When my boyfriend and I were discussing the next summer vacation, we did not even think to be in Aix. We dreamed of the south of France, but we also wanted to get into: walk along the Old, taste the well-known bouillabaisse (bouillabaisse - Marseille fish soup), understand why everyone is crazy about Provencal rose wine. The town of Aix-en-Provence was out of the question. Moreover, we did not know about the existence of this city at all.
After spending a few days in Marseille, we made a lot of acquaintances with the locals. Each of them advised to visit the magical Aix, promising that this town will undoubtedly leave a mark in our hearts.
What is the first thing that comes to mind when you mention the historic area in the southeast of France? Personally, I represent lavender fields, aromatic herbs and spices, majestic mountains, impressionism, and, undoubtedly, magnificent rosé.
People from all over the world have always wanted to visit: artists and poets were looking for inspiration and new impressions, gourmets wanted to taste Provencal cuisine, tourists and ardent travelers wanted to take some unforgettable shots in lavender fields and put a "tick" in the list of countries they visited ...
The first time we went to rest in August, so it was already possible not to dream of lavender fields. In fact, lavender blooms from mid-June to early August, but in fact, there is little chance of seeing lavender in the most popular spots in late July or early August. The climate is getting hotter every year and the lavender season is getting smaller.
So, one morning, when there was no more sense (and time) to delay, we packed up and went to the central station of Marseille Saint-Charles to take a bus from there and go to Aix-en-Provence. By that time, we already had some idea of the city and dreamed of being on the old stone-paved streets, seeing the baroque palaces of the Provencal nobility of the 17th-18th centuries, taking a walk near the town hall with a Gothic clock tower and, of course, plunging our hands into one of the many fountains that were once able to save the city from the plague! 
How to get there?
Aix-en-Provence can be reached by plane, train, bus and car. You won't be able to get there by water, because the nearest sea is in Marseille (27 km from Aix).
By plane
The nearest international airport is located exactly in Marseille. From there, the bus station (Aix Bus Station), which is just a 5-minute walk from the city center, can be reached by so-called auto-express trains. Such a trip will take about 30 minutes and will cost 7-9 EUR per person, depending on the age of the passenger (discounts are provided for students and young people under the age of 26). Buses run every 15-30 minutes: if you missed one, don't worry - the next one will arrive soon! You can buy a ticket at the ticket office, which is a couple of steps from the bus stop, or from the bus driver.
The city can also be reached from the airports of Nimes, Toulon, Nice.
If I'm not mistaken, there are no regular flights Moscow-Marseille, but in the summer there are definitely charters from Russian cities. You can also find many connecting flights via, or, well, prefer rail.
About buying tickets
As a veteran traveler, we take ticket reservations seriously. We never procrastinate and prefer early booking... However, many travelers who like to fly with low-cost airlines (Ryanair, Wizzair) advise buying tickets 2-3 months before the trip. In addition to low-cost airlines, you can look for good options on popular sites, for example,. The main thing is to decide exactly on the dates, not to delay the purchase, and then you can save a lot.
Marseille Provence airport
Marseille-Provence International Airport is located 27 km from Marseille and 29 km from Aix-en-Provence. On this moment there are two terminals at the airport. As we understood, one serves large airlines, the second is more specialized in low-cost airlines.
Nearby is railroad station Vitrolles Marseille, but we were not lucky enough to use it. As our French friend, a resident of the town of Merey (located near Aix-en-Provence), said, the townspeople prefer to travel by bus to neighboring cities (and cheaper, and, oddly enough, faster, because trains and electric trains make a lot of stops on their way ).
Thus, the journey from Marseille to Aix-en-Provence by train will take about 45 minutes, and by bus - only 28 minutes. Both the bus and the train arrive in the city center, both stations are located next to each other. 
A bus trip will cost only 6 EUR, and by train 8 EUR for passengers over 26 years old, 6 EUR for students and young people up to 26 years old. Tickets can also be purchased at the station ticket offices or in special terminals that accept cards and cash.
There are enough shops at the airport, there is a duty-free zone, several cafes, restaurants and bars. There is a tourist office, bank, zone wireless internet, first-aid post ... However, I strongly advise against staying at the airport for the night - there will be nothing to do there, everything closes until 12 at night. Once, alas, we had to spend such a night, and it was an extremely negative experience.
By train
If you are not intimidated by the long distances, Aix can also be reached from Paris by train. With the high-speed TGV trains, everything has become much easier - the trip will not take more than 3 hours, but it is easier to get to Marseille, and from there to the central station of Aix-en-Provence.
Paris-Marseille trains run frequently, about 5 times a day. Depart from Paris Gare Lyon train station. Websites write that you can find tickets costing from 25 EUR, but you should be absolutely lucky. It is more realistic to find a ticket for about 40 EUR one way.
Be careful: regional trains arrive in the center of Aix-en-Provence, but the train station with international routes is just 15 km from the city center! From there, the city center can be reached in 15-20 minutes by shuttle buses, which also run frequently - every 20-30 minutes - and arrive at the Aix Bus Station (5 minutes walk from the city center).
Clue:
Aix-en-Provence - time is now
Difference in hours:
Moscow 2
Kazan 2
Samara 3
Yekaterinburg 4
Novosibirsk 6
Vladivostok 9
When is the season. When is the best time to go
The beauty of Provence is that you can go whenever you want: each season is attractive in its own way. However, most tourists go to Provence solely to see the lavender fields with their own eyes. What is there to hide, the spectacle is actually indescribable! At the tourist office you can ask for a special map of Lavender Roads and choose the route you like. However, it is worth noting that the undisputed leader in the number of lavender plantations is the Valensole Valley, which, in fact, itself consists of one huge lavender field. But, as for evil, it is here that lavender can be seen from mid-June and only until mid-July (roughly it blooms until July 15, but it can be harvested even earlier).
