What to visit in Aix-en-Provence?
Explore Aix-en-Provence
Take a stroll through the little streets alongside the luxury historical buildings and take photos of the Rotonde fountain, eat an ice cream on Cours Mirabeau, follow the footsteps of Paul Cezanne, savor the Calissons d’Aix, a speciality candy made with almond with a glass of local rosé while people watching at a terrace of a café in a cute square under the shadow of the old trees.
We tell you everything you need to know when travelling to Aix-en-Provence whether you are a family or as a couple and staying at Villa La Calista, just a short drive from the city center.
Where to go when visiting Aix-en-Provence?
Aix-en-Provence is the heart of Provence and its charming squares witness busy cafés and markets everyday from 8.30am until 1pm as below:
- Flower market: Hotel de Ville square on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday and on Precheurs square on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday morning.
- Food market: Richelme square everyday except Sunday.
- Clothes, antiques and crafts: Cours Mirabeau and Comtal district on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.
If you are interested in interior design, and more specifically the style of Villa la Calista, you will appreciate shopping at those following addresses:
– Rue des Cordeliers – Maison Nomade.
– Rue Nazaret, where the brand new store Gina Concept Store just opened.
– Rue Méjane has a few stores such as AMPM and independent multi-brand stores with Scandinavian brands.
– Les Allées Provençales by the tourism office and the Rotonde fountain down Cours Mirabeau you will find Maisons du Monde.
– Beyond Aix-en-Provence, in Luynes, we particularly like Maison Sa that just moved to a bigger store with brands like Rockthekabbash and Monochromic (our ceramic birds and are from there)
– And in Bouc-Bel-Air, Maloha Décoration has handpicked the most gorgeous small decoration items that you will be able to take back home with you with brands like Podevache (our bespoke mat), mugs, pendant lights…
For those into fashion, look no further as Aix-en-Provence combine all your favorite brands all around Rue Marius Reynaud and next to Verdun square, you can be tempted by luxury brands like Hermès.
Unlike the cute little villages of Provence, Aix-en-Provence is a busy city all year around, on a small scale, with a busy cultural agenda. We invite you to visit the website of the Tourism Office of Aix-en-Provence and to follow us on social network to bookmark key event you wish to attend during your stay in Provence like an aperitif in a lavender field, traditional festivals including the Jazz festival, special visits of the region… Brochures are also available at the villa.
Aix-en-Provence is culturally rich with unmissable visits like the Paul Cézanne workplace and hi spath throughout the city, the Granet or Hôtel de Caumont museum where it feels like time has stopped and has a hidden restaurant in a courtyard, ideal for drinks under the large oak trees in the summer or for an afternoon tea in the winter in its cosy room.
We gathered the best spots for your holiday photos in Aix-en-Provence to make your friends envious on Instagram:
– Place d’Albertas and its fountain,
– Fontaine des Quatre dauphins,
– Fontaine du Sanglier, Richelme square, replica of Il Porcellino in Florence,
– Cours Mirabeau and its Moss fountain and then the Rotonde fountain,
– Chez Féraud (in the summer as the facade is covered by the flowers),
– Cafés of Prêcheurs square that are like a movie setting,
– The historic architectur is absolutely magical and very instagrammable in the morning or late in the afternoon with warm colors.
For an exclusive visit, we offer you the possibility to spend two hours with a graduated and experienced guide who will share a lot of funny and true stories about Aix-en-Provence along with secret places to not miss.
Natural Park of Sainte Victoire
The villa is very close to the Sainte Victoire mountain that dominated a 346 acres protected reserve that offer a large variety of walks for all levels of fitness and all ages. Among its beauty, we recommend the Bimont water barrier, an 87m high impressive construction with a breathtaking view of the top of Sainte Victoire the rock mountain and the landscape of Aix region. There is also the Bibemus rock reserve, the windmill and shed Paul Cézanne and also the Zola lake.
In addition to the Office du Tourisme d’Aix-en-Provence that organizes small group tour every week, our experienced guides often arrange group visits or they can bespoke a private tour for you designed around your group needs and capabilities sharing with you all their secrets with the possibility to arrange little activities like yoga in nature or botanic exploration to make it even more special.
