Nestled in the heart of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region in southern France, Aix-en-Provence is a city that effortlessly combines the charm of a historic town with the vibrancy of a modern cultural hub. Known for its stunning architecture and rich artistic heritage, Aix-en-Provence offers a feast for the eyes and soul.
Walking through the streets of Aix-en-Provence feels like stepping back in time. The city's architecture is a testament to its long and varied history, with influences from Roman times through to the 18th century.
bitions.
Aix-en-Provence, often referred to as the "City of a Thousand Fountains," is a paradise for those who love the charm of flowing water. Each fountain tells a story, from the grand La Rotonde, with its majestic sculptures, to the moss-covered Fountain of the Four Dolphins, nestled in the heart of the Mazarin district. As you wander through the city's narrow streets, you'll encounter these historic treasures, which reflect centuries of art and architecture. The sound of water splashing from these fountains creates a serene atmosphere, enhancing the town's already picturesque beauty. Whether large or small, each fountain in Aix-en-Provence contributes to the city's unique and enchanting character.
Aix: A City of Art
Following Cézanne's Footsteps
Aix is famously the hometown of the post-impressionist painter Paul Cézanne, and his presence is felt throughout the city. I embarked on the "Cézanne Trail," a self-guided walking tour that takes you through places significant to his life and work. Starting at his childhood home and ending at his final resting place, the trail was a profound journey into the mind of the artist.
A visit to Aix would be incomplete without exploring the Atelier de Cézanne, the studio where Cézanne worked from 1902 until his death in 1906. Preserved much as it was when the artist left it, the studio offers a unique insight into his creative process. The light-filled space is filled with objects that appeared in his still-life paintings, and one can almost feel the presence of the artist at work.
Musée Granet
Another highlight for art lovers is the Musée Granet. Located in the former priory of the Knights of Malta, this museum boasts a comprehensive collection ranging from the Renaissance to the 20th century. Works by Cézanne, as well as other greats such as Rembrandt and Picasso, grace its walls. The museum's modern extension, Granet XXe, features contemporary works and is a testament to Aix's commitment to the arts.
Fondation Vasarely
For those interested in modern art, the Fondation Vasarely is a must-see. Dedicated to the works of Victor Vasarely, a pioneer of optical art, the foundation's building itself is an architectural wonder. Designed by Vasarely, it features hexagonal units and houses an extensive collection of his mesmerizing works.
Festivals and Cultural Events
Aix-en-Provence's dedication to the arts is also evident in its vibrant cultural scene. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from classical music to dance.
Festival d’Aix-en-Provence
One of the most prestigious events is the Festival d’Aix-en-Provence, an annual opera and classical music festival held in July. Performances take place in various historic venues across the city, including the Théâtre de l'Archevêché and the Grand Théâtre de Provence, blending the city's architectural beauty with world-class music.
Art et Festin
For a more eclectic experience, the Art et Festin festival in August brings together artists, musicians, and food lovers. Streets and squares are transformed into open-air galleries and stages, creating a lively and creative atmosphere.
Market Days: A Feast for the Senses
No visit to Aix is complete without experiencing its famous markets. The city comes alive on market days, one of the markets to visit is the market at Cours Mirabeau. The markets are a sensory overload in the best possible way: vibrant colors, tantalizing aromas, and the lively chatter of vendors and shoppers alike.
The produce markets are overflowing with fresh fruits and vegetables, aromatic herbs, and the most beautiful flowers. A great stop to shop the best tomatoes, fragrant basil, and, of course, bouquets of lavender.
On Saturday mornings there is also a small antique market near Fontaine de la Rotonde that is worth a visit. A great place to find that special one-of-a-kind souvenir.
Provençal Cuisine
Aix-en-Provence is a paradise for food lovers. From quaint bistros to Michelin-starred restaurants, the city offers a culinary experience that celebrates the flavors of Provence.
I can definitely recommend pizza night at Le Four Aixois, where they serve great fresh pizzas and always make you feel very welcome.
For the perfect gelato the small icecream shop La Verrerie Givree is on the top of our list, we did a lot of testing :) They have a beautiful selection of artisan flavours and make there own cones.
A memorable local treat are calissons, a delicious almond-shaped confection made from ground almonds, candied melon, and orange peel. These sweet treats are a specialty of Aix, and we always bring a box home.
Embracing the Provençal Lifestyle
One of the joys of spending summer in Aix-en-Provence is the opportunity to embrace the leisurely pace of life. I spent many afternoons simply lounging in the city’s beautiful parks and gardens. The Pavillon Vendôme, with its perfectly manicured gardens and stately mansion, was a favorite spot. Here, I often found myself reading a book or simply watching the world go by.
The evenings in Aix are equally enchanting. The city comes alive with music, from impromptu street performances to organised concerts. In the evening, it's not unlikely to stumble upon a classical music concert in one of the city's many squares. The combination of beautiful music, warm summer air, and the stunning backdrop of Aix's historic buildings created a magical atmosphere.
Aix-en-Provence is a city where every corner tells a story, every building whispers of history, and every artwork speaks to the soul. Whether you're wandering through its ancient streets, exploring its art-filled museums, or enjoying its cultural festivals, Aix-en-Provence offers an unforgettable journey through time and creativity. Come for the architecture, stay for the art, and leave with a piece of Aix-en-Provence in your heart.
