Overview
Get to know Aix-En-Provence.... town of water, town of culture!
The name Aix comes from the source discovered when the city was founded in 123 b.c. by the Romans. It was the capitol of Provence in the 15th century, Wealthy merchants and local dignitaries helped turn this city into the Florence of Provence as we know it today. One can find all the beauty of the noble Provence of the 17th and 18th centuries: handsome houses of the upper class, private mansions, city squares bursting with flowers, ancient fountains and shaded narrow streets.
Aix is a town of water and a town of culture. Its history has been shaped by its spas and by the arts. Whether in the narrow streets of the old town, in the moss of its 101 fountains, on the pediments of mansions or in the surrounding country side, the glorious past of Provence’s former capital has been miraculously preserved. As a city of art and culture Aix possesses a wealth of superb architecture that has been carefully preserved and restored Aix-En-Provence is also the town of the tempestuous politician Mirabeau and famous painter Paul Cézanne.
You should start by visiting University Square and Saint Sauveur Cathedral facing it, founded in the 4th century. Built on the forum square, this church shows all the styles of art history. A little further on are the magnificent Town Hall and the Clock Tower with its splendid astronomical clock. Then continue until you reach Cours Mirabeau, an elegant avenue lined with plane trees and Café fronts. This avenue delimits the aristocratic part of the town: the Mazarin quarter (17th – 18th centuries) where everything is luxurious and beautiful: flamboyant mansions with enormous grounds behind high walls and finely chiselled statues on the pediments of the buildings.
Take time to stroll around the pedestrian streets, taste the famous Calisson pastry and relax on the shaded café terraces.
- Walking difficulties: Mostly extensive walking tour in Aix including old cobblestone streets. Must wear proper footwear and be prepared to walk over uneven surfaces.
- Shopping opportunities: 45 minutes (+/-) of free time in Aix.
- Entrance fees, gratuities, food, beverage not included.
- Please call ShoreTrips if you need your tour for a Saturday or Sunday as there is a weekend/holiday surcharge.
- Maximum 180 kilometers.
- Itineraries and timing may change due to traffic conditions or traffic restrictions.
Days offered: 7 days a week
Departures:- 09:30 AM, duration: 4 hours Tour duration is anywhere between 4-5 hours. Departure time can't be adjusted.
- 02:00 PM, duration: 4 hours Tour duration is anywhere between 4-5 hours. Departure time can't be adjusted.
