Superb location close to the centre and just across the Boulevard from the old quarter of Aix. The room was spacious and well decorated with delightful 'authentique' pine beams - charming entrance hall. Great view from the window over the Boulevard de la Republique of Santa bombing along at 4 am on Christmas morning - a sight not to be missed. Service and breakfast very good. Christmas in Aix is to be recommended for those seeking to escape the commercialism and awfulness of the modern British Xmas.

We loved the entrance, stairway, and terra cotta floors; it all felt old-world & what we expected in Provence. Room Very Quiet for sleeping. Did not try their breakfast; went out for our own.

Biggest complaint: front desk staff was not helpful at all, and basically seemed miserable to be working there. We had to keep going back 3X to get them to open our phone line so my husband could call work in the U.S. I got much more help (suggestions on what to see; when I asked) from the housekeeper.

Typical bath w/ handheld shower thingie. We liked it. The construction is still going on in the block next door, but wasn't an issue.

Check In and Check Out was a breeze, tho, so I give points for that.

Provence was beautiful and warm, though unfortunately we caught Two unknown holidays while there for 3 days! Day of Ascension and celebration of Allied Victory (w/ USA's help, I might add) in Europe. Day of Ascension, many shops closed, but we visited the main cathedral (beautiful) and caught part of a service with lovely gregorian chanting.

I recommend to anyone if they go: hit the Saturday morning flower mart (& fish market & everything else market --loved it) in the town square.
We also enjoyed shopping and wandering up and down every street and , of course, the food.

If returning, we would probably try to book something else but would consider Artea again if nothing else looked better.

This is a hotel in the midst of improving its rooms. The new rooms are about as pleasant as a ** room can be. The older rooms are rather worn, tho. As of Sept 2004 there is also a large project to construct luxury apartments on the block next to Hotel Artea. Things will probably be better once this is completed. All of the rooms have sound-proofed windows and the room facing the construction in which I stayed was surprisingly quiet.

Agree with the other review that the location is very convenient and also that the front door and entry area are kind of scary. But those shouldn't put you off the place. The staff is helpful and the daytime people spoke English. There is no elevator, tho, so you will need to carry your bags up the large spiral staircase. The rennovated rooms are just fine if you're not looking for luxury.