How to Have the Perfect Day in Aix-en-Provence, According to a Top Travel Advisor

When most individuals plan a visit to France, their go-to vacation spot is Paris. However there’s a lot extra to see within the nation, together with Provence in southeastern France, residence to gorgeous landscapes just like the Alps and rolling vineyards. 

As a French-born journey advisor, I’ve crafted numerous itineraries that seize the great thing about Provence, and extra particularly, the town of Aix-en-Provence. Right here’s how I’d spend a  good day in Aix-en-Provence. 

The place to Keep

My favourite lodging in Aix-en-Provence is Villa Saint-Ange, a five-star lodge that’s solely a 15-minute stroll from Cours Mirabeau, essentially the most bustling road within the space. Whereas the central location is a plus, Villa Saint-Ange shines by itself, too. The lodge is housed in an elevated, 18th-century property, and has expansive gardens, a swimming pool, and elegantly designed rooms. 

There are a number of different top-tier motels within the space, together with the Florentine-style mansion of Villa Gallici, Relais & Châteaux’s Château de la Gaude, and the serene Les Lodges Sainte Victoire. 

Morning 

Begin the day with a leisurely stroll via the historic middle of Aix-en-Provence. To start out, make your technique to Cours Mirabeau, a tree-lined road that splits the town into north and south. Right here, you’ll discover varied boutiques, cafes, and eating places to take a seat outdoors and benefit from the views. 

On the very finish of the road is the Fontaine de la Rotonde, a historic fountain from 1910 adorned with graphics of lions, swans, and legendary creatures. Different prime points of interest embody Hôtel de Ville, the town’s city corridor, and two architectural marvels: the catholic church buildings of Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur and Église Saint-Jean-de-Malte.

Midday 

Sightseeing is just a part of the attract of Aix-en-Provence. In relation to meals, there are regional specialties discovered throughout, and the very best place to attempt them is within the markets that open in varied squares throughout the town. Whereas the bulk are open every day, Saturday is essentially the most full of life. 

Place de Verdun has vegetables and fruit, Place Richelme has fish, and Place de l’Hôtel de Ville has one-of-a-kind flowers. Attempt madeleines from Madeleines de Christophe — whereas the deal with is discovered throughout France, this store has the perfect. And don’t miss calissons, a candied almond and melon deal with, or Pitchouline olives native to the south of France.

By mid-day, you may have certainly labored up an urge for food whereas exploring the varied markets. A few of my favourite choices for lunch within the historic middle embody La Pétite Ferme, Il Était une Fois, and Drôle d’Endroit, all of which serve native specialties. 

Afternoon

To spherical out your day in Aix-en-Provence, head into the Luberon Regional Pure Park simply north of the town. Right here, you can benefit from the famend wine of Provence in a personal tasting room, plus go to one of the stunning villages within the area, Lourmarin. 

Go wine tasting at Domaine de Fontenille.

Go to Domaine de Fontenille, a lovely vineyard within the rolling hills of the Luberon. Right here, you may be welcomed by passionate winemakers who share their information and experience. You may have the chance to study in regards to the winemaking course of and savor the fruits of their labor. Whereas Provence is most well-known for its rosé, the whites and reds are scrumptious as effectively.

Go to the village of Lourmarin.

Refreshed by your wine tasting, proceed to the center of Lourmarin. Time appears to decelerate within the slim, cobbled streets lined with honey-colored stone homes. Discover the charming boutiques overflowing with native crafts, bask in a scoop of ice cream at Le Glacier de l’Ormeau, or sip a cocktail on the terrace at Le Moulin Lourmarin, a beautiful boutique lodge. 

Night

As soon as again at your chosen lodge, take the time to relaxation and replicate. Come dinnertime, bask in a eating expertise at Âma Terra, situated at Villa Saint-Ange. This restaurant’s Mediterranean delicacies and stylish setting are certain to depart a long-lasting impression. 

The suggestions above supply only a style of what Aix-en-Provence and its surrounding space has to supply. With its wealthy historical past, vibrant tradition, and breathtaking surroundings, Provence guarantees an unforgettable expertise for all who wander its charming streets and sun-drenched vineyards.

Mark Bonte is a member of Journey + Leisure’s A-Checklist and makes a speciality of journeys to France. You may create a tailored itinerary with Bonte by contacting him at contact@frenchside​journey.com.