Avignon or Aix-en-Provence
 

Only have time for one as a two day trip out of Paris. Any preferences? Favorite 2 or 3* hotels? Is Cours Mirabeau (?) still under construction?

Ooh, that's a really tough choice. Both are great and very different. I would tip toward Avignon, because of the Palais du Pape, but I think Aix is the prettier town.

any other ideas or suggestions?

I'd just probably pick Avignon because it's closer and you have such a small time. I like both, but think Avignon does have better things to "see" (museums, etc). I don't have a favorite hotel in Avignon, but I do have a couple in Aix-- Hotel Cardinal for a 2-star, Mas d'Entremont for a 4-star. I don't think it's still under construction as I was there last summer and it didn't bother me nor did I notice anything unusual, so if it is, it's not that obtrusive.

I was in both a couple of years ago and hands down, Aix wins. Avignon has a very bad rep among the French as being a hub of criminal activity. I found the town rather seedy. Other than the Pont d'Avignon and the Palais des Papes, there's not really much going on there. Aix, on the other hand, is GORGEOUS. There is such attention to detail and beauty in every aspect of its planning. The restaurants are exquisite, the streets sparkle at night, and there is a vibrancy among its people. You should look into Hotel St. Christophe. You couldn't ask for a better location for lodging, (right at the foot of Cours Mirabau). The hotel is entirely art deco in style, and when I went, I paid around $75 CDN for an air conditioned room (two years ago).

Thanks everybody. I'm leaning toward Aix. Guess I'm in the mood for Gorgeous!

I enjoyed reading your replies because we also chose Aix...the Mercure Paul Cezanne. So looking forward to it!<BR><BR>Have a great trip!

Aix. Most definitely. Enjoy!