Aix en Provence is considered by many to be the South's cultural and artistic centre, thanks to its ancient university and its inherent connection to the artist Paul Cezanne.
Aix-en-Provence
Characterful city, famous for Cezanne and International Festivals
Aix is one of the most bustling places you can visit in rural Provence. Thanks to its university, art schools and international festivals, the city is busy throughout the year. It's a relatively small city (population 355,000), best explored on foot over several days. The old town is the heart of the city - the famous Cours Mirabeau is the main street and is one of France's most beautiful streets, with ornate fountains, pavement cafés and grand buildings.
The old town of Aix is a delight to wander around, with a range of architectural styles to admire. A warren of tiny alleyways open up into charming squares, suitably adorned with statues and bubbling fountains. You will find shops, cafés and restaurants throughout the centre, along with historical sites and museums.
To the south of the medieval centre lies the Quartier Mazarin, which was created by 17th century high society and is now home to grand houses and museums.
Aix has some of the best shopping to be had in the South of France, with designer boutiques, interior stores, antique shops and markets aplenty. Indeed, every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday (08:00 - 13:00), the whole of the city centre becomes one giant market. From the Cours Mirabeau (local produce and textiles), to Place des Precheurs and Place de la Madeleine (fruit and vegetables), the Town Hall (flower market) and Place de Verdun (antiques and bric-a-brac, arts and crafts), you will be sure to find something to consume or to take away as a memento. Of course, if shopping is not your thing, take advantage of the crowds that have gone shopping on these days and go to some of the museums instead. For high street shopping, head to Les Allees Provencal, a shopping centre at the lower end of Cours Mirabeau where you will find plenty of chains to browse in.
The tourist office offers guided tours of the city throughout the year in both French and English. Special tourist passes are also available from the tourist office if you're planning a sight seeing frenzy - the pass allows free entry into the main sights and museums in Aix and discounts in some restaurants and shops. Free bus travel in the Aix region is also included.
Aix is a great centre to base yourself if you want to explore some more of Provence. The Luberon, with its beautiful countryside and idyllic hilltop villages is around a 40-minute drive north. Marseille and the coast, Avignon and Arles are all about an hour's drive away.
Watch this
Events in Aix-en-Provence
Aix hosts a number of cultural festivals during the year, most notably the Festival International d'Art Lyrique which brings some of the best opera stars in the world to Aix every July. As a warm up for this main festival, there is also now a Festival Aix en Juin, where there are daily concerts, recitals and entertainments in the streets of Aix throughout June.
In addition, there are markets held throughout the week, every week in the centre of Aix. The main days (08:00 - 13:00) are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Look out for special markets of crafts, pottery and artisans during the summer months.
Events in Aix-en-Provence
See all Events in Aix-en-Provence-
Beaujolais Nouveau 
Beaujolais Nouveau
The new Beaujolais has arrived!
The third Thursday in November is when this year's Beaujolais hits the shelves and is cause for celebration across France.
-
Visit website 
Fête de la Musique
Music festival celebrated across France on the summer solstice
The Fête de la Musique is a celebration that takes place every summer solstice on 21 June in cities, towns and villages across France.
History & Culture in Aix-en-Provence
The Romans were the first to be attracted by the area's natural warm springs and Aix became a garrison town in 122 BC. A cathedral was added in the 5th century and the university was founded in the early 15th century.
As Aix's intellectual centre grew, so merchants were attracted to the town and began to settle, building grand mansions both in the town and on the surrounding hillsides. Aix did not participate in the industrial revolution and as a result, lost it's place amongst the French elite. It was not until the mid 20th century that the town began to thrive economically again. Today, the university continues to bring intellectuals and high-tech companies to the area.
