Around Aix-en-Provence: 10 Beautiful Places to Visit

Around Aix-en-Provence: La Roque d'Anthéron © French Moments

Is there any need to introduce Aix, the historical capital of Provence? The charming town offers visitors a rich and fascinating architectural and cultural heritage. But beyond the homeland of Paul Cézanne and Emile Zola, there are many sites to explore. The Pays d’Aix, of course, but also natural sites, beautiful ruins, and typical Provençal Read more…

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Montagne Sainte-Victoire: the iconic mountain of Aix

Montagne Sainte-Victoire © Olivier Risnes

Montagne Sainte-Victoire is an iconic natural landmark in Provence, along with other famous peaks such as  Mont Ventoux and Sainte-Baume. The “mountain of Aix” extends over 18 kilometres east of Aix-en-Provence. Reaching 1,011 metres / 3,317 ft at Pic des Mouches, the celebrated mountain owes its fame to painter Paul Cézanne, who could see it Read more…

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The cultural highlights of Provence

Lourmarin 13 © French Moments

The Provence, part of the PACA region, one of the richest in France, is the most visited area in France after Paris city. Located in the South-East, this picturesque area is famous for its mild weather, snow-clad mountains, fields of lavender, olive trees and vineyards. But the noticeable mediaeval architecture in the main cities, fortified Read more…

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Practical info for planning your visit to Aix-en-Provence

Cours Mirabeau, Aix-en-Provence © French Moments

The din of cicadas, the southern French accent, a glass of Pastis at a table outside a café: this is Aix-en-Provence, one of France’s most delightful towns. Aix has long been the capital of Provence. This can be seen in its architecture, the wealth of its private mansions, and the ever-present traces of its flourishing Read more…

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Aix-en-Provence Old Town: A Discovery Guide

Aix-en-Provence Old Town © French Moments

Aix-en-Provence old town is enchanting: shady squares, elegant town-houses, lively open-air markets, … everything contributes towards making this Provençal town a memorable visit. Follow the guide!     Where to stay in Aix-en-Provence Old Town? You can choose from a great range of accommodation in Aix-en-Provence, from hotels to B&B and campings! My recommendation is to Read more…

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Place de l’Hôtel de Ville of Aix-en-Provence

The fountain of Place de l'Hôtel de Ville of Aix © French Moments

Place de l’Hôtel de Ville of Aix is arguably one of Provence’s most famous squares. It shows a great array of architectural styles, from the most simple to elaborate Baroque styles. Some interesting monuments border the square: the Town Hall, the Corn Exchange Hall and the Clock Tower. Follow the guide!     Place de Read more…

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Cours Mirabeau, Aix-en-Provence

Cours Mirabeau, Aix-en-Provence © French Moments

Paris has its Champs-Élysées, Nice its Promenade des Anglais, Marseille its Canebière and Aix its Cours Mirabeau. This wide street is one of the busiest and most frequented in Aix-en-Provence. The avenue connects Place de la Rotonde to the west and Place Forbin to the east. It was and remains the best part of town Read more…

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Place d’Albertas: an elegant square in Aix-en-Provence

Place d'Albertas, Aix-en-Provence © French Moments

Not far from the Natural History Museum of Aix-en-Provence lies the elegant Place d’Albertas. The small square is arguably one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Provence.     Place d’Albertas: A Bit of History The Albertas were a parliamentarian family originating from the Italian city of Alba. They came to Aix in Read more…

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Aix-en-Provence Cathedral: A Discovery Guide

Aix-en-Provence Cathedral. Photo by bbsferrari via Envato Elements

A sacred place for thousands of years, the Aix-en-Provence cathedral has become a religious landmark in Provence. The imposing church combines three architectural styles (Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque), due to the many alterations it has undergone over the centuries. Today, Aix cathedral is a national monument that is one of the most visited sites in Read more…

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Aix-en-Provence History: A Brief Account

Aix-en-Provence History - The fountain of King René, Aix © French Moments

This is a brief account of Aix-en-Provence history. Its past is reflected in the churches and rich 17th and 18th-century manor houses in the old town. It is these witnesses to Aix’s history that attract the many tourists who come to discover the water city of the Romans.     Aix-en-Provence History From the Roman Read more…

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The Calissons of Aix: a Specialty Candy from Provence

Calissons of Aix. Photo by annapustynnikova via Envato Elements

The city of Aix-en-Provence and the delicious calissons have had a common destiny for several centuries. It is one of the emblematic delicacies of Provence and is one of the famous thirteen Christmas desserts. Let’s lift the curtain on this subtle mixture of almonds and candied melons.     What are calissons from Aix? Calissons Read more…

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