3 paths to absolutely discover when you stay in Aix-en-Provence:
The barrier of Bimont is a stunning structure built in 1946 to provide water to all town around Aix-en-Provence including Marseille. It faces the Sainte Victoire Mountain and it represents by far our favorite walk to admire the panoramic view. You can either drive to the car park via Saint Marc de Jaumegarde or you can do a power walk from Cezanne windmill at Le Tholonet (5-minute drive from the villa). Take the time to enjoy the beauty of the sight that the bridge of the barrier has to offer, half way between the huge lake of 14 millions litters of water and the steep view of the Natural Reserve on the other side.
The most brave among you will follow the path of Imouche (blue) to head all the way to the Prieuré of Sainte Victoire, on top of the cliffs to touch the Cross of Provence (that you can even spot from the highway as you drive to the Aix-en-Provence) that culminates at 948-meter high and that is only an extra 15 minutes walk. Local and in-the-known tend to go late in the day to admire the sunset and its golden light.
Follow the footsteps of Paul Cezanne and visit the Bibemus rock reserve. What use to be the painter’s journey is a fabulous walk through the forest with many parts under the shades of the trees and flat parts where you will be able to catch your breath and some more challenging because of the rolling rocks (please make you to have the appropriate walking trainers). The way is indicated. Some may even venture it on electric bikes. This visit just a few minutes away from La Calista can be done individually or as a group with a guide with a minibus transportation arranged for you.
The last visit we recommend in Provence is probably the easiest and located in the Natural Park of Roques Hautes spreads across 1977 acres in Beaurecueil as it will lead you to the bottom of Sainte Victoire mountain, on its South side. The path is wide and can be used on bike or even with a pushchair, alone or as family even though it is part of the Iron Man competition every year. The Chapel of La Croix, Cezanne’s shed and the Hameau du Trou will be waiting for you after a 40-minute walk.
What is the Blue Coast in Marseille
The Calanques describe the famous coves of Marseille and Cassis where you can admire a unique landscape where the rock mountains flirt with the turquoise sea water. A sportive walk will take you the most breathtaking places alongside the coast and you will have the reward to go for a swim in the purest sea water of this highly protected eco-system where nature still dominates. We advise you to book a guide that will create a bespoke journey for your group, especially in the summer where many restrictions can apply so you can fully experience it.
The Calanques of Marseille to discover
The most famous Cove of Marseille is Sormiou, a protected bay with shallow turquoise water and a beautiful journey that all family members can take. Mostly appreciated by local families, its access to a car park close to the white sandy beach in the summer is still possible when booking a table at the Chateau restaurant that serves delicious and well-priced meals overlooking at the Calanque.
For a stroll alongside the coast, you can walk from Morgiou to Surgiton Calanquesand return back for an easy way. The rock formation feels like they go straight to the sea and represents a lovely day out all year around where you will see rock beaches and crystal-clear sea water. Please note that Surgiton cove is limited to 400 people during the peak of summer, you can pre-book your entry or speak to our concierge who will arrange your half day or full day hike with an experienced guide.
We particularly like the D’en-Vau Calanque, the most challenging, yet, the most impressive sight from the view point (count an extra one hour to go down to the beach from the view point). This is the calanque we have featured in our Calanque room. The meeting point should you decide to go on a half day tour is in Cassis. We promise that you will have plenty of photo opportunities.
For a lunch by the shore, you could go to Redone cove and Méjean cove with a few good restaurants by the water under the shade serving seasonal products and delicious fish.
As mentioned above, the National Park of the Calanque is a protected reserve with a controlled access to preserve its beauty. Having a guide to assist you can enhance the experience. Whether you go alone or with a professional guide, please make sure you have the appropriate walking shoes, plenty of water, a hat, a swimsuit (for a dive in the sea) and your camera of course.
If you are staying with your family you might want to consider going on a boat tour from Marseille or Cassis to visit the Calanques from the sea.
For a memorable day, you might want to consider hiring a boat with a skipper. Our concierge works with a company that has boats of difference size and power that can take you to the Blue Coast or Frioul islands from Marseille old port (30-minute from La Calista). Speak to our concierge to facilitate it and we will be able to arrange delicious food baskets for you to take on board.
Where to stay to visit Provence?
Villa La Calista located in the South of Aix-en-Provence is indeniably one of most beautiful villa to stay in the heart of Provence to visit the most stunning village at your pace as a day trip.