Sights & Attractions in Aix-en-Provence
Despite being the birthplace of Cezanne, only a small number of his paintings are on display in Aix. The Musee Granet holds a small number of his paintings but Cezanne fans should make their way to Cezanne's studio, the Atelier Cezanne to discover more about the artist. You can also visit his family home, Jas de Bouffan, and explore the wonderful countryside around the Sainte Victoire mountain, which inspired so many of his paintings.
The Granet Musuem offers not just a collection of Cezanne paintings, but also Renoir, Van Gogh and Degas from the post-impressionists, to major 20th century artists such as Picasso, Klee, Dubuffet and Braque. The wonderful optical art of Victor Vasarely is on show at the Vasarely Foundation, just outside the city centre.
The Caumont Art Centre is situated in a beautiful 18th century mansion and hosts exhibitions of major masters and contemporary artists. Another 18th century mansion open to the public is the Vendome Pavillion and its formal gardens. This 'pleasure house' contains original furnishings, paintings and objets d'art from the 17th and 18th centuries.
There are plenty of vineyards in the area surrounding Aix. The majority of wines produced here, as with much of Provence, are rosé. There are actually five apellations in the region, the main one being AOP Coteaux d'Aix en Provence. The Cotes de Provence Saint Victoire creates a specific style of wine thanks to its limestone soil and climatic conditions. Make sure you stop by a few of the vineyards to taste for yourself.
You can buy a City Pass to visit 12 major attractions in Aix for either 24, 48 or 72 hours. Don't spend time queuing and paying separately!
Sights in Aix-en-Provence
See all Sights in Aix-en-Provence-
Visit website 
Museum d'Histoire Naturelle
Great collection of dinosaurs and plant fossils
The Muséum d'Aix was founded in 1838 by Henri Coquand, geologist ; it is one of the oldest in Provence.
-
Visit website 
Musee Granet
Fine art gallery showing European paintings & sculpture
This is Aix's fine art gallery, housed in the 17th century Palais de Malte. The collections includes works by a variety of European painters, including two by Rubens and a small selection of Paul Cezanne.
-
Carriere de Bibemus 
Carriere de Bibemus
The quarry that inspired Cezanne in many of his paintings
An old quarry, the Carrieres de Bibemus lies on the western slopes of Montagne St Victoire and is a place that inspired Paul Cezanne through out his life.
-
Visit website 
Calisson Museum
Take a visit to the place where they make Provence's most famous confectionery - Calissons
Located not far from Aix centre, this museum and shop explains a little about the history of how this unusual sweet is made.
-
Visit website 
Site Memorial des Milles
Factory used as a prison during World War II, now a museum
At the beginning of World War II, France interned all Austrian and German nationals who were living in France at the time, and Les Milles was the prison for the south eastern region.
-
Visit website 
Wildlife Art Gallery, Aix en Provence
Painter & sculptor Aurélien Raynaud collection of wildlife inspired art
Aurélien Raynaud displays his unique gift in capturing the wonderful wildlife kingdom in a range of artforms.
Dining in Aix-en-Provence
You will be spoiled for choice when it comes to eating out in Aix. The town centre is filled with restaurants, most with outdoor terraces or patios which creates a wonderfully vibrant atmosphere for dining.
Restaurants in Aix-en-Provence
See all Restaurants in Aix-en-Provence-
Visit website 
Mickael Feval Restaurant
Fine dining restaurant with 1 Michelin star
This elegant restaurant is a must-visit for any lovers of modern cuisine and cooking methods. They embrace local produce and evolve their dishes according to the seasons.
-
Enquire 
Le Art Restaurant
Michelin-starred restaurant in a charming chateau
Located inside the luxury Chateau de la Gaude, this Michelin-starred restaurant serves the elaborate cuisine of chef Matthieu Dupuis-Baumal.
-
Enquire 
Villa Gallici Restaurant, Aix en Provence
Provencal cuisine in a beautiful setting overlooking the hotel grounds
A quiet atmosphere, beautiful grounds and wonderful flavours can be found at Villa Gallici Restaurant. Part of the 5 star Villa Gallici hotel you can indulge in lunch or dinner at this top quality restaurant.
