Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is best explored on foot, starting from the Place des Précheurs and its fountain, through the Passage Agard and along the plane-tree-lined Cours Mirabeau, which comes alive with lights in the evening. The historic centre, with its narrow streets and small squares such as Place des Cardeurs and Place Ramus, still bears traces of Cézanne's presence and is home to Saint-Sauveur Cathedral. Culture lovers can visit the Musée Granet and the Musée des Tapisseries, as well as the Camp des Milles memorial site, an important place of remembrance in the region. The weekend markets, known for local produce, are a good opportunity to try calissons, a local speciality available at Léonard Parli, and to pick up some lavender soap. In fine weather, the Sainte-Victoire mountain dominates the landscape and draws hikers and nature lovers, while lavender fields bloom in June and July. Aix's location also makes it easy to explore further afield, with day trips to the Cassis and Marseille calanques, the Gorges du Verdon, or the Colorado Provençal, offering a range of Provençal scenery.