Richerenches Truffle Market
Head to the Avenue de la Rabasse in Richerenches for the famous Saturday truffle markets, which take place from November to March every year.
Aix-en-Provence
Characterful city, famous for Cezanne and International Festivals
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 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.
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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
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Markets in Provence
Read our Provence markets page to find out which market to visit when in Provence. From the vibrant array of local produce to the delightful scent of freshly baked delicacies, visiting a Provencal market is an absolute must for anyone exploring the charms of Provence.
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Fête de la Musique
The Fête de la Musique is a celebration that takes place every summer solstice on 21 June in cities, towns and villages across France.
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Bastille Day
Bastille Day is celebrated across the whole of France with a bang...well, several in fact, fireworks always feature heavily.
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European Heritage Days
Exceptional locations around France, including Provence, will be open to visit on the Journées du Patrimoine - a European wide event inspired by by France’s Journées Portes Ouvertes which started in 1984.
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
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Musee des tapisseries Tapestry
The Musee des Tapisseries houses a rich collection of 17th and 18th Century tapestries, including a collection called 'Grotesques' - theatrical taspestrie made in Beauvais cir. 1689, and also 'L'histoire de Don Quichotte' of 1735 unique in the world.
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Calisson Museum
Located not far from Aix centre, this museum and shop explains a little about the history of how this unusual sweet is made.
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Caumont Centre d'Art
Building of this old mansion began back in 1715 when the first stone was laid. It was not fully complete until 1748, after all three stages of the building were finished.
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Shan-Art Gallery
A small gallery with a good collection of contemporary and modern art.
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Museum d'Histoire Naturelle
The Muséum d'Aix was founded in 1838 by Henri Coquand, geologist ; it is one of the oldest in Provence.
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Atelier Cezanne
Cezannes studio was created in Aix-en-Provence in 1902 and this is where he worked until he died in 1906.
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
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Mickael Feval Restaurant
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.
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Le Art Restaurant
Located inside the luxury Chateau de la Gaude, this Michelin-starred restaurant serves the elaborate cuisine of chef Matthieu Dupuis-Baumal.
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Villa Gallici Restaurant, Aix en Provence
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.
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Le Comptoir du Clos
Open daily, the Clos du Comptoir offers a sophisticated atmosphere for lunch and dinner in the same setting.
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La Table des Saisons
Quality over quantity with their small, yet impressive selection of hot soups, fresh salads and delicious tarts.
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Le Poivre d'Ane Restaurant
Open for dinner only, this restaurant is popular with the locals of Aix. French classics are on the menu, and all the dishes are beautifully presented.
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
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Mistral Nighclub
The Mistral is Aix-en-Provence's answer to those looking for a trendy night out listening to the latest DJ's.
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Le Scat Nightclub
The Scat Club plays live music every night, and not just jazz the club plays pop, rock, funk and R'n'B.
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Le Cardeur Bacchus Bar
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.
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
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Gulli Parc Indoor Play Area
The area is split into two areas - one for the 1-5 years age group, and the other for 6-12 year olds.
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Set Golf Course
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.
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Club Hippique d'Aix Marseille horse riding
The Club, established in 1932 has a long and interesting history. Situated on the banks of the river l'Arc over 30 acres, 5 minutes away from the city centre the Club Hippique Aix Marseille offers a full range of facilities.
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Provence Wine Tours
Provence Wine Tours offer a variety of wine tours from private visits, to group tours and even corporate events.
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Indian Forest
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.
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Aix Yoga Center, Aix en Provence
The Aix Yoga Center is a 150m2 studio yoga in the heart of Aix en Provence.
Watersports in Aix-en-Provence
Watersports in Aix-en-Provence
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AFDA Canoe & Kayak, Lauris
This company offers two different types of excursions by kayak or canoe for either an hour and 15 minutes or 3 hours.
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La Bonde Lake, Cabrieres d'Aigues
Bonde Lake is situated in the heart of the Luberon and offers activities and relaxation for all the family.
