Location & Transportation
I love arriving in Aix-en-Provence because the city welcomes you with a warm Provencal embrace. The port is well connected, and if you’re arriving by air, the nearest airport is Marseille Provence Airport, which is about a 30-40 minute drive away. Once here, the compact city center is perfect for exploring on foot, and you'll quickly discover that even a short stroll reveals centuries of history mixed with modern charm.
Nearby Lodging
There are plenty of charming hotels and quaint bed & breakfasts here. Many options can be found in the heart of the Old Town, where you’ll be steps away from lovely cafes, boutique shops, and vibrant markets.
Nearest Airport
- Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) is the easiest international gateway to Aix-en-Provence.
Sightseeing
Aix-en-Provence overflows with artistic and historical delights. Walking through its streets feels like stepping into a living museum:
- Historic Old Town: Wander along narrow cobbled lanes lined with 17th-century mansions and charming fountains.
- Cours Mirabeau: This iconic, tree-lined avenue is perfect for people-watching while sipping a café or enjoying a pastry at one of its many outdoor cafes.
- Art & Museums: Don’t miss the Musée Granet, where you can admire works from Cézanne—the local son who captured the essence of this region in his art.
I always find that even a simple walk around town gives you a real taste of the local history and vibrant cultural scene.
Tours & Excursions
There’s no shortage of exciting day trips when you dock in Aix-en-Provence. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Mont Sainte-Victoire: Just a short drive away, this majestic mountain offers stunning hiking trails and breathtaking views that inspired many of Cézanne’s paintings.
- Calanques National Park: If you’re in the mood for a coastal adventure, head to this park for dramatic cliffs and clear blue waters.
- Marseille: Spend a few hours exploring France’s second-largest city, known for its rich maritime history and vibrant cultural mix.
- Avignon: Visit the famous Papal Palace and immerse yourself in medieval charm just an hour away.
- Luberon Regional Nature Park: Enjoy the rolling vineyards, quaint villages, and peaceful countryside that epitomize rural Provence.
- Arles: Discover Roman monuments and the famous streets that once inspired Vincent van Gogh.
- Cassis: A picturesque coastal town known for its stunning beaches and relaxed port atmosphere.
Shopping
Aix-en-Provence is a shopper’s delight. I love visiting the local markets and boutiques where you can find artisan goods, Provencal fabrics, and unique souvenirs. Strolling along the bustling streets around the Old Town or near Cours Mirabeau offers plenty of opportunities to pick up a little piece of the region for yourself.
Dining
Dining in Aix-en-Provence is an absolute treat. I always make time to indulge in the local cuisine, which highlights fresh, seasonal ingredients. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café on Cours Mirabeau or sample traditional Provencal dishes like ratatouille and bouillabaisse at one of the local bistros. The relaxed, sun-drenched terraces are perfect for an authentic French meal any time of day.
Culture & Local Events
Aix-en-Provence is soaked in culture and lively events that bring the city to life:
- Festivals & Arts: Known as the "City of the Arts," Aix hosts the Festival International d'Art Lyrique every summer, along with numerous art exhibitions and music concerts throughout the year.
- Local Lifestyle & Practical Tips:
- Shops, cafes, and museums generally follow traditional French hours, often pausing for a relaxed lunch.
- While credit cards are accepted in many places, I’d recommend carrying some cash for the bustling local markets.
- French is the local language, but you'll find that many locals speak English in tourist areas.
- Cultural Heritage: The blend of historic architecture, lively markets, and artistic heritage makes every visit feel like a step back in time—with a modern twist.