Travel bucket list idea:
Arles, Provence, France
The Langlois Bridge
As prime spots where Van Gogh lived and painted, the towns of Arles and Saint-Remy both regret not hanging on to any of Van Gogh’s original works while he was alive. To make up for it, each has set up a self-guided Van Gogh Walk, pinpointing the scenic spots where the master planted his easel.
When doing the walk in Arles, spare some time to see the Espace Van Gogh in the former hospital on Place du Dr Félix Rey, where he had his ear stitched up and was later locked up. Inside you’ll find exhibits chronicling his stay. The hospital’s courtyard has been remodelled to resemble as closely as possible his famous painting ‘Le Jardin de l’Hôtel de Dieu’. You’ll also pass by the Reattu Fine Arts Museum, which houses many of Van Gogh letters, and the famous Café Terrace on the Place du Forum.
After your walk, visit the Van Gogh Foundation on Place Honore Clair, which displays art (paintings, sculpture, photography, texts) in homage to Van Gogh.
For the self-guided walk, pick up information and a map at the Arles tourist office on Boulevard des Lices before setting out – or download the map from the website before you go. The walk traces a path across the city, with information boards that include photos of his paintings along the way. The tourist office also produces an excellent little booklet that you can download with information on all of the stops and any associated paintings.
There are several local tour operators that will take you on the walk, either specifically or as part of a broader tour (see our recommendations below of who to go with). The major plus is a knowledgeable guide, who’ll have information, insights and anecdotes on Van Gogh you won’t get if you go it alone.
Obviously, you can follow the walk at any time of year, but it’s most picture-perfect when Van Gogh’s favourite flowers are in bloom: go in April and May for the irises, or in late June to early August for the sunflowers.
The Foundation is open all year round, seven days a week, though it closes on Mondays in winter months. The Espace van Gogh is also open all year round, seven days a week, though it closes on Sundays.
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