Aix-en-Provence is one of France’s most elegant cities, with its impressive central boulevard filled with fountains and stylish mansions. Away from the center, there’s plenty more to see in this region with the coastline beckoning to the south and west, and gorgeous Gallic countryside in every direction.
A bustling boulevard
Most visitors to Aix-en-Provence head straight for the Cours Mirabeau, the city’s very own version of the Champs Elysées. Lined with cafés and rows of trees, this busy and grandiose street is a must-see. Among the many impressive buildings is the Hôtel de Villars, which dates back to 1710 and boasts four distinctive pillars outside its entrance.
You’ll also spot many fountains along the street including La Rotonde, the symbol of Aix-en-Provence. After taking in some of the sights, you’ll find plenty of places to stop for a bite to eat, such as the Café de Deux Garçons where you can sample meat and seafood dishes cooked in the traditional Provencal style.
Also worth a visit is the Musée Granet, the city’s main art gallery. With paintings by some of the greatest names in art including Monet, Matisse and Picasso, it’s a wonderful way to spend an afternoon.
In the footsteps of Cézanne
Aix-en-Provence was home to the Post-Impressionist painter Paul Cézanne, born in the city in 1839. Today, you can visit a number of sites marking key milestones in the life of the artist, including the Atelier de Cézanne, his former home and studio which is now a museum celebrating his achievements.
Located just a short distance from the Cours Mirabeau, you can explore the garden courtyard and the studio inside the house, where the artist worked. It’s been carefully preserved since Cézanne’s death in 1906, and the relaxed atmosphere will almost make you forget this is a museum. The peaceful garden and quiet surroundings make it the perfect place to enjoy a picnic.
Marvelous Mediterranean sun
Just a couple of hours’ drive along the A8 freeway you’ll find one of France’s most popular tourist hotspots, Nice.
Known as the ‘capital of the Côte d’Azur’, Nice is a classically beautiful city with seven kilometers of beach along its Promenade des Anglais. The gorgeous pebble beach is a huge draw for the many sun-seekers who travel here each year.
In the west of the old city you’ll find Le Chateau de Nice, the site of a former fortress demolished hundreds of years ago that today has been transformed into a serene park filled with trees, shrubs and a waterfall. To the east is the old port, now a yachting marina where you’ll spot some incredible luxury boats owned by the super-rich. Nice is well connected to the French Riviera coast and renting a car for your visit makes it possible to explore this amazing region and beyond. It’s a trip you’ll never forget.