Vaison la Romaine has it all, Roman ruins, a historic and delightful medieval town centre, a castle on a rock, arts festivals, wonderful vineyards and glorious countryside for hiking and biking.
Vaison la Romaine
Packed with history, from Roman ruins to medieval structures
The town is neatly split in two by the Ouveze River, with the medieval town on one side snaking up the hill to the castle, and the Roman-Gallo and today's modern town on the other.
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Events in Aix-en-Provence
The town plays host to a thriving (and huge - 450 stall holders!) market on Tuesdays (plus Thursday and Saturday in summer) which reflects the amount of produce that can be grown in the surrounding area. Truffles, fruits, herbs, and honey are all produced in abundance.
A flea market (Brocante) is held on the third Sunday of the month in Place Montfort.
The town also hosts a modern dance festival Vaison Danses in July, and a Blues and Jazz festival in August.
The Rencontres Gourmandes is a food festival held at the end of October.
Events in Aix-en-Provence
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Beaujolais Nouveau
The new Beaujolais has arrived!
The third Thursday in November is when this year's Beaujolais hits the shelves and is cause for celebration across France.
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Fête de la Musique
Music festival celebrated across France on the summer solstice
The Fête de la Musique is a celebration that takes place every summer solstice on 21 June in cities, towns and villages across France.
History & Culture in Aix-en-Provence
It can feel like you've stepped back in time when you visit Vaison la Romaine. As the name suggests, this was an important town for the Romans, who liked its location and climate, and built many rather magnificent structures. Vaison became a federated city under the Romans which explains why so many public buildings were constructed.
The most obvious Roman heritage is the Roman bridge (one of only five still standing in Provence), but there are two important excavation sites right in the centre of town - the Site de la Villasse is the biggest archaeological site in France that's open to the public. You can discover the remnants of Roman villas and wander around their extensive gardens. Just to the north of this site lies the Site de Puymin which includes the grand Antique Theatre (and hosts events during the summer). Some of the ancient Roman artefacts have been collected and are on display in the Musée Theo Desplans.
Across the Roman bridge that straddles the river L'Ouveze sits the medieval town. Thanks to the conflicts between the Counts of Toulouse at this time, a castle was built at the top of the hill in the 13th century, and shortly afterwards, the villagers moved to the relative safety beneath its walls. This is where the majority of Vaison's residents stayed until the 19th century when the industrial revolution lead to a resettlement of the lands below the castle.
The medieval town holds lots of treasures. You enter through a 14th century fortified gate with its belfry tower, which used to have a portcullis and drawbridge. As you wander, you'll come across 16th century doorways, many fine mansions, fountains and tiny alleys and stairways. The site covers three acres so there is plenty to explore. The reasonably central square Place d'Orme is where you'll find the Chapelle St Constance and just beyond is the church which was built in the 15th century, where you'll see a Jesuit style façade, medieval decorations and tower. There are also wonderful views to be enjoyed here.
The castle at the top of the hill is not open to the public but you can get up close to the exterior and inspect the stone work and exceptionally thick walls. The gatehouse, watch tower and fortified gateway were added in the 15th century and confirm the castle's use as a military fortress. The castle was abandoned in 1791, when it was acquired by the community.
The Cathedral Notre Dame de Nazareth lies just on the other side of the river from the medieval town. The church was first built in the 11th century and is an example of Romanesque architecture. There is a lovely cloister attached which has a small garden and a mixture of arches and columns with some fine stone carvings. The Chapel St Quenin a few streets further into the town is another Romanesque structure, built in the12th century. It's classified as a Historic Monument thanks to its murals, decorative freizes and Corinthian columns.
Sights & Attractions in Aix-en-Provence
Vaison has much to offer the visitor in addition to all the Roman sites and the medieval village, there are plenty of gift shops and pretty cafés to while the day away.
Make sure you allow time to explore this wonderful town, both north and south of the river. You can easily spend a couple of hours wandering the little lanes of the medieval town and exploring the art galleries of this picture-postcard ancient village.
Vineyards fill the land and flourish on the hillsides that lead up to Mont Ventoux - the wine produced belongs to AOC Côtes du Rhône and AOC Côtes du Ventoux. Full bodied red wine forms the bulk of the wine produced, and features the Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre grapes.
Rosé wine is also produced in the vineyards. The area is filled with small producers rather than a major Domaine, so there are a couple of co-operatives that blend the grapes to produce the annual vintage.
