With fountains on every corner, hundred-year-old plane trees and lights worthy of a work of art, it’s no wonder that this southern city was a huge inspiration for some of the world’s greatest painters. Here’s our selection of spots to enjoy a stay in this once-sleepy town.
Cover photo: Linh Nguyen
Where to sleep?
To benefit from a pool, magnificent gardens and an impressive setting, it’s often recommended to move away from the city centre. Unless, of course, you decide to book a room at the Villa Saint-Ange, an 18th-century country manor that has been entirely renovated. Featuring about 30 rooms and suites, a spa, a restaurant and Mediterranean gardens, this hotel looks more like a private mansion – which makes it the perfect place to relax after a long day on your feet.
Photo: Villa Saint-Ange
Where to eat?
If there’s one thing that Aix-en-Provence locals have truly mastered, it’s food. And, here, there’s something for everyone. Want to discover fresh market food that’s easy on the wallet? Head to Les Vieilles Canailles. Need a calm space? Choose the Villa Gallici, a gastronomic restaurant nestled in a hidden garden. And for those who would like to open their chakras, reserve a table at Les P’tites Bouchées, a must-try Cantonese canteen.
Photo: Les Vieilles Canailles
Where to buy souvenirs?
You won’t be disappointed by the choice of small artisanal shops here. Marseille soap, calisson sweets, santons de Provence figurines, olive oil and little sachets of lavender: imagine the elegant and colourful gift baskets you can put together. As you stroll through the town centre, you’ll find incredible boutiques … and the best ones are those we would have never recommended.
Photo: Wisi
Where to see something new?
Start your visit at the Fondation Vasarely: created by the eponymous artist, it now holds many of his works. Between optical effects and geometric compositions, this place will fascinate children and adults alike. Then it’s time for Château La Coste, an estate 20 minutes away. Louise Bourgeois, Sophie Calle and Tracey Emin are just some of the artists who exhibited their pieces here amidst the vines. Finally, make a last stop at the Atelier des Lauves, where Cézanne worked from 1901 until his death. It’s a short visit, but well worth it.
Photo: Château La Coste
The address book
Villa Saint-Ange – 7 Traverse St Pierre, 13100 Aix-en-Provence
Les Vieilles Canailles – 7 Rue Isolette, 13100 Aix-en-Provence
La Villa Gallici – 18 Avenue de la Violette, 13100 Aix-en-Provence
Les P’tites Bouchées – 17 Rue Aumône Vieille, 13100 Aix-en-Provence
Fondation Vasarely – 1 Avenue Marcel Pagnol, 13090 Aix-en-Provence
Château La Coste – 2750 Route De La Cride, 13610 Le Puy-Sainte-Réparade
Atelier des Lauves – 13 Avenue Paul Cézanne, 13100 Aix-en-Provence
Photo: Christian Mackie
AMV Journal is a space dedicated to encounters, discovery and travel. Every week, explore the musts, portraits and inspirations of American Vintage and its creation studio.