Aix-en-Provence is one of the most beautiful cities I have ever visited. It is such a pretty city and the layout of the city itself is really attractive. There are plenty of museums, restaurants, shops and art galleries. It is about 25 minutes to Marseille, which is the nearest beach. The buses leave at least every 20 minutes and are always on time.
There are plenty of tours to visit, such as Grasse, where they make their own perfumes; you are able to create your own scent and then purchase it at a very reasonable price. Also Caisses is about 1 hour away from Aix-en-Provence, where all the rich and famous go to get away; there are hundreds of yachts and some really fancy restaurants -- definitely a place to go experience.
Quick Tips:
Again I do recommend hiring a car and travel the outskirts of Aix-en-Provence. Especially Grasse, as the scenery is amazing. Do visit the museums and art galleries and see some of the famous paintings done by Leonardo da Vinci, etc. O'Sullivan's Pub right in the city is a really friendly pub and all nationalities are welcomed. The nightlife is really good and enjoyable.
Best Way To Get Around:
The best way to get around is driving or taking the bus if you want to go outside Aix-en-Provence to places like the beach, etc. Otherwise Aix-en-Provence itself is pretty small and is easy to see by walking. Taxis can be expensive so if you can do try and take buses.