A french city made its way in the top 10 of the New York Times places-to-travel list: discovering timeless southern charm

According to the renowned newspaper, Aix-en-Provence is one of the places to go to in 2025.

Ranked 7th on the list, the human-scale city has all the attributes to attract even more visitors with this valuable spotlight. Why?

A typical and beguiling city 

Aix-en-Provence was founded more than 2,000 years ago by the Romans. The Roman legacy is still visible in the city’s architecture and layout, which has seamlessly blended with centuries of Mediterranean and Provençal culture. The city center truly feels like an old town with tons of charming narrow streets you can get lost in, all linked with picturesque squares and public fountains.

Aix is actually known for being the city of a thousand fountains - although you won't be able to count them all…

The best way to discover and explore the city is to roam around on a warm sunny day, be tempted by fresh local products in farmers’ markets on tuesdays, thursdays and saturdays, sunbathe at one of the numerous cafés to soak in this special and unique atmosphere influenced by mediterranean and provencal lifestyle and just, look at this beautiful architecture surrounding you.

Moreover, to experience the city's rich artistic history, the Musée Granet is a key stop, featuring a collection of Paul Cézanne's works that highlight his deep ties to Aix-en-Provence.

Focus on the city’s prominent figure: Paul Cézanne 

Paul Cézanne is an esteemed painter that was born and raised in Aix-en-Provence. The city’s people, architecture and landscape have always been a great inspiration and influence on his art. 

A major source of its inspiration was the outstanding mountain Sainte Victoire which he painted repeatedly through all seasons, becoming a landmark. Today, Cézanne's art is exhibited in many prestigious museums around the world such as the Musée d’Orsay in Paris, Museum of Modern Art in New York City, or Artizon Museum in Tokyo.

However, nothing comes close to visiting the studio in which Cezanne actually painted. Atelier Cézanne is a significant place to visit. The studio feels like a living museum, where Cézanne’s creative energy still lingers, making you feel like he is still here looking at the window and painting dreamscapes.

The city has fully embraced his legacy and made him one of the city’s symbol, exhibiting his art in galleries, museums and special festivals.

Our top souvenirs to bring home 

After visiting the city, don’t forget to bring home some lovely souvenirs and must-try delicious delicacies. Here is our list:

• Calissons: A traditional sweet from Aix-en-Provence, made from almond paste, candied melon, and orange blossom
  
• Provençal Pottery: Hand-painted pottery, often in vibrant colors and floral patterns, is a typical Provençal craft
  
• Wine from the Provence Region: Aix-en-Provence is part of the Provence wine region, so bringing home a bottle or two of rosé wine from local vineyards is always a good idea
  
• Lavender Products: Provence is famous for its lavender fields, so anything lavender-scented (lavender soap, essential oils, lavender sachets, etc.) is a great choice. You can find lavender products in many local shops
  
• Santon Figurines: These are hand-painted clay figurines representing the traditional Provençal nativity scene. They come in many designs, from shepherds to farmers, and they’re a unique souvenir from the region.

Ready to go?