Atelier de Cézanne, Aix en Provence
Arts Venue and Historic Building in Aix en Provence
Nestled on a hill just north of the city, the Atelier Cézanne is one of the top attractions in Aix-en-Provence for anyone inspired by art, history, or creativity. Built in 1902, this modest stone house was designed by Cézanne himself as a haven for painting, away from the distractions of city life. Here, he found the light and solitude he needed to create many of his most iconic works.
Stepping into the studio feels like entering Cézanne's world. The space is preserved exactly as he left it - his coat still hangs on the hook, his paint-stained palettes rest beside the easel, and the same north-facing window continues to bathe the room in soft Provençal light. A visit here offers not only an intimate look at the artist's life but also a powerful sense of his creative process. It's a highlight of any walking tour of Aix, allowing visitors to experience the place where modern art was born.
History and Significance of Atelier Cézanne
Paul Cézanne, often called the father of modern art, spent much of his life in Aix-en-Provence. Although he worked in several studios throughout his career, the one he built in 1902 on the Lauves hill became his most personal and productive space. The studio's location, 750 meters north of the Saint-Sauveur Cathedral, offered sweeping views of Montagne Sainte-Victoire - the mountain that inspired countless paintings.
Within this tranquil retreat, Cézanne completed masterpieces such as Les Grandes Baigneuses and Le Jardinier Vallier, along with many of his still lifes. After his death in 1906, the house was preserved by admirers and eventually opened to the public, maintaining its original furnishings and atmosphere. Today, the Atelier Cézanne serves as both a memorial and a museum, providing an authentic glimpse into the artist's daily routine and the environment that shaped his vision.
Things to See and Do in Atelier Cézanne
Visitors can wander through the studio where Cézanne painted, surrounded by his personal belongings and tools. The objects he used as models - bottles, jugs, skulls, and fruit - remain carefully arranged, as though awaiting his return. The room’s simplicity and quiet evoke the artist’s disciplined focus and reverence for form.
Beyond the studio, the garden surrounding the house offers a peaceful escape filled with pine trees and stone paths leading to views of Aix. Temporary exhibitions, art workshops, and talks are often held here, connecting Cézanne’s legacy with contemporary artists. This spot is one of the best places to see in Aix-en-Provence if you want to feel the intimate connection between landscape, light, and artistic inspiration that defined his work.
How to Get There
The Atelier Cézanne is located at 9 Avenue Paul Cézanne, just north of the city center. It's about a 20-minute walk from the old town or a short taxi ride from the main station. The nearest train station is Gare SNCF d’Aix-en-Provence. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place. For those arriving by car, nearby parking is available at Rotonde or Pasteur Car Park. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you. Bus lines also connect the city center to the Lauves district.
Practical Tips on Visiting Atelier Cézanne
- Best time to visit Atelier Cézanne: Spring or autumn for mild weather and fewer crowds.
- Entrance fee in Euros: Around €6.50 for adults; discounts for students and children.
- Opening hours: Daily from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (closed on certain holidays).
- Official website: www.cezanne-en-provence.com
- How long to spend: 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- Accessibility: Limited; access involves a short uphill walk.
- Facilities: Gift shop, garden, and restrooms available on site.
- Photography tip: Capture the studio’s light through the large window or focus on the still life table for an artistic composition.
- Guided tours: Offered in French and English, detailing Cézanne’s daily routine and influence.
- Nearby food options: Cafés and bakeries near Rue Gaston-de-Saporta in the old town.
Is Atelier Cézanne Worth Visiting?
Yes, the Atelier Cézanne is one of the must-see places in Aix-en-Provence, especially for lovers of art and culture. It's more than just a museum - it's an intimate, living space that reveals the solitude, discipline, and inspiration behind Cézanne's genius. Even without his original paintings, the atmosphere alone captures the essence of his artistry and enduring connection to Aix.
What Other Travellers Say...
Field of the Painters at 49 Av. Paul Cézanne in Aix-en-Provence is a quiet hilltop spot praised for its calming atmosphere and sweeping views of Mont Sainte-Victoire — the scene Cézanne painted many times; visitors note copies of his works displayed there, recommend coming in the afternoon for the best light, and say it’s easily reached by bus (lines 5 or 12), making it a must-see slightly off the main tourist route.
FAQs for Visiting
Nearby Attractions to Atelier Cézanne
- Musée Granet - Aix's major art museum featuring works by Cézanne, Ingres, and Picasso.
- Fondation Vasarely - A striking museum dedicated to optical art and modern design.
- Cours Mirabeau - The city's famous tree-lined boulevard filled with cafés and shops.
- Saint-Sauveur Cathedral - A mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture near the old town.
- Terrain des Peintres - A scenic park offering panoramic views of Montagne Sainte-Victoire, where Cézanne often painted.
The Atelier de Cézanne appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Aix en Provence!
Moira & Andy
Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!
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Planning Your Visit
Nearby Attractions
- Terrain des Peintres (0.7) km
Park - Cathedrale Saint-Sauveur (0.7) km
Cathedral - Musee des Tapisserie (0.8) km
Museum - Musée du Vieil-Aix (0.8) km
Historic Building, Historic Site and Museum - Pavillon de Vendome (0.9) km
Historic Building - Tour de l’Horloge (0.9) km
Tower - Place de l'Hôtel de Ville (1.0) km
Town Hall - Town Hall of Aix-en-Provence (1.0) km
Historic Building, Square and Town Hall - Halle aux Grains (1.0) km
Historic Building - Place des Trois Ormeaux (1.0) km
Area, Square and Walk
