AIX-EN-PROVENCE
Aix-en-Provence is the heart of Provence, a city of elegant fountains, sun-drenched squares, and a vibrant arts scene. It is a place where Provençal heritage and a sophisticated, contemporary lifestyle merge.
This city is a tapestry of history, from its Roman origins to its role as a hub for artists and intellectuals. It’s a land of stunning architecture, bustling markets, and the picturesque countryside that inspired some of the world’s most famous painters.
Most Popular Attractions
City Core & Famous Sites:
Cours Mirabeau: The city’s main artery, a wide, tree-lined avenue famous for its elegant cafés, grand fountains, and mansions.
Old Town (Vieil Aix): A labyrinth of narrow, winding streets filled with vibrant markets, unique boutiques, and hidden squares with charming fountains.
Quartier Mazarin: A serene, aristocratic district south of Cours Mirabeau, known for its beautiful 17th-century mansions and the Fountain of the Four Dolphins.
Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur: An impressive cathedral showcasing a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles, with a beautiful cloister and a famous triptych.
Place de l’Hôtel de Ville: A lively square featuring the historic Town Hall, the Clock Tower, and a daily flower market.
Place d’Albertas: One of the most enchanting squares in the city, surrounded by four 18th-century Baroque buildings and a central fountain.
Musée Granet: A museum with an extensive collection of European paintings, sculptures, and archaeological finds, including works by Cézanne and Ingres.
Atelier de Cézanne: The preserved studio of the legendary post-impressionist painter, Paul Cézanne, where you can see his personal belongings and workspace.
Caumont Centre d’Art: An elegant 18th-century mansion transformed into an art center with world-class temporary exhibitions.
Pavillon de Vendôme: A grand 17th-century mansion with a beautiful French-style garden, now a museum of art and history.
Musée des Tapisseries: Located in the former Archbishop’s Palace, this museum houses an important collection of 17th and 18th-century tapestries.
Fontaine de la Rotonde: A monumental fountain at the start of Cours Mirabeau, topped with statues representing Justice, Agriculture, and Fine Arts.
Hôtel de Gallifet: An 18th-century private mansion in the Mazarin quarter, now a contemporary art center.
Musée du Vieil-Aix: A museum dedicated to the history and traditions of the city, located in an old private mansion.
Site Mémorial du Camp des Milles: A poignant memorial site located just outside the city, a former brick factory that was an internment camp during World War II.
Surrounding Countryside & Day Trips:
Montagne Sainte-Victoire: The iconic mountain that inspired Paul Cézanne, offering incredible hiking trails and breathtaking views of the Provençal landscape.
Lourmarin: A picturesque village in the Luberon Valley, known for its Renaissance château and a lively market.
Gordes: A stunning hilltop village, one of the “Most Beautiful Villages in France,” with a majestic château and cobblestone streets.
Roussillon: Famous for its vibrant ochre cliffs and quarries, the village is painted in beautiful shades of red, orange, and yellow.
Cassis & Calanques National Park: A charming fishing port town on the Mediterranean coast, with a spectacular national park featuring towering limestone cliffs and turquoise coves.
The Verdon Gorge (Gorges du Verdon): The largest canyon in Europe, with stunning turquoise waters perfect for kayaking, hiking, and rock climbing.
Marseille: France’s oldest city and a major port, with a vibrant, multicultural atmosphere, the historic Vieux Port, and the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde.
Lavender Fields: During the summer months, the Plateau de Valensole and the Luberon Valley burst into a sea of purple, an unmissable Provençal experience.
Aix-en-Provence Wine Route: Explore the vineyards of the Pays d’Aix-en-Provence, a region known for its rosé wines.
Arles: A city famous for its Roman ruins, including an amphitheater and theatre, and for being a source of inspiration for Van Gogh.
Activities & Experiences
Walk in the Footsteps of Cézanne: Follow the brass “C” plaques embedded in the pavement to discover the places that shaped the life and work of Paul Cézanne. The route takes you from his birthplace to his final resting place, passing by his former schools and favorite cafés.
Explore the Markets: Experience the heart of Provençal life at the city’s lively markets. The main market, held on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, sprawls across several squares, selling everything from fresh produce and flowers to clothing and artisanal goods.
