France's incredible sunshine city that's a 'mini Paris' but warmer weather and cheaper

If you are looking for but without the prices and the rain, then X marks the spot.

'X' is how you pronounce Aix or Aix-en-Provence, a city and commune in southern France, about 30 km (20 miles) north of Marseille. A former capital of Provence, this small city is often referred to as the "Paris of the South." This moniker reflects its reputation for elegance, culture, and history, similar to Paris, but with a Provençal charm. While both cities are vibrant and beautiful, Aix-en-Provence offers a more relaxed pace and a unique blend of old and new, making it a distinct experience.

Aix-en-Provence has a rich history and is known for its cultural scene, including the prestigious Aix-en-Provence Festival and the city's connection to painter Paul Cézanne, who spent much of his life in the area.

The city boasts beautiful architecture, including numerous fountains and charming streets, creating a sense of refined elegance reminiscent of Paris. While retaining its Provençal character, Aix-en-Provence is a cosmopolitan city with a thriving café culture and a mix of local and international residents. The city is steeped in history, with remnants of Roman and medieval eras still visible throughout the city.

Aix is a very small city, only 150,000 inhabitants, so it obviously lacks the crowds and grand museums that Paris has. But what it lacks in size, it makes up for in style. Hundreds of thousands of visitors come each year to enjoy its quaint streets, open-air French markets, and incredible restaurants, but it never feels as crowded like the French capital.

"When the Good Lord begins to doubt the world, he remembers that he created Provence."-Frédéric Mistral, Nobel Prize winner (1904) for Literature, said of the city and its surrounding countryside.

In fact Aix has now overtaken the Côte d'Azur as the second most sought after place to live other than Paris. And if you are an art lover there is plenty to explore. Cézanne was born in Aix in 1839, and visitors can follow in his footsteps around the city guided by bronze Cs embedded into our sidewalks. His beloved mountain, Saint-Victoire, can be seen from many spots in the city.

His studio, located on a hill in a residential street, was left and remains as he left it in 1906, with his cloak hanging in a corner, his favourite vases and jugs sitting on wobbly wooden tables.

A walk through the city's medieval quarter with its twisty narrow streets is a must, then on the south side of the Cours in the 'modern' Mazarin (17thand 18thcentury townhomes with parallel streets) enjoy a long leisurely coffee in a café and watch people Parisian style. Buy pastries at Béchard on the Cours and visit the cathedral and its wonderful cloister.

While there are plenty of fantastic restaurants, including several with a Michelin star, if you are on a budget and just want to enjoy the great weather, buy picnic provisions at the market and try chatting with people, even if you only know a few words of French.

The closest major airport to Aix-en-Provence is Marseille Provence Airport (MRS), which is located about 25 minutes away by car or taxi. While Aix-en-Provence doesn't have its own airport, Marseille Airport serves as a major hub for the region, including Aix.

Flights from the UK are from London, Bristol, Manchester, Edinburgh and Belfast with British Airways, easyJet or Ryanair. Prices start from £28.99.