4 DaysFranceCultureFood
Aix-en-provence
Your 4-day travel guide
Best in May-June or September-October
Aix-en-provence•4D•Couple
Aix-en-provence, France
Duration:4 Days
Activities:12
Best for:Couple
Fountains, Markets, and Cézanne's Light
There's a particular quality to the light in Aix-en-Provence that captivated Paul Cézanne, and you'll understand why the moment you arrive. It's not just the sun, it's how it filters through the plane trees along the Cours Mirabeau, dances on the dozens of fountains, and warms the honey-colored stone of the old town. The air smells of lavender from nearby fields, fresh bread from the boulangeries, and the sweet, earthy scent of the market. For a couple seeking culture and food, Aix is perfect. You'll spend your days wandering narrow streets that open onto elegant squares, discovering small museums, and tasting Provençal cuisine that's as vibrant as the local landscapes. Get ready to slow down to the pace of a long lunch and find beauty in everyday moments, just like the city's most famous son did.
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1
Historic Heart and Market Flavors
Day 1 of your journey
Start your exploration on this iconic, tree-lined boulevard, the elegant spine of Aix. Built in the 17th century, it's flanked by grand hôtels particuliers (private mansions) and dotted with fountains, including the moss-covered Fontaine des Neuf Canons. It's the perfect place for a morning coffee at one of the historic cafés like Les Deux Garçons, a former haunt of Cézanne and Picasso. The atmosphere is lively yet refined, setting the tone for the city. A leisurely walk from one end to the other takes about 30 minutes, but you'll want to linger.
Cours Mirabeau
Why Visit
The Cours Mirabeau is the quintessential introduction to Aix's aristocratic past and its love for beauty and shade. It's not just a street, it's a living salon where you immediately feel the city's graceful rhythm. For a couple, it's a romantic and visually stunning first impression, offering great people-watching and a direct connection to the city's history.
Look for the small plaque on the terrace of Les Deux Garçons marking where Cézanne and Zola used to sit. The best light for photos is in the morning before the sun gets too high. Address: Cours Mirabeau.
2
In the Footsteps of Cézanne
Day 2 of your journey
3
Local Life and Evening Indulgence
Day 3 of your journey
4
Free Day & Local Exploration
Day 4 of your journey
Before You Go
Essential Travel Tips
Aix is a walking city. Comfortable shoes are essential for its cobbled streets.
The main tourist office is on Place du Général de Gaulle. Pick up a free map and ask about the Aix City Pass for museum discounts.
While French is the language, many in the tourist industry speak English. A polite 'Bonjour' and 'Merci' go a long way.
Tipping is not obligatory as service is included, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is customary for good service.
Public parking in the center is limited and expensive. If you have a car, use one of the large park-and-ride lots (P+R) on the outskirts and take the bus in.
The little tourist train is a cheesy but efficient way to get an overview of the main sites if your feet need a break.
Shops and many restaurants close for a few hours in the afternoon (roughly 14:00-17:00). Plan museum visits or walks for this time.
Tap water is safe to drink. Ask for 'une carafe d'eau' in restaurants to get free tap water instead of bottled.
When to Go
Best Time to Visit
The best times to visit Aix-en-Provence are late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is reliably warm and sunny, but not excessively hot. The famous lavender fields in the surrounding Luberon region are in bloom from mid-June to early August, which is stunning but also brings peak crowds and higher temperatures. July and August can be very hot, crowded, and some smaller shops may close for holiday. Winter is mild but some attractions have shorter hours, and the famous markets are less abundant.
Local Insights & Tips
Aix-en-Provence has a dual personality. It's a historic, elegant university town with a palpable sense of tradition and refinement. Life moves at a leisurely pace, centered around café terraces, long meals, and the weekly market. Don't be in a rush. The locals, known as Aixois, can seem reserved at first but are generally polite and proud of their city. Dress is casually smart, especially in the evening. The city is safe, but standard precautions against pickpockets in crowded markets apply. Remember that 'Aix' is pronounced like the letter 'X'.