Indulge in a Calisson Tasting: Sample the famous local confection, a diamond-shaped treat made of candied melon, orange peel, and almonds, topped with royal icing. Visit a traditional calisson factory like the Confiserie du Roy René for a tour and tasting.
Hike Mont Sainte-Victoire: Hike or bike the iconic mountain that inspired Cézanne’s art for over 30 years. There are numerous trails for all skill levels, and the summit offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Provençal landscape.
Relax at a Thermal Spa: Aix is known for its natural thermal springs. Treat yourself to a relaxing spa day at the Thermes Sextius, a modern spa built on the site of ancient Roman baths.
Take a Provençal Cooking Class: Learn to prepare classic dishes like ratatouille, aioli, or Provençal beef stew (Daube Provençale) using fresh, local ingredients. Many culinary schools offer half-day workshops.
Visit the Château de la Gaude: Tour this elegant 18th-century château and its vineyards at the base of Mont Sainte-Victoire. You can enjoy a wine tasting, explore the formal gardens, and admire the contemporary art installations.
Enjoy an Aperitif on Cours Mirabeau: Soak in the sophisticated atmosphere on Aix’s most famous boulevard. Find a table under the shade of the plane trees and enjoy a glass of local Rosé while people-watching.
Tour the Musée Granet: Located in a former priory, this museum houses an impressive collection of European paintings and sculptures from the 14th to the 20th century, including works by Cézanne himself.
Go on a Wine Tour: Explore the renowned vineyards of the region, such as those in the Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence appellation. Many local operators offer guided tours that include transportation and tastings.
Discover the Hôtel de Caumont Centre d’Art: Step inside a beautifully restored 18th-century mansion that hosts world-class temporary art exhibitions. Don’t miss the elegant courtyard and gardens.
Local Tips & Transport
Getting Around the City: Aix’s historic center is primarily a pedestrian zone. The best way to explore its fountains, narrow streets, and hidden squares is on foot.
Local Buses: The local bus network, AIX en BUS, is efficient for traveling to neighborhoods outside the city center. A single ticket can be purchased from the driver, but a rechargeable pass is available for longer stays. The Aixpress is an electric bus that connects the city center with key parking lots and the suburbs.
Taxis: Taxis are readily available at designated stands and at major transport hubs. Uber also operates in Aix.
Travel Beyond the City: A rental car is the best option for exploring the wider region of Provence, including the Luberon villages, the coast, and the lavender fields. Alternatively, the regional bus network, ZOU!, connects major towns and villages throughout the region.
Getting to and from Marseille Airport: The Marseille-Provence Airport (MRS) is the closest major airport. A frequent shuttle bus (navette) connects the airport to Aix-en-Provence’s main bus station (Gare Routière) and the TGV train station.
TGV Train Station: Aix-en-Provence has two train stations. The Gare d’Aix-en-Provence is in the city center and serves regional trains. The Gare TGV Aix-en-Provence is located outside the city and is where high-speed trains arrive and depart. A dedicated shuttle bus connects the city center to the TGV station.
Embrace the Art of Strolling: The Provencal lifestyle is unhurried. The best way to experience Aix is to slow down, wander without a specific destination in mind, and take plenty of breaks at local cafés.
Dining Times: Lunch is typically served between noon and 2 PM, while dinner is often eaten later, starting after 8 PM. If you arrive at a restaurant too early, you may find that the kitchen is not yet open.
“The City of a Thousand Fountains”: Aix is famous for its numerous fountains. Beyond the grand ones on Cours Mirabeau, seek out the more intimate and charming fountains hidden in quiet squares like Place d’Albertas.
The Culture of Markets: Markets are central to life in Aix. Don’t be afraid to interact with the vendors (les commerçants). It’s a great way to practice your French and discover the freshest local products.
Hidden Gems:
- Pavillon Vendôme: Tucked away in a beautiful park, this stunning 17th-century pavilion with ornate gardens is a peaceful escape from the bustling city.
- Musée du Vieil Aix: This museum in an 18th-century mansion offers a fascinating look at the history and traditions of the city, with collections of Provençal costumes, puppets, and furniture.
- Fondation Vasarely: For a completely different artistic experience, visit this museum dedicated to the op-art movement. Its futuristic, hexagonal design is a masterpiece in itself.
