Apt

Discover the town of Apt, capital of the Luberon

Located in the center of the Luberon Regional Natural Park, Apt is a historic town well worth a visit. 55 kilometers from Avignon, this place steeped in history offers an authentic experience of Provence far from the conventional tourist trail. Its Saturday market, considered one of the finest in France, allows you to discover local flavors in a friendly atmosphere.

The small town of Apt charms visitors with its rich heritage and typically Provençal atmosphere. Known for its candied fruits, it is an ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding hilltop villages such as Roussillon, Bonnieux and Gordes. Every street in the historic center tells a thousand-year-old story, from Roman times to the present day.

Visiting Apt is to immerse yourself in a region where traditions and the art of living blend harmoniously. Sainte-Anne Cathedral, the colorful markets and the surrounding countryside make this commune in the Vaucluse a destination that captivates travelers in search of authenticity.

Candied fruits and the Saturday market

This pleasant, typically Provençal town is renowned for the quality of its local produce. Apt has the honor of being classified as a “remarkable site of taste” and is also the world capital of candied fruit. Enlightened gourmets take note: you are in a country where the food is good! Connoisseurs know this and never miss the famous Saturday morning market (Place des Martyrs de la Résistance). You will find an exceptional assortment of local products: the fruit is ripe, bursting with sunshine, and the goat's cheese is sold with a friendly chat by the producers.

A charming old town

Apt will also charm you with the small streets of the old town: ancient fountains, mansions and small shady squares are part of the decor. Don't miss the Clock Tower and a visit to St. Anne's Cathedral, the historic monument not to be missed in the old town center.

In the background, you have the landscapes of the Luberon hills tinted with ochre and scented with lavender... with, of course, the cicadas singing and reminding you that it is hot. There is no doubt that you are in the heart of beautiful Provence!

Where to eat in Apt?

After a morning's stroll, is your stomach starting to rumble? Don't panic! Apt is full of gourmet addresses where local gastronomy is in the spotlight. The restaurants in the city center offer authentic cuisine that showcases local, seasonal products. You will taste typical Provençal dishes prepared with passion by chefs who are attached to their region.

For those with a sweet tooth, the patisseries of Apt offer creations that showcase local fruits and products. Be sure to step into a traditional bakery to taste old-fashioned bread and fragrant fougasses. Some establishments even offer workshops where you can learn how to make these specialties yourself.

Here are a few unmissable addresses to satisfy your taste buds in Apt:

• Le Petit Café - traditional Provençal cuisine

• La Table du Comtat - fresh market produce

• Confiserie Kerry - traditional candied fruit

• Boulangerie des Remparts - local specialties and traditional bread

Events in Apt

Apt is transformed into a magical place at Christmas time. Families love the lights, the Christmas market and the many events on offer. The program of festivities usually includes concerts in the Sainte-Anne cathedral, workshops for children and tastings that warm the heart during the Provençal winter.

In summer, the town comes alive with numerous festivals celebrating local culture. The Festival des Tréteaux d'Apt, dedicated to the performing arts, offers a variety of shows in exceptional settings. Music lovers are not left out, with concerts organized in heritage sites as well as in public squares.