Whether you're planning your first trip to Aix-en-Provence, or you're a frequent visitor, there's always something new to see and do. During a day in the city, you'll have plenty of time to explore the historic sights, sample the local cuisine, and shop for souvenirs. Here are some tips for making the most of your time in the charming town.
Place de l'Hotel de Ville
Located in the heart of the city, Place de l'Hotel de Ville is one of the most famous squares in Provence. The square is lined with various architectural styles. Its square fountain was built in 1755 and is topped with a Roman column. It has also been a listed historical monument since 1905.
In addition to being a popular gathering spot, Place de l'Hotel de ville is home to the town hall. This 17th century building is made of Italian style facades and ornately carved wooden doors. Its clock tower has an astronomic clock. The back staircase leads to the Salle des Etats de Provences. It is lined with 300 paintings and sculptures, including works by major 20th-century artists.
The square is also home to the atelier des Lauves, a studio where Cezanne worked. The studio is filled with his personal belongings.
The nearby Corn Exchange Hall is also worth a visit. Its facade features a large niche that once held the statue of the Virgin.
Aix en Provence is a beautiful, laid-back town. Its residents seem relaxed, friendly and respectful of the land. You can spend a day visiting charming villages or exploring the city's natural attractions. You can also take a guided tour of the town.
You can also visit the old book fair, which is held on the first Sunday of each month. You can also visit the Musée d'Histoire et d'Heritage, which is located in two period hotels particuliers. Its museum contains a number of important collections.
Another way to spend a day in Aix is to explore the many provincial markets. These are held in the morning. Some are open on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.
Place de Vendome
Located at the heart of the Aix-en-Provence city centre, Pavillon de Vendome is a historic pavilion that is now a museum. The building is known for its Neo-Classical design and its collections of antique furniture. The museum hosts numerous exhibitions of modern and contemporary art.
The Pavilion de Vendome was built between 1665 and 1667 by Pierre Pavillon. It is one of the best examples of Neo-Classical architecture in Provence. The Pavilion was originally built for Louis, Duke of Vendome, and his mistress, Lucrece de Forbin Sollies. After Dobler's death in 1941, his widow bequeathed the pavilion to Aix-en-Provence. The pavilion has been registered as a monument since 1914.
The present-day palace features three levels with large windows. The ground floor features painted decoration that dates to 1671. There is a statue of the Virgin on the corner of the building that leads into the oratory. The staircase dates from 1671.
The Pavillon de Vendome is open every day, except Tuesday, from 10h to 12h30. Admission is free for students and young people. The Pavilion of the Duc de Vendome also offers conference space and hosts digital art events. There are also several exhibitions of modern and contemporary art throughout the year.
The museum is home to a collection of Provencal furniture and works of art. It is also a repository for portraits from the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. The Pavilion is listed as a Monument Historique.
The Pavillon de Vendome has a museum that houses a collection of ancient artwork and rare paintings. Visitors can take a tour of the museum and view the many pieces of Provencal and contemporary art that are displayed in the exhibition rooms.
Le Bistro Campra
Located in an old Aix townhouse, Le Bistrot is a popular hangout among locals and travelers alike. It's a quaint place that serves classic French dishes. They have a variety of low and high tables, a wide selection of house wine, and red leather banquettes. They also have a large umbrella-covered terrace that's great for enjoying the sunshine.
Located outside the Cathedral Saint Sauveur, the cafe is a great place to relax. It's shaded by a giant tree, and offers a quiet respite from the summer heat. The food is good, the service is attentive, and the wine selection is very good. It's a good choice if you're looking for a quick lunch.
If you're in Aix-en-Provence for a longer period of time, you might want to explore the town's many art museums. The Musee Granet contains major paintings by Jean-Dominique Ingres and Anthony van Dyck. There are also works by Rembrandt and Paul Cezanne.
Another museum is the Paul Arbaud Museum, which is home to a collection of faience and pottery. There's also a permanent exhibition on Victor Vasarely.
The Tapestry Museum, which is also in the Archbishop's Palace, contains a collection of tapestries. You can also visit the Pavillon de Vendome, which is the site of permanent art exhibitions. You can also find a variety of hotels particuliers in the Quartier Mazarin.
Aix-en-Provence is a popular tourist destination in the South of France, with a population of under 150,000. The city is known for its rich retail opportunities and a mild Mediterranean climate. It's also one of the most important art centers in Europe. Whether you're looking for a relaxing afternoon in the sun or a lively dinner, you'll find it in Aix-en-Provence.
Moules-frites
During a day in Aix-en-Provence, you can't go wrong with a classic French meal. If you're not in the mood for steak, you can always try moules-frites. These are raw mussels on half-shell served with a lemon-mustard sauce. It's a local specialty.
While you're in Aix, you'll find plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The Bimont Dam is a popular tourist attraction. It features scenic trails and a turquoise-blue lake. You can also hike out to Mont Sainte Victoire.
Aix-en-Provence is a charming town with a quaint historic center. This makes it a perfect destination for a day trip. You'll find many cafes and bistros here. There are also plenty of outdoor seating options.
While you're in Aix, don't miss out on Paul Cezanne's art studio. This is the place where the famous painter got his inspiration. The studio is open every day with a guide. You'll be able to see some of his best works as well as real-life working tools.
One of Aix's most popular attractions is the Fountain of Four Dolphins. This moss-covered rock fountain sits along the popular Cours Mirabeau. It's not very large, but it's worth a visit.
When you're done with the sights, head over to La Place des Cardeurs, a large cobblestone plaza. There are some of the best restaurants here. There are also a number of boulangeries offering takeaway salads and sandwiches.
Aix-en-Provence has a number of hotels, restaurants and cafes. It's a good idea to stay in the city center so you can easily walk around.
If you want to explore a bit further, you can go on a day trip to Valensole. It's an hour's drive away. The lavender fields of France are popular with Instagrammers.
Shopping
Whether you're shopping for the latest designer fashion or a special Provencal souvenir, Aix-en-Provence has the shops you need. The region's abundant produce is also sold in many of the local stores.
Among the city's most famous boulevards is Cours Mirabeau, which is lined with cafes, bookstores and banks. Here, you can shop for a wide variety of products, from calissons and lavender to organic cosmetics.
Aix-en-Provence is home to several street markets. You can buy woven baskets, pottery and olive wood artefacts here. You can also pick up fresh produce at one of the daily produce markets on Place Richelme.
Aix-en-Provence is also known for its lavender. It's an essential ingredient in many of the region's fragrant sachets and organic cosmetics. If you're looking for a special gift, you can buy a calisson from Bechard, a renowned Aix-en-Provence bakery.
Other popular shopping avenues include Rue Espariat and the Cours Mirabeau. Here, you'll find more expensive shops as well as Monoprix, a budget store.
If you're interested in buying organic beauty products, you can visit Aroma-Zone. You can also buy indiennes from Souleiado. This company has a retail outlet on Rue Marius Reynaud.
Patisserie Weibel is a classic in Aix-en-Provence. The cakes, macarons and eclairs at this store are delicious.
Epicerie Aix et Terra is a shop filled with gourmet food and wine. This is a great place to pick up apricot jam, tapenade and other specialty items. You can also buy olive oil here.
The oldest museum in Aix-en-Provence is located in a 17th-century building. It features Renaissance art and the works of Paul Cezanne. The museum is open to the public on all days of the week, with guided tours available.
