Estate Agency in Aix-en-Provence

What is there to see and do in Aix-en-Provence?

Aix-en-Provence is a vibrant and culturally rich city known for its beautiful architecture and ties to the artist Paul Cézanne. Visitors can explore Cours Mirabeau, a tree-lined boulevard with cafés and 17th-century mansions, or wander through the historic Old Town with its mediaeval streets and bustling markets.

Art enthusiasts can visit the Musée Granet, which houses works by Cézanne, Picasso, and Rembrandt, or the Atelier Cézanne, where the artist painted many of his masterpieces. Aix is also home to the Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur, a stunning mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architectural styles.

Outdoor lovers will enjoy hiking up Montagne Sainte-Victoire, the mountain that inspired many of Cézanne’s paintings, while foodies can savour Provençal cuisine in the local restaurants, markets, and at the Marché d’Aix where fresh produce, cheeses, and local wines are sold.

What events take place in Provence?

Provence hosts a variety of cultural and traditional events throughout the year, celebrating everything from music and art to local produce and traditions:

• Aix-en-Provence Festival: One of the most renowned opera festivals in Europe, this annual event attracts top international talent.
• Les Rencontres d’Arles: A summer photography festival in Arles, which transforms the city into a gallery for exhibitions and installations.
• Avignon Festival: A world-famous theatre festival, featuring performances across the city’s mediaeval venues.
• Fête de la Lavande: Held in Valensole, this lavender festival celebrates the bloom of Provence’s iconic purple fields with parades, music, and markets.
• Transhumance Festivals: Celebrating the seasonal movement of livestock, these events take place in various villages across Provence and involve processions of sheep, goats, and cows through the streets.

Food lovers will enjoy Olive and Truffle Festivals across Provence in the winter months, as well as wine harvest celebrations during the autumn, particularly in the Côtes du Rhône area.

What is there to see and do in the Provence area?

Provence offers an incredible variety of experiences, from picturesque landscapes to historical landmarks. The region is famous for its lavender fields, rolling vineyards, and charming hilltop villages like Gordes and Roussillon in the Luberon. You can visit Abbaye de Sénanque, a historic abbey surrounded by lavender fields, or explore Les Baux-de-Provence, a mediaeval village perched on a rocky plateau offering panoramic views.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking and cycling trails in the Luberon or the Verdon Gorge, Europe's largest canyon. Art lovers can visit the sites that inspired great artists like Van Gogh, particularly in Arles, or enjoy galleries and art festivals in Aix-en-Provence.

For a more leisurely experience, enjoy wine tasting in Provence's renowned vineyards, or spend time exploring the Camargue with its wild horses, pink flamingos, and salt marshes. The region is also home to Roman ruins like the Pont du Gard and the Amphitheatre in Nîmes, which transport visitors back to ancient times.

What amenities are near Aix-en-Provence?

Aix-en-Provence offers a full range of amenities and services, making it an ideal base for both visitors and residents. The city has excellent shopping options, from high-end boutiques to local markets selling artisanal goods. Cours Mirabeau and the surrounding streets are home to a variety of restaurants, cafés, and bistros offering both international cuisine and traditional Provençal dishes.

For transportation, Aix is well connected. The city is just 30 minutes from Marseille Provence Airport, offering international flights. It is also served by a TGV train station, with high-speed trains to Paris, Lyon, and other major cities.

In terms of healthcare, Aix has several hospitals and clinics, including the Centre Hospitalier du Pays d’Aix, offering comprehensive medical services. The city also boasts a number of international schools, making it a good option for expatriate families.

Finally, the region surrounding Aix-en-Provence offers easy access to the Luberon, the Côte d’Azur, and even ski resorts in the Southern Alps, making it a versatile location for both everyday life and holiday excursions.