Sights in Aix-en-Provence
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Site Memorial des Milles
Factory used as a prison during World War II, now a museum
At the beginning of World War II, France interned all Austrian and German nationals who were living in France at the time, and Les Milles was the prison for the south eastern region.
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Wildlife Art Gallery, Aix en Provence
Painter & sculptor Aurélien Raynaud collection of wildlife inspired art
Aurélien Raynaud displays his unique gift in capturing the wonderful wildlife kingdom in a range of artforms.
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Musee Granet
Fine art gallery showing European paintings & sculpture
This is Aix's fine art gallery, housed in the 17th century Palais de Malte. The collections includes works by a variety of European painters, including two by Rubens and a small selection of Paul Cezanne.
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Fondation Vasarely
Abstract art & architecture from the Hungarian artist
Hungarian artist Victor Vasarely established this foundation in 1966 with the aim of promoting 'art for all' where art blends beautifully with architecture in the 'city of tomorrow'.
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Atelier Cezanne
Cezanne's work studio, as the famous French painter left it
Cezannes studio was created in Aix-en-Provence in 1902 and this is where he worked until he died in 1906.
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Calisson Museum
Take a visit to the place where they make Provence's most famous confectionery - Calissons
Located not far from Aix centre, this museum and shop explains a little about the history of how this unusual sweet is made.
Dining in Aix-en-Provence
Restaurants in Aix-en-Provence
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Mickael Feval Restaurant
Fine dining restaurant with 1 Michelin star
This elegant restaurant is a must-visit for any lovers of modern cuisine and cooking methods. They embrace local produce and evolve their dishes according to the seasons.
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Le Comptoir du Clos
The sophisticated restaurant located at the Renaissance Hotel
Open daily, the Clos du Comptoir offers a sophisticated atmosphere for lunch and dinner in the same setting.
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Villa Gallici Restaurant, Aix en Provence
Provencal cuisine in a beautiful setting overlooking the hotel grounds
A quiet atmosphere, beautiful grounds and wonderful flavours can be found at Villa Gallici Restaurant. Part of the 5 star Villa Gallici hotel you can indulge in lunch or dinner at this top quality restaurant.
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Le Art Restaurant
Michelin-starred restaurant in a charming chateau
Located inside the luxury Chateau de la Gaude, this Michelin-starred restaurant serves the elaborate cuisine of chef Matthieu Dupuis-Baumal.
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Le Pain Quotidien, Aix en Provence
Enjoy the courtyard space & cafe treats in the centre of the old town
Le Pain Quotidien is an international chain of delis and cafes across europe. Serving breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner and snacks soups and hot food.
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La Table de Beaurecueil Restaurant, Beaurecueil
Unique setting with the Sainte-Victoire mountain view
Nestled in an old farmhouse of the nineteenth century, the restaurant decor combines both contemporary and classic style.
Nightlife in Aix-en-Provence
Bars & Clubs in Aix-en-Provence
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Le Cardeur Bacchus Bar
A bar & restaurant in the centre of Aix
This small bar has a nice seating area outside next to one of Aix's many fountains and it catches the sun late into the evening.
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Mistral Nighclub
Trendy club in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, international DJ's & acts
The Mistral is Aix-en-Provence's answer to those looking for a trendy night out listening to the latest DJ's.
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Le Scat Nightclub
Jazz club in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, live music & a great atmosphere
The Scat Club plays live music every night, and not just jazz the club plays pop, rock, funk and R'n'B.
Things to do in Aix-en-Provence
The surrounding countryside is filled with opportunities for cyclists, ask at the tourist office for maps for both mountain biking trails and road cycling circuits. Mont Ventoux is close by and those who follow the Tour de France may wish to test themselves up this infamous 1,912m mountain.
There are plenty of walking trails in the wooded hillsides of Ventoux for hikers. Other trails include the Grand Randonee GR4 route which will take you to Roaix or Malaucene. You can also walk to Gigondas (around 4 miles) or Beaumes de Venise (around 6 miles) along paths that run off the GR4.
Horse riding for all abilities can both be enjoyed year round. Rock climbing is very popular in the Dentelles de Montmirail, the area offers limestone cliffs with bolted routes and there is a school for beginners.
Things To Do in Aix-en-Provence
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Sainte-Victoire Aquatic Centre, Venelles
Aquatic centre with indoor & outdoor pools, lazy river & childrens area
This leisure centre has two indoor pools, a 50 metre outdoor heated swimming pool, with terraces and beaches, and water sports.There is also a weights room and dance studio.
