Aix-En-Provence Private Tour – Art/History and Gastronomy

Aix-en-Provence, a picturesque city in the south of France, beckons travelers with its rich art, history, and tantalizing gastronomy. A private 3-hour tour promises an immersive experience, led by an expert art historian. From strolling the iconic Cours Mirabeau to discovering the roots of modern art, this personalized journey offers a unique opportunity to uncover the city’s captivating charms. But the true delight lies in the light tastings of local produce within an 18th-century mansion, where the influences that shaped renowned artist Paul Cézanne come to life.

Key Points

• A 3-hour private tour of Aix-en-Provence focused on art, history, and local gastronomy, priced from Kč 3,757 per person with free cancellation.
• Highlights include visits to Cours Mirabeau, Sainte-Victoire Mountain, and Fontaine de la Rotonde, with a break at a private 18th-century mansion to savor local produce.
• Led by an experienced art historian, the tour provides in-depth knowledge of the local history and culture, and personalized recommendations for shops, restaurants, and activities.
• The tour involves walking through steep or cobbled streets and is not suitable for wheelchair users, but accommodations can be made for guests with mobility concerns.
• The tour offers insights into the roots of modern art and the influences that inspired Paul Cézanne throughout the Aix-en-Provence experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This private tour of Aix-en-Provence offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s art, history, and gastronomy.

The 3-hour tour is priced from Kč 3,757 per person, with a free cancellation option up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve now and pay later.

Priced from Kč 3,757 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve now and pay later.

The tour starts at the Institut d’Etudes Politiques and includes visits to iconic sites like the Cours Mirabeau, Sainte-Victoire Mountain, and Fontaine de la Rotonde.

Participants will also enjoy a break at a private 18th-century mansion.

The tour is led by an experienced art historian, providing in-depth knowledge and opportunities to sample local produce.

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour starts at the Institut d’Etudes Politiques, where guests embark on an exploration of Aix-en-Provence’s iconic landmarks.

Key stops include the picturesque Cours Mirabeau, the stunning Sainte-Victoire Mountain, and the charming Fontaine de la Rotonde.

Along the way, guests discover the city’s rich history and its roots in modern art. They visit significant sites like the cathedral Saint-Sauveur and enjoy the influences that inspired Paul Cézanne.

The tour also includes a break at an early 18th-century private mansion, allowing guests to savor local produce and gain deeper insights into the city’s culture.

Guided Experience

Led by an experienced art historian (MA and PhD candidate) specializing in Old Masters and 19th-century European art, the guided experience provides an in-depth knowledge of Aix-en-Provence’s local history and culture.

Guests have the opportunity to taste local produce like olives and sweets during the tour, giving them a chance to enjoy the region’s culinary offerings.

The guide offers personalized recommendations for shops, restaurants, and activities in Aix-en-Provence, ensuring visitors make the most of their time in the city.

The guided experience is tailored to each group’s interests, providing a flexible and enriching exploration of the historic city.

Tour Details and Accessibility

Although the tour involves walking through steep or cobbled streets, it isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 95 years old.

Comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended, and sunscreen is advised for the outdoor walking portions.

While the tour visits sites from the exterior, interior visits are subject to availability.

The food tastings during the tour are light and not intended to replace meals.

Guests with mobility concerns should contact the guide before the tour to discuss any accommodations or modifications that may be needed.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploring the Cours Mirabeau

After ensuring the tour is accessible for guests, the group makes its way to the iconic Cours Mirabeau, the lively central avenue of Aix-en-Provence.

Lined with plane trees, the wide boulevard features fountains, cafés, and 17th-century townhouses. The guide points out architectural details and explains the avenue’s historical significance as a hub for commerce and social activity.

Guests marvel at the ornamental fountains, including the Rotonde Fountain with its sculpted figures.

Visitors are awestruck by the ornate fountains, particularly the Rotonde Fountain with its sculptural embellishments.

Along the way, the guide shares insights into the influences of this quintessential Provençal street on the artworks of renowned painter Paul Cézanne.

Discovering Sainte-Victoire Mountain

From the lively Cours Mirabeau, the tour group then makes its way towards the majestic Sainte-Victoire Mountain, a prominent landmark that has long captivated artists and philosophers alike.

This massif, rising dramatically from the surrounding landscape, was a frequent subject of Paul Cézanne’s paintings, its distinct silhouette inspiring the father of modern art.

The guide shares insights into Cézanne’s fascination with the mountain, highlighting how he captured its ever-changing light and form across numerous canvases.

Visitors have the opportunity to admire the mountain’s striking presence and learn about its cultural significance in the region.

Visiting the Fontaine De La Rotonde

Next, the tour group makes its way to the iconic Fontaine de la Rotonde, a magnificent 18th-century fountain that serves as the centerpiece of Aix-en-Provence’s vibrant Cours Mirabeau.

The guide explains the fountain’s striking neoclassical architecture, including its three-tiered design and statues representing the four seasons.

Visitors admire the intricate carvings and flowing water, taking in the lively atmosphere of the surrounding plaza.

The guide shares insights into the fountain’s historical significance and role as a gathering place for locals and travelers alike.

The Fontaine de la Rotonde serves as a significant gathering place, offering insights into Aix-en-Provence’s cultural heritage.

This iconic landmark offers a picturesque glimpse into Aix-en-Provence’s rich cultural heritage.

Discovering the Roots of Modern Art

As the tour continues, the guide leads the group to explore the roots of modern art in Aix-en-Provence.

The group visits sites that influenced the work of renowned artist Paul Cézanne, known as the "father of modern art." They examine the cathedral Saint-Sauveur, where Cézanne’s fascination with light and color began.

The tour then moves to the Fontaine de la Rotonde, a site that inspired Cézanne’s iconic paintings of the Sainte-Victoire Mountain.

Throughout the experience, the guide provides insights into Cézanne’s techniques and how his work paved the way for the Impressionist and Post-Impressionist movements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour to Focus on Specific Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to focus on specific interests. The guide will work with you to tailor the itinerary and highlights based on your preferences for art, history, or gastronomy.

What Dining Options Are Available During the Tour Breaks?

The tour includes a break at an early 18th-century private mansion, where guests can sample local produce like olives and sweets. However, the food tastings are light and not intended to replace a full meal.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended if needed. Customers can discuss this option with the guide during the tour to accommodate any additional requests or interests within the allotted time frame.

Can the Tour Be Booked for a Group of More Than 10 People?

The tour can accommodate groups larger than 10 people. The price may vary depending on the group size, and the guide can work with larger groups to provide a personalized experience. Clients should contact the tour operator for availability and pricing.

What Are the Photography Policies During the Tour?

The photography policy during the tour is generally permissive, though visitors should be mindful of not disrupting the guide’s commentary or blocking others’ views. Photography is allowed at most sites, but may be restricted in certain private venues.

Recap

This private tour of Aix-en-Provence offers a captivating blend of art, history, and gastronomy. Visitors can explore the city’s iconic landmarks, discover the influences that shaped renowned artist Paul Cézanne, and savor local delicacies in a historic mansion. The personalized journey promises a unique and insightful experience tailored to individual interests, providing a comprehensive exploration of Aix-en-Provence’s rich cultural heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here: