Morning: Arrive in Aix‑en‑Provence and settle into your hotel near the Place de l’Hôtel de Ville. Take a leisurely stroll down the iconic Cours Mirabeau, admiring its elegant fountains and historic mansions while sipping a café au lait at a sidewalk café.
Afternoon: Dive into the heart of the historic center by visiting the Cathedral of Saint‑Sauveur, renowned for its mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. A short walk leads to the Musée Granet, where you can admire works by Cézanne, Rubens, and other masters.
Evening: Dine at a traditional Provençal bistro on Rue Espariat, sampling local specialties like ratatouille and tapenade. End the night with a relaxed walk through the illuminated Place du Vieux Port, soaking up the lively atmosphere.
Find HotelsMorning: Visit the Atelier Cézanne, the former studio of the famous painter, and explore the surrounding gardens that inspired many of his masterpieces. Continue to the nearby Pavillon de Vendôme, a beautiful 17th‑century mansion with tranquil formal gardens.
Afternoon: Head to the bustling Marché du Cours Mirabeau (open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays) to sample fresh Provençal produce, cheeses, and pastries. After lunch, take a short bus ride to the base of Montagne Sainte‑Victoire and hike to a viewpoint for panoramic vistas of the region.
Evening: Return to the city for a sunset aperitif at a rooftop bar overlooking the Cours Mirabeau. Conclude your stay with a gourmet dinner at a Michelin‑starred restaurant, enjoying refined local cuisine paired with regional wines.
Find HotelsIf you have extra time, consider adding a half‑day trip to the nearby seaside town of Cassis for a boat tour of the Calanques, or extend your stay to explore the charming villages of the Luberon Valley. To shorten the itinerary, you can skip the hike up Montagne Sainte‑Victoire and replace it with a relaxed afternoon at the Jardin de la Fontaine, allowing more time for leisurely café culture and shopping.