and equestrian shows. Finally, the Christmas market, the Foire aux chevaux and the Route des Artistes are perfect opportunities to discover local crafts and gastronomy in a festive and convivial atmosphere.
Discover Saint-Rémy-de-Provence's most popular activities here:
Which villages to visit around Saint-Rémy-de-Provence?
- Les Baux-de-Provence: 10 km away, this medieval hilltop village is renowned for its impressive Château des Baux ruins and panoramic views of the Alpilles. Don't miss the Carrières de Lumières, an immersive digital art experience.
- Eygalières: This charming village, 10 minutes from Saint-Rémy, offers an authentic Provencal atmosphere with its cobbled streets, olive groves and panoramic views from the Saint-Sixte chapel.
- Maussane-les-Alpilles: Another typical Provencal village, famous for its olive oil mills and proximity to Les Baux-de-Provence.
What to do in a weekend in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence?
Day 1:
- Visit the archaeological site of Glanum: Start by discovering the Roman remains of this ancient city, with theArc de Triomphe and the Mausoleum of Julius.
- Monastère Saint-Paul de Mausole: Immerse yourself in the world of Van Gogh, who stayed here, and explore its inspiring gardens.
- Lunch at the Provencal market: If it's a Wednesday, take advantage of the famous market to sample local specialties and soak up the Provencal atmosphere.
- Stroll through the historic center: Stroll through the cobbled streets, visit the Nostradamus Fountain and theSaint-Martin church.
Day 2:
- Hike or stroll around Lac de Peiroou: This peaceful spot is perfect for an early-morning nature walk.
- Visit the Musée des Alpilles: Discover local traditions and Provencal art in this museum housed in a private mansion.
- Wine tasting at Château Romanin: End your weekend with a visit to this organic winery, with tastings of AOC wines.
Where to stay in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence?
- Le Mas des Carassins
This charming Provencal farmhouse offers comfortable rooms, a magnificent garden and a swimming pool, all at a reasonable price. Ideal for enjoying the calm of the region while remaining close to the town center.
Book now for a relaxing getaway in the heart of Provence.
- Le Vallon de Valrugues & Spa
This 5-star hotel combines luxury and well-being with its 500 m² spa, outdoor pool and elegant rooms. The perfect setting for a relaxing stay.
Treat yourself to a luxurious stay at Vallon de Valrugues & Spa.
- La Maison du Village
This boutique hotel in the heart of Saint-Rémy offers a warm and refined experience. With just a few rooms, it's a veritable cocoon, perfect for a romantic getaway.
Book an intimate stay at La Maison du Village for an unforgettable experience.
