39 Best Hotels in Aix, Marseille, and the Central Coast, Provence

Chef Alain Ducasse put this beautifully restored property—part of a convent once charged with shaping the future queens of Provence—on the map when he took over both the restaurant (now headed by chef Nicolas Pierantoni) and the inn, where guest rooms mix Louis XVI furnishings with regional accents, and the grounds have private gardens and vineyard views. The kitchen is still formidable, with creations that superbly balance flavor and texture—perhaps hake with sweet-almond puree and gnocchi or saddle of lamb with squash and fried chickpea panisse.

The flat, glass-and-concrete facade of this postwar structure grants all the port-facing rooms here broad views of the Vieux Port all the way to Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde. The modernist rooms are nicely done up in Mondrian-esque primary colors with 1950s-style artwork and handsome black bathrooms. For an extra €30 or so you can get a room with a terrace, most of which are spacious enough to accommodate a bistro table. Well-priced suites on the top floor may be worth a small splurge, as they have larger terraces and an extra room for kids. 

Cézanne painted Sainte-Victoire from what is now the large flower-filled terrace of this enchanting abode, and you can easily imagine former guests Princess Caroline, Iggy Pop, and Clint Eastwood swanning their way through the magnificent, pool-adorned, topiary-accented garden or relaxing in the spacious, light-filled guest rooms. For sheer Provençal luxe (think plush baby-soft rugs and handsome contemporary-classic decor), this place can't be beat. The restaurant's terrace spills out onto a sculpted green, but the inside dining salon is equally pleasant on a rainy day, as is the spa, thanks to its dazzlingly elegant chandeliers and large picture windows.

If your heart is set on staying in Aix center, this snazzy hotel 16 km (10 miles) outside of Aix—in a classic Provençal landscape at the foothills of Cezanne's Mont Sainte-Victoire—will make you think again. Contemporary and luxurious without a hint of pretension, the hotel capitalizes on the eye-popping views of the mountain and Picasso's Château Vauvenargues (where he is buried). All of the rooms—many of which have terraces—are spacious; beautifully decorated; stocked with all the extras (Nespresso machines, kettles, international channels, robes, slippers); and flooded with light. The views are also stellar from the fabulous pool, bar, and "bistronomic" restaurant, which serves sophisticated Brazilian-Mediterranean cuisine.

Housed in Marseille's majestic 18th-century Hôtel Dieu, a beloved landmark built according to plans by Jacques Hardouin-Mansart, architect to Louis XIV, this place has been transformed into a gleaming palace—even if you don't stay here, it's worth stopping by for a drink on the sprawling terrace, with gorgeous views of the old port. The hotel interiors are luminous and comfortable, accented with large amphorae, artworks, and photographs of the city by local artists. Rooms are beautifully conceived with luxe touches; and many have large private terraces with views of the port (and views from the bathtub). The gold-mosaic pool and full-service Clarins spa and gym provide all the required pampering, and with chef Arnaud Davin at the helm, the hotel's bistro Les Fenêtres and the lovely Capian bar are Marseille standouts.

Once the home of a marquis, this splendid Provençal property, tucked away under towering plane trees—with lovely gardens, a swimming pool, picturesque walkways, and a pétanque court—combines a serene natural setting with gracious lodging and outstanding dining thanks to its owners, the Michelin-starred chef Mathias Dandine and his wife. The chef's motto, "a beautiful place, for beautiful moments around a beautiful table," pretty much sums it up. Just off the lavender route—a 20-minute drive from Cassis and the Calanques National Park and just 10 miles from Marseille center—it's perfectly situated (and perfectly equipped) for a restorative Provençal retreat.

Entering this dazzling little hotel is like walking straight into the surf, perched as it is right over the Marseille waterfront with every one of its (tiny) rooms overlooking the turquoise-blue Mediterranean. A 10-minute walk from the Vieux Port, 20 minutes on foot to the famous bouillabaisse restaurants at the Vallon des Auffes, and next to a popular beach, the hotel feels farther from the city center than it actually is. The building, designed to look like a chic 1950s beachfront resort, has two pools—one on the rooftop along with a sundeck—a compact spa, a fitness room, and a top-notch restaurant helmed by chef Chester Tsai. When the summer crowds hit the beach, you'll appreciate its private sunning terrace.

