Provence holds a special place in art history, and nowhere is that more evident than in the landscapes that captivated Vincent van Gogh. Walking through this sun-drenched region of southern France, you're retracing the steps of one of the world's most beloved artists—a journey that feels both intimate and transformative.

Van Gogh arrived in Arles in February 1888, seeking refuge and inspiration in the warm Mediterranean light. He was drawn to Provence's vivid colors, dramatic skies, and the way sunlight transformed ordinary scenes into something extraordinary. During his time here, he created over 300 paintings, many of which have become iconic images of the region itself.

Start your pilgrimage in Arles, where van Gogh spent some of his most productive months. The town's yellow buildings, narrow streets, and Roman heritage provided endless subjects for his brush. Visit the Place Lamartine, where the famous Yellow House once stood—the subject of one of his most recognizable works. Though the original building was destroyed during World War II, standing in this square connects you directly to his creative vision.

The Café de la Gare (now Café de la Nuit) is another essential stop. Van Gogh immortalized this corner café in his painting "Café Terrace at Night," and you can still sit at an outdoor table, order a coffee, and imagine the artist sketching by lamplight. The experience is wonderfully unchanged—the same warm glow, the same sense of quiet evening magic.

Just outside Arles lies the Langlois Bridge, a drawbridge that van Gogh painted multiple times. The original bridge no longer exists, but a replica has been reconstructed nearby, allowing visitors to see the scene much as he did. The surrounding countryside—wheat fields, poplars, and lavender—remains largely unchanged, making it easy to see why he was so captivated.

For a deeper dive into his world, visit the Espace Van Gogh, a former hospital courtyard where van Gogh was treated during his stay in Arles. The courtyard garden has been restored to reflect the paintings he created there, and it's a peaceful, moving space that speaks to both his struggles and his resilience.

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, where van Gogh spent a year in a psychiatric hospital, is another pilgrimage site. The Saint-Paul-de-Mausole monastery still stands, and visitors can see the room where he lived and worked. The surrounding wheat fields and olive groves inspired some of his most celebrated works, including "Starry Night Over the Rhône."

The beauty of visiting van Gogh's Provence is that the landscape itself hasn't fundamentally changed. The light still falls the same way on the wheat fields. The lavender still blooms in summer. The sky still holds that particular shade of blue that van Gogh chased throughout his life. Walking these paths, you're not just visiting a museum—you're stepping into the world that shaped one of history's greatest artists.

Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply drawn to the romance of Provence, retracing van Gogh's footsteps offers a profound connection to both the artist and the land that inspired him. It's a reminder that beauty, when truly seen, can transform everything.

For some inspired reading on van Gogh's life, read Marta Molnar's The Secret of Sunflowers. We read this for our Francophile book club last year and it was well-received. 

Saint Paul de Mausole - Open every day
Full price: 10 €
Child: Free for children under 12