Yes, lavender is undoubtedly worth it, but this particular season is "hot" and, accordingly, the most expensive and crowded. Both tickets and housing prices are increasing significantly. In addition, this period is the hottest, the air temperature during the day can reach +37 degrees Celsius.
Personally, I prefer to travel in August and September. Yes, you won't see any lavender, but you will be able to enjoy a milder climate and relatively less crowds. Besides, in September comes the fig season, what is not a reason to travel? In any case, before the trip, it is definitely worth familiarizing yourself with the weather forecast so as not to grab extra warm clothes.
Aix-en-Provence in summer
It is hot in Aix-en-Provence in summer and gets hotter every year. The average temperature in the daytime is +34 degrees Celsius, in the evening +18.
Aix-en-Provence in autumn
In autumn, a real Indian summer reigns, which can last right up to mid-November (during the day the temperature will vary from +15 to +17 degrees Celsius). Many people prefer to come here at this time of the year, when there are no tourists and you can enjoy the privacy, feeling like a local.
However, there is a fly in the ointment in every barrel of honey. It is in autumn that the mistral period begins - a strong and very cold wind. It can last right up to spring. On such days, you don't want to leave the house - it's scary. Mistral can be strong enough to uproot trees.
Aix-en-Provence in spring
Many also prefer late spring for their travels in Provence. There are not so many tourists yet, but the sun is warming with might and main! So if the vacation falls in the spring, you can safely go. The average temperature in March is +15 degrees, and in April and May +20.
Aix-en-Provence in winter
January is the coldest month to visit Aix-en-Provence. However, subzero temperatures will not overtake you, which cannot be said about rains. In winter, Provence is the most a large number of precipitation.
Clue:
Aix-en-Provence - monthly weather
Districts. Where is the best place to live
Aix-en-Provence is a commune city. When choosing accommodation, it is better to stay in the city center in the so-called Center Ville and its surroundings. If you look at the city on the map, it may not seem so small, but this is only an appearance.
There are several districts around the center, which are, in fact, "satellite villages" - some of them are actually independent villages. Banon, Maruege, Les Milles can be noted. However, renting an apartment there is unlikely to work - they simply are not there. If you are traveling by car in a large company, you can find many villas or cottages that are not located in the center of Aix, but on the outskirts or even in neighboring villages. But to tell the truth, it will be extremely difficult to get to a supermarket or cafe without a car. 
It is difficult to make a mistake in the center and rent an apartment in a dysfunctional place. Unlike neighboring Marseille, Aix-en-Provence is safe city, which is not scary to walk even at night. We rented apartments both in the very center and far from it.
Since the city houses the philological and humanitarian faculties of the largest university in Provence, Aix-Marseille I, there are plenty of students here. Where do students like to spend their free time from studies? That's right, in bars and clubs, of which there is a real abundance in Aix. Prepare to be quite noisy at night, especially if you decide to rent a hotel or apartment in the Old City. The largest number of bars and restaurants are concentrated in Place Richelme and La place des Cardeurs. But in principle, the whole Old City will not be quiet in the evenings. If you want peace and quiet - choose any other area of the city.
Personally, we liked living on the outskirts of the Old Town better. And the center is just a stone's throw away, and at night the noise and din from the bars will not wake you up. 
The most famous street Aix-en-Provence - Boulevard Mirabeau (Cours Mirabeau) - divides the city into two parts, that is, in fact, all the districts. However, it is worth noting that these parts of the city are completely different from each other. On one side are the streets of the Old Town with a huge number of cafes, restaurants, boutiques, souvenir shops. It is here that farmers' markets open in the mornings, which turn into favorite hangout spots for students in the evenings. On the other side is the pompous Mazarin district. Here the streets are wide, but not crowded. However, if you go a little deeper, you can see several stately mansions of the local nobility hiding behind lush garden vegetation.
Do not dwell on any a certain place- all the same to boulevard Mirabeau and best restaurants a stone's throw, a walk in any direction will not take more than 20 minutes. However, when looking for a suitable accommodation, be sure to pay attention to where the windows face and if there is a bustling bar nearby.
Despite the fact that Aix-en-Provence is considered a bourgeois town, life in which order dearer than life in neighboring Marseille, it is easier to rent an apartment or an apartment here. Perhaps the point is that, despite all the charm of Aix, this city is not so popular with tourists.
We always use the services of this, and I can safely say that there you can find many great options for every taste and wallet. As for the hotels, they are expensive here (on average, the night costs 70-100 EUR), most of them are located in the Old Town.
What are the prices for rest
The church is also open from 8 am, and on Sunday you can go to Mass. The morning Mass starts at 10:30 am, and the evening Mass starts at 6:00 pm. Admission is also free.
Church of St. Mary Magdalene (Église de la Madeleine)
The address - Place des Prêcheurs, Aix-en-Provence.
It was in this church in the Italian Baroque style that Paul Cézanne was baptized. But this is not the only reason to look here. All connoisseurs of painting will love the canvases of local artists. Here you can also admire the altar, an ancient organ, and in fact, the entire external facade of the cathedral looks especially solemn.
The church is currently closed for renovation indefinitely.
Museums. Which are worth visiting
Hotel de Caumont - Art Center
The exact address - 3 rue Joseph Cabassol, Aix-en-Provence.
Opening hours in summer time(from May to September): from 10 am to 7 pm, in winter (from October to April) - from 10 am to 6 pm.
The museum website can be accessed by clicking on. 
