Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer trip planner

Engulfed in the Provençal culture, Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer has many literary, artistic, and musical references from master artists due to its location where the Rhône meets the Mediterranean and as the pilgrimage destination for Romany people, sometimes called gypsies. Bob Dylan wrote songs in the town during his visits, and Vincent van Gogh painted "Street in Saintes-Maries" here in 1888. Located in the Bouches-du-Rhône department at the Rhône delta about 1 km (0.6 mi) east of the mouth of the Petit Rhône distributary, a windy man-made canal called simply "The Canal" is a great place to windsurf or sail, It has been the setting of the last three sailing speed world records. Although the city has a small population under 2,500, over 50,000 tourists visit every summer making it a busy tourist destination. You can take in the wild beauty of the area by walking the narrow historic streets, watch the herds of legendary black bulls and white horses, or explore on horseback. Take a look at our France itinerary planning website to refine the details of your trip to Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer.