Discover the region
Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
An area brimming with wonders is waiting to be discovered!
Discover the region
Aix-en-Provence: a city of art, history and culture
Welcome to Aix-en-Provence, a southern French city known for its rich history and culture and breathtaking natural beauty.
Nestled in the heart of Provence, Aix-en-Provence exudes an irresistible charm that has captivated visitors for centuries. From its sun-drenched streets lined with shops and cafés to its spectacular monuments and world-renowned museums, Aix-en-Provence offers an unforgettable experience for all types of travellers.
Tip: Tour the city with passionate guides.
The old town
Wander along the narrow, winding streets lined with old houses with coloured façades and soak up the authentic Provence atmosphere. Admire the many mansions left behind from the time when Aix was the capital of Provence and explore the delightful squares dotted around the area. Visit the Mazarin district and Saint-Saveur cathedral.
Cours Mirabeau: the buzzing historical heart of Aix-en-Provence
Created in the 17th century, the Cours Mirabeau has been witness to the history of the city. From carriage rides to cultural events, it is the backdrop against which life in Aix has played out over the years. Nowadays, under the hundred-year-old plane trees, this iconic place is alive with cafés and fountains, reflecting the art de vivre of Provence.
Cézanne’s studio
Aix-en-Provence was the birthplace of famous post-impressionist painter Paul Cézanne, and his presence still makes itself felt around the city today. Step into his studio, the Atelier de Cézanne, to get a close insight into the artist’s life and creative process. Admire his masterpieces at the Musée Granet and follow in his footsteps on the ‘In the steps of Cézanne’ walk.
Musée Granet: one of the best museums in France
The Musée Granet is a real goldmine for art and history lovers. In one place, you can retrace the evolution of European art and marvel at the masterpieces of great artists like Renoir, Monet, Van Gogh, Degas, Redon, Bonnard, Rouault, Picasso, Braque, Dufy, Laurens, Léger, Klee, Bissière, de Staël and Dubuffet. A must-see for anyone with a love for art or an interest in history.
Other museums to visit include the Musée Vasarely, dedicated to the work of Victor Vasarely. Musée des Tapisseries (tapestry museum)
Pavillon de Vendôme
The Pavillon de Vendôme is a treasure trove of history and greenery just a stone’s throw from Aix Cathedral. Its French formal garden and old furniture transport you back in time. Listed as a historic monument, it also contains portraits of its illustrious residents. Since 1990, modern and contemporary art has been displayed there too, making the pavilion a must-see for lovers of art and tranquillity.
The city of a thousand fountains
Aix-en-Provence, nicknamed the ‘city of a thousand fountains’ or ‘city of waters’, houses priceless treasure: over 250 public and private fountains are dotted around its historical centre – that’s one of the densest concentrations in Europe. These architectural gems include the La Rotonde, Quatre Dauphins, Roi René and Albertas fountains, as well as the Sextius thermal fountain.
Festivals and other events
Aix-en-Provence International Festival of Lyric Art: From 7 July to 22 July 2024. This internationally renowned festival offers a rich programme of operas, concerts and recitals. Find out more
Aix-en-Provence Street Art Festival: From 29 June to 2 July 2024. This festival showcases street art in all its forms.
Around Aix-en-Provence:
The Bastide du Jas de Bouffan (6 km)
Where Cézanne painted several of his works, boasts a stunning view of the mountain.
The Carrières de Bibémus (7 km)
Located east of Aix-en-Provence, the Carrières de Bibémus is the site of an old open-air stone extraction quarry. In use from Roman times until the 19th century, it provided the distinctive stone, known as ‘Bibémus molasse’, used to build many buildings and structures in the city of Aix-en-Provence, including the Caisse d’Épargne, the Hôtel de la Poste and the Fontaine de la Rotonde.
Lac de Bimont (12 km)
Llocated at the foot of the famous Sainte-Victoire mountain, is an artificial lake that was created when the Bimont dam was built. It offers a spectacular landscape and is home to a wide variety of plants and animals. Listed as a Natura 2000 protected area, the lake is the ideal place for a hike, a bike ride or a picnic. Swimming in the lake is not permitted, however. If you’re looking for a peaceful place to enjoy nature in Provence, Lac de Bimont is the perfect spot.
The villages of the Luberon (25 km)
Roam around this mountain massif with its hilltop villages and enjoy the panoramic views. Wander along the narrow streets, admire the typical Provence architecture and visit the local shops and cafés.
Marseille: a plunge into Mediterranean history and culture (30 km)
Soak up the lively atmosphere of the Vieux-Port (Old Port), admire the panoramic view from Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, and immerse yourself in history and art at the MuCEM. Marseille promises an unforgettable day out!
Calanques de Cassis (50 km)
These picturesque coves and cliffs offer a magnificent setting for swimming, kayaking and hiking. You can also go on a boat trip to explore the calanques from the water.
The hilltop villages of the Pays d’Aix
If you’re looking for an authentic experience of Provence, make sure you visit some of the many charming villages around Aix-en-Provence. Explore the hilltop villages of the Pays d’Aix, like Roussillon, Gordes and Lourmarin, and admire their limestone houses, narrow streets and panoramic views.
Le Tholonet
Nestled at the foot of Sainte-Victoire mountain, this Provence village is known for its picturesque surroundings and stone houses. Admire Saint-Trophime church, which dates back to the 12th century, and wander the charming little streets of its historical centre.
Lourmarin
This hilltop village is often listed as one of the most beautiful in France. Its winding streets contain many art galleries, shops and restaurants, while its hilltop château offers a fantastic view of the surrounding countryside.
Gordes
Another spectacular hilltop village, Gordes is known for its limestone houses and red-tiled roofs. The village also houses a 12th-century Cistercian abbey that’s well worth a visit.
Roussillon
This brightly coloured village is known for its ochre cliffs, which were mined to produce pigments for centuries. The village also has a museum dedicated to the ochre and its history.
Our favorite walks
Summit of Sainte-Victoire mountain
Sainte-Victoire mountain is an iconic limestone mountain that has inspired many painters, including Cézanne. It is located around 9 miles away from the campsite and boasts stunning views of the surrounding countryside. You can hike up to the summit or take the shuttle bus.
Croix de Provence trail
This easy hike takes you to the Croix de Provence, a cross on the western end of Sainte-Victoire mountain, where you’ll get a stunning view of the city of Aix-en-Provence and the surrounding mountains.
Sentier des Lauzes (Slate Trail)
This moderate-difficulty walking route takes you through the Forêt des Lauzes, a forest of holm oak and pine trees. The trail offers excellent views of Sainte-Victoire mountain and the city of Aix-en-Provence.
Vallon de Roques Hautes trail
This challenging hike takes you to the summit of Roques Hautes, the highest point in the Sainte-Victoire massif.
Le Tholonet trail
This easy hike takes you to the village of Le Tholonet, a picturesque Provence village.
The trail passes through vines, olive groves and lavender fields. You can also visit the Château du Tholonet, whose origins date back to the 12th century.
Local food and drink
Provence is known for its delicious, sun-drenched cuisine. Sample local specialities such as tapenade, aioli, bouillabaisse and the traditional sweets called calissons. Make sure you visit some of Provence’s markets to find fresh local produce. Taste the outstanding wines of the Pays d’Aix en Provence: Provence is known for its wines. You can visit one of the region’s many vineyards and taste the wines made there. Appellations: Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence, Côtes de Provence and Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire, Palette and Côtes du Luberon.
Market days
Le Tholonet market: Every Friday morning
Aix-en-Provence market: Every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday morning
Rousset market: Every Sunday morning
Saint-Cannat market: Every Thursday morning
How to get to Aix en Provence
Bus 3 and 4
Which you can catch a 5-minute walk away from Camping Chantecler, take you directly to the centre of Aix-en-Provence in just 25 minutes. (3 km).
On foot
Get to Aix-en-Provence city centre and the famous Cours Mirabeau in just 40 minutes.
By bike
Aix-en-Provence is a very bike-friendly city with a number of cycle paths, making getting around by bike easier. The journey between Camping Chantecler and the city centre takes around ten minutes.
Aix-en-Provence SNCF train station
3 km – 8 minutes by car
Marseille Provence Airport
30 km – 25 minutes by car
Visit the region – slow tourism
It’s easy to get to Marseille for a day trip from Aix-en-Provence. Speak to our reception team for help.