Aix-en-Provence in July: Go for the music festival, stay for everything else

A performance of "Le Nozze di Figaro" at the Festival d'Art Lyrique of Aix-en-Provence

If you’re a music lover and a Francophile, summer’s arrival can only mean one thing: it is time to pack up and head for Aix-en-Provence, where the Festival International d’Art Lyrique (International Festival of Lyrical Art) is taking place this year from July 5 to 27. Since its modest beginning in 1947 with a few low-key concerts and one opera (the at the time little known Cosí fan tutte), it has constantly evolved and now includes prestigious orchestras, like the Berlin Philharmonic, big name composers and conductors like Pierre Boulez and Simon Rattle, as well as numerous ground-breaking productions ranging from modern takes on classics to specially commissioned works. Furthermore, master classes, panel discussions and other social events have been added.

This year is no exception in terms of ambition and eclecticism. The opera offerings go from Mozart’s well-known Les nozze di Figaro to his more obscure La finta giardiniera.  Ravel’s beloved L’Enfant et les sortileges will compete for attention with Charpentier’s biblical tragedy David et Jonathas. Instrumental music will abound as well with symphonic concerts by the London Symphony Orchestra and Les Arts Florissants, recitals by Pierre-Laurent Aimard and Marc Coppey, and many other performances.

Although its main venue has remained la cour de l’Archevêché, the festival has spread all over the city and its surroundings throughout the years. Therefore, not only is this the perfect opportunity to enjoy some grand musical experiences, but also to explore one of France’s prettiest cities. Historic, attractive, cultural and young, Aix-en-Provence never ceases to delight visitors with its many charms. Do not forget to pay a visit to Cézanne’s workshop, for example, from where you’ll be able to peek at his favorite subject: the soaring Sainte Victoire Mountain.

To help you feel right at home, New York Habitat offers a wide range of vacation rentals in Aix-en-Provence:

• If all you need is a small but cozy space in a quiet neighborhood, our sleek studio – Aix Celony – PR 1012 with private garden is perfect for you. Semi-detached from a traditional Provençal bastide, you will have no problem turning it into your personal domain. As for transportation, there is a bus that stops nearby which will take you into town in no time.

• A slightly larger option, our spacious 1-bedroom – Aix Center – PR 1000 will let you enjoy urban excitement thanks to its central location. Although the garden is shared with the owners, you can still expect your privacy and your own space, including a wonderful summer kitchen.

• If bonding with nature is a top priority, we have a 4-bedroom – Aix North – PR 245, just two kilometers from the city center. It is best for groups, since it can accommodate up to 7 people, and comes with a peaceful garden and an irresistible swimming pool.

Have you ever been to Aix? If so, what did you love most about the city?

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