Vincent van Gogh wasn’t just an artist—he was a traveler, a seeker of light, color, and emotion. His journey through Europe is not just a story of artistic growth, but a trail that modern-day art lovers can still follow. From his Dutch roots to the golden fields of southern France, every location added a layer to his legacy.
If you’re a fan of Van Gogh’s work and dream of walking in his footsteps, this guide will take you through the most significant European places where his artistic spirit still lingers. Whether you’re planning an art-filled vacation or simply curious about the man behind the masterpieces, here’s where to go and what to see on Van Gogh’s artistic trail.
1. Zundert, Netherlands – Where His Story Begins
Van Gogh was born in Zundert in 1853. This small Dutch village was his first window into the rural landscapes and simple lifestyles that would later appear in his work.
- Visit the Van Gogh House (Van GoghHuis) – a museum and cultural center dedicated to his early life
- Explore the garden and surroundings that inspired his love for nature
- Great for: Quiet reflection and historical context
2. Nuenen, Netherlands – The Peasant Painter
Van Gogh lived in Nuenen from 1883–1885. It’s here he fully embraced the life of a painter and produced his first masterpiece, The Potato Eaters.
- Visit the Van Gogh Village Museum
- Walk the Van Gogh cycling route, featuring 20+ locations from his time here
- See the Old Church, where his father preached and which he painted
- Great for: Fans of his early, darker-toned works
3. Antwerp, Belgium – Short but Pivotal
Van Gogh moved briefly to Antwerp in 1885, studying at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts. Though his stay was short, it deepened his understanding of classical painting and anatomy.
- Visit the Royal Academy and Cathedral of Our Lady, home to paintings he admired
- Enjoy Antwerp’s rich Flemish art history
- Great for: Understanding Van Gogh’s artistic discipline
4. Paris, France – Explosion of Color and Influence
From 1886 to 1888, Van Gogh lived in Paris, a city teeming with creative energy. He met the Impressionists, embraced new styles, and began using vibrant colors.
- Explore Montmartre, where he painted windmills and gardens
- Visit the Musée d’Orsay and Musée de l’Orangerie to see Impressionist influence
- Find the Rue Lepic building he lived in with his brother Theo
- Great for: Colorful cityscapes and Impressionist evolution
5. Arles, France – The Yellow Period
Van Gogh’s most prolific period was in Arles, where he created over 300 artworks in just 15 months.
- Visit the Yellow House site (though destroyed, it’s commemorated)
- Sit at the Café Van Gogh—the real-life setting of Café Terrace at Night
- Explore the Langlois Bridge, fields, and gardens he painted
- Don’t miss the Fondation Vincent van Gogh Arles, a museum of works by and inspired by Van Gogh
- Great for: Golden landscapes and immersive settings
6. Saint-Rémy-de-Provence – Art in Isolation
In 1889, Van Gogh voluntarily entered the Saint-Paul-de-Mausole asylum near Saint-Rémy. Despite his mental health challenges, he painted masterpieces like The Starry Night, Irises, and Wheat Field with Cypresses.
- Visit the actual asylum, preserved with a replica of his room
- Walk the tranquil gardens and olive groves he painted
- Explore the Alpilles mountains, visible in many works
- Great for: Emotional, expressive landscapes
7. Auvers-sur-Oise – Final Days and Farewell Works
Van Gogh spent the last two months of his life in Auvers-sur-Oise, under the care of Dr. Gachet. During this short but intense time, he created some of his most haunting and beautiful works.
- Visit the Auberge Ravoux, where he lived and died
- Walk to the Church of Auvers and surrounding wheatfields
- See his grave, next to his brother Theo, at the Auvers cemetery
- Great for: Poignant closure to a remarkable journey
Bonus Stops for the Van Gogh Trail
If you have time and wanderlust, these bonus stops are worth adding to your Van Gogh itinerary:
- Etten-Leur, Netherlands: Where he lived briefly and decided to become a painter
- The Kröller-Müller Museum (Otterlo, Netherlands): Home to the second-largest Van Gogh collection
- Amsterdam, Netherlands: The world-famous Van Gogh Museum with over 200 paintings and 500 drawings
Travel Tips for Following Van Gogh’s Trail
- Best Time to Go: Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer crowds
- Passes: In France, look for regional museum passes for Arles and Saint-Rémy
- Transport: Trains connect Paris, Arles, and Auvers easily. For Dutch sites, rent a bike—it’s the Van Gogh way
- Guided Tours: Many local tours are available at each site with audio guides and maps
Conclusion
Van Gogh’s artistic trail across Europe is more than a journey—it’s a soulful experience. Each town tells a part of his story, from humble beginnings and self-doubt to an outpouring of creative genius. Walking the streets he walked, seeing the views he painted, and stepping inside the rooms where he lived connects us not just to the art—but to the man behind the brush.
Whether you start in Zundert or end in Auvers-sur-Oise, Van Gogh’s journey is a powerful reminder that even in life’s most turbulent moments, beauty can flourish. Plan your trip, pack your sketchbook, and follow the colors of Van Gogh’s legacy through Europe.
FAQs
Can I visit Van Gogh’s actual room?
Yes, you can visit a replica of Van Gogh’s room at the Saint-Paul-de-Mausole asylum in Saint-Rémy, beautifully preserved for visitors.
Where is Van Gogh buried?
Van Gogh is buried next to his brother Theo in the cemetery at Auvers-sur-Oise.
Is the Yellow House in Arles still standing?
The original Yellow House was destroyed during WWII, but the site is commemorated and marked for visitors.
Which city holds the most Van Gogh paintings?
The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam holds the largest collection, including many of his most famous works.
Can I do a self-guided Van Gogh tour?
Absolutely. Each town offers maps, plaques, or digital guides to walk or cycle the same routes Van Gogh once did.
