Aix-en-Provence is a lively town in the south of France, offering plenty of sights and activities for visitors to enjoy. From its charming Old Town to the elegant Mazarin Quarter, Aix has a lot to offer. Here’s a list of the major attractions you won’t want to miss:
Cours Mirabeau
The Cours Mirabeau is the main thoroughfare in Aix, separating the Old Town to the north from the Mazarin Quarter to the south. Constructed in 1650 along one section of the city’s ramparts, this broad promenade is lined with massive mansions and dotted with beautiful fountains. In the past, it was the place for the wealthy and noble elite to see and be seen. Today, the Cours Mirabeau is a popular spot for locals and travelers to stroll under the shade of the plane trees, enjoy a coffee at one of the many cafes, and soak up the atmosphere of this charming French town.
Old Town (Vieille Ville)
The Old Town, or Vieille Ville, is located north of Cours Mirabeau and is a labyrinth of narrow walkways lined with numerous shops and boutiques. As you explore this fascinating neighborhood, be sure to visit:
L’Hôtel de Ville
The City Hall, or L’Hôtel de Ville, has been located at the base of the Tour de l’horloge (Clock Tower) since the 14th century, although the current building dates back to the 17th century.
Tour de l’Horloge
The 16th-century Tour de l’Horloge, or Clock Tower, serves as the gateway to the Saint-Sauveur neighborhood. In this area, you’ll find remnants of the old city wall, with parts dating back to the 14th century. One section featuring a covered gallery can be seen near the intersection of Rue des Guerriers and Rue Jacques de la Roque.
Saint Sauveur Cathedral (Aix Cathedral)
The Saint Sauveur Cathedral, also known as Aix Cathedral, was built in the Middle Ages on the site of a pre-Roman pagan temple and the Roman Forum. This stunning cathedral showcases a mix of architectural styles, including Romanesque, Gothic, and Neo-Gothic elements. Inside, visitors can admire the intricate tapestries, paintings, and sculptures that adorn the cathedral’s walls and altars.
Mazarin Quarter
South of Cours Mirabeau lies the Mazarin Quarter, a gridded neighborhood home to several elegant mansions and hôtels particuliers, as well as a few interesting fountains. This area was laid out in the mid-1600s on land belonging to the Order of Malta and later purchased by Monsigneur de Mazarin. It was designed as a neighborhood for the wealthy and the parliamentarians who no longer wanted to live in the close-knit Old Town.
Church of Saint John of Malta
The Church of Saint John of Malta is a 13th-century Gothic church built to honor the Hospitalers of Saint John of Jerusalem, also known as the Knights of Malta. Located in the Mazarin Quarter, this church features a simple yet elegant facade and a serene interior, perfect for a moment of quiet reflection.
Musée Granet
Adjacent to the Church of Saint John of Malta is the Musée Granet, an art museum dedicated to painter Francois Marius Granet. Housed in the former priory of Saint John of Malta, this museum boasts a collection that includes works from the 16th to the 20th century, as well as a handful of paintings by the famous Post-Impressionist artist Paul Cézanne, who was born in Aix-en-Provence.
Hôtels Particuliers
Throughout Aix, you’ll come across numerous hôtels particuliers, townhouses dating primarily from the 17th century that were built as private residences for wealthy noblemen. Some notable examples include:
- L’Hôtel d’Albertas: The former residence of the Marquis d’Albertas, featuring the Fontaine Place d’Albertas in its courtyard.
- L’Hôtel Boyer d’Eguilles: Built for Magdeleine de Forbin D’Oppede, widow of Parliamentary advisor Vincent D’Eguilles Boyer.
- L’Hôtel de Caumont: An 18th-century townhouse that now serves as the Caumont Art Centre, hosting temporary exhibitions and cultural events.
As you wander through the streets of Aix, keep an eye out for these impressive residences, which offer a glimpse into the lives of the city’s aristocratic past.
Fountains
Aix-en-Provence is known for its many fountains, which serve as a reminder of the city’s origins as a Roman spa town. Some notable fountains to look out for include:
- Fontaine des Quatre Dauphins: Located in the Mazarin Quarter, this fountain features four dolphins spouting water from their mouths.
- Fontaine d’Eau Chaude: Situated on the Cours Mirabeau, this fountain is named for the hot water that once flowed from its spouts, sourced from nearby thermal springs.
These fountains not only add to the charm and beauty of Aix but also provide a refreshing respite from the Mediterranean sun.
In the Steps of Cézanne Walking Tour
As the birthplace of Post-Impressionist artist Paul Cézanne, Aix-en-Provence offers plenty of opportunities to explore the life and works of this influential painter. The “In the Steps of Cézanne” walking tour takes visitors to various locations associated with the artist, including:
- The site of his birth
- The schools he attended
- His art studio, known as Atelier Cézanne
Along the way, you’ll find informative plaques and markers that provide insight into Cézanne’s life and his connection to Aix. To see some of Cézanne’s paintings in person, be sure to visit the Musée Granet, which houses a small collection of his works.
Cultural Forum
The Cultural Forum is a modern area of Aix located behind the Tourist Information office. This neighborhood features a pedestrian shopping area that leads to the cultural arts district, where you’ll find some of the city’s latest architectural projects, such as the Conservatory of Music, Dance, and Dramatic Art.
The Cultural Forum is a testament to Aix’s commitment to the arts and its desire to blend its rich historical heritage with contemporary design and creativity. As you explore this area, take note of the striking modern architecture that stands in contrast to the city’s more traditional buildings.
Other Attractions and Activities
Along With the main sights mentioned above, Aix-en-Provence offers a variety of other attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy:
- Markets: Aix is known for its lively markets, where you can find everything from fresh produce and local specialties to handcrafted goods and souvenirs. The main market takes place daily (except Mondays) on Place Richelme, while a larger market is held on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at Place des Prêcheurs.
- Cours Sextius: This tree-lined avenue is home to several thermal baths, a testament to Aix’s history as a spa town. While most of the baths are now closed, you can still admire the grand buildings that once housed them, such as the Thermes Sextius.
- Pavillon Vendôme: This 17th-century mansion, surrounded by beautiful gardens, now serves as a museum showcasing the art and decorative objects of the 17th and 18th centuries.
- Atelier Cézanne: For a deeper understanding of Paul Cézanne’s life and work, visit his former studio, located just a short walk from the city center. Here, you can see the artist’s workspace, complete with his original easel, palette, and other tools, as well as reproductions of his paintings.
As you can see, Aix-en-Provence has no shortage of things to see and do. Whether you’re interested in art, history, architecture, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of a charming French town, Aix has something to offer. Take your time exploring the city’s many attractions, and don’t forget to stop at a cafe or restaurant to sample some of the delicious local cuisine and wine.
With its perfect blend of old-world charm and modern amenities, Aix-en-Provence is a destination that will leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
