Aix-en-Provence

The history of Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence was founded by the Romans in 123 BC under the name Aquae Sextiae, meaning “the waters of Sextius”. The name refers to the area’s thermal springs, which established the town as a place of health and relaxation in antiquity.

During the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, Aix grew into an important political and cultural centre of Provence. In the 15th century it served as the region’s capital, and many of the elegant mansions and town houses that still shape the old town date from this prosperous period.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, Aix acquired its characteristic broad avenues, fountains and pale stone façades. This blend of history and understated elegance is why it is often described as one of France’s most beautiful smaller cities.

Cours Mirabeau, the elegant heart of the city

The best-known street in Aix-en-Provence is Cours Mirabeau. Lined with tall plane trees, historic façades, fountains and cafés, the boulevard is the city’s natural meeting place.

It is easy to understand why Aix is associated with the good life. Take a seat on a terrace, order a coffee or a glass of rosé and allow the day to begin at an unhurried pace. Several of the city’s most attractive fountains stand along the boulevard, including Fontaine de la Rotonde, one of Aix’s defining landmarks.

The old town – fountains, squares and Provençal charm

The old town of Aix-en-Provence is a maze of narrow lanes, small squares, pastel-coloured façades and inviting shops. Art galleries, delicatessens, shady corners and restaurants sit close together, and the city is best discovered on foot.

Highlights include Place de l’Hôtel de Ville, Place d’Albertas and Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur, whose architecture reflects several different periods. Almost any detour can reveal a hidden fountain or another small square, giving Aix an atmosphere that feels both intimate and lively.

Paul Cézanne and the art of Aix

Aix-en-Provence was the birthplace of Paul Cézanne, one of the most influential artists in modern art. Born here in 1839, he returned repeatedly in his paintings to the landscapes around the city, particularly Montagne Sainte-Victoire.

Visitors can follow the Cézanne trail through the city and visit places such as Atelier Cézanne, Terrain des Peintres and Musée Granet. Together, they offer a deeper understanding of how Aix, its light and the surrounding landscape shaped his work.

Markets, calissons and Provençal flavours

Aix-en-Provence is celebrated for its markets, and several times a week the city fills with stalls selling fruit, vegetables, flowers, cheese, olive oil and regional specialities. Place Richelme is particularly known for its food market, while Cours Mirabeau and Place des Prêcheurs offer flowers, art and classic Provençal market life.

One local speciality not to miss is the calisson, a traditional almond sweet that is almost synonymous with the city. Aix is also made for long lunches, wine bars and small food shops, making it easy to plan the day around flavour and atmosphere.

Nature and day trips around Aix-en-Provence

The countryside around the city offers many worthwhile excursions. The best known is Montagne Sainte-Victoire, the mountain Cézanne painted countless times. Walking trails, viewpoints and a distinctly Provençal landscape make it an appealing escape from the city.

Aix is also a convenient base for day trips to the vineyards of Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence and Côtes de Provence, the villages of the Luberon, Provence’s lavender fields and the coastal town of Cassis. Its proximity to so many different experiences makes it one of the best bases in southern France.

Festivals, culture and the best time to visit

Aix-en-Provence has a lively cultural scene throughout the year. Its best-known event is Festival d’Aix-en-Provence, one of Europe’s leading opera festivals, held each summer. The city also offers exhibitions, concerts, food events and an energetic street life beyond the main season.

Spring and early autumn are often the most comfortable times to visit, with pleasant temperatures, flowering landscapes and slightly quieter streets. Summer is lively and sociable, while autumn is particularly good for wine, markets and day trips through Provence.

Why visit Aix-en-Provence?

Aix-en-Provence combines history, art, gastronomy, markets and nature in a way that makes it one of southern France’s most appealing destinations. Its elegant atmosphere, easy access to mountains, vineyards and the Mediterranean, and relaxed pace suit both a long weekend and a more leisurely holiday.

Whether you want to follow in Cézanne’s footsteps, enjoy Provençal food, visit vineyards or simply sit on a sunny terrace and watch the day pass, Aix-en-Provence offers an authentic and thoroughly enjoyable taste of Provence.