# Discover France’s Top Destinations for 2025: Aix-en-Provence & Pays Basque Take Center Stage
France continues to reign supreme as one of the world’s most desirable travel destinations, and its allure grows stronger in 2025. The New York Times’ coveted “52 Places to Go in 2025” list has crowned **Aix-en-Provence** and the **Pays Basque** at **7th** and **31st** respectively, shining a spotlight on these must-visit regions. From Aix-en-Provence’s extraordinary celebration of **Paul Cézanne** to the Pays Basque’s culinary explosion, these destinations embody the perfect blend of history, innovation, and artistry.
## **Aix-en-Provence: A Tribute to Cézanne’s Genius**
Situated in the heart of Provence, **Aix-en-Provence** is set to captivate the world with its cultural revival, earning it a standout position on the NYT’s prestigious list. 2025 marks *The Year of Cézanne*, a city-wide celebration of the iconic artist who immortalized Provence’s landscapes in his work.
The city’s **Musée Granet** will host the **largest Cézanne exhibition ever displayed**, running from **June 28 to October 12, 2025**. Art enthusiasts can experience over **100 masterpieces**, including oil paintings, watercolors, and drawings, with curators emphasizing its profound connection to Cézanne’s hometown. This monumental exhibit isn’t just a testament to the artist’s talent but an immersive journey into his relationship with Aix’s serene scenery.
Moreover, visitors can explore **Cézanne’s family home**, recently reopened for the first time and offering a lived-in glimpse of his upbringing. Spend an afternoon walking through the **Bibémus quarries**, which inspired Cézanne’s interpretations of Montagne Sainte-Victoire, or visit **Les Lauves studio**, his private creative haven where his last-used palette is displayed. Whether you’re an art lover or simply drawn to Provence’s charm, Aix is poised to become an unrivaled cultural hotspot in 2025.
## **Pays Basque: A Culinary Renaissance**
On the opposite end of France, the **Pays Basque** is carving its own distinct path as one of the country’s most exciting gastronomic destinations. Nestled between the Pyrenees and the Atlantic, this picturesque region blends its deep Basque traditions with cutting-edge culinary trends, earning it the 31st spot on the NYT list.
A highlight of this transformation is the homecoming of celebrated chefs. **Inaki Aizpitarte**, renowned for pioneering Paris’s *Le Chateaubriand*, has returned to his roots at **Le Petit Grill Basque** in St. Jean de Luz. Meanwhile, **Grégory Marchand**, acclaimed for his *Frenchie* restaurants in Paris and London, chose **Biarritz** for his newest venture. Located within the luxurious **Regina Experimental hotel**, his restaurant has already captured international attention, offering innovative takes on Basque-inspired cuisine.
Adding to its allure, the Pays Basque boasts vibrant food markets, oceanfront tapas bars, and a rich culinary identity that blends French and Spanish influences effortlessly. For food lovers, the region isn’t just a destination—it’s a veritable pilgrimage.
## **France’s Timeless Appeal**
France continues to make waves on the global travel stage. While **Paris** ranked second in the NYT’s 2024 list and **Normandy** attracted history buffs last year, 2025 is undeniably the year for Aix-en-Provence and the Pays Basque. Each region reflects the nation’s mastery of preserving heritage while embracing forward-thinking innovations.
At the crossroads of art and gastronomy, these two destinations are redefining how travelers immerse themselves in French culture. Aix offers the chance to step into Cézanne’s world, while the Pays Basque serves up culinary excellence against stunning coastal backdrops.
## **Looking Ahead**
It’s not just France grabbing attention—2025’s list also highlights global gems like **Assam, India**, and **Lumbini, Nepal**, showcasing eco-tourism and spiritual renewal. Yet, France stands apart in its ability to seamlessly marry history and modernity, and Aix-en-Provence and the Pays Basque embody this duality with flair.
So, whether you’re an art connoisseur eager to trace Cézanne’s inspiration or a foodie chasing the perfect bite, 2025 is calling. Pack your bags, prepare your taste buds, and set your sights on these French treasures—you won’t regret answering the call.