Although it's just outside Aix and amid 10 acres of woods, olive groves, and vineyards, with Cézanne-immortalized Mont Sainte-Victoire as a backdrop, this hotel eschews the rustic-country-inn aesthetic in favor of a sophisticated, deluxe-contemporary style. Rooms are handsomely appointed, and those on the ground floor have spacious private terraces overlooking the pool; upstairs suites have mountain views from the bathtubs. If you're staying a week or more, then rent one of the private villas—the final word in luxury, these four sleek, modern structures can each house up to eight people and provide every modern convenience, including a kitchen, dining room, terrace with tremendous views, and private heated pool. Guests in the hotel and lodges have access to the gleaming full-service Cinq Monde spa.

Featuring views of the port and the Cap Canaille, this cliff-side villa has shed its former Art Deco–style decor for a spiffy contemporary look featuring things like plush velvet chairs and huge modern baths. The gastronomic Les Belles Canailles restaurant, the more casual Rocco bistro, the superchic Le Loup bar, and the upscale Sisley spa all have fantastic sea views. Shaded by massive pines, the beautifully landscaped terrace has two pools that appear to spill into the sea. You can also take a plunge right into the cape from the hotel's namesake white rocks.

To say this sustainable hotel is unique is an understatement—where else in Provence can you stay in a luxury cave with a bathroom set into the rocks or in a round pigeon tower with sweeping village and countryside views? The 200-year-old farmhouse offers large but more conventional rooms and suites—complete with wood-burning stoves—that open onto a private terrace. The 7-acre property has lush flower, fruit, and vegetable gardens (to stock the excellent Jardin Secret restaurant); ancient trees; lavender fields (for the bees); a large pool; a small vineyard; and stunning vistas everywhere you look. The Bistrot restaurant, La TUF microbrewery, and O'Fadoli pastis bar round out the drinking and dining options.

After all of Aix's old-world charm, this five-star hotel with all the modern conveniences makes a nice contrast. An easy walk from Cours Mirabeau, the old town, and city center and convenient to the train station, the hotel is perfectly located for sightseeing. Rooms are spacious, immaculate, and bright, with ample modern bathrooms, air-conditioning (welcome during hot Provence summers), and a handsome modern design in tranquil hues and pale wood. Ask for a room with a terrace to enjoy the view over town and the evening breezes, or better yet, enjoy a drink at the stylish terrace bar. The gourmet restaurant, Le Comptoir du Clos, gets consistently high marks for value, convenience, and quality. After a day on your feet, the full-service spa and pool are also a big plus.

Its plum location next to the beautiful Palais de Pharo and park, its legendary service, and the views from its rooftop terrace make this more than a standard-issue, five-star luxury property. Contemporary luxe common areas feature dark wood (like the halls of a luxury cruise ship), marine themes, and original artworks and more than half the rooms have views over the port. Vistas also showcase the J4 Pier, the forts, and Marseille's two hills. Sea-and-sand-tone rooms are comfortable and spacious with ample bathrooms. A lovely full-service spa and small pool, gastronomic restaurant, and the terrific terrace bar are icing on the cake.

Experience all the elegance of Aix just like a (very privileged) local at this gorgeously restored villa, where the bespoke suites mix antiques with plush modern furnishings and have original artwork, designer fabrics, and luxe amenities. The Estival Suite has a lovely terrace, and the Suite Secrète harbors a private courtyard, fully-equipped kitchen, and walk-in shower. You can also book a massage and participate in a range of classes (cooking, drawing, yoga) or wine tastings. Everything was conceived by your gracious hosts with your well-being and comfort in mind.

Rooms here are bathed in the lavenders, blues, ochers, and oranges of Aix and feature elegant antiques and gorgeous Souleiado and Rubelli fabrics—a design scheme that truly evokes the swank 19th-century Provence colonized by Parisian barons and dukes. Little wonder this former archbishop's palace has become the darling of shelter magazines everywhere and regularly sweeps the "best of" lists. Standing serenely apart from the city center on the outskirts of town (offering great views over the pink roofs of Aix), this hilltop garden retreat has a gastronomic restaurant, pool, and spa, so you may not need to leave—and you certainly won't want to.

