Sainte Victoire: The mountain immortalised by Cézanne rises 1,011m (3,317ft) high and stretches 12km (7.5 miles) over the Aix countryside. It's still a popular place with hikers and rock climbers (the south face of the mountain is a steep one), despite big forest fires in 1989. The view from the top is breathtaking.

Marseille: On the coast, 30km (18.5 miles) south of Aix-en-Provence, lies Marseille, France's second largest city. Visit the famous Vieux Port (the old port), Notre Dame de la Garde (perched on a hill above the city, the basilica affords sweeping views of the bay), or just spend an afternoon sunbathing on one of the many beaches. For more information on Marseille, read our Marseille city guide.