New arts center and museum in a private 18th century mansion! I definitely recommend visiting, because an unforgettable day awaits you. You can take a walk in the garden, have a coffee and dessert in a cafe, but most importantly, visit a unique exhibition. For example, this summer we were lucky enough to get to the large exhibition of works by William Turner, which was held from May 4, 2016 to September 18, 2016. Ticket prices vary, for example, there is now an exhibition dedicated to Marilyn Monroe. A full ticket will cost 19 EUR, there is a system of discounts for students and pensioners (ticket price - 16 EUR).
Granet Museum
The address - Place Saint Jean de Malte, Aix-en-Provence.
The museum is open every day except Monday. Opening hours - from 12.00 to 17.30.
The museum website can be accessed by following this link. 
The museum is definitely worth a visit for those who are interested in impressionism. In addition to the permanent exhibition, temporary exhibitions are often held there, and they can be absolutely delightful. A single ticket costs 8 EUR and includes the opportunity to visit the neighboring branch, which is a 5-minute walk away - Chapelle Granet XXeme. And this opportunity cannot be missed! It is there that the most interesting works of such masters as Picasso, Monet, Van Gogh, Giacometti, Dubuffet and many others are collected.
Musee du Calisson, Confiserie du Roy Rene
The address - 5380 Route d "Avignon Quartier la Calade RD7N, Aix-en-Provence. 
As I mentioned above, calissons are local sweets made from almond flour and dried fruits. It tastes like marzipan. As you might guess, it is in this factory that real calissons are made. Here you can watch the factory work, and, of course, buy sweets in a specialty shop.
What to see in 1 day
Aix-en-Provence is wonderful in that almost all of the above sights can be seen in just 1 day, and at the same time you will not fall off your feet from fatigue. But there is no guarantee that you will not fall in love with this city and will not want to spend as much time there as possible!
Start your acquaintance with the square La rotonde, which is famous for its magnificent fountain in all respects ( Fontaine de la rotonde).
This fountain is the largest in Aix. This area smoothly turns into the previously mentioned Boulevard Mirabeau (Cours Mirabeau), along which you can go deep into the Old Town.
It will be wonderful to arrive in Aix early in the morning to attend the morning farmers market(there are several of them in the city, but, on the advice of local residents, I highly recommend the one located on Place richelme). It is difficult to leave there without shopping: goat cheese (soft Banon cheese and young cheese made from goat or sheep milk Brousse are especially popular), olives pickled in Provencal herbs, the freshest bread, salami, two or three bottles of rose wine. There is often a flower market not far from the grocery market. You yourself can imagine what a scent is there! 
Walk down to City Hall, where the previously mentioned urban town hall with a gothic clock tower. Pay attention to the figures that are under the clock and indicate the seasons, replacing each other depending on the season. The address - Place de l "Hotel de ville, Aix-en-Provence.
Relax on the summer terrace of a café and treat yourself to a glass of wine or the refreshing Spritz that has become very popular lately. And then, after gaining strength, go to the museum or visit the workshop of Paul Cézanne. You will remember this day for a long time!
What to see in the vicinity
Be sure to visit some wine chateau and take part in the tastings! Especially loved by us:
Food. What to try
Aix-en-Provence is famous for just a huge number of all kinds of bars, cafes and restaurants. Almost every street in the Old Town is literally "crammed" with establishments, which are always full of people. It's amazing how such a small town can accommodate so many different places. 
Here you can find a place for every taste. Locals prefer traditional French cuisine, visiting French people love to visit this region for the sake of Provencal delicacies that can only be tasted here. There are many cafes with Italian cuisine in the city, and this is what young people love. If all of the above is boring, you can find establishments with Japanese, Iranian and even Russian cuisines.
The average cost of a dinner in a regular restaurant will cost 25-40 EUR(depending on whether you will be taking alcohol). In establishments with Italian cuisine, it is a little cheaper: aromatic pasta will cost on average 10-15 EUR.
You can have a profitable lunch, giving preference to a set lunch (analogue of a business lunch), which will cost 15-20 EUR... This lunch consists of a first course, main course and dessert. Certain drinks are often included in the price.
Budget
- Le Bouche a Oreille, 1 rue Aumone Vieille.
- Aux Petits Oignons, 2 rue Peyresc.
- Via Italia, 4 rue d Italie.
- Piacere little italy, 4 rue de la Couronne.
- Crepes cidre et compagnie, 23 Rue de Lacepede.
Middle level
- Le 18, 18 Rue Boulegon.
- La Table des Delices de Sebastien, 57 avenue Maurice Plantier.
- Le Contrepoint, 15 rue Constantin.
- Le Patio, 16 rue victor leydet.
- Hue cocotte, 9 Place Ramus.
- Marasino, 2 B avenue Victor Hugo.
Expensive
- Mitch, 26 rue des Tanneurs.
- La Chimere Cafe, 15 rue Brueys.
- Le millefeuille, 8 rue Rifle Rafle.
- L'Opera, 18 rue Fermee.
- Le Formal - Caves Henri IV, 32 rue Espariat.
- L'epicurien Restaurant, 13 Forum des Cardeurs.
Holidays
You will be very lucky if your trip falls between June 30 and July 20. At this time, the annual Aix-en-Provence opera festival is held, which is one of the most famous in the world. All information about this event can be found.
In general, in Provence, something happens almost every month. In December you can attend the Olive Oil Festival, in January the Saint-Clair Festival, when roasted piglets will be sold in the markets. February is famous for the mimosa festival and the festival of sea urchins and other sea reptiles. In March, you can visit and attend the Babel Med music festival. Holidays of strawberries, cherries, asparagus - what the Provençals have not come up with so as not to get bored! It is impossible to list everything.