-
Enquire 
Le Comptoir du Clos
The sophisticated restaurant located at the Renaissance Hotel
Open daily, the Clos du Comptoir offers a sophisticated atmosphere for lunch and dinner in the same setting.
-
Enquire 
Book in Bar
Fabulous book store with English books and a selection of teas
A quirky library of international literature and a great spot for a cup of tea, coffee, smoothie accompanied with muffins or cookies.
-
Le Pain Quotidien, Aix en Provence 
Le Pain Quotidien, Aix en Provence
Enjoy the courtyard space & cafe treats in the centre of the old town
Le Pain Quotidien is an international chain of delis and cafes across europe. Serving breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner and snacks soups and hot food.
Nightlife in Aix-en-Provence
As you may expect of a University town, Aix has a thriving nightlife scene. The city centre has many bars and pavement cafes, bistros and restaurants. There are also half a dozen nightclubs and a late night casino. And of course, don't forget about the many festivals that take place throughout the year.
Bars & Clubs in Aix-en-Provence
See all Bars & Clubs in Aix-en-Provence-
Le Scat Nightclub 
Le Scat Nightclub
Jazz club in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, live music & a great atmosphere
The Scat Club plays live music every night, and not just jazz the club plays pop, rock, funk and R'n'B.
-
Le Cardeur Bacchus Bar 
Le Cardeur Bacchus Bar
A bar & restaurant in the centre of Aix
This small bar has a nice seating area outside next to one of Aix's many fountains and it catches the sun late into the evening.
-
Enquire 
Mistral Nighclub
Trendy club in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, international DJ's & acts
The Mistral is Aix-en-Provence's answer to those looking for a trendy night out listening to the latest DJ's.
Things to do in Aix-en-Provence
One of the main attractions just on the outskirts of the city is the nature reserve of Mont Sainte Victoire. This beautiful area is full of hiking and biking paths to explore, as well as hidden chapels and caves. It's easy to see why it inspired much of Cezanne's work. Check out our review and photos of a hike up Mont Saint Victoire...or if you prefer to be in the comfort of a car then you can get a feel for the area by touring it with the A/C on!
Things To Do in Aix-en-Provence
See all Things To Do in Aix-en-Provence-
Enquire 
Set Golf Course
18-hole golf course close to Aix
Set in the beautiful wooded countryside, this 18-hole golf course was designed by American architect Ronald Fream. The club incorporates the David Leadbetter Academy that offers lessons to suit players of all levels.
-
Enquire 
Aix Golf Course
6-hole course, driving range & putting green only five minutes from Aix
Open to all, this small golf club offers a clubhouse, restaurant, driving range, putting green and 6 holes. It is home to an academy that offers lessons at all levels.
-
Enquire 
Indian Forest
Tree top adventures near the heart of Aix-en-Provence
An exciting path through the forest...but not on the ground! This tree top adventure will have you swinging from the branches and enjoying the sights and sounds of nature.
-
Gardanne Swimming Pool, nr Aix-en-Provence 
Gardanne Swimming Pool, nr Aix-en-Provence
Municipal outdoor swimming pool
Just to the south of Aix is the town of Gardanne. They open an outdoor swimming pool in the summer, with a 50m pool, baby pool, slides, playgrounds and a relaxation area.
-
Le Train Touristique d'Aix-en-Provence 
Le Train Touristique d'Aix-en-Provence
A delightful way to explore the charming city of Aix-en-Provence
Just an hour long ride through the city of Aix, learning about its history and a good introduction to this beautiful area.
-
Sainte-Victoire Aquatic Centre, Venelles 
Sainte-Victoire Aquatic Centre, Venelles
Aquatic centre with indoor & outdoor pools, lazy river & childrens area
This leisure centre has two indoor pools, a 50 metre outdoor heated swimming pool, with terraces and beaches, and water sports.There is also a weights room and dance studio.
