Just several dozen kilometres (around 20 miles) north of Marseille, Aix-en-Provence boasts an intellectual prestige thanks to its rich history, its architecture and its landscapes. A university city and the birthplace of Cézanne, famous for its Cours Mirabeau thoroughfare, its squares with their fountains and its countless 17th- and 18th-century abodes, it has all the charm of a Provençal cocoon. Open to new technologies and the rest of the world, close to the coast and not far from the mountains, it’s the ideal destination to take a step back while staying in close contact with modernity.
The real estate market
Prices have increased by almost 22% over 5 years and by 9.1% in the last two years to reach an average of just over €5,000 per sq.m for apartments and €5,760 per sq.m for houses. Luxury properties in sought-after neighbourhoods can go for up to €10,000 per sq.m.
Our advice-
For more space and greater proximity to the high-speed rail line, focus on the south and west. Families looking for charming, large houses should check out the villages to the South and North of the Durance.
The secret to Aix-en-Provence ?
A traditional historic, Provençal abode, the Bastide, on a vast estate with vines or olive trees for tax exemptions. Stop by our offices in the Hôtel du Poët on the Cours Mirabeau to discuss your plans in more detail. - Ludmila SHEGOLEVA and François LE TROQUER directors of BARNES AIX-EN-PROVENCE
Art of living
With its Provençal charm and latest trends, Aix-en-Provence is THE place to visit on a summer trip to the south.
Culture
The Vasarely Foundation
@The Vasarely Foundation
The Vasarely Foundation pays tribute to the work and monumental pieces of the eponymous artist. Until October, discover “Modernités Cosmiques”, an exhibition demonstrating the interest of avant-garde artists in sidereal observation.
1 avenue Marcel Pagnol, 13090 Aix-en-Provence
The Atelier de Cézanne
@the Atelier de Cézanne
The Atelier de Cézanne, the very place where the artist once worked. It has since been converted to a museum presenting his creative process along with his paintings.
9 avenue Paul Cézanne, 13100 Aix-en-Provence
The Musée Granet
@The Musée Granet
The Musée Granet, devoted to the fine arts, archaeology and decorative art. Although the building in itself is worth a visit!
Place Saint-Jean de Malte, 13100 Aix-en-Provence
The Musée du Pavillon Vendôme
The Musée du Pavillon Vendôme, a former private mansion now fitted out as a museum housing various 17th and 18th-century portraits, Provençal furniture, and (from time to time) modern and contemporary art exhibitions.
13 rue de la Molle, 13100 Aix-en-Provence
Shopping or Out and about
The Route Cézanne
@the Route Cézanne
The Route Cézanne: Listed as a Historic Monument, this route inspired many of the paintings by the famous Impressionist artist.
RD17, 13100 Aix-en-Provence
Aix & Co
@Aix & Co
Aix & Co, a concept store that only sells handmade works by small creators. There’s something for everyone, both young and young at heart.
55 cours Mirabeau, passage Agard, 13100 Aix-en-Provence
Lulli
@Lulli
Lulli, a boutique that celebrates women’s ready-to-wear. The garments are presented in a minimalist setting that places the accent on pop colours and chic prints.
4 rue Thiers, 13100 Aix-en-Provence
L’Appartement Sézane
@L’Appartement Sézane
L’Appartement Sézane, a boutique that brings Parisian trends to the South of France. Drop by to pick up that perfect dress for the market and cosy knitwear for those cool summer evenings.
5 Rue Papassaudi, 13100 Aix-en-Provence
The hottest reservations in town
L’Orangerie
@L’Orangerie
L’Orangerie at the Château de Fonscolombe, where Chef Quentin Durand serves up fresh seasonal cuisine. Local dishes with a twist that reflect his Breton influences.
Route de Saint-Canadet, 13610 Le Puy-Sainte-Réparade
Le Art
@Le Art
Le Art, a Michelin-starred restaurant where Chef Matthieu Dupuis Baumal and his team concoct elaborate and mysterious dishes to delight the taste buds.
Château de La Gaude — 3959 route des Pinchinats, 13100 Aix-en-Provence
Mickaël Féval
@Mickaël Féval
Here the chef, trained by Loiseau and Westermann, lets his imagination run wild with the help of seasonal products. You’ll be spoilt for choice between the Menu Tentation, Séduction or Tout Poisson.
11 porte Rue Saint-Jean, 13100 Aix-en-Provence
Les Inséparables
@Les Inséparables
Les Inséparables was opened by Christophe Bonanno (formerly of Le Crillon) and food lover Mathieu Jégo. Together, they combine regional products and modern Provençal flavours against a profoundly vintage backdrop.
4 avenue Reine Astrid, 13090 Aix-en-Provence
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