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Famous for its beauty and sweetness of life characteristic of the cities of southern France, Aix-en-Provence is an ideal holiday destination for history lovers, eager to discover the charms of picturesque villages in the PACA region.

Its old town is a real invitation to daydream... Through its pretty streets, typical of Provençal villages, you can see what has inspired so many artists, including the painter Paul Cézanne. University city, green and captivating, you will not get tired of its flowered squares, its 23 fountains, its terraces of cafés where one dreams to stroll a few moments, its private mansions of the XVIIe century but also its markets with flowers and vegetables which smell good Provence.

Rich with a strong historical heritage, Aix-en-Provence is classified 3rd "ensemble d'architecture baroque de France", just behind Versailles and Paris. Here, the private mansions each have their history, the fountains all have their secrets. Linking the old town and the Mazarin district, the Cours Mirabeau is one of the most popular places in Aix-en-Provence. 440 metres long, Cours Mirabeau is an ancient road created to allow the passage of carriages in the 17th century. Marked by plane trees and superb residences where the aristocracy of the time lived, it is a shady and soothing place to stroll. The heart of the city, the Cours Mirabeau is the most lively area of Aix-en-Provence. To enjoy the place and escape the heat for a few moments, sit on the terrace of a café, in the shade of a tree. Walking along this great avenue, you will meet many listed monuments, such as the Augustinian Convent (13), the Hotel Maurel de Pontevès (38), the Carmelite Convent (52), the Fountain of the Nine Canons, as well as statues on either side of the course. The Saint-Sauveur cathedral, built on the site of an ancient forum, or the Pavillon de Vendôme will also be worth visiting during your stay.

A city of water and art, it has inspired many artists, from Stendhal to Zola, Picasso and Cézanne. The latter is the pride of the city's inhabitants. Push the door of what was once his studio, on the Lauves hill, to enter the intimacy of the artist and understand his universe. You can also admire some of his works at the Granet Museum, and see his home on the Cours Mirabeau.

But if Aix-en-Provence is so famous, it is also for its Roman baths. The city attracts every year many curists, envious to enjoy the benefits of its secular thermal waters. Don't miss the Thermes Sextius, located on avenue Thermes (you can't make that up !). Spas, massages, body treatments, here everything is done so that you relax, in a space dedicated to well-being.

Ideally located, Aix-en-Provence is the starting point for many excursions to the Camargue, Marseille and Avignon. Amateur hikers will be able to attempt the ascent of the Sainte-Victoire mountain, very often immortalized by the most Provençal of impressionist painters. The "Route Cézanne", classified as a historical monument, has many points of view that will allow you to observe superb panoramas of the region and its vineyards. If you want to take a dip in the sea, know that Aix-en-Provence is only 45 minutes from the most beautiful beaches of Provence (Martigues, Marseille, Cassis, La Ciotat).

Finally, do not leave without having tasted the great speciality of Aix-en-Provence : the calisson. Real small concentrate of sun (and sugar !), you will find it in many shops, at the time of the markets, but the ideal is to go directly in a local craft factory, for the greatest pleasure of the greedy.

More information about the region :

Provence

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Located in the heart of the city, the famous Cours Mirabeau is an unforgettable part of your stay. Stroll and discover the many cafés, the magnificent private mansions and fountains.

To the east of the city, the Bibémus quarries await you. If you wish to rediscover the warm colours of Cézanne's works, do not hesitate any longer, the painter had chosen to live near the quarries to soak up the particular colours of the landscape.

Bordered by magnificent private mansions, the Place des quatre Dauphins is one of the symbols of Aix. Under the sun of Provence, enjoy the charm of the place and discover the splendid fountain that gives all the charm to this place.