Field Of The Painters In Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is one of the places we stayed at during our month trip around France. It is a city of students, a university city that is located in the south of France. This city is well-known to those who are familiar with the famous painter Paul Cezanne. Paul Cezanne is a Post-Impressionist painter who was born in Aix-en-Provence and who was so inspired by the beauty of the countryside that surrounded the area. This area often became the subjects of his paintings. Especially the limestone mountain Sainte Victoire. The place that is called now Field of the Painters was one of Cezanne’s favourite spots to work on the paintings of mountain Sainte Victoire.

Of course, on arrival to Aix-en-Provence the first thing we wanted to see beside the city was the Field of the Painters. There are few ways to get to this spot from the center of the city.

Walking

The walk from the center of Aix-en-Provence takes about 30 minutes up a hill. That is the way we chose to get to the field of the painters, and I have to say that it is not that easy. We chose a beautiful sunny day to get to Cezanne’s favourite spot and because it was the middle of September the day was really hot. I made a big mistake and didn’t bring any summer hat same with Cody, so if you are going to walk to the Field of Painters in similar weather, you need to bring a hat, wear a comfortable shoes and comfortable clothes, preferably that covers your shoulders (I got sun burns on mine), and bring a big bottle of water with you.

Driving

If you are traveling in Aix-en-Provence on a car then you can drive there. Although I must say from what I saw, it is difficult to park. Another tip for those who will drive to the Field of the Painters, do not go up the small narrow street that leads directly to the park. There is no space to park or even turn your car. So just leave it on the Avenue Paul Cezanne and walk up the lane a hundred meters.

Bus

I know that from the avenue Victor Hugo you can take bus number 5 to get close to the Field of Painters. Although Cody and I didn’t use that option and I am not sure where exactly the bus drops you off.

About the Field of the Painters

The Field of the Painters is a small park with cute trees and flowers and a few benches surrounded with displayed paintings by Paul Cezanne. Although the park doesn’t look very special, the view of the mountain Sainte Victoire is amazing. This beautiful landscape just took my breath away, even after we came home, I was looking at the pictures on my phone and couldn’t believe that it is a real place and wasn’t painted.

Field Of The Painters In Aix-en-Provence

We spent around 40 minutes in the park just relaxing, enjoying the view and compering the paintings of the famous artist and the landscape. It was interesting to notice how over time not a lot of things changed here and the place still makes you appreciate the beauty of the nature. We were also very fortunate that their were no other tourists the entire time. It was so tranquil just sitting on the benches and looking at the view.

On the way back you can visit a small studio of the famous artist. It is located just 10 minutes’ walk from the park. The studio contains the original furniture and Paul Cezanne’s work tools. The studio is very small with just one room, nevertheless it is a super interesting place to visit and see all the models and tools of the famous artist. Here you can feel the presence of Cezanne and imagine his day to day life and work.

You can buy a ticket at the entrance of Cezanne’s studio, or book online for a scheduled visit. The English tour takes about 30. The tour is very informative, and the tour guide is very knowledgeable, always happy to answer your questions.

Take A Day Trip

If you are not staying in Aix-en-Provence but want to visit the Field of the Painters, you can easily make a day trip from Marseille using the train. While we enjoyed staying in this relaxing city, I understand that some people prefer to be more active every day of their vacations.

Location: 49 Avenue Paul Cézanne, 13100 Aix-en-Provence, France