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Set Golf Course
18-hole golf course close to Aix
Set in the beautiful wooded countryside, this 18-hole golf course was designed by American architect Ronald Fream. The club incorporates the David Leadbetter Academy that offers lessons to suit players of all levels.
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Aix Yoga Center, Aix en Provence
Yoga centre offering regular Ashtanga & Iyengar lessons, courses & retreats
The Aix Yoga Center is a 150m2 studio yoga in the heart of Aix en Provence.
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Set Club, Aix en Provence
Clay & hard courts
Set CLub is a sports complex which has 13 tennis courts, eight of which are clay courts and five are the faster green set. Lessons and competitions are all part of the club. Non-members are welcome.
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Club Hippique d'Aix Marseille horse riding
A reputed, long-established equestrian club for all
The Club, established in 1932 has a long and interesting history. Situated on the banks of the river l'Arc over 30 acres, 5 minutes away from the city centre the Club Hippique Aix Marseille offers a full range of facilities.
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Aix Golf Course
6-hole course, driving range & putting green only five minutes from Aix
Open to all, this small golf club offers a clubhouse, restaurant, driving range, putting green and 6 holes. It is home to an academy that offers lessons at all levels.
Watersports in Aix-en-Provence
Watersports in Aix-en-Provence
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Le lac de Monteux, Monteux
Leisure centre with plenty of water based fun & activities
Located in the heart of the EcoQuartier Beaulieu, Lake Monteux is an open every day of the year. Ideal for the whole family, this area offers a multitude of activities.
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Exo 84 Watersports, Lamotte-du-Rhône
A centre dedicated to wake-boarding and waterskiing
This watersports centre is based on a 10 hectare lake with boxes and features in the water that you can practise your wakeboarding moves on.
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Caminaterra Activity Company, Vedene
Adventure tourism company with a wide range of activities
This company offers all kinds of activities, from climbing and pot-holing to canyoning, canoeing, kayaking, hiking and via ferrata.
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Kayak Vert, Fontaine de Vaucluse
Canoe along the green coloured rivers of the Sorgue
This company offers an 8 kilometre canoe trip along the river near Fontaine de Vaucluse.
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Canoe Evasion, near Isle sur la Sorgue
Canoe trips between Fontaine de Vaucluse & Isle sur la Sorgue
This company offers a 2 hour river descent from Isle sur la Sorgue to Fontain de Vaucluse in canoes.
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Raille Lake Watersports
Sailing, windsuring, watersports and more in this lake near Apt
Just to the north of Apt lies the Plan d'Eau de la Raille. You can practice all sorts of watersports here, with a sailing & windsurfing school. All equipment is available to rent - dinghies, windsurfs, pedal boats and kayaks.
Holiday Rentals in Aix-en-Provence
Holiday Rentals in Aix-en-Provence
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La Badassière Villa, Bonnieux
5 bedroom Villa in Bonnieux. Sleeps 10
Villa rental in the Luberon - La Badassière
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La Grande Bergerie Villa, Bonnieux
4 bedroom Villa in Bonnieux. Sleeps 8
Holiday house with pool located in the heart of the Luberon.
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Le Mas Des Secrets Villa, Bonnieux
6 bedroom Villa in Bonnieux. Sleeps 12
Wonderful holiday rental farmhouse in Bonnieux, in the Luberon’s golden triangle, with swimming pool and a lovely, unobstructed view of the countryside.
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La Cavalière Villa, Bonnieux
7 bedroom Villa in Bonnieux. Sleeps 13
Former 17th century farmhouse in Bonnieux, fully restored by a renowned architect.
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Le Mas Du Haut Trigaud Villa, Bonnieux
4 bedroom Villa in Bonnieux. Sleeps 8
Superb 5 star rated property located in Bonnieux with swimming pool
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La Bastide Bitrona Villa, Bonnieux
4 bedroom Villa in Bonnieux. Sleeps 8
Beautiful holiday villa with swimming pool for rent in the South of France, near the village of Bonnieux in Provence.
Hotels in Aix-en-Provence
Surprisingly, for a town with so much to offer, there are no characterful hotels in Vaison. There are a couple of basic B&B's and dated hotels but for something a bit more special, you will have to look further afield.