- Place des Cardeurs: This lively square is a local favorite, especially in the evening. Surrounded by restaurants with outdoor seating, it’s a great spot for dinner or drinks in a more relaxed atmosphere than Cours Mirabeau.
Top Restaurants
Le Formal [$35-$50] – Located in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, this cozy restaurant is known for its traditional French cuisine and welcoming atmosphere, using fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Le Bistro des Philosophes [$30-$50] – A classic bistro in Aix, offering a menu of traditional Provençal and French dishes in a lively, artistic setting.
Le Poivre d’Ane [$30-$50] – This charming spot in Aix-en-Provence serves rustic, flavorful Provençal cuisine with a focus on local produce and a home-cooked feel.
L’Epicerie [$25-$40] – A small, authentic “épicerie” (grocery store) turned restaurant in Aix, offering simple, high-quality Provençal food and a fantastic selection of regional products.
Mitch [$30-$50] – A bistro-style restaurant in Aix-en-Provence that offers delicious traditional dishes with a touch of modern creativity.
La Table du Château [$30-$50] – Located in a beautiful setting outside of Aix-en-Provence in the village of Beaurecueil, this restaurant serves traditional Provençal dishes with a focus on local ingredients.
Restaurant Côté Cour [$30-$50] – A traditional Provençal restaurant in Aix with a lovely courtyard, perfect for enjoying classic dishes in a relaxed setting.
Le Relais du Cengle [$35-$55] – A classic Provençal restaurant in the countryside near Aix, known for its hearty, traditional dishes and beautiful setting at the foot of Sainte-Victoire mountain.
Le Jardin d’Entremont [$30-$50] – Located in a beautiful garden setting just outside of Aix, this restaurant serves traditional French and Provençal cuisine.
Le Clos de la Treille [$35-$60] – A charming restaurant in the village of Eguilles, offering classic Provençal dishes and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
La Rôtisserie Provençale [$25-$45] – A popular spot in Aix-en-Provence for traditional roasted meats and other hearty Provençal fare.
Le Bar de l’Auberge [$30-$50] – A local favorite in the village of Gordes, serving traditional Provençal dishes with a focus on local products in a casual atmosphere.
Le Tita [$25-$40] – This small, family-run restaurant in Aix is known for its delicious, authentic Provençal food and friendly service.
Côté Sud [$40-$70] – A restaurant in Aix-en-Provence that blends traditional Provençal flavors with a modern, creative touch, using fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Restaurant L’Alcôve [$40-$60] – A modern bistro in Aix with a focus on inventive, beautifully presented dishes and a chic, contemporary atmosphere.
L’Incontournable [$35-$60] – This restaurant in Aix offers a modern interpretation of classic Provençal dishes with a focus on high-quality ingredients.
Le Contre-Temps [$35-$55] – A contemporary bistro in Aix that serves creative, seasonal cuisine in a relaxed and stylish setting.
La Fromagerie du Passage [$40-$60] – A unique cheese-focused restaurant in Aix-en-Provence that offers creative dishes and an extensive selection of local and international cheeses.
Le Zinc d’Or [$40-$65] – A modern and lively bistro in Aix known for its inventive menu and excellent wine selection.
Le Millefeuille [$40-$70] – A restaurant in Aix that offers a creative and refined take on French and Provençal cuisine, with an elegant atmosphere.
Le Petit Keller [$45-$75] – A modern restaurant in the city of Aix that offers a unique and creative take on French cuisine with a seasonal menu.
L’Arbre à Vins [$35-$60] – A wine bar and restaurant in Aix with an impressive wine list and a creative menu of small plates and larger dishes.
Le Vintana [$40-$60] – A restaurant in Aix that offers a fusion of Provençal and global flavors with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
L’Atelier des Chefs [$50-$80] – This unique spot in Aix offers cooking classes and a modern, creative dining experience where you can enjoy the dishes you’ve prepared.
Le M [at the Villa Gallici Hotel] [$70-$120] – Located in the Villa Gallici hotel just outside of Aix, this fine dining restaurant offers modern, creative Mediterranean cuisine in an elegant setting.