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Aquadomia Scuba Diving, Marseille
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.
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Raille Lake Watersports, 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.
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Mistral Kite Passion Watersports, nr Salon de Provence
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.
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Canoe Evasion, near Isle sur la Sorgue
This company offers a 2 hour river descent from Isle sur la Sorgue to Fontain de Vaucluse in canoes.
Villas in Aix-en-Provence
Villas in Aix-en-Provence
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Luberon Le Mas Wisteria Villa, Bonnieux
Mas Wisteria is located 2.5km from Bonnieux, a lovely Provençal village perched in the foothills of the Luberon in Provence.
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La Villa Plein Soleil Villa, Cadenet
Architect-designed villa for holiday rental, with swimming pool, in the heart of the Luberon with an elevated position in the village of Cadenet.
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La Villa Paulanne Villa, Bonnieux
House for rent in Provence with swimming pool, terrace and garden.
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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.
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Au Cœur Du Village Villa, Lourmarin
Beautiful holiday home for rent in Provence, in Lourmarin, with garden and swimming pool.
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L'oustau Selou Villa, Bonnieux
Farmhouse available to rent for holidays with a large pool in the Golden Triangle in Bonnieux.
Holidays Rentals in Aix-en-Provence
Holiday Rentals in Aix-en-Provence
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La Prairie Du Luberon Villa, Bonnieux
Stone house with pool for rent in Bonnieux - La Prairie du Luberon
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La Bastide Bitrona Villa, Bonnieux
Beautiful holiday villa with swimming pool for rent in the South of France, near the village of Bonnieux in Provence.
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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!
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Mas Du Criquet Villa, Bonnieux
A few minutes walk from the charming village of Bonnieux, on the heights towards Lourmarin, this charming stone house, freshly renovated by architects, is for rent for your holidays.
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L'oustau Selou Villa, Bonnieux
Farmhouse available to rent for holidays with a large pool in the Golden Triangle in Bonnieux.
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La Badassière Villa, Bonnieux
Villa rental in the Luberon - La Badassière
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
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Villa Gallici Hotel
Under the light Cézanne once knew, the Villa Gallici Hotel is an 18th century Provençal house and a member of Relais et Châteaux portfolio.
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Renaissance Hotel
Built in 2013 this modern, contemporary five star hotel in Provence combines art work in contemporary spaces, filled with uber stylish furniture and fittings.
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La Maison d'Aix Hotel
This hotel is a beautiful renovated house located on a quiet street, and walking distance to all the hustle and bustle of Aix.
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Le Pigonnet Hotel
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.
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Moulin de Lourmarin Hotel, Lourmarin
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.
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Le Concorde Hotel
A well located hotel in the heart of the city just a short walk away from some great attractions.
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
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Helicopter Leisure Flights & Transfers, Marseille
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.
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Radio Aixois Taxi
49 air-conditioned vehicles at your disposal for local transport, airport and rail station transfers, and touristic excursions.
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Helicopter Airport Transfers & 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.
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Events-Cars Taxi, Grigan
Events-Cars offer luxury taxi and transfer services across the South of France. They also cater for special events.
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Chabe Airport Transfers, Marseille
Chabe Transfers are a well known luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the South of France.
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Les Marseillais Taxi, Marseille
300 vehicles at your disposal. All taxi services and transfers airports and Railway stations.
Property For Sale in Aix-en-Provence
Property for Sale in Aix-en-Provence
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House for Sale
Set on a 2,090 m² plot in the heart of a peaceful hamlet surrounded by nature, this character-filled stone property is a true haven of tranquillity.
House for Sale
€750,000 -
Villa for Sale, Var
High-potential property in the heart of a private estate, just a few steps from the beach.
Villa for Sale, Var
€1,990,000 -
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Villa for Sale
Ideally nestled in the sought-after town of Cavalaire, just a few steps from the Mediterranean and the village, this villa enjoys a truly exceptional location.
Villa for Sale
€1,490,000
