Aix-en-Provence has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, relatively wet winters. The city sits inland at 173m (568ft) elevation, about 30km from the Mediterranean coast, which means it gets hotter in summer and cooler in winter than Marseille. The Mistral wind, a strong northwesterly, blows through the Rhone Valley an average of 100 days per year, most often in winter and spring, clearing the sky but making temperatures feel colder than the thermometer reads. Average annual rainfall is 586mm (23 inches), concentrated in autumn. Expect 300+ days of sunshine per year. best time to visit Aix-en-Provence
Aix-en-Provence Weather by Month: Temperature and Rainfall
| Month | High °C (°F) | Low °C (°F) | Rain (mm) | Rain Days | Sun Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 11 (52) | 3 (37) | 55 | 6 | 5 |
| February | 12 (54) | 4 (39) | 42 | 5 | 6 |
| March | 15 (59) | 6 (43) | 42 | 5 | 7 |
| April | 18 (64) | 9 (48) | 56 | 6 | 8 |
| May | 22 (72) | 13 (55) | 47 | 5 | 9 |
| June | 27 (81) | 17 (63) | 28 | 3 | 11 |
| July | 30 (86) | 19 (66) | 12 | 2 | 12 |
| August | 30 (86) | 19 (66) | 27 | 3 | 10 |
| September | 26 (79) | 16 (61) | 68 | 5 | 8 |
| October | 20 (68) | 12 (54) | 85 | 7 | 6 |
| November | 15 (59) | 7 (45) | 68 | 6 | 5 |
| December | 11 (52) | 4 (39) | 56 | 6 | 4 |
January in Aix-en-Provence
The coldest month, averaging 11°C (52°F) by day and 3°C (37°F) at night. Frost occurs on roughly 10 mornings. The Mistral can push wind-chill below freezing even when the air temperature stays above 0°C. Rainfall averages 55mm over 6 days. Sunshine is limited to 5 hours per day. Outdoor cafe terraces mostly close; indoor dining at brasseries like Les Deux Garcons on Cours Mirabeau is the winter alternative. Pack a warm coat, scarf, and windproof layer. things to do in Aix-en-Provence
February in Aix-en-Provence
Similar to January but marginally warmer at 12°C (54°F) days and 4°C (39°F) nights. Rainfall drops to 42mm. The almond trees around the city start blooming mid-month, providing the first hint of spring. The Mistral remains frequent. Sunshine increases to 6 hours. Restaurant terraces begin reopening on sunny afternoons. events and festivals in Aix-en-Provence
March in Aix-en-Provence
Spring takes hold with daytime highs reaching 15°C (59°F) and lows of 6°C (43°F). Rainfall stays at 42mm. The Cours Mirabeau plane trees start leafing out. Outdoor markets on Place Richelme and Place des Precheurs are pleasant on calm days. The Mistral still blows roughly 10-12 days of the month. Pack layers, as mornings need a jacket but afternoons can feel warm in the sun. best neighborhoods in Aix-en-Provence
April in Aix-en-Provence
Highs of 18°C (64°F), lows of 9°C (48°F). Rainfall increases to 56mm, the wettest spring month. Wildflowers cover the countryside around Montagne Sainte-Victoire. Sunshine reaches 8 hours. The Aix Easter Festival (Festival de Paques) fills churches and venues with classical music. Light jacket weather, occasional rain showers. where to stay in Aix-en-Provence
May in Aix-en-Provence
Daytime highs of 22°C (72°F) and nights around 13°C (55°F) make May one of the best weather months. Rainfall drops to 47mm. The plane trees on Cours Mirabeau are in full leaf, shading the cafes. Outdoor dining is in full swing. The first warm days suitable for swimming appear, though water temperatures remain cool. Pack short sleeves for daytime, a light jacket for evenings. Aix-en-Provence travel tips
June in Aix-en-Provence
Highs jump to 27°C (81°F), lows 17°C (63°F). Rainfall drops sharply to 28mm over just 3 days. The lavender fields around the Luberon (30-45 minutes north) begin blooming mid-month, peaking around June 20-July 15. Sunshine hits 11 hours per day. The Festival d’Aix-en-Provence starts in late June with opera previews. Hot but not yet scorching, June is the sweet spot before peak summer. Aix-en-Provence travel guide
July in Aix-en-Provence
The hottest and driest month: 30°C (86°F) daytime, 19°C (66°F) at night, with just 12mm of rain across 2 days. Heat waves can push temperatures above 35°C (95°F) for 3-7 day stretches. The Festival d’Aix fills the city with opera-goers. All outdoor pools are open. Air conditioning is essential in hotels. The Mistral is rare in July (2-3 days), but when it does blow, it brings fire risk to surrounding hills. Pack lightweight clothing, sun hat, SPF 50+ sunscreen.
August in Aix-en-Provence
Nearly identical to July: 30°C (86°F) highs, 19°C (66°F) lows, 27mm rain over 3 days. This is the traditional French vacation month when many local shops and restaurants close for 2-3 weeks (especially August 1-20). The city is quieter but still busy with tourists. Thunderstorms become slightly more frequent toward month-end. Sea temperatures at Marseille beaches reach 23-24°C (73-75°F), warm enough for comfortable swimming.
September in Aix-en-Provence
Highs moderate to 26°C (79°F), lows 16°C (61°F). Rainfall spikes to 68mm as autumn storms arrive, often as heavy afternoon downpours that clear quickly. Sunshine drops to 8 hours. The first two weeks of September often feel like extended summer. The Journees du Patrimoine (Heritage Days, third weekend) offers free entry to many sites. Sea temperatures remain warm at 22°C (72°F). A great month for sightseeing without peak crowds.
October in Aix-en-Provence
The wettest month: 85mm over 7 days. Highs drop to 20°C (68°F), lows 12°C (54°F). Autumn colors appear on the plane trees along Cours Mirabeau. The Mistral returns, averaging 8-10 days. Outdoor dining continues on sunny days but evenings require jackets. Grape harvest festivals in surrounding wine villages. The light is beautiful for photography, especially on Montagne Sainte-Victoire.
November in Aix-en-Provence
Highs of 15°C (59°F), lows of 7°C (45°F). Rainfall 68mm over 6 days. The Christmas market opens on Cours Mirabeau in late November. Days are short (5 hours of sun). The Mistral can make 15°C feel like 5°C. Most outdoor terraces close or add heaters. The calissons d’Aix (local almond-paste candy) season peaks. Museum visits replace outdoor sightseeing.
December in Aix-en-Provence
Highs of 11°C (52°F), lows 4°C (39°F), 56mm rain over 6 days. Snow is extremely rare in the city center (once every 5-10 years on average) but the surrounding hills get light dustings. The Christmas market and santon (Provencal nativity figurine) fairs animate the old town. The Cours Mirabeau is lit with holiday decorations. Restaurants serve traditional 13 desserts for the Christmas Eve gros souper. Pack warm layers and waterproof shoes.
