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This is as rare as a penguin in Provence: a thoroughly charming hotel in easy walking distance of Aix’s centre, for the same price as a faceless chain hotel in the suburbs.
Set on a quiet side street, the Cardinal is not only housed in a historic 18th-century building, but its decor wonderfully evokes the era of Cezanne, in his own hometown – but with lots of essential mod-cons, including a lift and wi-fi.
The friendly owners are keen to preserve its old-fashioned authenticity, and high-ceilinged rooms come furnished with marble fireplaces, antiques and chandeliers.
The location, only a few minutes from the beautiful Cours Mirabeau, is ideal for exploring the city. The Granet Museum and the Place des Quatre Dauphins, with Aix’s pretty fountain, are a stone’s throw away; the restaurants, bars and shops of the historic centre are a 5-10 minute walk.
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Bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Aix-en-Provence, Provence, France[0.7 miles]
Founded in 1948, this prestigious international festival of lyrical arts, dedicated to opera and classical music, takes place in the picturesque setting of Aix-en-Provence.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free | 1 month
Aix-en-Provence, Provence, France[0.8 miles]
A remarkable, medieval cathedral packed with treasures’ home to a famous Renaissance masterpiece and a fascinating tapestry museum.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
Aix-en-Provence, Provence, France[1.5 miles]
The studio where French artist Paul Cezanne painted – evocatively preserved, as if he had just put down his brushes.
Best for ages: 13+ | £6
Other worthwhile experiences in this destination if you have the time or the interest, closest first
Aix-en-Provence, Provence, France[0.1 miles]
A must for any art lover, this museum holds one of Provence’s top art collections, including works by Cézanne, Rubens, Rembrandt, and the Collection Planque.
Best for ages: 18+ | £5
Aix-en-Provence, Provence, France[0.2 miles]
This magnificent townhouse (1715), a beautifully restored hôtel particulier, features lavishly furnished period rooms, an exquisite garden, a film on Cezanne and temporary art exhibitions; a good stop for lunch, afternoon tea or dinner too.
Best for ages: 18+ | £12
Aix-en-Provence, Provence, France[0.5 miles]
Each morning, Aix hosts one of Provence’s best markets, overflowing with the freshest fruit, vegetables, herbs, meats, seafood and cheeses from local producers. On Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday mornings, it expands tenfold and includes a massive flower market.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Puyricard, Provence, France[7.3 miles]
Visit the most famous chocolate factory in Provence, just outside Aix in Puyricard, where you can go behind the scenes in their atelier or spend an afternoon at a hands-on chocolate-making workshop.
Best for ages: 6+ | £8
Destination guides including or relevant to this place to stay
Provence, France
Gorgeous landscapes peppered with beautiful villages, sunflowers and lavender, art-filled towns, lively cultural festivals and exquisite food and wine. Provence is everything you imagined it would be.