Discover villages not to miss during your visit in Provence:
- Lourmarin, located 45mn from Villa La Calista
Charming village in Provence surrounded by lavender fields with cobble tones and its authentic buildings giving you plenty of opportunities to take photos for your Instagram. the charming town of Lourmarin celebrates a rich heritage with its 15th-century Renaissance castle open to visitors. Younger visitors will enjoy the shaded playground facing the monument, and we particularly love its cute boutiques and café terraces, perfect for enjoying the Provençal “slow life.” The Moulin de Lourmarin is an excellent choice for lunch, and numerous restaurants offer seasonal dishes in secluded courtyards. Nearby, the neighboring village of Bonnieux boasts breathtaking views of the Luberon, a sight worth visiting in itself, as does the picturesque village of Curcuron with its Étang pond in the village center, sheltered by plane trees. Lourmarin also lies at the heart of the Luberon Regional Natural Park, a favorite among nature lovers for its wide range of walks. This region is known as the Southern Luberon.
- Gordes, under one hour drive from Villa La Calista
Voted the most epic village in the world by the famous Travel + Leisure magazine, Gordes is absolutely magical, right from the moment you arrive. You’ll undoubtedly want to stop and take an iconic holiday photo from its heights. The Tigrr restaurant has even set up shop there, blending a lounge atmosphere with refined Asian cuisine while overlooking the Luberon. Beyond the village, just a few minutes away, lies the famous Sénanque Abbey, a must-see, especially if you visit in June or early July to admire the lavender fields that surround it. In addition to its fields of lavender and poppies (depending on the season), you’ll find all the typical sights of the region: Provencal vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see, offering wine tastings and tours, olive groves, and wooded hills. The village is also located near the famous Oppedette Canyon, which offers spectacular views of the limestone cliffs. Make the most of your day trip in Gordes by exploring Ménerbes and its balconies, home to the house of Dorama, Picasso’s muse. Have lunch at Bistro 5, which offers seasonal menu on a terrace with panoramic views. This region is more precisely known as the Northern Luberon. If you’re looking for other villages to explore, whether for photoshoot opportunities or simply to stroll through the narrow, winding streets of charming villages, you can also visit Oppède-le-Vieux and discover its chapel perched on a cliff overlooking the entire region, or Roussillon with its ochre landscapes, which have earned it the nickname “Provençal Colorado.”
- Discovery of the Alpilles and its two most iconic villages to explore
The village of Les Baux-de-Provence sits perched on a rocky spire overlooking the Alpilles Natural Park, its architectural heritage steeped in history. Its citadel commands breathtaking natural landscapes, earning it the title of one of the Most Beautiful Villages of France. Arriving early in the summer is highly recommended to appreciate the beauty of the area before the tourist crowds arrive. In bad weather or during periods of intense heat, you can visit the Carrières de Lumières, an immersive experience featuring projections of works by artists such as Paul Cézanne, Vincent van Gogh, and other great names in Impressionist and contemporary art, onto the walls of this former quarry, where the temperature remains constant year-round. The program changes twice a year. Afterwards, you can visit Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, an authentic village built on one of the oldest archaeological sites in Europe. Saint-Rémy-de-Provence attracts many tourists and locals with its narrow streets lined with restaurant terraces and numerous shops. We recommend having lunch at Restaurant Edu.
- Cassis, located 35 minutes from Villa La Calista
A favorite retreat for many great artists, Cassis is a charming port town that we recommend visiting in the morning to stroll through its narrow streets. It’s a popular tourist destination thanks to its boutiques and unique character. Numerous terraces overlooking the sea offer traditional regional dishes and local wines. Cassis is also the starting point for day trips exploring the surrounding calanques and its breathtaking turquoise sea waters. Many group excursions depart throughout the day, but our concierge can also arrange a private boat with a skipper for a bespoke experience like anchoring for swimming at your leisure, and lunch on board or being dropped off on land to enjoy fresh local cuisine at one of the most popular seaside restaurants on isolated beaches.
- Château La Coste, located 30 minutes from Villa La Calista
A must-see in Provence is Château La Coste, a vast vineyard estate that brings together talented artists each season throughout the grounds, offering a delightful family outing in nature. Allow 2 to 3 hours for a guided tour or explore at your own pace. A major exhibition also takes place indoors every summer, and wine tasting is available on site. Several restaurants will satisfy the most discerning palates, including the Michelin-starred gastronomic restaurant of Chef Hélène Darroze, as well as its bistro serving fresh and simple dishes.
