What makes this village special?
The narrow streets of the old town emanate an irresistible charm: the old fountains, the mansions and the shady squares provide a picturesque backdrop. In the heart of the old centre, Sainte-Anne Cathedral, which dates from the 11th century, is the city's most remarkable monument. It was built on an island between two arms of a completely dry river today.
Saturday is a very important day, because the Apt market takes place on Place des Martyrs-de-la-Résistance and attracts all connoisseurs and gourmets of the region: there is an assortment of local products: fruits and sun-kissed vegetables and goat cheeses just the way we like them! It's time to shop while soaking up the sounds and sweet scents of the city.
Wicker work is particularly renowned in the region. In Apt, you can buy superb baskets and straw hats, made with care by experienced craftsmen who will be delighted to show you their know-how.
Nearby, don't miss the splendid city of Avignon. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is famous for its theater festival in July.
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Getting to Apt
By Air:
Fly to Marseille Provence Airport (MRS):
This is the main airport serving the Provence region.
Many international and domestic flights land here.
From the airport, you can rent a car, take a shuttle, or use public transportation to get to your specific destination in Provence.
Other Nearby Airports:
Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE): About a 2-hour drive to the western parts of Provence.
Avignon-Provence Airport (AVN): Smaller airport with limited flights, mainly seasonal.
By Train:
TGV (High-Speed Train):
Take a TGV from Paris Gare de Lyon to Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, or Marseille.
The journey from Paris to Avignon TGV Station takes about 2.5 hours.
Book tickets in advance via the SNCF website or other ticketing services.
Eurostar
London St Pancras to Avignon with a change in Paris.
By Car:
Renting a car is a convenient way to explore Provence as it allows you to travel at your own pace.
Major car rental services are available at airports and train stations.
Driving Directions:
From Paris: Take the A6 motorway south towards Lyon, then the A7 towards Marseille.
From Nice: Take the A8 motorway west towards Aix-en-Provence and Marseille.
Useful information about Apt
Historical Background
Ancient Origins: Apt was founded by the Romans in 45 BC and has a rich history reflected in its architecture and archaeological sites.
Medieval Influence: The village retains many medieval structures, including narrow streets, stone houses, and historic churches.
Attractions
Cathedral Sainte-Anne: A Roman Catholic cathedral dating back to the 11th century, known for its beautiful Gothic architecture.
Old Town: Apt’s old town is filled with quaint shops, cafes, and traditional Provençal markets.
Market Day: Every Saturday, the village hosts one of the largest and most vibrant markets in Provence, offering local produce, crafts, and goods.
Natural Beauty
Luberon Regional Nature Park: Apt is located within this stunning park, which offers hiking, cycling, and outdoor activities amidst picturesque landscapes.
Vaucluse Plateau: The plateau provides scenic views and is perfect for exploring the natural beauty of Provence.
Local Specialties
Candied Fruit: Apt is famous for its candied fruits, a tradition that dates back to the Middle Ages.
Lavender Products: The surrounding region is known for its lavender fields, and Apt offers a variety of lavender-based products.
Events and Festivals
Apt en Musique: A summer music festival featuring various genres and performances.
Lavender Festival: Celebrated in July, showcasing the lavender harvest with parades, music, and local products.
Accessibility
Transportation: Apt is accessible by road from major cities like Avignon and Marseille. There are regular bus services, but no direct train service.
Nearby Villages: The village is a great base for exploring other charming villages in The Luberon, such as Gordes, Roussillon, and Bonnieux.
Practical Information
Cuisine: The local cuisine is typically Provençal, featuring dishes like ratatouille, tapenade, and various seafood preparations.
Weather: Apt enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it an ideal destination year-round.
Tips for Visitors
Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are ideal for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Language: French is the primary language, but English is widely understood in tourist areas.
Apt combines historical charm, natural beauty, and vibrant local culture, making it a delightful destination for visitors to Provence.
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Discover Provence with us
Our magazine encourages you to truly live and breathe the essence of the region. From secret villages to culinary treasures, experience Provence authentically with us.