If you decide to spend a few days or weeks in Aix or its surroundings, be sure to contact the local tourist office, which is located at 300 avenue Giuseppe Verdi, Les allées provençales... There they will definitely tell you about upcoming events. Office site.
Things to do
Shopping and shops
In terms of shopping, this city can be called a real boon for fans of fashion brands and for lovers of vintage and antiques. Here you will find boutiques Louis Vuitton and Moschino, Agnès B and Loft. At L'Atelier, you can try on new items from Chloé, choose something from accessories from Vivienne Westwood. Be sure to check out First for Dolce & Gabbana, Prada and Dior.
As for the mass market, in Aix you can also find the well-known and beloved Zara and H&M, however, in comparison with the large shopping centers Marseille, the choice is quite limited.
Please note that you will hardly be able to wander around the shops on Sunday - almost all of them will be closed.
In Aix-en-Provence, you can find something interesting at flea markets and antique shops. Lovers of curiosities and rarities come here not only from all over France, but from all over the world.
Don't forget about the previously mentioned farmers' and flower markets, which are unfolding simultaneously in several squares of the city.
Bars. Where to go
In Aix saturated night life and a lot of bars. Wine bars, tapas bars and, oddly enough, Irish pubs, which somehow do not fit with the bohemian bourgeois town, are especially popular. 
It is worth noting following places:
- Happy Days Café, 1 Rue Méjanes.
Very interesting place... Cocktail bar during the day, gay bar at night. Yes, a real gay bar in the center of Aix-en-Provence! The bartender of this establishment told us about this, who clarified that all the most interesting parties take place on Fridays and Saturdays, starting from 1 am until the very morning! Although according to the official version, the bar closes at 2 am. Prices are average and below average. During happy hours - from 3 pm to 6 pm - you can have a glass of wine or a Spritz cocktail at attractive prices. A glass of wine will cost 3-4 EUR, a cocktail - 6 EUR. - Le Brigand, 17 place Richelme.
Students say this is the best beer bar in the entire city. The institution is open from 10 am to 2 am. Prices are below average. - Pub O'Sullivan "s, Place des Augustins (Rue Espariat).
Real Irish Pub - Guinness and Kilkenny flow like a river! You can order some of the snacks, but you will not find anything significant here.
Opening hours - from 11 am to 2 am, Sunday until 12 am. Prices are average and below average. - Le Cintra, 14 Place Jeanne D Arc.
Oysters, mussels and cool wine are what awaits you in this truly French place. Open 24 hours a day! Prices are above average. - L'Amoroso, 8 rue Aimeric David.
Works like a regular Italian restaurant, but with a top-notch wine and cocktail list. This is the place where you can start your evening. Prices are above average.
How to get around the city
Moving around the city is very easy, we almost never used by public transport(although this is fine here). Aix is such a city in which you want to endlessly walk, wander, turn into previously unexplored cobbled streets. However, if you decide to rent a villa that is far enough from the city center (about 5 km), it will be difficult without a car. We rented a car several times for a couple of days to go to some chateau for a bottle of wine and go on a picnic to Mount Sainte-Victoire. But in fact, you don't need a car to move around the city - you don't have to waste time looking for parking spaces and save on it. As a rule, parking in France is paid. You can navigate the prices for car rental.
Renting a bike is a great idea! And the distance to the chateau is realistic, and the physical activity will not be superfluous. You have to put the gained kilograms somewhere.
I advise here the company. You can also contact.
Buses
There is no metro or tram in Aix. Everyone travels either on foot, by car, or by bus.
A ticket for one trip can be bought from the driver, or you can take care of it in advance and purchase a “pre-paid pass” - this is cheaper. You can buy such a pass at the ticket office of the bus station. Since we have never used buses, and the cost of the ticket varies depending on where you are going, I will not give you exact information on this matter. But all the details can be found on the booking sites! Don't overpay. This !
Rent a Car- also aggregation of prices from all distributors, all in one place, let's go!
Anything to add?
I go back in my mind to my November trip to the south of France to take away the most Christmas moments ...
I lived in the city of Arles, and this is a special city. The hype around Christmas is not about him! But I will definitely tell you about Arles, but today I want something about Christmas markets, souvenirs, noisy streets and fried chestnuts, right? ......
Therefore, today - Aix-en-Provence. Small and very lively town with several universities and colleges.
In terms of age and character, Aix is younger than Arles and more playful. Christmas and a premonition of a fairy tale are in the air of this city.
The colors of the city - warm golden-ocher, dusty purple and berry-red - the colors of the setting sun, yellow facades, bright awnings of street cafes ... And also a dark color that gives the city a bit of winter graphics, neither green nor blue .. The color of the endless autumn foliage and facade of PAUL bakery ...
And here is the Carder Square (Place des Cardeurs), known for the site airbnb.
Most of the apartments that I examined Aix were rented out in this area.
Now it seems very empty and quiet. I don’t know, maybe there’s a different picture in the first half? ..
And now not a soul and all restaurants are closed.
And on the streets the sun was gone. But the windows of shops and pastry shops began to burn brighter. And the smell of them seemed to become stronger!) There was a smell of sweets next to this store .... In general, Aixane Provence is a very fragrant city.
The smell of trees, roasted chestnuts, sweets, lavender, and the sweet perfume of the townspeople, in which all these ingredients are guessed ...
The sun is almost down and I have to go back to Arles.
TO bus stop going through Mirabeau again. I am pleased to note that the holiday is still going on here.
At the market my attention was attracted by the goods of a certain company "Les bla bla". Undoubtedly, the name is very relevant at all times)
I could not pass by!
Now to Arles!
What could be more romantic than a night bus? ....
