Cezanne's Aix en Provence

This full day Toulon shore trip visits the city of Aix en Provence where you enjoy a driving tour and a visit to the old town. The town is the birthplace of the painter Paul Cezanne. Your tour includes visits to the Musee Granet and Cezanne's studio.

After meeting your guide at the pier in Toulon, you depart for Aix-en-Provence, where Cezanne was born on January 19, 1839. Upon arrival, you enjoy a driving tour of the city center including the Cours Mirabeau, a tree lined street well known for its fountains and cafes. You then pass through the Quartier Mazarin, with its 17th century chessboard pattern and aristocratic townhouses with Baroque facades and carved wooden doors.

Much of the old town, or Vieil Aix, is pedestrian only and you will walk through it. The labyrinth of narrow streets leads you to the 17th century Town Hall, the Archbishop's Palace, and St. Sauveur Cathedral with its Romanesque cloister. In 1852, Cezanne enrolled at the Aix College Bourbon, where he formed a lifelong friendship with the future novelist Emile Zola, part of a trio of childhood friends later known as Les Trois Inseparables.

While you are in Aix en Provence, you have free time for lunch (meal not included) in one of the popular cafes along Cours Mirabeau.

Cezanne's work altered the course of painting in the 20th century, anticipating Cubism, Fauvism, and abstract art, and transformed how the world saw Provence. This afternoon you visit the Musee Granet, where Cezanne's paintings are displayed. You will then be driven to Cezanne's studio, a traditional Provencal house set in a garden. Purchased by the painter in 1901, this is where he spent the end of his life. Now a museum, it displays the furniture and objects he used in his still-life paintings. Time permitting, you can enjoy a coffee and calisson (not included), one of Provence's classic sweets, at the cafe where Cezanne used to meet his friends.

After your time in Aix en Provence you return to the pier in Toulon.

Mobility: NO wheelchairs

If you cannot find what you are looking for, our Toulon tours and Toulon shore excursions can also be customized to fit your needs. If you have a larger group, we can offer you a private Toulon shore trip using a mid-size bus or full size coach. Please contact us with any questions or to receive a customized quote.

• Mobility: Due to uneven surfaces, steps, and walking distances, this itinerary is not suitable for guests using wheelchairs. Please contact us for alternative sightseeing options, including private driving tours that may better accommodate your needs.