Free walking tours in Aix-en-Provence and what to see

Must-sees

Aix-en-Provence is the city of fountains and of Cézanne. Its main axis is the Cours Mirabeau, an avenue of plane trees, cafés and 17th- and 18th-century mansions that starts at the great Rotonde fountain. To the north lies the old town, with squares such as Place de l’Hôtel de Ville and Place d’Albertas, and Saint-Sauveur cathedral, which mixes styles from several eras. In the mornings, markets selling fruit, flowers and Provençal produce liven up several squares in the centre.

South of the Cours, the Mazarin quarter has straight streets, mansions and the Fountain of the Four Dolphins. The Musée Granet holds paintings including works by Cézanne, and the Hôtel de Caumont hosts exhibitions in a classical mansion. On the outskirts is the studio where Cézanne painted in his final years, and close by the Terrain des Peintres, from where you can see Mont Sainte-Victoire, the subject he painted so many times.

Free tours and guided visits

Aix has a free walking tour of the centre, as well as private guided tours. The tourist office runs guided visits, some devoted to Cézanne. Day trips leave the city for Arles, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence and Les Baux-de-Provence, for Avignon and Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and for the Verdon Regional Nature Park, as well as visits to a lavender field in season.

How long to spend

In one day you can cover the Cours Mirabeau, the old town, the market and the Mazarin quarter. With two days you can add the Musée Granet, Cézanne’s studio and the Sainte-Victoire viewpoint. If you like walking, set aside half a day for a hike on the mountain, and add another for a trip to the Verdon or the Luberon villages.

Where to stay

The historic centre and the Mazarin quarter are the most pleasant areas, with everything within walking distance and hotels in old buildings. Bear in mind that the old town is mostly pedestrianised and parking is difficult. If you are driving, hotels on the outskirts or around Sainte-Victoire are more convenient and quieter.