I returned to Arles and walked briskly along the empty streets to the hotel .... At this time, brrr, how cold and the mistral is persistently pulling the bag out of his hands! It is worth noting that the residents of Arles are, of course, also preparing their city for Christmas. Streets and squares were decorated with me. Large light snowflakes were hung on the facades of houses, because you can't expect real snow!) And I'm so used to the streets, illuminated with garlands, that I can't even imagine Arles without them ...
But I will continue about Arles in the next posts ...
More about the trip to Provence.
Aix-en-Provence is the most charming, sophisticated and aristocratic city of Provence - France. Having driven only 30 km from the noisy Marseille, you will find yourself in another world, in which the imposing atmosphere of bygone eras still reigns, and the cobblestones of boulevards still remember the promenades of aristocrats and the sound of the wheels of luxurious carriages.
Aix-en-Provence owes its formation to the Romans, who discovered here thermal source, and flourishing - to King Rene of Anjou. It was during the reign of "good Rene" that the city became cultural capital France, attracting artists, writers, actors.
Aix-en-Provence - a special atmosphere of aristocracy and comfort
If you look at the map of the city, then the exquisite and once majestic Aix-en-Provence is narrow, winding streets with rather sparse buildings. Cobbled squares prevail here, and magnificent fountains, the spray of which sparkle in the rays of the Mediterranean sun, delight the eye. Aix is often called "the city of one hundred and one fountains", the most original of which are located on Boulevard Mirabeau - its culmination is the majestic Rotunda fountain.
In the historic capital of Provence, which was once Aix-en-Provence, there are many colorful mansions, in the architecture of which you can see the strict features of classicism of the 17th century and the laid-back elegance of the Baroque. The history of almost all Aix villas is centuries old.
Old city- the more ancient part of Aix-en-Provence is the "abode" of tourists, life is constantly boiling here. Fashionable boutiques and respectable restaurants, cozy cafes and souvenir shops. But one has only to cross the boulevard Mirabeau, and you will see a completely different Aix-en-Provence - pompous, imposing and aristocratic. The Mazaren Quarter is a place where celebrities, ministers and the highest aristocracy have built mansions for centuries. Luxurious villas still hide the lives of their inhabitants behind high wrought-iron fences and lush vegetation.
Aix-en-Provence is the historical capital of Provence - the city where the great impressionist Paul Cezanne was born. Yes, the painter often visited Marseilles and Paris, he even lived there for a long time, but he was always drawn to Aix. Cezanne immortalized the landscapes of Provence in his canvases, the painter's favorite object is Mount Sainte-Victoire. The great artist considered Aix-en-Provence to be his inspiration - the town really makes even skeptics admire.
In the Mazarin quarter, next to the Cathedral of Saint Jean of Maltese, whose grandeur is vividly conveyed even by photos, there is the Granet Museum, where you can see many of the paintings of the great Paul Cézanne. Tourists who come to Aix-en-Provence can also admire the works of other artists and sculptors - Jean Dominique Ingres, Anthony ven Dyck, Nicolas de Stael, Rembrandt.
Attractions in Aix-en-Provence
Aix-en-Provence is worth visiting for more than just the reason to enjoy its unique, sophisticated atmosphere. The sights of Aix are worth seeing with your own eyes and taking hundreds of photos.
The "Pearl" of Aix-en-Provence is rightfully considered the Cathedral of Saint-Sauveur (Saint Savior), where you can contemplate the masterpiece of Provencal painting of the 15th century - the triptych "Burning Bush", written by Nicolas Frohmann. He ordered a picturesque masterpiece "good Rene", the monarch to whom Aix-en-Provence owes its heyday and transformation into Cultural Center France.
Old Aix, in the language of tourist guides, is “a museum under open air"Is one big attraction. This part of Aix-en-Provence, clearly defined by boulevards, can be wandered for hours. The wonderful weather for which Aix is famous makes it possible to walk at any time of the year. You don't have to think about the route, architectural monuments, picturesque fountains, colorful cafes - interesting objects will be met at every turn.
Saturday, Thursday and Tuesday are the days when the center of Aix-en-Provence fills with markets. On Richelm Square, farmers sell fruits and vegetables, Marseille Street turns into a huge "ocean", where you can buy any seafood and fish. The Place de Ville becomes a real plantation of flowers - in Aix-en-Provence, Flora's children are sold from all over France. A flea market opens on Place Verdun, where you can buy an antique for just a few euros. It is in Aix that many world-renowned collectors replenish their collections.
Aix-en-Provence is an aristocratic city with ancient history and traditions, living modern life. Music and art festivals are constantly held here, planning a trip to Aix, you will take a trip in time. The Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, to which Aix-en-Provence belongs, is the most popular among tourists who come here hoping to “feel the true France”. Do you want some fun? Just two hours on the highway, and you will be in Nice - the favorite resort of celebrities and bohemians.
Aix-en-Provence invites you to share the delights of southern life: walks in the Mediterranean air, festivals and carnivals. In this city, all the senses are heightened, there is a riot of colors around, in the markets there is an abundance of sunny fruits and vegetables, the smells of Provencal dishes and the gentle whisper of ancient fountains are everywhere. Aix-en-Provence is the ideal destination for foodies and culture lovers, couples and large families.
A must visit in Aix
- Cezanne's Places
Cezanne's studio
The presence of the great impressionist is clearly manifested here. Numerous paintings, materials for drawing and the creation of his latest still lifes - all the things dear to the artist are collected in the Cézanne Studio.
The possession of Jas de Bouffan
This property was bequeathed to Paul Cézanne's father in 1859. From 1866 to 1895 Cezanne painted here 36 canvases and 17 watercolors, in which he depicted a house and a farm, a grove and a chestnut avenue, a pond and statues ...
