Visit Aix-en-Provence
Known as the city of fountains, Aix-en-Provence is the definition of a picture-perfect South of France town. Overlooked by the incredible Sainte-Victoire Mountain, Aix has a pedestrian-friendly old town, vibrant daily markets and a rich art history – due to being the home and birthplace of Post-Impressionist Artist, Paul Cézanne.
Once part of the Roman Empire, it later became a medieval centre of arts and academics, with the University of Aix-Marseille thriving since 1409. The town has a lively student community, with over 40,000 students a year, which makes up a quarter of the city’s population. Aix is the ideal place to stroll hidden streets, people watch at cafés and enjoy the provençal atmosphere.
What to see in Aix? : Monuments
Fontaine de la Rotonde : The biggest fountain in the city, measuring in at 12 metres high and 32 metres wide, it was built to serve as a marker for the entrance to the city.
Saint Sauveur Cathedral : The Cathedral of Aix is an incredible place to view Romanesque, Gothic and Neo-Gothic architecture.
What to do in Aix? : Museums and Markets
Musée du Calisson/The Aix Calisson Museum : This museum recounts the history and production of Aix’s very own speciality, the calisson. The history of this famous sweet goes back to the 15th century where King René is said to have had his confectioner make this delicacy for Queen Jeanne on her wedding day.
Musée Granet : The main art museum in Aix, which showcases over 12,000 works of art. With a range of styles from 14th to 20th century art, this is the perfect place to visit. There’s a huge collection honouring Aix-en-Provence’s very own Paul Cézanne, as well as notable artists like Picasso, Klee, Rembrandt and Dubuffet.
Markets : Found throughout the many beautiful cobbled-stonned streets, markets take place nearly everyday in the city. There is loads of fresh produce and local specialities to discover.
The Best Tours and Excursions
Visit Aix-en-Provence
Local products and food
Calissons : The main specialty that you have to try in Aix-en-Provence. Originating from the 15th century, it’s a diamond-shaped sweet made of almonds, candied melon and orange peel sandwiched between a thin wafer and royal icing on top.
Daube Provençale: A hearty, comforting beef stew slowly marinated and simmered in red wine, garlic, and herbes de Provence. Authentic local versions can be savored at family-run tables like Les Galinas.
Tapenade: A thick, savory spread made from crushed black or green olives, capers, anchovies, and a generous splash of olive oil. Perfect for spreading over fresh baguettes during an apéritif.
Soupe au Pistou: A traditional summer vegetable and bean soup packed with squash, potatoes, and pasta, elevated by a massive swirl of fresh basil, garlic, and olive oil paste.
Pissaladière: A savory, pizza-like flatbread tart topped with deeply caramelized onions, black olives, and anchovies.
Brousse du Rove: A rare, creamy fresh goat cheese uniquely wrapped in chestnut leaves or shaped in plastic cones, offering a mild, milky flavor profile
