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Van Gogh Walk in Saint-Remy

  • Saint-Remy-de-Provence, Provence, France

Last updated: 19 July, 2024

Vincent Van Gogh moved to Provence in 1888, during a time of ill health. He fell in love with the landscape and the rich light, and decided to stay and try to set up an artists’ colony.

Initially, he settled in Arles, where he created over 300 paintings and drawings, some of his best-known works – including the famous ‘Sunflowers’ paintings (now held in the Neue Pinakothek in Munich, National Gallery in London, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam and the Sompo Japan Museum of Art in Tokyo).

The following year however, in 1889, after a bout of poor mental health, Van Gogh committed himself to the St-Paul-de-Mausole asylum just outside Saint-Remy. There he painted more of his masterpieces, including The Starry Night, now displayed in New York’s Museum of Modern Art (MoMA).

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.

Don't miss

In Saint-Remy, be sure to visit the Van Gogh rooms in the Estrine Museum, on Rue Lucien Estrine, as well as Vincent’s hospital room at charming St-Paul-de-Mausole, the priory-turned-asylum where Van Gogh was a patient.

Logistics

Price: Free
Minimum age: 0
Age suitable: 18+
When: All year around
Duration: 1+ hours

Getting there & doing it

The Saint Remy walk is self-guided and fairly straightforward. You can pick up information and a map at the Saint-Remy tourist office on Place Jean Jaures before setting out.

The walk traces a path around the village, with information boards that include photos of his paintings along the way. There’s a special website that shows the key points of interest, and the famous paintings that he did at each one, and the St-Paul-de-Mausole.

There are several local tour operators that will take you on the walk, either specifically or as part of a broader tour. 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.

When to do it

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.

Who to go with: organised tours

1

Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

  • Avignon

Enjoy a small-group tour from Avignon to follow the steps of Van Gogh with an experienced guide. During this half day tour we will guide you through the wonderful marriage of art and history. Following Van Gogh steps, we will visit Arles and Saint Rémy de Provence where he lived and painted. Explore the incredible perched village Les Baux de Provence one of the most visited destination in France.

Price €80

Min age 0

Rating 4.76 / 5 [26 ratings]

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