L’Atelier de Jean-Luc Rabanel [$100-$180] – A two-Michelin-starred restaurant located in Arles, just an hour from Aix, known for its inventive and masterful use of vegetables.
Le Art [$80-$130] – A high-end restaurant in the center of Aix-en-Provence with a focus on modern, refined cuisine and an elegant, artistic atmosphere.
Mickaël Féval [$70-$110] – A restaurant in Aix that offers a refined and modern take on classic French cuisine, with a focus on high-quality ingredients.
Le Saint-Estève [$120-$200] – Located at the Hôtel-Restaurant du Pigonnet in Aix-en-Provence, this fine dining restaurant offers a refined, contemporary take on Provençal cuisine in a beautiful setting.
La Villa Gallici [$100-$150] – Located in the Villa Gallici hotel, this elegant and classic fine dining restaurant offers a refined menu in a stunning setting.
Le Mas de Boudan [$80-$130] – A refined restaurant located in the countryside near Aix, known for its creative and beautifully presented dishes.
Château de la Gaude [$150-$250] – Located in a stunning chateau and vineyard just outside of Aix, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers a luxurious and innovative dining experience.
La Table de Beaulieu [$100-$180] – A high-end restaurant in the Château Beaulieu winery that offers a refined, modern take on Provençal cuisine.
Le Jardin de la Meyna [$80-$120] – Located in the village of Ménerbes in the Luberon, this fine dining restaurant offers a beautiful setting and a refined menu.
Marché de la Rotonde [$15-$25] – Not a single restaurant, but a vibrant food market in Aix-en-Provence with numerous food stalls and small vendors, perfect for a casual lunch or a food exploration.
Pain & Cie [$20-$35] – A popular bakery and café in Aix-en-Provence, known for its delicious bread, pastries, and simple, high-quality sandwiches and salads.
Le Pain Quotidien [$20-$35] – A chain of organic bakeries and restaurants, but a great spot in Aix for a casual, healthy meal with a focus on quality bread and fresh ingredients.
Les Deux Garçons [$20-$35] – A historic brasserie in Aix, a classic meeting place that has been frequented by artists and writers for centuries, offering traditional brasserie fare.
Le Passage [$25-$45] – A unique restaurant in the Passage Agard in Aix that offers a menu of classic French dishes with a modern twist.
L’Instant Bistro [$30-$50] – A lively bistro in Aix with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and a great atmosphere.
Chez Grand-Mère [$25-$40] – A restaurant in Aix with a cozy, grandmother’s kitchen feel, serving classic French comfort food.
Le Poëlon [$30-$50] – A small and charming fondue restaurant in Aix-en-Provence, perfect for a cozy meal with a group.
Restaurant Koï [$30-$50] – A Japanese restaurant in Aix-en-Provence that offers high-quality sushi and other traditional Japanese dishes in a modern setting.
Restaurant La Bastide du Cours [$40-$70] – Located in the charming village of Jouques, this restaurant offers traditional Provençal cuisine in a beautiful setting.
Auberge de la Madone [$30-$50] – A traditional Provençal inn and restaurant in the village of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, known for its authentic, hearty food.
Le Mas de la Crémaillère [$35-$60] – A rustic and charming restaurant in the village of Cabrières d’Avignon, known for its traditional Provençal cuisine.
Bistrot du Paradou [$40-$70] – A famous and traditional bistro in the village of Le Paradou, known for its set menu of classic French comfort food.
La Calade [$35-$55] – A lovely restaurant in the village of Roussillon, known for its traditional Provençal cuisine and a terrace with stunning views.
Le Mas de l’Oulivié [$40-$70] – Located in the countryside near Les Baux-de-Provence, this restaurant offers traditional Provençal cuisine with a modern twist.
Le Bistrot de la Mère [$35-$60] – A charming restaurant in the village of Lacoste, known for its traditional Provençal dishes and warm atmosphere.
Le Moulin de Vernegues [$40-$70] – A restaurant in the village of Mallemort, known for its traditional Provençal cuisine and beautiful golf course setting.
Chez Vong [$30-$50] – A popular restaurant in the village of Bonnieux, offering traditional Provençal food with a focus on local ingredients.
