Aix-en-Provence, commonly known as “Aix,” is ideally located near the French Riviera, Corsica, Italy and Spain, and is only a 3-hour train ride from Paris. Famous for its inspiration to many artists such as Cézanne, Monet and Granet, Aix-en-Provence is also known for its great weather, beautiful parks, architecture and above all, its fountains.

Aix is an idyllic university town with a cosmopolitan and energetic student population of 40,000. The city of a thousand fountains is home to the well-known University of Aix-Marseille III, which allows students to discover not only French culture and civilization, but also the regional Provençal culture. Cafés, pubs, theaters, outdoor concerts and festivals await you in this sunny and charming city.

Walk to class along the winding streets of Aix and take a break at one of the many bistros or bakeries. The famous Cours Mirabeau sweeps through the center of the city and welcomes French and international students alike. Taste the cuisine provençale at local markets, discover many international restaurants, and engage in the favorite Aixois activity, people-watching, from Les Deux Garçons, the favorite café of Paul Cézanne and Emile Zola! In the evenings, take part in Aix-en-Provence’s vibrant nightlife and shop the elegant boutiques and foires aux artisans, open-air markets where French artists display their work. With CEA, you will experience all that southern France has to offer.