Hotel Cardinal
Aix-en-Provence, Provence, France[0.1 miles]
A handsome 18th-century townhouse, furnished with traditional Provencal antiques and full of 18th-century charm, in the heart of Aix-en-Provence.
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Bucket list experience:
A must for any art lover, the Granet Museum has a fascinating archaeological collection (including a reconstructed Celtic ‘head cult’ temple from nearby Entremont) and a remarkable array of works by Rubens, Rembrandt and Ingres.
Its 10 Cezanne paintings include a portrait of Emile Zola, the artist’s boyhood friend in Aix. From the 20th century come works by Giacometti, Mondrian, Balthus and Morandi and the excellent Collection Planque, with paintings by Degas, Picasso, de Stael, Braque and Klee.
Avoid the queues for special exhibitions by purchasing tickets online through the museum website and printing them out at home.
Guided tours in English are available once a month on select dates – see the website for specific dates and times.
You can also download several different themed information booklets. Worth checking before you go to see which one you prefer.
The museum is open all year round, Tuesday to Sunday. Closed Mondays. In peak summer, arrive early (10am) to beat the crowds.
Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first
Aix-en-Provence, Provence, France[0.1 miles]
A handsome 18th-century townhouse, furnished with traditional Provencal antiques and full of 18th-century charm, in the heart of Aix-en-Provence.
Official star rating:
Aix-en-Provence, Provence, France[0.2 miles]
Cutting edge interior design, welcoming touches and an intimate number of guests converge in this luxurious, boutique townhouse hotel – perfectly located in the centre of Aix.
Official star rating:
Aix-en-Provence, Provence, France[0.4 miles]
Stylish hotel with a swimming pool and gardens, in walking distance of lovely Aix-en-Provence. Great for those self-driving around Provence.
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Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Aix-en-Provence, Provence, France[0.8 miles]
Founded in 1948, this prestigious international festival of lyrical arts, dedicated to opera and classical music, takes place in the picturesque setting of Aix-en-Provence.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free | 1 month
Aix-en-Provence, Provence, France[0.9 miles]
A remarkable, medieval cathedral packed with treasures’ home to a famous Renaissance masterpiece and a fascinating tapestry museum.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
Aix-en-Provence, Provence, France[1.5 miles]
The studio where French artist Paul Cezanne painted – evocatively preserved, as if he had just put down his brushes.
Best for ages: 13+ | £6
Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..
Aix-en-Provence, Provence, France[0.3 miles]
This magnificent townhouse (1715), a beautifully restored hôtel particulier, features lavishly furnished period rooms, an exquisite garden, a film on Cezanne and temporary art exhibitions; a good stop for lunch, afternoon tea or dinner too.
Best for ages: 18+ | £12
Aix-en-Provence, Provence, France[0.6 miles]
Each morning, Aix hosts one of Provence’s best markets, overflowing with the freshest fruit, vegetables, herbs, meats, seafood and cheeses from local producers. On Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday mornings, it expands tenfold and includes a massive flower market.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Puyricard, Provence, France[7.3 miles]
Visit the most famous chocolate factory in Provence, just outside Aix in Puyricard, where you can go behind the scenes in their atelier or spend an afternoon at a hands-on chocolate-making workshop.
Best for ages: 6+ | £8