Aix en Provence and Avignon city of Popes Private Tour

Imagine spending a full day exploring two of France’s most captivating cities—Aix-en-Provence and Avignon—without the hassle of public transport or self-driving. For around $1,627 per group up to 8, this 10-hour private tour offers personalized attention, flexible scheduling, and the chance to walk in the footsteps of artists and popes alike. Led by a friendly, knowledgeable guide, this experience promises a well-balanced mix of culture, history, and charming Provençal scenery.

Two things we particularly love about this tour are the opportunity to stroll Aix’s famous fountains at your own pace and follow Cézanne’s footsteps through his beloved hometown. Plus, the visit to Avignon’s Palace of the Popes provides a striking glimpse into medieval ecclesiastical power. One consideration to keep in mind is that entrance fees to the Palace of the Popes are not included, so you’ll need to budget additionally for that. This tour suits travelers who appreciate art, history, and authentic local ambiance, especially those who prefer a private, flexible experience over a large group.

Key Points

Personalized Experience: Private guide and vehicle ensure a tailored day according to your interests.
Cultural Highlights: Discover Aix’s fountains and Cézanne’s stomping grounds, along with the grandeur of Avignon’s Palace of the Popes.
Flexible Schedule: You can modify the itinerary with your guide for a more personalized visit.
Authentic Food Stops: Time for lunch at a local restaurant offers a chance to savor Provençal cuisine.
Comfort & Convenience: Door-to-door pickup and drop-off simplify your day.
Cost Consideration: The price covers transportation and guide, but entrance fees are extra.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Aix-en-Provence: The Heart of Provence

Your day begins with a scenic drive from your accommodation in Aix-en-Provence, a city renowned for its elegant architecture, lively markets, and numerous fountains. As we arrived in the city center, we were immediately struck by the light, which early painters like Cézanne cherished for its clarity and warmth.

Walking through Aix, you’ll see fountains everywhere—more than 20, in fact—each with its own story. Our guide explained that Aix’s numerous fountains are not just decorative but historically important, reflecting the city’s medieval desire to showcase its wealth and sophistication. We loved the way our guide pointed out hidden corners and local haunts that you might miss on your own, making the experience much richer.

What sets Aix apart is its connection to Cézanne. We followed a special route marked by nails with a “C” that leads you from his birthplace to his final resting place in Saint-Jean cemetery. Walking this route, we felt connected to the artist’s life, observing the streets and views that inspired his paintings. Our guide shared stories about Cézanne’s relationship with the city and how the quality of light influenced his work.

Authentic Provençal charm is everywhere—cobblestone streets, outdoor cafes, markets bursting with local produce—and it’s easy to see why artists flocked here. We loved the way our guide brought Cézanne’s story to life, making the city’s artistic heritage accessible and interesting.

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Discovering Avignon: The City of Popes

After a leisurely morning in Aix, we headed to Avignon, a city with a history as a major ecclesiastical hub. The highlight here is undoubtedly the Palace of the Popes, a massive fortress that once housed the papal court during the 14th century. Our guide explained that Avignon’s prominence was due to its strategic location and political importance, making the palace one of Europe’s most significant medieval structures.

Walking through the Palace, it’s easy to be impressed by the sheer scale and grandeur. The rooms, chapels, and courtyards are remarkably intact, giving a sense of the papal court’s former splendor. Although the entrance fee isn’t included, visitors consistently praise the palace as a must-see for history lovers. One reviewer exclaimed, “The Palace of the Popes is truly impressive—some rooms are surprisingly well-preserved, and the views from the ramparts are fantastic.”

No visit to Avignon would be complete without a stop at the famous Pont Saint-Bénezet, or the Pont d’Avignon. This iconic medieval bridge offers postcard-perfect views, and your guide will share tales about its fascinating history, including the legends surrounding the children’s song.

We also enjoyed some free time for lunch at a local restaurant—an excellent chance to sample Provençal specialties like ratatouille, tapenade, or local wines (note that lunch isn’t included in the tour price). Our guide was happy to recommend places based on our preferences, which added a personalized touch.

