"Cezanne country" Aix-en-Provence by dinhyen

It would be a great omission not to visit Aix during your sojourn in Provence, for it's the hometown of Cezanne, the artist who embodied so much of the Provencal spirit. Much of his work were inspired by his experience growing up in Aix and indeed he spent the final years of his life here.

Aix isn't far from bustling Marseille, the second largest city in France. Yet it manages to retain a small-town feel. Its location at the threshold of Provence's rugged interior means that it's an excellent base for exploring Provence's renowned beauty.

Numerous fountains adorn the streets and squares in Aix's old quarters. Like many places in Europe, it's an excellent place to explore on foot. Perhaps one should expect no less, since Aix's most well-known attraction, the Cours Mirabeau, is a pedestrian boulevard.

L'Atelier Cezanne

Cezanne's workshop where the artist lived and worked during the last years of his life.

• Pros:Some historical connections, trace the footsteps of Cezanne, vibrant small-town
• Cons:No major attractions
• In a nutshell:One of many principal rest stops in Provence