Visit the Elegance of Aix-en-Provence

Published: 15 June 2011, 22:00

In its Mediterranean sunlight and warm climate, from its charming streets to its lively squares, Aix is a city of elegance.

Aix-en-Provence and other famous capital cities in France, are travel destinations favored by fans from around the world. The bright skies, the golden stone facades, the babbling green fountains, the shade of the plane trees and the gentle way of life are present to take advantage of during a visit to this old French city in Provence. Aix-en-Provence, one of the important cities in the south of France, is an open-air history book.

Typical of important famous old French cities, something you need to accomplish in Aix-en Provence is taking a walk to discover its beautiful architectural structures — demonstrating exceptional examples of the varied cultural heritage in France. Travel to this famous French city and explore the old town, the Cours Mirabeau, the Mazarin neighborhood with all it's fountains, townhouses, gardens and museums.
Experience what it’s like to be in one of the most beautiful European cities. At the terrace of a cafe or a restaurant, or at the colorful markets, enjoy a taste of the Provencal way of life. Here, you will be able enjoy a leisurely stroll while window shopping.
Departing from Aix, you will be able to continue your visit in the Pays d’Aix, another old French city in the region, dotted with cypresses, vineyards and olive groves. It is just like traveling through the landscapes of Cézanne, his hilltop villages and his historical sites. Many discovery trails and gourmet excursions are also available in this famous Mediterranean city in France offering you the opportunity to taste the regional produce.

Must-See AIX-periences in Aix-en-Provence

Discover the city with an expert tour guide: Read Aix like an open book! With one of the city's expert tour guides, you'll be sure to not miss any must-see sites, hidden gems, monuments, or pieces of history. Hear fascinating stories that can only be told by a local; walk in Cézanne's footsteps; truly experience the heritage of Aix.
The Calisson: This almond-based candy is the specialty of Aix-en-Provence. The new calissons are blessed each year at the Eglise Saint-Jean-de-Malte. Definitely a must-see event! Visit any artisan candy shop and discover the inimitable taste of this local sweet.
Meet Cézanne through his most famous works: Open the door to the Atelier de Cézanne and enter the intimacy of artistry. Discover the house that saw the man become a painter by exploring the garden and the family farmhouse, the Bas de Bouffan. Admire some of his works in the dedicated Cézanne space in the Musée Granet. In the old Bibémus Quarries, see through Cézanne's artistic eye as you look at Sainte-Victoire.
Stroll through the Old City: Classified as the third group of Baroque architecture in France - after Paris and Versailles - Aix-en-Provence is an invitation back in time to discover the sweetness of life.
Take a break on the Cours Mirabeau: A great place to walk around and discover the region's history, this old horse-drawn carriage path has become one of the top must-see sites in Aix-en-Provence. One of the most frequented and lively spots in the city, perfect to visit at any time of day.
Visit the city's famous museums: Classified amongst the most beautiful in France, the Musée Granet is located in the old Palais de Malte. It houses collections dating from the 14th to the 20th centuries, works of Rembrandt, Ingres, Cézanne, and donations from Cëzanne to Giacometti. Especially worth a visit: the Granet's 20th century gallery, the Jean Planque collection. Installed in the old Chapelle des Pénitents Blancs (1654), in the Place Jean Boyer, the Jean Planque collection contains works from Monet, Van Gogh, Rouault, Dufy, Braque, De Staël, Picasso, and more. Also on your Aix bucket list: the Fondation Vasarely. Created in 1976, the building is a work of art in and of itself. Inside, 42 monumental works from Victor Vasarely.
Awaken your senses at its authentic Provençal markets: In Aix, markets are an everyday occasion: fruit and vegetable markets, used book markets, flower markets - these must-see meeting and discovery sites, especially ones that highlight the region's sunny gourmet heritage, fill the city with sounds and colors.
Discover authentic 18th century Aixoise houses: Not far from the hustle and bustle of the center city, surrounded by a French-style park, the Pavillon de Vendôme is located in one of the most seductive "Folies" from the Grand Siècle. This peaceful and beautiful site truly reflects the splendor and art de vivre of centuries past.
"Bar hop" through the city's boutiques: Pedestrian streets are overflowing with boutiques: top names in fashion, gift shops, home decor shops, bookstores, gourmet shops, and more.
Take advantage of the unique nightlife: In Aix-en-Provence, the mild climate invites you to take full advantage of the night. With one casino, three cinemas, over 10 discothèques, and innumerable bars, pubs, theaters, café-theaters, and concert halls, Aix promises great nightlife.
Admire the largest Mur d'Eau in Europe on the Pont Juvénal Mozart, at the entrance to the city. With a surface area of over 600 square meters and a 17 meter drop into the water, this wall is an example of true architectural prowess, the first to contain roads for cars.

Make the most of your stay inFrance. Travel to Aix and enjoy the local specialties such as calissons,santon figurines, wines from AOC Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence, Côtes de ProvenceSainte Victoire, Provence wines and Palette wines.
The important and famous Frenchcity of Aix has many delicious treats to offer, starting with thecalisson, the town’s specialty prepared with ground almonds. Many factories areopen to visitors and offer tastings; santon figurine makers, wine estates, andolive farms open their doors to the public. Wines and olive oils and theirby-products, such as olive tapenade paste, may also be bought at markets. Thelocal farmers’ market may be found every morning all year round on PlaceRichelme.

Year-Round Events

March: Rencontres du 9ème Art, comic book festival
April: Festival de Pâques
June: the Flâneries d'Art (follow a route of art exhibitions and discover top new artists; you can also explore the gardens and studios in the town center that are rarely open to the public during this period) and the Salon Vivre Côté Sud
July: the Festival d'Art Lyrique. Each year, 5 new creations enrich the history of this great festival.
August: Festival International de Piano à La Roque d'Anthéron
September: Salon des Écrivains en Provence; Grande Fête des Calissons. The sweetest of Provençal traditions will enchant you as much for its almond paste as for its ancestral costumes: Provençal-style mass, a costume runway, fife and tambourine dances, and more.
November: The start of Christmas festivities! Provençal Christmas is full of rich traditions and unique dishes. Definitely a must-see experience in Aix (from the end of November).
December: Big truffle and gourmet food market in Rognes; Christmas Festivities.

Visiting the town

Guided tours of Aix are held on Wednesdays andSaturdays at 10 am, exploring the charms of this famousFrench city, the elegance of its townhouses, and the beauty of itsarchitecture and its monuments. From April through October, one visit is heldper day at 10 am – focusing on a different theme every morning.

Getting to Aix

Intersection of Highways A7, A8, A51, and A56 (between Italy and Spain)
International airport 25 minutes away from the center city (links to 66 airports; direct flights from 20 countries; regular flights from 23 carriers)
The Gare Aix-TGV is only 2 hours and 56 minutes from Paris. Approximately 12 services per day. Shuttles between Aix TGV, Marseille-Provence Airport, and center city Aix.