AIX EN PROVENCE has a population of 151 580 inhabitants (2026). The city covers an area of 186.08 km² which is a density of 804 inhabitants per square kilometer.
The town of Aix en Provence dates back to 123 BC.
The Romans settled there because of the exceptional situation, at the crossroads of Italy, Spain, and on the paths of transhumance between plains and mountains.
But also, the Romans being so fond of thermal baths and their benefits, the town of Aix en Provence was located on a low hill full of hot and cold springs.
The name of the city changed through time: Aquae Sextiae, Ais en Provencou, Aix en Provence.
AIX EN PROVENCE, A MARKED CITY
Aix was listed as a health resort in 1913. This resort was set up on ancient Roman houses.
The main sources of hot water were known as “steam rooms”, located behind the Convent of the Observantins and the Source of the Bagniers but seem to have lost many of their qualities in 1628.
The Source of the Bagniers is now used to power the most famous hot water fountain of the town located on the cours Mirabeau in Aix en Provence.
Thus, the city of Aix en Provence is dotted with magnificent fountains providing an atmosphere of lightness and relaxation when, with your eyes closed, you let yourself be carried away by the sound of the water.
AIX EN PROVENCE AND THE PAINTER CÉZANNE
Paul Cézanne was born on January 19th 1839. He is an internationally renowned painter, who, during his lifetime, received very little recognition, as most renowned painters.
His works essentially represent the countryside of Aix en Provence, and the objects that compose it.
Cézanne painted 44 oils paintings and 43 watercolor paintings that illustrate his attachment to the Saint-Victoire Mountain.
THE CALISSONS OF AIX EN PROVENCE
The calissons of Aix en Provence are sweets made of almonds and candied fruits.
The introduction of the almond to Provence in the 16th century and the development of trade in Aix, boosted its production and thus gave it the importance it has even today.
According to one of the many versions of the birth of the calisson in Aix, it appeared in its modern form around 1473, during a feast for the second wedding of King René.
Aix, the city of a thousand fountains
The top 5 most “Instagrammable” fountains in Aix. This handy guide will help you capture the spirit of the city at the best time of day.
| Fountain Name | Location | Why we love it? | Pro Photo Tip |
| La Rotonde | Place du Général de Gaulle | The majestic symbol of Aix, featuring three statues (Justice, Agriculture, and Fine Arts). | Golden Hour: Aim for sunset to capture the water jets glowing in the light. |
| La Fontaine Moussue | Cours Mirabeau | A literal “green cloud.” Its thermal water (18°C) creates a unique, thick moss blanket. | Close-up: Capture the textures of the moss and the steam rising during winter mornings. |
| Les Quatre Dauphins | Mazarin District | A Baroque masterpiece (1667). The sculpted dolphins offer rare architectural refinement. | Perspective: Shoot from Rue Cardinale to get the perfect street alignment. |
| Place d’Albertas | Rue Espariat | Arguably the most elegant, surrounded by a stunning Baroque architectural ensemble. | Symmetry: Use the basin’s water to create a reflection of the private mansion facades. |
| Hôtel de Ville | Town Hall Square | An authentic Roman-style fountain at the foot of the iconic Clock Tower. | Lifestyle: Take your shots on market days (Tue, Thu, Sat) for a vibrant local atmosphere. |
💡 Did you know?
The Fontaine Moussue is fed by the Bagniers spring. In the depths of winter, when the rest of the town is shivering, you’ll often see steam rising from it: the water flows naturally at a constant temperature of 18°C. It’s the favourite spot for the people of Aix to warm their hands!
3-day itinerary: see the highlights of Aix-en-Provence
Day 1
- Morning: Start at the Cours Mirabeau. Admire the Fontaine Moussue (18°C all year round!) before losing yourself in the narrow streets of Old Aix. Don’t miss the Place de l’Hôtel de Ville to see the astronomical clock.
- Lunch: A “Brunchynomie” break at Kava (rue Boulegon), the 2026 food trend that blends bistronomy with creative brunch.
- Afternoon: Head to the Mazarin district. Visit the Hôtel de Caumont (don’t miss the 2026 temporary exhibition) for a journey back to the 18th century, then finish with the Musée Granet to see Cézanne’s works.
- Evening: Dinner at Les Galinas, a modern Provençal restaurant (Bib Gourmand) that showcases market produce.
Day 2
- Morning: Walk up to Cézanne’s Studio. It was here, bathed in this unique light, that the master painted his greatest masterpieces. Continue on to the Terrain des Peintres for a panoramic view of Sainte-Victoire.
- Lunch: A chic picnic featuring products from Fromagerie Lemarié (rue d’Italie) and a homemade fougasse.
- Afternoon: A contemporary immersion at the Vasarely Foundation and its ‘luminokinetic’ architecture, or a visit to the Bastide du Jas de Bouffan (recently restored to offer an immersive digital experience).
- Evening: Aperitif on the Place d’Albertas, followed by a gourmet dinner at Le Pigonnet, renowned for its enchanting garden.
Day 3
- Morning: Drive to Montagne Sainte-Victoire. For the more active, a climb to the Croix de Provence; for those who prefer a leisurely stroll, a walk at the foot of the Bimont dam.
- Lunch: Stop at a vineyard. Domaine Terre de Mistral offers an experience centred around wine and olive oil from Provence.
- Afternoon: Visit to Château La Coste: amongst vineyards, architecture (Tadao Ando, Jean Nouvel) and open-air contemporary art.
- Evening: Return to Aix for a final purchase of Calissons (at Le Roy René or Léonard Parli) before departure.
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Frequently Asked Questions about your stay in Aix-en-Provence
When is the best time to visit Aix-en-Provence?
Spring (May–June) and autumn (September–October) are the ideal seasons. Temperatures are mild (between 20°C and 25°C) and the light is the same as that which inspired Cézanne. If you want to see the nearby lavender fields in bloom (Valensole plateau), be sure to visit between 15 June and 15 July.
Where can I park easily to visit the historic centre?
The centre of Aix is largely pedestrianised. We recommend the “Parc Relais” car parks (such as Krypton or Hauts de Brunet): for around €2.50, you can park for the day and enjoy a free shuttle bus to the city centre. In the city centre, the Rotonde car park is the most central but is often full at weekends.
Is it easy to visit Aix without a car?
Yes, the town centre is best explored on foot. As for the surrounding area, the ‘Le Pilote’ bus network provides good coverage of the neighbouring villages. However, to explore the more remote vineyards or châteaux (such as La Coste), it is best to hire a car or use a private driver.
How long does it take to visit Aix-en-Provence?
One day is enough to see the highlights of the historic centre and the Cours Mirabeau. However, we recommend three days if you’d like to include a visit to Cézanne’s studio, a hike up Sainte-Victoire and a wine tasting at a vineyard in the Côteaux d’Aix region.