During the tour, you will be shown all the places from which Cézanne painted his many paintings.
Biebemus quarry
It was at this abandoned quarry in the period from 1895 to 1904. wrote 11 paintings and 16 watercolors. He depicted mainly "stones" with interesting geometric shapes. It was these canvases that gave rise to Cubism.
Be sure to visit: the unique collection "From Cézanne to Giacometti". A panoramic exhibition of 20th century art featuring 19 masterpieces Giacometti, canvases by Leger, Mondrian, Klee, Steel, Picasso, Cezanne...
Boulevard Mirabeau
Boulevard Mirabeau is a real green tunnel, around the fountains and houses of the 17th and 18th centuries. It is Mirabeau, created in 1650, that is considered the heart of the city.
- Magnificent fountains
Water has always been a part of the life and history of Aix-en-Provence. One has only to recall the Roman baths Sextius that are still in force.
- Cathedral of the Holy Savior
The cathedral was built from the 5th to the 18th centuries. His business card is the architectural variety. The baptistery was created in the 5th century, and the gallery or cloister, with its calm and elegant forms, dates back to the 17th century.
New quarter "Provencal alleys" with numerous boutiques. It also houses the National Choreography Center and the Grand Theater of Provence. The Provencal Alleys opened in June 2007. This new commercial and cultural quarter attracts numerous visitors during the day for shopping, and in the evening for performances at the Teatro Grande in Provence or for the ballet of Preljocaj.
Specialties: Calissons, Santons (figurines of saints), AOC Coto d'Ex wines
Wine and olive oil you can also buy in the markets.
Thermal station: A temple of modern architecture located in the heart of the city, dedicated to the cult of water and wellness.
Casino. The property of the PARTOUCHE group is - perfect place for roulette, blackjack, 30/40, slot machines ... Shows and concerts are also held here.
City Tours
French city of Aix-en-Provence (Provence region)
If not nearby, just 25 kilometers away, the huge Marseille, the French city of Aix-en-Provence would have been the dominant feature of the entire Central Provence.
Historically, culturally and socially, the two cities are very different from each other, and usually those who love one of them cannot stand the other. The city of Aix-en-Provence is smugly conservative and stunningly beautiful.
The wealthy part of its population is landowners and people of free professions. Ax's youth dress impeccably. Hundreds of students from other countries, in particular Americans, come to the city to study, and the inhabitants of the city are distinguished by snobbery of an almost Parisian level.
From the 12th century until the revolution, Aix-en-Provence was the capital of Provence. In the days when Provence was an independent county, its beloved ruler, the "good" King Rene of Anjou (1409-1480), maintained a splendid court known for its folk festivals and patronage of the arts.
Rene was a typical Renaissance man, he spoke many languages (including Greek and Hebrew), was a scientist, poet and economist. It was he who began to plant Muscat grapes in Provence. Today in the city stands his stone statue, made in the style of illustrations from medieval books. Holding a bunch of grapes in his left hand, he looks along the majestic boulevard Mirabeau, created in the 17th century.
Arrival, information on the city and accommodation in Aix-en-Provence
The main point of arrival in the city is the General de Gaulle (place General-de-Gaulle), or the Rotonda (La Rotonda), with several fountains, which ends in the west of the main artery of Aix: the boulevard Mirabeau (cours Mirabeau), broken on the site of the old fortifications of its southern side.
The train station is on rue Gustavo-Desplace at the end of avenue Vicyor-Hugo, leading south from Place General de Gaulle, and the bus station is on the Avenue de l'Europe at the end of Avenue de l'Europe ). New station The high-speed train (TGV) is located 10 kilometers southwest of Aix and is connected by regular shuttle buses to the bus station (every 30 minutes: daily 4.45-22.30, 3.70 €).
It is easy to get lost when entering Aix-en-Provence. It is best to follow the gare signs to the train station, and after passing the train station, take avenue des Belges, which will lead to the tourist office in the city center (2 place General-de-Gaulle) between avenues Belges and Victor Hugo, where there is a car park on the ring road that encircles the Old Town. From mid-June to late July (festival time) the chances of finding a free room in hotel very small if you don’t booked it, at least two months before the actual arrival. At other times, the possibilities are much greater.
Aix-en-Provence Accommodation
1). Hotel Des Arts- Very friendly, albeit a bit noisy hotel with the cheapest rooms you can find in the center. There is no advance booking, so arrive early. Hotel address: 69 bd Carnot;
2). Le Caravella Hotel- More expensive rooms overlooking the courtyard gardens. Hotel address: 29 bd Roi-Rene;
3). Hotel Cardinal- A clean, calm and welcoming hotel, however expensive. Hotel address: 22-24 rue Cardinale;
4). Hotel De France- Right in the center and with very comfortable rooms. Hotel address: 63 rue Espriat;
5). Hotel Le Manoir- Very elegant and comfortable old building with a covered gallery from the 14th century. Hotel address: 8 rue d'Entrecasteaux;
6). Number One Hotel- Small family hotel about a kilometer from the city center. One of the most inexpensive hotels throughout Aix-en-Provence. Hotel address: 10 cours des Minimes;
7). Hotel Paul- Inexpensive for Aix and with a garden. The rooms have a shower and a telephone. There are three and four-bed rooms. Hotel address: 10 avenue Pasteur;
8). Hotel Des Quatre-Dauphins- Old world charm in the Mazaren quarter. Hotel address: 54 rue Roux-Alpheran;
9). St-Christophe Hotel- A hotel with a high level of service close to both train stations and Boulevard Mirabeau. Hotel address: 2 avenue Victor-Hugo.
