Aix en Provence

Aix-en-Provence, a superb Provencal city to discover

Protected by the Montagne Sainte Victoire which rises to 1,011m. Aix is surrounded by a countryside full of authentic Provencal houses and traditional French style gardens. The name Aix comes from the source discovered when the city was founded in 123b.c. by the Romans.

Visit the ancient capital of Provence

Aix was the capitol of Provence in the 15th century. Wealthy merchants and local dignitaries helped turn this city into the Florence of Provence as we know it today. One can find all the beauty of the noble Provence of the17th and 18th centuries: handsome houses of the upper class, private mansions, city squeres bursting with flowers, ancient fountains and shaded narrow streets.

A city that has always attracted writers and artists

Aix was the inspiration to many of the greatest writers and painters : Guigou, Stendhal, Mistral, Zola, and Cézanne. There is even a special Cezanne tour which one can follow through the streets of Aix stopping at points marked with a C. As a city of art and culture Aix possesses a wealth of superbe architecture that has been carefully preserved and restored.

A city centre with a rich heritage

Walking through the Cours Mirabeau and the Rue Gaston de Saporta one can admire the private mansions with their sculptured doors and windows and the intricate iron work on the balconies. Discerning shoppers choose the elegant boutiques in the quartier Mazarin.

Festivities in Aix en Provence

Concerts and operas: the Festival d'Art Lyrique et de Musique in summer

Every summer, the International Festival of Lyric Art and Music presents a sumptuous line-up of divas and maestros, and the dance festival is also internationally renowned.

The Christmas Market in winter

In December, the Aix Christmas market is a major event, with its market of 13 desserts, its bravades and its santon fair. It's a great opportunity to enjoy the traditions of Christmas in Provence and stock up on local produce for the festive season.

Our map of Aix en Provence

To find your way around Aix, you can use our interactive map of the city. It also works on mobile phones, and we've included some of our recommended accommodation in the town. You'll also find a slideshow of Aix-en-Provence with photos taken by our team in the city to inspire you to visit Aix.

Rent a classic car

An original idea for your stay in Aix en Provence: rent a classic car! From the majestic Rotonde to the lavender fields that surround the city, enjoy an escapade full of charm and elegance. Thanks to Voitures Passion, immerse yourself in the Provencal art of living in style and discover Aix differently, to the rhythm of a vintage car.

Visit a lavender farm in Aix

During your stay in Aix, we recommend visiting an organic lavender farm: Terre Ugo. On the agenda: a stroll through the lavender fields, creative workshops to spark your curiosity, friendly cocktail parties to share ideas, and a refined dinner prepared by talented chefs. Let yourself be surprised by this sensory adventure full of discoveries!

Our map of Aix en Provence

To find your way around Aix, you can use our interactive map of the city. It also works on mobile phones, and we've included some of our recommended accommodation in the town. You'll also find a slideshow of Aix-en-Provence with photos taken by our team in the city to inspire you to visit Aix.