- Valensole, located one hour drive from Villa La Calista
Discover the most beautiful lavender landscapes by heading towards to Valensole. Purple valleys create the illusion of a vast mauve ocean and are accessible to tourists (who must respect the environment). This natural beauty can be explored on foot or by car along roads lined with lavender fields. It’s possible to visit farms and lavender distilleries to learn more about the cultivation and uses of this iconic Provençal plant. If you visit Valensole in May, the fields will be carpeted with sage and wheat also breathtaking. What could be better than admiring the sunset over the Valensole lavender fields while enjoying a gourmet box of treats, perfect for a light dinner, delivered to the villa by our Concierge? This would allow you to enjoy an authentic experience after the crowds of tourists have left. A professional photoshoot can also be arranged by our Concierge. Beyond Valensole, several picturesque villages are worth exploring, such as Riez, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, and Esparron-de-Verdon. The famous Verdon Gorge is less than 30 minutes from Valensole and an hour from Villa La Calista, making it ideal for a day trip to remember.
- Marseille, located 30 minutes from Villa La Calista
Here is why you should visit Marseille for the day and all the must-see spots. Start from the port, a vibrant hub where you can still find the best fish in the Mediterranean, then head towards Le Panier, a famous and authentic neighborhood known for its street art and hidden terraces. Along the way, savor navettes, a local orange blossom biscuit, before making your way to the Cathédrale de la Major, which overlooks the sea. Why not visit the MuCEM, an architectural gem located near the Cosquer Cave? Wandering through the narrow streets, where you can find the original Marseille soap with its many beneficial properties and plenty of souvenirs, you can head to the shopping district of Rue Paradis or go directly to the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde (affectionately known as La Bonne Mère by the locals, as she watches over them). Numerous restaurants await you, from an Italian restaurant on a Marseille rooftop to a pizza in Vallon des Auffes, or even a gourmet restaurant on the Corniche.
- Saint-Tropez, only 1h15 from Villa La Calista
Saint-Tropez is destination you can spend the day. Our Concierge recommends to arrive early especially on market day and start with a cofffee or full breakfast on the terraces on the famous port overlooking at the yatchs. The market is a mix of antiques, local products and clothes but if this is not for you, we encourage to explore the flower-lined alleyways starting from the Place des Lices to numerous luxury boutiques. The rest of your day will be spent in Ramatuelle on one of the private beaches, where you can enjoy lunch and the stunning views of Pampelonne Bay. Whether you’re looking for a lively atmosphere or a restaurant with your toes in the sand, our Concierge will be delighted to recommend the perfect spot to suit your preferences. Before leaving, you can visit one of the renowned vineyards and sample some rosé to take back to the villa.
Best restaurants in Aix-en-Provence
Our Concierge has selected over 15 addresses to discover during your stay near Villa La Calista.
Do not forget to book in advance.
Restaurants in historical centre of Aix-en-Provence
- L’incontournable: French restaurant serving local and fresh delight on its terrace. Its postcard atmosphere with its fountain makes it “incontournable to try”, understand not to miss. makes it fontaine
- Le Chastel : an institution offering meals inspired by Provence and Tuscanylocated on the busy square of Prêcheurs near the Palais de Justice.
- Restaurant Côté Cours: excellent cuisine
- Les Caves Henri IV Le Formal: amazing value
- Chez Charlotte: family atmosphere and dishes at a reasonable price with a secluded garden
- Restaurant Café La Rotonde: trendy French brasserie facing the fountain of the same name near the Allées Provençales, a shopping area.
- La Mado: French brasserie offering fresh and original dishes facing the Palais de Justice
- Les 2 Frères: creative cuisine in a modern decor
- La Maison Française: a bistronomic address in a sophisticated location for typical cuisine (try the Panis) and excellent cocktails.
- Le Singe Vert : ideal location for people watching at all time whether you want a breakfast or the aperitif on the Cours Mirabeau street. Great variation in its menu and good atmosphere in the evening.
- L’Art: a one-star Michelin restaurant located at Château de La Gaude
- La Petite Ferme: charming restaurant a few steps down from La Rotonde offering earthy dishes and roasted meat.
Restaurants near Aix-en-Provence
- Le Saint Estève: Michelin starred restaurant at Lodge Sainte Victoire with a breathtaking view of the Sainte Victoire.
- Villa les Anges: gastronomic restaurant with an attentive service just 5mn drive from la Villa La Calista before the city center of Aix-en-Provence.
- L’Italien: excellent value and delicious specialties like the truffle pasta. Its also a delicatessen located in La Palette.
- Chez Thomé : charming restaurant with a romantic courtyard located in Le Tholonet
- Relais Cezanne: family restaurant ideal after a hike on Sainte Victoire to savour French cuisine with simple yet fresh products.