Hostels and campgrounds in Aix-en-Provence
1). Airotel Camping Chanteclere- Three kilometers from the center. Excellent amenities. Open: all year round. Camping address: Rte de Nice, Val St-Andre, buses no. 3 or 10, and the same prices;
2). Camping Arc-en-Ciel- Also three kilometers from the city center to the southeast. Not a very cheap campsite, but very good facilities. Closed: October-March. Camping address: Rte de Nice, Pont de Trois Sautets, bus no. 3;
3). Crous- (Center Regional des Oeuvres Universitaires et Scolaires / Regional center for creativity of students and schoolchildren). This student organization can sometimes find cheap rooms in a campus in July and August. Bus number 5 direction "Bel-Ormo", stop "Pierre-Puget". Wtynhf address: Cite Universitaire des Gazellez, 38 avenue Jules-Ferry;
4). Holiday Inn Hostel (Hi)- Located 2 kilometers west of the city center and has nice bedrooms (overnight stay 17 €). There are no kitchens, but there is a TV lounge, a bar, a laundry room, a left-luggage office and several double rooms. Closed: Christmas-February. Hostel address: 3 avenue Marcel-Pagnol. Bus number 4 direction "Ojas de Bouffan", stop "Vasarely".
Attractions in Aix-en-Provence
The entire old city Aix, clearly delineated by a ring of boulevards, including the majestic Boulevard Mirabeau, is one large monument, much more significant than any single building or museum in it. There are so many busy streets, tempting restaurants, cafes and shops and the best markets in Provence that you can wander around for many days without having a specific route or a specific goal. As a preliminary acquaintance with the life of Aix, it is absolutely necessary to stroll along the Mirabeau boulevard, with stops at a cafe.
Old Ex
To explore the confusion of small streets and narrow roads that make up the heart of Aix, go north from the shady boulevard Mirabeau anywhere within the ring of wide streets called avenue, cours or boulevard (although boulevard may not be a boulevard) ... The layout of Old Aix makes it difficult to navigate, but it does not matter, when every 50 meters there are squares with fountains where you can relax, and a continuous architectural feast of the 16th-17th centuries stretches around.
On Saturdays and, to a lesser extent, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, the center is filled with markets: fruits and vegetables on the Place Richelm, fish on the street Marseille, flowers on the Place de Ville, clothes on the streets of Peyrecs, Rifle-Rafle, Bouteilles, Chaudronniers and Monclar, flea market on Place de Verun) and provisions at the Place des Precheurs and Place de la Madelein.
The Madeleine Church is decorated with murals by Rubens and Vanloo (who was born in Aix in 1684) and the medieval triptych "Annunciation". On the Place Richelme, above the architrave of the former grain exchange, which today houses the post office, hangs the graceful, albeit rather massive, foot of the goddess Cybele, flirting with Rona (Rona is masculine in French). To the north rises the town hall of classical proportions with wrought iron lace above the entrance.
From place de Hotel-de-Ville, rue Gaston-de-Saporta leads you to the cathedral. Cathedral of the Holy Savior(Cathedrale Saint-Sauveur), a conglomerate of buildings from the 15th-16th centuries, full of treasures of medieval art. The best of these is the Burning Bush triptych, commissioned by King Rene in 1475. The sacristan regularly opens its side panels, revealing the Virgin Mary and Child in a flaming bush for the audience.
Next to the cathedral on Resistance Square stands the former Episcopal Palace (Ancien Archeveche), which today houses Tapestry Museum(Musee des Tapisseries) - a superb collection with a contemporary section expanding the concept of tapestry to include ropes, raffia or feathers. Also noteworthy is the Museum of Old Aix (Musee du Vieil Aix; 17 rue Gaston-de-Saporta), which displays sets of cult puppets and a large collection of santons (santons - Provencal Christmas figurines).
Mazaren Quarter
Other important museums in Aix are located in the quartier Mazarin south of the boulevard Mirabeau. The most interesting one, Granet Museum(Musee Granet; place St-Jean-de-Malte), located in the Place Saint-Jean-de-Malte (Saint John of Malta). It features works of art and archaeological finds, in particular from Oppidum d'Entremont, a Celtic-Ligurian settlement 3 kilometers north of Aix.
It flourished for about 100 years, until in 124 BC it was defeated by the Romans, who founded here the city of Aquae Sextae, the future Aix-en-Provence. The collection of the museum's paintings is rather motley - the works of Italians, Dutch, French, mainly from the 17th to the 19th centuries, not very well hung and not well lit.
A number of French paintings of the 18th and early 19th centuries, including Ingres's repulsive work "Jupiter and Thetis", are mostly horrible, although the portrait of Granet by the same Ingres is worthy of attention. Finally, here you can see the works of the famous artist Ax - Paul Cézanne, who studied on the first floor of this building, where then there was an art school. The museum contains two of his student works and a number of small canvases, including Bathsheba and Portrait of a Lady.
Outside the center
Cézanne worked in many studios in and around Aix, but ended up in 1902 in a house built specifically as a studio, towering in the north over Aix. Today it is Atelier Cézanne (9 avenue Paul-Cesanne). It was here that he wrote some of his best works. Everything here remained the same as it was in 1906, when he died: a coat, a hat, a glass and an easel, objects that he liked to depict, his pipe and a few letters and drawings ... The atmosphere in which he worked is preserved here.
Center for Public cultural life The city is the City of Books (Cite du livre; 8-10 rue des Allumettes), which occupies the building of a former match factory (not far from the tourist office), the entrance to which is decorated in the form of rows of giant books, as if standing on a shelf. It houses libraries, a cinema, a theater hall, a lyric arts video library (which houses almost all French opera performances) and a variety of exhibitions. Moving away from the sometimes tiresome grandeur of Aix of the 17th century, you can experience a completely different visual and distraction experience by visiting the Fondation asarely (avenue Marcel-Pagnol, Jas-de-Bouffan, 4 kilometers west of the city).
