Aix-en-provence Sights and Landmarks Guide, France
Aix-en-Provence is the Provencal town par excellence. A mere dozens of miles away from Marseille, Aix couldn’t possibly be more different from a large metropolitan area. The charm of Aix-en-Provence resides precisely in its quiet, picturesque atmosphere that has inspired great artistic geniuses such as Cezanne or Zola. Aix-en-Provence takes itself quite seriously, so you can expect to pay quite a steep price for your holiday. The city is somewhat similar to Paris’s Ile de la Cite, full of students and bohemians, but if nightlife is your only reason for coming to Aix, Marseille would be a more suitable destination. But if you do decide to spend a few days in Aix-en-Provence, you will experience the very best of French provincial life. This Aix-en-Provence Sights Guide will point out the must see attractions of this beautiful town.
Aix-en-Provence Sights - Museums and places of interest
There are several unconventional museums that might catch your interest in Aix. The Tapestry Museum is located in the former palace of the Archbishop, a beautiful structure built in the 17th century. The majestic walls of the archbishopric are covered with beautiful Provencal tapestries. The Musee du Vieil Aix is dedicated to the city’s history, from its foundation during the Roman occupation until today. The most interesting exhibits of the museum are the pieces of folk art from all over Provence. The Cathedral of the Saint Saviour, located in the medieval quarter of the city, is an intriguing structure erected over the course of several centuries. For those who love art, this Aix-en-Provence Sights Guide recommends the Workshop of Paul Cezanne, virtually untouched ever since the death of the painter. Or more pieces by Cezanne, you should visit the Galerie du Festival, where you can find some of his original works and several reproductions.
Aix-en-Provence Sights - Landmarks and curiosities
The most famous café in Aix-en-Provence is Deux Garcons, not necessarily because the quality of the service, but because it used to be the favourite meeting place of artists like Hemingway, Emile Zola or Paul Cezanne. The café is located on Cours Mirabeau, a scenic street lined with trees, historic mansions and dozens of fountains (giving Aix the nickname of ‘the city of a thousand fountains’). Quartier Mazarin, where the aristocracy used to live a few centuries ago, is a great place for a walk. Another building that shouldn’t be missed is the Halle aux Grains, of the Corn Exchange built in the 18th century, beautifully decorated and still hosting Aix’s fruit and vegetable market.
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- The medieval pope's palace
travel tip by Wazling posted more then 30 days ago
If you are at Avignon, take a look at the medieval pope's palace. It's huge and directly in the center of the city. You can get guided tours for a lot of languages, you just have to book. If you go the in the tourist season, calculate...