The Practical Side: What to Expect

This tour operates with a private driver and guide, ensuring a relaxed pace and the ability to customize your day. The transportation is comfortable, and pickup is included from your Aix-en-Provence accommodation, which means no stress about navigating public transport or parking.

The 10-hour duration allows plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed. The itinerary is flexible, so you can spend more time in one city if something piques your interest. The guide’s knowledgeable commentary brings the sites alive, sharing stories and insights that you won’t find in guidebooks.

While the cost includes all transportation and guiding services, keep in mind that entrance fees to places like the Palace of the Popes are not included. Budgeting for this separately is worthwhile, especially if you’re keen to explore the interiors thoroughly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private tour is ideal for art enthusiasts, history buffs, or couples and small groups seeking a personalized experience. If you value expert guidance, local insights, and the flexibility to shape your day, this trip will suit you well.

It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who prefer comfort and convenience over large group tours, and those ready to spend a full day exploring the highlights of Provence without rushing.

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A Closer Look at the Itinerary

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Morning in Aix-en-Provence

The tour begins in Aix, where we loved the way our guide navigated us through the city’s charming streets, pointing out famous fountains and sharing anecdotes about Aix’s artistic history. The fountains—each with its own character—are scattered throughout the city, and your guide’s stories add context to their significance.

Walking in Cézanne’s footsteps was a highlight. The route marked with nails gives a tangible sense of the artist’s world, connecting his birthplace with his final resting place. The guide shared fascinating insights into how Cézanne’s love of light and color was influenced by Aix’s unique atmosphere.

Lunch Break & Free Time

You’ll have time to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant—a great way to sample Provençal cuisine. Your guide can suggest options based on your preferences, whether you’re after a casual café or a more refined meal.

Afternoon in Avignon

Post-lunch, we drove to Avignon, where the Palace of the Popes dominates the skyline. The interior is expansive, with grand halls and chapels that tell stories of medieval power struggles and religious influence. The palace’s massive stone walls and intricate interiors are striking, and the panoramic views from the ramparts offer a glimpse of the Rhône River and the surrounding countryside.

We also visited the Pont Saint-Bénezet, which, despite being only a fragment of its original length, remains a symbol of the city’s resilience and history. Our guide shared local legends and stories that made the bridge come alive beyond its picturesque appearance.

End of Day & Return

At the end of the day, your guide will drop you back at your accommodation or a location of your choosing, making the experience seamless and comfortable.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

If you’re looking for a well-rounded, private day trip that combines art, history, and authentic Provençal scenery, this tour delivers. The knowledgeable guides and flexible schedule make it a standout choice, especially for travelers who prefer a personalized experience over large guided groups.

While the cost might seem high, the value lies in the convenience, expert insights, and the opportunity to customize your day. For us, it was a rare chance to explore two beautiful cities with ease, learning stories and details that really brought the sites to life.

This tour is best suited for small groups or couples who appreciate cultural depth and comfort. If you’re eager to see Aix and Avignon without the stress of planning every detail, this private tour offers a fantastic balance of structure and flexibility.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, your private driver and vehicle are included for the entire day, making travel between sites smooth and comfortable.

Can the itinerary be customized?
Absolutely. The guide is happy to modify the plan based on your interests, whether you want more time in Aix, less in Avignon, or specific sites.

How much does the entrance to the Palace of the Popes cost?
Entrance fees are not included in the tour price, so you will need to budget separately for access to the palace.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is at your own expense, but your guide can recommend local restaurants to try Provençal dishes.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak French, English, Spanish, Portuguese, and German, ensuring a wide range of language options.

How long is the drive between Aix and Avignon?
The drive takes approximately 1 hour, allowing plenty of time for sightseeing and breaks.

Can I book this tour for a specific start time?
Yes, availability varies, so it’s best to check directly with the provider for specific starting times.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes, the flexible pace and private transport make it suitable for all ages, though walking needs to be comfortable for some.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind in planning.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made through GetYourGuide, with the option to reserve now and pay later for added flexibility.

This private tour of Aix-en-Provence and Avignon offers a well-balanced blend of art, history, and Provençal charm. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, the personalized touch and expert guides make for an engaging and memorable day in southern France.