Why Go to Aix-en-Provence
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Aix-en-Provence has the heart of a small Provencal town and the energy of a university city. Tree-lined boulevards, splashing fountains, sunny cafe terraces and colorful open-air markets set the scene, while tens of thousands of students keep the atmosphere young and lively. Elegant 18th-century mansions line the streets, and stylish newcomers from Paris have helped give the town a chic edge.
Aix has been a place to unwind since Roman times, when its thermal waters, Aquae Sextiae, first drew visitors. Today you can still enjoy those waters at a modern spa. In between, savor French-Mediterranean cooking, browse the boutiques and follow in the footsteps of Paul Cezanne, who was born here and painted the nearby countryside again and again.
Aix also makes a perfect base for exploring the region. Lavender fields, vineyards, hilltop villages and the mountains of Provence are all within reach, and the Cote d'Azur is an easy day trip. I'll plan your stay and day trips, with the timing worked out for lavender season and market days.
BEST FOR
Art lovers, couples, foodies and cultural travelers
BEST MONTHS
April–June and September–October
EXPLORE
Cours Mirabeau links cafés and historic facades; Vieil Aix has winding streets and markets; the Mazarin Quarter features elegant townhouses.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Aix-en-Provence
Europe › Western Europe › France › Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur
Fountain-filled streets, markets and Provençal elegance
Rural & Wine Country
Historical & Heritage
Art
Markets
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Start at La Rotonde, walk Cours Mirabeau and the old town, then choose one museum for the afternoon.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Walk its length toward the old town in the cooler morning.
Cours Mirabeau
Tree-lined boulevard with fountains, cafés and elegant historic buildings.
Use it as an easy starting point for a city walk.
Fontaine de la Rotonde
Prominent fountain marking the western entrance to Cours Mirabeau.
Check access during services.
Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur
Historic cathedral with architectural layers reflecting centuries of Aix history.
Review current exhibitions before visiting.
Musée Granet
Fine-arts museum with paintings and sculpture in the Mazarin district.
Check tickets and exhibitions beforehand.
Hôtel de Caumont
Restored mansion and arts center offering exhibitions in elegant interiors.
An elegant boutique hotel in landscaped grounds close to the historic center.
Villa Saint-Ange
Central Aix-en-Provence
Hotel Tags
A modern upscale hotel near the Grand Théâtre de Provence and Cours Mirabeau.
Renaissance Aix-en-Provence Hotel
Quartier des Arts
Hotel Tags
A spa hotel on the edge of old Aix, convenient for markets and walkable streets.
Aquabella Hôtel & Spa
Historic Center
Hotel Tags
A classic Provençal hotel with lush gardens a short distance from downtown.
Hôtel Le Pigonnet
South of Historic Center
Hotel Tags
An intimate luxury retreat with ornate interiors, gardens and a tranquil setting.
Villa Gallici Hôtel & Spa
North of Historic Center
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Aix-en-Provence
High 58°F · Low 42°F · Rain 3.1 in
Santon fairs begin, selling the traditional Provençal Christmas figures.
Spring and early fall offer pleasant sightseeing weather; summer is warm and can be crowded.
Best Times to Visit Aix-en-Provence
WHEN TO GO
06
Regional Day Trips
Marseille and Luberon outings have distinct train or road options; plan time for transfers.
05
Rental Cars
A car helps with Provençal villages and Sainte-Victoire viewpoints, while central parking is restricted.
04
Old Town Walking
The historic core is pedestrian-friendly with narrow streets and cobbled passages.
03
Local Buses
City buses serve Aix neighborhoods and selected nearby towns; check route frequency.
02
TGV Station Transfer
Aix-en-Provence TGV station is outside the old town; arrange the proper shuttle or taxi.
01
Marseille Airport
Marseille Provence Airport is a common gateway; onward transfers are needed to Aix.
Central Aix is best explored on foot; local buses and arranged tours reach nearby villages and landscapes.
Getting Around Aix-en-Provence