Watersports in Aix-en-Provence
Watersports in Aix-en-Provence
See all Watersports in Aix-en-Provence-
AFDA Canoe & Kayak, Lauris 
AFDA Canoe & Kayak, Lauris
Canoe or kayak trips along the river in the South Luberon
This company offers two different types of excursions by kayak or canoe for either an hour and 15 minutes or 3 hours.
-
Enquire 
La Bonde Lake, Cabrieres d'Aigues
Swimming, watersports & trails
Bonde Lake is situated in the heart of the Luberon and offers activities and relaxation for all the family.
-
Enquire 
Aquadomia Scuba Diving, Marseille
An opportunity to enhance your skills with quality diving courses
No matter what your level is, Aquadomia offers you the chance to enhance your skills with quality diving courses... and to discover underwater splendors from the archipelago of Riou to the islands around the bay of Marseille.
-
Raille Lake Watersports 
Raille Lake Watersports
Sailing, windsuring, watersports and more in this lake near Apt
Just to the north of Apt lies the Plan d'Eau de la Raille. You can practice all sorts of watersports here, with a sailing & windsurfing school. All equipment is available to rent - dinghies, windsurfs, pedal boats and kayaks.
-
Enquire 
Mistral Kite Passion Watersports, nr Salon de Provence
Kite surfing school in the Camargue
If you're looking to try out kitesurfing for the first time, this company can help you get to grips with the basics from professional instruction.
Read more about Mistral Kite Passion Watersports, nr Salon de Provence
-
Enquire 
Canoe Evasion, near Isle sur la Sorgue
Canoe trips between Fontaine de Vaucluse & Isle sur la Sorgue
This company offers a 2 hour river descent from Isle sur la Sorgue to Fontain de Vaucluse in canoes.
Holiday Rentals in Aix-en-Provence
Holiday Rentals in Aix-en-Provence
See all Holiday Rentals in Aix-en-Provence-
Visit website 
Le Lieutenant Villa, Bonnieux
The Lieutenant is an apartment for rent for holidays in Provence, located on the 1st floor of a pretty country house in Bonnieux.
-
Visit website 
La Bohème Villa, Bonnieux
Magnificent villa near Bonnieux, in the heart of the Luberon, with swimming pool, for a unique holiday.
-
Visit website 
Le Mas Des Jardins Toscans Villa, Bonnieux
A magnificent "Mas" in Bonnieux to rent in the Luberon, with a large landscaped garden for a dream holiday between Bonnieux and Lacoste.
-
Visit website 
Le Mas Entre Monts Et Merveilles Villa, Bonnieux
House for rent in Luberon - Le Mas entre Monts et Merveilles. The perfect holiday location in Provence!
Read more about Le Mas Entre Monts Et Merveilles Villa, Bonnieux
-
Visit website 
La Bastide De La Forêt Villa, Bonnieux
Come and discover this house with large swimming pool, near Bonnieux, for a holiday in the heart of nature.
-
Visit website 
Infiniment Bonnieux Villa, Bonnieux
This fully restored nineteenth-century farmhouse for holiday rental is located 3 km from Bonnieux, a lovely Provençal village perched in the foothills of the Luberon in Provence.
Hotels in Aix-en-Provence
Aix has a variety of hotels to suit all budgets but the emphasis is on the smaller, more basic hotels that provide a place to sleep but not many comforts. There are some higher end hotels in the city but you may have to travel to the surrounding countryside to increase your choice.
Hotels in Aix-en-Provence
See all Hotels in Aix-en-Provence-
Check Booking.com 
Moulin de Lourmarin Hotel, Lourmarin
Former oil mill converted into a charming Provencal style hotel
Located in one of the most beautiful villages in France, this former oil mill welcomes its guests in an enchanting setting surrounded by lime trees.
