Europe
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Aix-en-Provence
Start your day with a visit to the Aix Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint Sauveur), a stunning mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Neo-Gothic architectural styles. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Café de France, where you can savor traditional French pastries and coffee.
In the afternoon, stroll down Cours Mirabeau, one of the most famous streets in Aix-en-Provence. This avenue is lined with plane trees, fountains, and cafes, making it perfect for people-watching and soaking in the local atmosphere. Be sure to visit the Fontaine de la Rotonde, a majestic fountain with three statues representing art, agriculture, and justice.
For lunch, head to Le Formal, known for its exquisite French cuisine. Spend the late afternoon exploring the old town, wandering through narrow streets filled with charming shops and historic buildings. Visit the Granet Museum, which houses over 12,000 works of art, including pieces by Rubens, Rembrandt, and Cézanne.
Day 2: Artistic and Historical Landmarks
In the early afternoon, head to the Pavillon Vendôme, a historic pavilion surrounded by a gorgeous formal garden. This garden boasts floral displays and occasionally hosts temporary art exhibitions. Spend a couple of hours here to fully appreciate its beauty.
The latter part of the afternoon is a nice time to walk around the Terrain des Peintres, a public garden where many eminent painters sought inspiration. Finish the day with a sunset picnic at Parc Jourdan or shop for souvenirs along the Cours Mirabeau.
Day 3: Day Trips and Local Markets
For your third day, consider a day trip to the stunning lavender fields surrounding Aix-en-Provence. Take a half-day tour to the plateau Valensole, where you can walk through the lavender fields and enjoy the picturesque countryside. Alternatively, you could visit the French Riviera, exploring places like Nice, Saint-Tropez, and Monaco.
After returning from your day trip, visit the local markets for some shopping and tasting sessions. Have lunch at Bistrot des Philosophes, known for its delicious local cuisine. End your day with an evening stroll around Montagne Sainte-Victoire, a mountain that inspired many of Cézanne’s works, and enjoy dinner at Le Poivre d'Ane, which offers traditional Provençal dishes.
Additional Tips and Recommendations
Aix-en-Provence is also known as the “City of a Thousand Fountains,” and exploring these water features is a must. Visit fountains like the Fontaine Moussue, Fontaine des Quatre Dauphins, and Fontaine des Neuf-Canons.
If you have time, enjoy a wine or beer tour in the Provence region, visiting some of the best vineyards and tasting exquisite wines or beers. For dinner, treat yourself to gourmet cuisine at Le Petit Verdot or other renowned restaurants in the area.
Where to Stay in Aix-en-Provence
When choosing where to stay in Aix-en-Provence, consider hotels and accommodations that are centrally located to make the most of your time exploring the city. Many options are available near the Cours Mirabeau and the old town, ensuring easy access to all the main attractions.