Aix-en-Provence

Fountains, markets, and the soft light that inspired Cézanne—Aix-en-Provence is the quintessential Provençal city. Its leafy boulevards, elegant 17th-century mansions, and daily markets brimming with lavender honey and olives make it a delight to explore on foot. As the birthplace of Paul Cézanne, the city retains a creative, unhurried rhythm that invites you to linger over a pastis at a café terrace.

Highlights & What to See

• Cours Mirabeau – The grand, plane-tree-shaded avenue lined with cafés, bookshops, and the famous Fontaine de la Rotonde. Perfect for people-watching and an afternoon coffee.
• Old Town (Vieil Aix) – A maze of narrow streets with daily food markets (especially at Place Richelme and Place des Prêcheurs), artisan boutiques, and beautiful hôtels particuliers.
• Atelier Cézanne – The preserved studio where Cézanne painted his later works, complete with original objects and a glimpse into his creative process.
• Saint-Sauveur Cathedral – A fascinating mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles, with a stunning 15th-century triptych and a baptistery from the 5th century.
• Granet Museum – A top-tier art museum housing works from Cézanne, Picasso, and Giacometti, plus a wing dedicated to Provençal archaeology.

Suggested Time to Spend

Two full days is ideal to soak up Aix’s atmosphere: spend one day exploring the old town, markets, and Cours Mirabeau, and a second day visiting the Atelier Cézanne and Granet Museum. If you’re short on time, a single day can cover the highlights, but you’ll miss the chance to linger in the cafés and discover the smaller squares. Aix also works well as a base for day trips into the Luberon or to the coast.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Luberon hilltop villages – Gordes, Roussillon, and Ménerbes are less than an hour’s drive and epitomise Provençal charm with their ochre cliffs and lavender fields.
• Marseille – Just 30 minutes by train or car, the vibrant port city offers the Vieux-Port, Calanques National Park, and the MuCEM museum.
• Arles – A 90-minute drive west, this Roman city boasts the Arena, Van Gogh’s inspiration, and the Camargue’s wild horses and flamingos.
• Cassis – A picturesque coastal town with a lovely harbour and access to the stunning Calanques cliffs and turquoise coves.
• Avignon – One hour north, the Palais des Papes and Pont d’Avignon make for a compelling day trip.

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