Vieil Aix
Historic streets, markets, the cathedral, intimate squares and numerous restaurants just outside your door.
Choose this area for the liveliest atmosphere and evenings out.
Provence · Art and fountains
Elegant boulevards, sparkling fountains, Cézanne’s art and Provençal markets come together in one of Southern France’s most atmospheric cities.
Aix-en-Provence lies in the heart of Provence, combining historic townhouses, shady squares and a lively urban atmosphere. Along Cours Mirabeau, plane trees, pavement cafés and classical fountains set the scene, while the old town is filled with markets, independent shops and beautiful streets that are perfect for exploring on foot.
Aix also makes an excellent base for exploring the rest of Provence.
Begin with Cours Mirabeau and the old town, but also allow time for markets, art, intimate squares and the landscapes that made Cézanne famous.
Browse flowers, vegetables, olives, crafts and local specialities in the city-centre squares.
Combine Musée Granet, Quartier Mazarin and the elegant historic buildings of the city centre.
Enjoy rosé wine, olive oil, calissons and restaurants centred on seasonal produce.
Head towards Sainte-Victoire, Le Tholonet and the wine country surrounding Aix.
Choose the length of your stay and follow a relaxed itinerary combining city life, art, markets, food and excursions across Provence.
You can see the city’s essential highlights without making the day feel rushed. This itinerary combines a market, the old town, art and a long Provençal evening.
A long weekend gives you time for both the city’s classics and the surrounding countryside, with room for memorable meals and a slower experience of Aix.
With five days, you can use Aix as a base and combine the city’s culture with nature, villages and the Mediterranean coast, creating a varied holiday without changing hotels.
Choose your area according to whether you prefer lively markets and restaurants, elegant historic quarters, quieter gardens or convenient transport links for exploring Provence.
Historic streets, markets, the cathedral, intimate squares and numerous restaurants just outside your door.
Choose this area for the liveliest atmosphere and evenings out.Baroque townhouses, Place des Quatre-Dauphins and an easy walk to Musée Granet.
A good choice for couples and culture lovers.Cafés, shopping and easy access to the old town, Mazarin and the bus station.
An excellent choice for a first visit.Close to the old town, Thermes Sextius and several local places to eat, but often slightly quieter.
A good balance between central convenience and calm.Leafy hotel areas close to the bus station and the roads towards Marseille and the rest of Provence.
Best for motorists planning several day trips.Here are all the hotels we have selected in Aix-en-Provence, across categories and price levels. Use the map to compare locations and distances from the city’s main sights.
★★★★★5-star hotel in Aix-en-Provence with spa, restaurant options and terrace and a comfortable, well-located feel.
★★★★★5-star hotel in Aix-en-Provence with spa and rooms and suites and a comfortable, well-located feel.
★★★★★5-star hotel in Aix-en-Provence with spa, restaurant options and terrace and a comfortable, well-located feel.
★★★★4-star hotel in Aix-en-Provence with restaurant options, terrace and pool and a comfortable, well-located feel.
★★★3-star hotel in Aix-en-Provence with terrace, old town and rooms with terrace or balcony and a comfortable, well-located feel.
★★★3-star aparthotel in Aix-en-Provence with spa, restaurant options and old town and a comfortable, well-located feel.
★★★3-star hotel in Aix-en-Provence with old town, family-friendly room options and garden surroundings and a comfortable, well-located feel.
★★2-star hotel in Aix-en-Provence with old town and family-friendly room options and a comfortable, well-located feel.
The map shows campsites with their own websites near Aix-en-Provence. The closest options are prioritised, making it easy to combine city life with Provence, wine country and the Mediterranean coast.
Choose an easy scenic walk or a longer hike on the mountain that became one of Cézanne’s most famous subjects.
Discover wine estates, rosé, olive oil and beautiful scenery along the roads towards Sainte-Victoire and the Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence.
Quiet lanes, woodland, water and views towards Sainte-Victoire make this a rewarding half-day excursion just outside the city.
Aix-en-Provence has a varied restaurant scene where Provençal produce, Mediterranean flavours and modern French gastronomy come together. These eight recommended addresses all have working official links.
An elegant gourmet restaurant at Villa Gallici serving seasonal Mediterranean cuisine with Provençal flavours.
Licandro Le BistroA central bistro with creative menus and a clear focus on fresh, local and seasonal produce.
Le Petit VerdotAn intimate restaurant and wine bar near the centre, combining bistro dishes, Provençal touches and a strong wine list.
Côté CourA refined address on Cours Mirabeau offering creative seasonal cuisine in elegant, central surroundings.
Âma TerraThe restaurant at Villa Saint-Ange serves modern Mediterranean cuisine built around local producers and seasonal ingredients.
Les Caves Henri 4A historic restaurant in vaulted cellars near Cours Mirabeau, known for French gastronomy and wine.
Le Poivre d’AneA creative restaurant on Place des Cardeurs with a warm atmosphere, a terrace and modern French cooking.
GaodinaA leafy, relaxed restaurant outside the centre serving locally sourced, responsible Mediterranean cuisine in garden-like surroundings.
Aix is strategically placed between a major city, villages, vineyards and the Mediterranean coast. A car offers the greatest freedom, although several excursions are also possible by train, bus or organised tour.
Experience the Vieux-Port, Le Panier, museums and the vibrant Mediterranean character of France’s great port city.
Best for: city life, harbour and culture Coast and natureCombine the small harbour town of Cassis with a boat trip, viewpoints or walking among white limestone cliffs.
Best for: sea, nature and boat trips Full day by car or organised tourVisit villages such as Gordes, Roussillon and Lourmarin, adding stops at markets and viewpoints along the way.
Best for: villages and road trips Train or carExplore the Palais des Papes, the city walls, the Rhône and the old town in one of Provence’s most important historic cities.
Best for: history and architectureExplore the city in greater depth, plan a touring holiday through Provence or combine your stay with the Calanques and the Mediterranean coast.
Read the comprehensive guide covering history, sights, Cézanne, markets, food and ideas for experiences in the city.
Read the Aix-en-Provence guide →
Continue to vineyards, the Luberon, Avignon, Marseille and the many villages surrounding Aix.
Read the Provence guide →
Combine your city break with Cassis, a boat trip and some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in Southern France.
Read about the Calanques →Find inspiration in travel guides, touring itineraries and personal recommendations from across France. Discover cities, villages, food and wine experiences, nature and new destinations.