-
Check Booking.com 
Villa Gallici Hotel
Small luxury hotel in the centre of Aix en Provence but surrounded by gardens
Under the light Cézanne once knew, the Villa Gallici Hotel is an 18th century Provençal house and a member of Relais et Châteaux portfolio.
-
Check Booking.com 
Le Pigonnet Hotel
Grand hotel with magical gardens just outside centre of Aix-en-Provence
The five star Pigonnet hotel in Aix is an 18th-century mansion surrounded with stunning floral gardens, situated just outside the centre of Aix-en-Provence.
-
Check Booking.com 
Renaissance Hotel
Contemporary style 5 star hotel with works of art & stylish furnishings
Built in 2013 this modern, contemporary five star hotel in Provence combines art work in contemporary spaces, filled with uber stylish furniture and fittings.
-
Check Booking.com 
La Maison d'Aix Hotel
Small hotel built from an old house in Aix en Provence
This hotel is a beautiful renovated house located on a quiet street, and walking distance to all the hustle and bustle of Aix.
-
Check Booking.com 
Le Mas d'Entremont Hotel
Hotel with swimming pool, tennis court and fitness room
The alliance of soil, flowers and water gives the hotel great charm. A harmony with the nature where you feel good, surrounded by the careful attentions of a warm host family.
How to get to Aix-en-Provence
Aix is situated in the far south of Provence, about an hour drive south of Avignon on the A7, and 40 minutes drive north of Marseille on the A51 and A7. There are regular trains from both Avignon and Marseille to Aix. From Nice, it will take you around two hours to drive. There is also a train from Nice which takes three to four hours.
Transfers for Provence
See all Transfers for Provence-
Enquire 
Helicopter Airport Transfers & Scenic Flights
Monaco - Nice Helicopter Shuttles, plus French Riviera Scenic Flights
Created in 1976 this company has grown and has now transported well over 100,000 passengers. They have a fleet of 12 craft to meet client demands.
Read more about Helicopter Airport Transfers & Scenic Flights
-
Enquire 
Private Airport Transfers
Reliable private airport transfer & taxi service
Chabe Transfers are a well known luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the South of France.
-
Enquire 
Avignon Taxis
Taxis in Avignon and the entire region
Avignon City Taxis at your disposal 24/7 for taxi services and transfers airports and railway stations in Avignon and in the entire region.
-
Enquire 
Helicopter Transfers & Scenic Flights
Passenger transport, aerial photography, freight , etc...
Helitec caters for all your helicopter needs from passenger transport to aerial photography, filming, transport of heavy goods, leisure flights over Provence and the South of France. A great way to see the most beautiful spots from the air.
-
Enquire 
Marseille Taxis
Taxis in Marseille
300 vehicles at your disposal. All taxi services and transfers airports and Railway stations.
-
Enquire 
Private Jet & Helicopter Transfers
Aircraft & helicopter charter company based at Nice Airport in the South of France
With an International fleet of jets and helicopters based across Europe it is quick and easy to get a private charter flight for business, pleasure or an airport transfer.
Property For Sale in Aix-en-Provence
Property for Sale in Aix-en-Provence
See all Property for Sale in Aix-en-Provence-
Visit website 
Villa for Sale | STZ250285
A Provencal villa at the foot of the village of Grimaud.
-
Visit website 
Villa for Sale | STZ260356
A peaceful villa with unobstructed views of the countryside
-
Visit website 
Land (Plot) for Sale | STZ250321
Contemporary villa with two building plots
-
Visit website 
Villa for Sale | STZ250324
Exceptional provençal property in the heart of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez
-
Visit website 
Hotel for Sale | STZ250294
Located just 100 meters from the sea, this unique property, currently operated as a charming 4-star hotel, enjoys a spectacular view of the sea and Saint-Tropez.
-
Visit website
Villa for Sale | stz260423
Stunning renovated villa with sea views, located in a private domain.
