The Aix-en-Provence Open 2025 will welcome chess players from all over the world between July 19–27, 2025, in the charming city of Aix-en-Provence, France. This prestigious tournament combines intense over-the-board competition with the relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle of southern France. Players will enjoy high-level games while soaking in the artistic, cultural, and culinary ambiance that makes Aix-en-Provence a jewel of Provence. The event draws seasoned professionals, ambitious youth, and passionate amateurs for an unforgettable chess experience.

📅 Event Dates and Venue Information

You can play in the Aix-en-Provence Open from Saturday, July 19, to Sunday, July 27, 2025. The tournament will take place at the Complexe du Val de l’Arc, a modern venue equipped to host high-profile competitions with comfort and professionalism. Located in the southeast of Aix-en-Provence, the venue offers spacious playing halls, nearby public transport, and proximity to restaurants and hotels.

Venue Address:
Complexe Sportif du Val de l’Arc
Avenue des Infirmeries, 13100 Aix-en-Provence, France

⏱️ Time Control and Rounds

Players will compete in 9 rounds following the Swiss System format. Each game will use the classical FIDE time control of 90 minutes for 40 moves, followed by 30 minutes for the rest of the game, with a 30-second increment from move one.

📆 Tournament Schedule

The organizers have arranged a player-friendly schedule that allows for competitive play and leisure exploration of the city.

• July 19 (Saturday): Arrival & Registration (09:00–13:00), Round 1 (15:00)
• July 20–26 (Sunday to Saturday): Rounds 2–8 (one round daily at 15:00)
• July 27 (Sunday): Final Round 9 (09:00), Closing Ceremony (15:00)

🏆 Prize Fund and Trophies

The Aix-en-Provence Open 2025 offers a total prize fund of €10,000, distributed across various categories to reward excellence and encourage wide participation.

Main Prizes:

• 1st Place: €2,500 + Trophy
• 2nd Place: €1,500
• 3rd Place: €1,000
• 4th Place: €700
• 5th Place: €500

Special Prizes:

• Best Woman: €400
• Best Senior (60+): €400
• Best Junior (U20): €300
• Best Local Player: €300
• Best Performance Rating Prize: €300

The top three finishers will receive elegant trophies, and all prize winners must attend the closing ceremony to claim their awards.

📝 Registration and Participation

Players of all skill levels are welcome to register, with sections tailored for masters, experienced competitors, and local enthusiasts. Organizers cap entries at 200 participants, so early registration is essential.

Registration Deadline: July 10, 2025
Rating Requirement: No minimum rating required
FIDE ID: Mandatory for all players

To register, participants must send their full name, FIDE ID, federation, date of birth, email, and proof of payment to the organizer’s email.

💳 Payment and Entry Fees

You must complete the payment at the time of registration to secure your spot.

Entry Fees:

• General Participants: €70
• Youth Players (Under 18): €50
• GM/IM/WGM/WIM: Free (with confirmation before July 1)

Payment Methods Accepted:

• Bank Transfer (details provided upon request)
• On-site Payment (only in exceptional cases and subject to availability)

🧳 Travel and Accommodation

Aix-en-Provence is easy to reach by train, plane, or car:

• By Train: Direct TGV links from Paris, Lyon, and Marseille
• By Air: Fly into Marseille Provence Airport (30 km away), then transfer by shuttle or taxi
• By Car: Accessible via A8 autoroute from Nice or Marseille

You can choose from a wide range of accommodations, from charming local guesthouses to upscale hotels. The organizer recommends early booking, especially during summer tourist season.

Recommended Hotels Nearby:

• Hôtel Escale Oceania Aix-en-Provence
• Campanile Aix Sud Pont de l’Arc
• Adonis Arc Hôtel Aix

Local bus routes and taxis serve the venue frequently, offering reliable access from most hotels.

👨‍⚖️ Tournament Officials

You will compete under the guidance of experienced tournament leaders who ensure fair and professional conditions throughout the event.

• Tournament Director: Jean-Baptiste Dubois
• Chief Arbiter: IA Véronique Lambert

Both bring years of expertise in organizing and overseeing FIDE-rated events across France and internationally.

🏛️ Organizer Information

The tournament is organized by the Échiquier du Pays d’Aix, a dynamic chess club renowned for its contributions to the regional chess scene. The club regularly hosts tournaments, youth events, and training programs that foster a strong chess community in Provence.

Organizer Contact Information:

• Name: Échiquier du Pays d’Aix
• Address: 17 Rue des Frères Pradignac, 13100 Aix-en-Provence, France
• Phone: +33 6 14 92 33 75
• Email: contact@echiquier-aix.fr

🎯 Why You Should Join the Aix-en-Provence Open 2025

You should seize this chance to compete in one of France’s most picturesque cities while facing strong international opposition. The Aix-en-Provence Open 2025 promises you a perfect blend of competitive chess, friendly atmosphere, and Mediterranean charm. Whether you want to chase the top prize or simply enjoy classical chess in a stunning cultural setting, this tournament delivers an experience you won’t forget. Let your chess journey shine this summer in southern France!