This reasonably priced boutique hotel, in a beautiful historic building across from St-Charles train station, has contemporary rooms done in rich neutral tones and equipped with flat-screen TVs and iPhone docking stations. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and the Alex Hôtel's pancakes, omelets, croissants, and freshly squeezed orange juice enjoyed in the inner courtyard or the breakfast room should do the trick. And while you’re dining, you can check your email with an excellent Wi-Fi connection. It’s within walking distance from the Vieux Port and Le Panier, which is a good thing because there are no notable restaurants in close proximity.

Three blocks from Cours Mirabeau and the train station, this smart, spiffy, and cozily stylish hotel is a very handy option. Just a minute's stroll away is the Quartier Mazarin, an 18th-century district lined with some of Aix's most beautiful buildings and antiques shops. While the hotel is set on a busy avenue, noise and distractions disappear with just one foot inside the glowing red lobby, mightily warmed by the friendliness of staff. Upstairs, the guest rooms are stylishly contemporary with design lighting and comfy beds. A fitness and massage room are great for keeping in shape, and the Aix garden-courtyard has massive trees that would tempt Cézanne's own paintbrush—so try to book a room in the back to ignite your own imagination.

Previously occupied by a prominent Marseille family, this 19th-century home now holds 20 beautifully designed accommodations. On the first floor there’s just one guest room in what was once the parlor, while the fourth floor is home to two that are sought after for their balconies. Each spacious room is unique, with brick walls, a high ceiling, and impeccably placed lighting. There’s a grand piano by the staircase just waiting for spontaneous fingers. A bountiful breakfast is served in the lounge, and you don't want to go elsewhere for Sunday brunch. Local chicsters join guests for a fun cocktail hour and a regular program of DJ nights, live jazz, and other hip musical moments, which can occur on any night of the week.

This gracious 18th-century country château and wine estate combines a deeply Provençal setting with chic yet comfy rooms and suites in either the historic château or a more modern wing. The beautiful Historic Suite, with great views over the park, has a period marble tub big enough for six. Enjoy a glass of the estate's rosé in the beautiful bar or on the wide garden terrace, then dine at the gastronomic restaurant, one of the best in the area. Many of the castle's period details were preserved during its restoration, and, today, it's the perfect place to disconnect, aided by a spa and pool.

Estate hotels are a dime a dozen in Provence, but this one, set in an 18th-century château nestled on a vineyard a few miles from Aix, goes the extra mile to distinguish itself with a mix of historic and contemporary elements. Guest rooms in the château are sleek and modern, with vast marble bathrooms, and freestanding accommodations include a charming stone house (a bargain in the off season) and three space-age, wood-and-glass “lumipods” that open up to the surrounding trees and vineyards. The grounds also feature manicured French gardens strewn with contemporary sculpture. For cuisine you’ll be spoiled for choice, with four gourmet restaurants, including a fine Japanese bistro and a Michelin-starred gastronomic dining room. The world-class spa has several top-of-the-line skin-care regimens.

Chopin spent the night and George Sand kept a suite in this historic hotel overlooking the Vieux Port. Public rooms still have real antiques, burnished woodwork, Provençal style, and plush carpets, all comprising a convincing part of this intimate urban hotel's genuine old-world charm. Guest rooms are in the same style but have been updated to include all the modern comforts. Harbor-view rooms, with balconies high over the fish market, more than justify the splurge.

Set on sandy Les Sablettes Beach, part of the Saint-Mandrier-sur-Mer Peninsula across the harbor from Toulon, this fully restored, Belle Époque–era hotel has bright, casually elegant rooms with a few classic nautical touches and lots of modern amenities. The ocean view from some rooms is spectacular, and nine suites have terraces with a private whirlpool. You can swim in the sea out front or in the hotel pool—perhaps before or after a treatment in the lovely Nuxe spa. The ferry to Toulon is a 10-minute walk away.

This eccentric and slightly threadbare inn in an elegant 18th-century house is the antithesis of slick, which, coupled with the location in the Quartier Mazarin, makes it a favorite with writers, artists, and musicians at festival time—and at any time with guests who appreciate the charm of novel furnishings and the music of the bells of St-Jean-de-Malte. Its large rooms are furnished gracefully enough with secondhand finds; some rooms even have original 18th-century painted door panels. The hotel also has six kitchenette suites; the two across from the Musée Granet and the one on the ground floor with a private garden are the best.

