Things To Do
in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is a sun-kissed Provençal town perched above the Alpilles, famous for its winding stone lanes and graceful light. It sits among olive groves, vineyards, and lavender fields, offering a quintessential Provence experience. The town is steeped in art history, notably through Vincent van Gogh’s stay at the Monastère Saint-Paul de Mausole.
Visitors enjoy a thriving market scene, charming cafés, and easy access to the surrounding countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon your arrival in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, you will check into your charming hotel and take a moment to enjoy the serene surroundings of this enchanting town. After settling in, explore the quaint streets that have inspired many renowned artists throughout history. Grab a café au lait and a croissant at a local café to immerse yourself in the vibrant Provençal culture.
Spend your afternoon visiting the archaeological site of Glanum, situated just outside of the town. Wander among ancient Roman ruins and marvel at their historical significance, providing a glimpse into life in Provence centuries ago. Take in the stunning views of the surrounding hills and olive groves as you absorb the atmosphere.
As night falls, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local bistro where the ambience is warm and welcoming. Savor traditional Provençal dishes paired with exquisite local wines as you mingle with locals and tourists alike. Conclude your evening with a stroll under the stars, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of this picturesque town.
After breakfast, head to the breathtaking village of Les Baux-de-Provence, known for its stunning rocky landscapes and medieval architecture. Spend the morning wandering through cobblestone streets, visiting the castle ruins, and enjoying panoramic views from the cliffs. Make sure to visit the Carrières de Lumières, an immersive art experience showcasing works of famous artists.
Savor lunch at a local restaurant, then explore the surrounding natural park, where you can enjoy vineyards and olive groves. Take a leisurely hike to appreciate the dramatic scenery and perhaps catch a glimpse of local wildlife. The experience of the serene landscape will leave you feeling rejuvenated.
Return to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence for the evening, where you can dine in a lovely garden restaurant. Delight in a fresh meal prepared with local ingredients while enjoying the charming atmosphere. After dinner, take a serene walk through the town, admiring the old buildings illuminated by soft moonlight.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $3-5 |
| 🥗Three-course meal for two | $40-70 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $120-200 |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming Provençal town with a strong art/historic vibe
- Easy access to the Alpilles and surrounding countryside
- Excellent markets, cafés, and Provencal cuisine
- Limited nightlife compared with larger cities
- Peak-season crowds and parking can be challenging
- Some more distant attractions require car travel
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Où sont les toilettes ?" - Where are the restrooms?
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The check, please
- "Pouvez-vous me recommander un plat végétarien ?" - Can you recommend a vegetarian dish?
Places to Visit in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
Visit one of these nice places.
Roman ruins with a triumphal arch and ancient streets set against a backdrop of olive groves and limestone hills; best lit in morning or late afternoon.
Van Gogh’s asylum with serene gardens and a hillside view; compelling interior scenes and tranquil exteriors for portraits and still life.
Narrow, sunlit lanes along Rue Carnot and around Place de l’Hôtel de Ville offer warm limestone façades and charming doorways for architectural photography.
Countryside horizons around Saint-Rémy provide golden-hour shots of fields, olive groves, and the Alpilles silhouettes.
Food in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A slow-braised beef stew cooked with red wine, garlic, carrots, and Provence herbs; a comforting classic found in traditional bistros.
Must-Try!
A colorful vegetable medley stewed with olive oil and herbs; widely available as a main or side dish in taverns and bistros.
A garlicky, emulsified sauce served with boiled vegetables or fish; a Provencal staple in many seaside and inland eateries.
A delicate almond-Based candy common in Provençal patisseries, a sweet finish to a Provençal meal.
Olive paste spread on bread or used as a topping; a popular appetizer in markets and cafés.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively weekly market offering cheeses, olives, honey, fresh produce, herbs, and Provençal specialties; great for sampling local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet shopkeepers and waitstaff with a polite ‘Bonjour’/‘Bonsoir’ and use ‘Monsieur/Madame’ before the name. Dress modestly for churches and religious sites, and speak calmly in public spaces. When invited to a meal, keep hands on the table and avoid placing elbows on it while eating.
Safety
Tipping in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is typically included (service compris) in restaurants; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for exceptional service is common but not required. In cafés and bars, rounding up to the nearest euro is appreciated.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and outdoor markets return; great for walking tours and garden photography.
Hot, dry days with plenty of sunshine; seek shade, stay hydrated, and enjoy early morning or late afternoon activities; nearby lavender fields peak in late June to July.
Harvest time with comfortable temperatures and golden light; ideal for winery visits and countryside hikes.
Mild and often quiet with occasional rain; many small shops and markets remain open, offering a peaceful atmosphere.
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence at Night
Hiking in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Ridge walks with limestone scenery, olive groves, and field views just outside Saint-Rémy.
Scenic routes linking Roman ruins with elevated perspectives over vineyards and valleys.
Circular hikes that thread through historic villages, orchards, and rugged hills.
Airports
How to reach Saint-Rémy-de-Provence by plane.
Major international gateway; about a 1.5-hour drive to Saint-Rémy depending on traffic and route.
Smaller regional airport; practical for seasonal flights and a shorter drive to Saint-Rémy.
Mid-sized regional airport; accessible via road and rail connections to the region.
Larger international hub in the region; additional flight options and a longer transfer to Saint-Rémy.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents of Saint-Rémy, including families and retirees, with strong ties to agriculture, winery, and local artisanal businesses.
Visitors drawn by markets, art history, and Provence scenery; peak in spring and summer.
People inspired by Van Gogh and Provençal aesthetics, often visiting galleries and historic sites.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular on quiet Provençal lanes and scenic routes through vineyards and olive groves.
Trail options in the Alpilles with varying elevations and panoramic viewpoints.
A traditional French boules game commonly played in squares and village greens.
Riding tours and lessons available through nearby stables in the countryside.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint-Rémy-de-Provence.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Provençal options include ratatouille, salads with goat cheese, grilled vegetables, and vegetable tarts. In restaurants, ask for dishes labeled 'végétarien' or request no meat or fish stock; many places gladly accommodate with fresh, seasonal produce.