Auberge de la Fontaine [$35-$60] – A charming inn and restaurant in the village of Cucuron, known for its traditional Provençal food and lovely setting.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Céleste: Located in a cozy spot in Aix-en-Provence, this sophisticated cocktail bar is a hidden gem. It offers a unique and fabulous selection of meticulously crafted drinks, with bartenders who are happy to create a custom cocktail based on your preferences.
La Caravelle: Situated at the Old Port of Marseille, this bar offers a classic, pre-war jazz club ambiance with stunning views of the harbor. It serves expertly crafted cocktails and also features live music a couple of nights a week.
Faubourg 46: A stylish and elegant bar found on the iconic Cours Mirabeau in Aix-en-Provence. It is perfect for a relaxed evening, offering a refined atmosphere and exquisite drinks.
Panda Cocktail Bar: Found in Fuengirola, this trendy bar has a beautiful garden and is known for its wide variety of highballs and classic cocktails.
Le Cercle Républicain: This delightful bar and café in the picturesque village of Gordes offers stunning views and a charming Provençal atmosphere, perfect for enjoying local wines and cocktails.
Le Restaurant & Bar à cocktails de la Ferme de la Huppe: Located in the scenic beauty of Gordes, this spot serves exquisite cocktails and offers live music in a beautiful setting.
Speakeasy Jazz Club & Cocktails: A hidden gem in Fuengirola, this bar offers a Prohibition-era ambiance, live jazz, and a wide selection of classic and creative cocktails.
Le Grand Café Riche: A historic brasserie-style bar on Cours Mirabeau in Aix-en-Provence. While not exclusively a cocktail bar, its classic Parisian-style decor and lively atmosphere make it a great spot for an evening drink.
Copperbay Marseille: Known as a “mixology” bar, this spot in Marseille is a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts, offering creative drinks in a stylish and modern setting.
Gaspard: Located in Marseille, this bar is another excellent choice for those looking for a mixology experience, known for its inventive and flavorful cocktails.
Le Grillon: Located on the Cours Mirabeau in Aix-en-Provence, this classic French brasserie offers a bustling atmosphere and sometimes serves free tapas with your drinks in the early evening.
La Mado: A popular and trendy spot in Aix-en-Provence with a great rating on TheFork. It has a terrace and is known for its romantic and lively atmosphere, offering a variety of cocktail options.
Povera: A wine and cocktail bar located in Nice, it’s a great option for a night out in the wider Provence region, known for its quality drinks and vibrant atmosphere.
La Casa des Jumelles: This delightful bar in Aix-en-Provence offers a colorful and joyful journey inspired by Catalonia, with a focus on quality drinks.
Le Singe Vert: This new bistro and cocktail bar at the top of the Cours Mirabeau is set in a refined and elegant decor that makes it feel as though it’s been there for ages.
Le Mistral: The most famous club in Aix-en-Provence, centrally located in the city. It’s known for a strict door policy, electronic and house music nights, and a trendy, “see and be seen” atmosphere.
Le Scat Club: An atmospheric club in the heart of Aix-en-Provence that offers live music every night, including jazz, R&B, rock, and funk, often followed by a DJ set.
La Cocina Negra: An underground club in the old town of Aix-en-Provence with a unique speakeasy vibe, featuring DJ sets and bands in a dark, neon-lit space with a distinct luchador wrestling theme.
Bokao’s: Situated in the city of Avignon, this nightclub is a popular spot with a varied musical lineup, known for its fun and high-energy atmosphere.
Le Sextius: Located in Aix-en-Provence, this club is known for its lively energy and will keep you on the dance floor until the early morning hours, often attracting a vibrant crowd.
Ajmi Jazz Club: One of the top three jazz venues in France, located in Avignon. It hosts live jazz every week and attracts renowned international artists.
Le Duplex: A well-known nightclub in Aix-en-Provence, offering a lively and energetic atmosphere for dancing the night away.
Le Wood’s Bar: A popular spot in Aix-en-Provence, known for its vibrant nightlife and being a great place for a night out with friends.
Hot Brass Club: While technically more of a jazz club, this venue in Aix-en-Provence is a great alternative to the typical nightclub scene, offering a sophisticated musical experience.
Complex Club: Located just outside of Aix-en-Provence, this disco club is popular with the crowd for its live music and lively atmosphere.