Capitalizing on the village's gorgeous bay views is just one of this lively, Art Deco–style boutique hotel's many virtues—it also has light-drenched guest rooms (some with private balconies), a spa with a steam room and solarium, two restaurants (one on the beach), and an irresistible wine bar. True to its name, the hotel sits right on Bestouan Beach, so fun in the sun is easy. There's also easy access to both the village and Calanques National Park.

Although the rooms are rather snug, this modest city hotel is right around the corner from the Quai du Port and is a good value. The interior design is simple and sufficient, even the street-facing rooms are quiet, and the service is prompt and friendly. Ask for one of the fifth-floor rooms with tiny balconies overlooking the port—or the crow's nest "nuptiale" double with private rooftop terrace.

Set back from the port in the heart of the shopping district, this cozy, charming, little hotel offers a warm reception and a homey breakfast-room-cum-bar. Guest rooms are beautifully decked out in homage to various artists—Picasso in red, black, and gilt, for example, with jazzy Cubist curtains or Matisse in gray-backed walls with colorful prints.

A view over the infinity pool to the (private) beach and sea greets you at this luxury spa hotel two steps from Bandol's port. Rooms are sleek and contemporary, with all the comforts you'd expect from a five-star hotel, but it's the sweeping sea views from your bed and terrace that steal the show. Streamlined bathrooms, some with both a tub and a shower, are ample and stocked with luxury products. The well-equipped thalassotherapy spa has an indoor pool and a full range of seawater therapies—from single treatments to weeklong programs—that can be customized to your wants and needs.

Consisting of three 17th-century buildings that were restored and combined, this hotel is a stone’s throw from the port and the picturesque old town and within walking distance of most sights. Some rooms have lovely views of the bay (best seen from fourth-floor balconies), old town, and Mont Faron; all rooms are spare and functional, with a maritime design theme featuring uplifting shades of blue and white and spotless white-tiled bathrooms. The in-hotel restaurant, L’Équerre, is a popular neighborhood choice for a classic bistronomic meal or a cocktail. The tiny rooftop pool offers stellar views of the bay and cool respite on a hot summer’s day.

Michelin-starred chef Mathias Dandine’s transformation of a 200-year-old, tree-shaded auberge at the heart of a quaint village near Aix into a sleek boutique hotel bucks the trend toward Provençal charm in favor of a resolutely contemporary style, featuring creamy walls and terrazzo floors, giant backlit mirrors, minimalist-chic wooden furniture, dreamily colored velvet upholstery, and sizeable marble bathrooms with huge walk-in showers (some with tubs, too). Some the spacious rooms have outdoor terraces, and and a large suite has views of a medieval chapel on the opposite hillside. Bask in the sun around the swimming pool or enjoy a massage in the treatment room before indulging in a gastronomic lunch or dinner in Dandine’s Michelin-starred dining room, where dishes feature all-local ingredients, and the wines are sublime. A quick 10-minute drive from downtown Aix-en-Provence, this a good choice for a village getaway with easy access to cosmopolitan Aix.

A mix of southern-coast bourgeois and Provençal touches adds a splash of color to the sunlit, airy rooms of this family-owned hotel, where thoughtful service and absolute calm encourage relaxation. Private patios overlook a large secluded park bordered by eucalyptus, pink oleanders, and palm trees. You can hike through forests, swim in the pool, or simply sit on the flower-filled terrace. Diners come to the intimate, simply decorated restaurant from across the island to sample such delicious, hearty Provençal fare as smoked duck salad garnished with grilled tomatoes or rack of lamb with island herbs and ratatouille and to murmur comfortably over a final warmed brandy.

On a rocky promontory overlooking the sea, this fantasy villa was bought from a countess in 1917 and converted to a sleek hotel-restaurant, where the Passédat family has been getting it right ever since—especially in the famous restaurant, which is one of only two in Provence with three Michelin stars. Gérald Passedat helms the kitchen, creating sea-anemone beignets, fresh fish roasted whole, and an entire €390 menu dedicated to Bouille Abaisse (be sure to reserve 48 hours in advance). Most guest rooms are minimalist, with some Art Deco–cum–postmodern touches, while outside the gorgeous heated pool is illuminated at night by antique gaslight fixtures.