Hotels in Aix-en-Provence
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Moulin de Lourmarin Hotel, Lourmarin
Former oil mill converted into a charming Provencal style hotel
Located in one of the most beautiful villages in France, this former oil mill welcomes its guests in an enchanting setting surrounded by lime trees.
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Renaissance Hotel
Contemporary style 5 star hotel with works of art & stylish furnishings
Built in 2013 this modern, contemporary five star hotel in Provence combines art work in contemporary spaces, filled with uber stylish furniture and fittings.
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Villa Gallici Hotel
Small luxury hotel in the centre of Aix en Provence but surrounded by gardens
Under the light Cézanne once knew, the Villa Gallici Hotel is an 18th century Provençal house and a member of Relais et Châteaux portfolio.
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Le Pigonnet Hotel
Grand hotel with magical gardens just outside centre of Aix-en-Provence
The five star Pigonnet hotel in Aix is an 18th-century mansion surrounded with stunning floral gardens, situated just outside the centre of Aix-en-Provence.
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La Maison d'Aix Hotel
Small hotel built from an old house in Aix en Provence
This hotel is a beautiful renovated house located on a quiet street, and walking distance to all the hustle and bustle of Aix.
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Birdy Hotel
Smart design hotel on the outskirts of Aix
This hotel can be found in Aix-les-Milles not far from the centre of Aix, and on the doorstep of Aix golf course.
How to get to Aix-en-Provence
Transfers for Provence
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Helicopter Transfers & Scenic Flights
Passenger transport, aerial photography, freight , etc...
Helitec caters for all your helicopter needs from passenger transport to aerial photography, filming, transport of heavy goods, leisure flights over Provence and the South of France. A great way to see the most beautiful spots from the air.
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Private Airport Transfers
Reliable private airport transfer & taxi service
Chabe Transfers are a well known luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the South of France.
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Marseille Taxis
Taxis in Marseille
300 vehicles at your disposal. All taxi services and transfers airports and Railway stations.
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Helicopter Transfers & Scenic Flights
Helicopter charter company based in Monaco with over 25 years experience
With a long history and experience in the VIP transport industry this company is proud of its personal and high-quality services.
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Private Jet & Helicopter Transfers
Aircraft & helicopter charter company based at Nice Airport in the South of France
With an International fleet of jets and helicopters based across Europe it is quick and easy to get a private charter flight for business, pleasure or an airport transfer.
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Avignon Taxis
Taxis in Avignon and the entire region
Avignon City Taxis at your disposal 24/7 for taxi services and transfers airports and railway stations in Avignon and in the entire region.
Property For Sale in Aix-en-Provence
Property for Sale in Aix-en-Provence
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Villa for Sale | VAL240008
4 bedroom, 4 bathroom, 240m² Villa in Var
Set in the prestigious Domaine de Terre Blanche, Villa Augusta is the epitome of contemporary luxury.
Villa for Sale | VAL240008
€3,200,000 -
Villa for Sale | VAL240033
4 bedroom, 5 bathroom, 330m² Villa in Var
Elegant villa in the sought-after Terre Blanche estate
Villa for Sale | VAL240033
€3,750,000 -
Villa for Sale | VAL250082
6 bedroom, 428m² villa in Var
Nestled in the heart of the prestigious Terre Blanche estate, this superb property of approximately 428 m² of living space is set on one hectare of landscaped grounds, one of the largest on the estate, offering spectacular views of the surrounding hilltop villages and a rare living environment that is both luxurious and peaceful.
Villa for Sale | VAL250082
€9,800,000 -
Villa for Sale | val260153
4 bedroom, 320.95m² Villa in Tourrettes
This contemporary property, inspired by neo-Provençal architecture, offers approximately 300 sqm of living space and is set within a beautifully landscaped 3,300 sqm garden, providing a private living environment.
Villa for Sale | val260153
€4,500,000 -
Land (Plot) for Sale | VAL250058
10 bedroom, 9 bathroom, 1350m² plot in Var
An exceptional estate in landscaped grounds
Land (Plot) for Sale | VAL250058
€39,850,000 -
Villa for Sale | STZ250285
7 bedroom, 4 bathroom, 233.84m² Villa in Var
A Provencal villa at the foot of the village of Grimaud.
Villa for Sale | STZ250285
€2,690,000

















































