Here, in countless display cases, images are presented that relate to all the themes of the work of the architect and artist Vasarely, including his projects for residential buildings. However, you will get the most direct impression of the work of this extraordinary person in seven hexagonal rooms on the ground floor, each of which contains six large projects. Finally, 3 kilometers north of the city is Oppidum d'Entremont, an excavation of a Gallic settlement that preceded the founding of the city and emerged more than 200 years before the Roman conquest. Remains of impressively located fortifications, as well as residential and shopping districts cities.
Where to eat and drink, entertainment in Aix-en-Provence
Ex is literally "stuffed" restaurants all price categories and ethnicities. Place des Cardeurs northwest of place de Hotel de Ville is lined with tables of restaurants, brasseries and Cafe and Rue Verrerie south of Place Ramus is home to a variety of Indian, Chinese and North African restaurants. For people on a modest budget, Tanneurs street is good. Worthy of attention are the café-brasseries on Boulevard Mirabeau, among which there are inexpensive eateries. There you can also find peddlers of delicious fresh fruit juices.
Cafes and restaurants in Aix-en-Provence
1). L'Amphitryon Restaurant- Eclectic cuisine based on fresh produce from the market. Meals are served on the flower-lined terrace in the Old Town. Nice and not very expensive restaurant. A set of dishes from 26 €. Closed: Sundays and Mondays and the second half of August. Restaurant address: 2-4 rue Paul Doumer;
2). De l`Archeveche Restaurant- In the afternoon good pasta dishes and salads are served for less than 10 €. Restaurant address: Place des Martyrs-de-la-Resistance;
3). Le Basilic Gourmand Restaurant- Classic Provencal food. A3 la carte from 14 €. Live music. Closed: Sundays and Mondays. Restaurant address: 6 rue du Griffon;
4). Le Bistrot Latin Restaurant- The best dishes are profiteroles with snails in olive and honey sauce and rabbit in garlic sauce. Lunch menu 15,00 €, evening set from 21 €. Closed: Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays and off-season lunch. Restaurant address: 18 rue Couronne;
5). Cay Tam Restaurant- The best East Asian food in Aix. The menu is based on Vietnamese dishes. A set of dishes from 15.50 €. Closed: Mondays and Tuesdays, and Wednesday and Fridays for lunch. Restaurant address: 29 rue Verrerie;
6). Le Chimere Restaurant“A new twist on French standards and arguably the only place to serve kangaroo food in town. A set of dishes for about 26.50 €. Closed: Sundays. Restaurant address: 15 rue Brueys;
7). Le Clos de la Violette restaurant- The most famous restaurant in Aix, whose names may sound a little scary, such as stuffed lamb hooves, but in fact these dishes are true gastronomic masterpieces. Desserts are more openly attracted: clafoutis (plum pie), pistachios with peach sauce and melted chocolate tartins. Lunch menu 54 €, other sets of dishes from 107 €, a la carte from 75 €. Closed: Mondays and Wednesdays for lunch and two weeks in mid-August. Restaurant address: 10 avenue de la Violette;
8). Cafe Les Deux Garcons- Once a favorite place of Albert Camus, decorated in the style of the decadence of the 1900s and still attracting a colorful society of intellectuals. Good brasserie style food, but not cheap (from € 27.80). Open: daily until midnight. Cafe address: 53 cours Mirabeau;
9). Cafe L`Hacienda- Outdoor seating and an inexpensive lunch menu (€ 9) including wine. Closed: Sundays. Cafe address: Corner rue Merindol and place Cardeur;
10). Cafe Le Jasmin- Delicious and quirky Persian dishes for around € 16.50. For desserts, it is worth trying the traditional Iranian choleh zard - a rice dish with saffron, spices and nuts. Closed: Sundays. Cafe address: 6 rue de la Fonderie;
11). Cafe Kheops- Egyptian cuisine including falafel, stuffed pigeons and lush dairy desserts. A set of dishes 10 €. Closed: Wednesdays for lunch. Cafe address: 28 rue de la Verrerie;
12). Pizza Chez Jo / Bar des Augustins- Usually crowded due to pizza and traditional afternoon meals. From 12 €. Closed: Sundays. Facility address: Place des Augustins;
13). Le Platanos establishment- A very cheap and popular Greek place with a lunch menu for € 10. Closed: Sundays and Mondays. The address of the establishment is 13 rue Rifle-Rafle.
Nightlife and festivals in Aix-en-Provence
The best jazz clubs are Hot Brass (chemin de la Plaine-des-Verguetiers, rte d'eguilles-Celony) and Le Scat (11 rue de la Verrerie) with jazz, rock and funk music. Disco mainstream - at Le Richelme (24 rue de la Verrerie). Pubs with live music - Le Manoir (25 rue de la Verrerie), Pago (38 rue de la Verrerie), Pub Solferino (place d'Armenie) and Le Festival (67 bis rue Espariat).
During the annual festivals Musical Ex (Aix en Music; rock, jazz, experimental and classical music; June) and the International Festival of Lyric Art (Festival International d'Art Lyrique; opera and concerts classical music; the last two weeks of July) alternative scenes - street theaters, rock concerts and impromptu get-togethers - turn the whole Old Ex into one big party.
Ticket prices for festival events range from 12 to 185 euros. Tickets and programs can be purchased at the Official Festival Committee (Comite Officiel des Fetes; Espace Forbin, 3 place John-Rewald) near Boulevard Gambetta. There you can also find out more about the International Dance Festival (two weeks in mid-July).
