Things To Do
in Aigues-Mortes

A slow-cooked Camargue bull stew (often served with Camargue rice); you’ll find hearty versions in traditional bistros and restaurants around town.

Must-Try!

Local rice used with seafood, vegetables or in pilafs — look for risottos and rice platters highlighting regional produce.

Locally harvested gourmet sea salt and pink-hued coarse salts available at markets and the Salins du Midi boutique — great to taste and buy as souvenirs.

From nearby lagoons and coastal producers; sample at local seafood stands, markets or seaside restaurants.

Aigues-Mortes hosts lively markets (seasonal weekly markets; check local listings) offering fruit, vegetables, cheeses, charcuterie, salts and sometimes oysters — ideal for picnic supplies and tasting local products. In summer look for stalls selling grilled sardines, crepes and seasonal treats in the old town.

Nearby towns (e.g., Le Grau-du-Roi, La Grande-Motte) hold larger fish markets and seafood stalls where you can buy fresh shellfish and prepared street-food style seafood plates.

Service is usually included in restaurant bills (service compris) in France; leaving small change (5–10%) or rounding up for good service is appreciated but not required. For taxis, a couple euros or rounding up is common; tip guides and drivers when very satisfied.

Credit/debit cards (especially Visa and Mastercard) are widely accepted in restaurants and shops, though smaller vendors and markets often prefer cash (euros). Contactless payments and mobile wallets are increasingly common, but carry some cash for markets and small purchases.

Comfortable temperatures, blooming landscapes and bird migrations make spring one of the best times to visit; days are pleasant while crowds remain moderate. Bring a light jacket for breezy mornings and possible rain showers.

Hot and sunny with peak tourist crowds in July–August; beaches and nearby coastal towns are lively while the town’s evening terraces fill up. Book accommodation and restaurants in advance, use sun protection and plan outdoor activities for mornings/evenings.

Milder temperatures, calmer beaches and continued cultural events in early autumn; migratory birds can still be seen. Occasional storms are possible — pack a light rain jacket.

Winters are mild but cool and quieter, with fewer tourists and some establishments closed; good for low-season rates, exploring the ramparts in peace and visiting nearby cities. Nights can be chilly, so bring warm layers.

Coastal dune trails and beach walks offering dramatic seascapes and minimal infrastructure; good for photography and long walks.

Network of trails and observation hides for birdwatching and marsh exploration; guided options available for best wildlife viewing.

Trails and paths around the large lagoon (Étang de Vaccarès) that provide opportunities for flat, easy hikes and spotting waterfowl and raptors.

Short walks and cycling paths around the saline works give insight into salt production and produce colorful photographs at sunrise/sunset.

Long-term inhabitants, many French families and retirees who preserve regional traditions and run local businesses.

Ranchers and equestrians (gardians) who maintain bull and horse herding traditions in the surrounding marshes.

Visitors from across France and Europe peak in summer — many are families, photographers, nature-lovers and cultural tourists.

Some international residents and owners of holiday homes, increasing in number in quieter coastal and nearby villages.

The classic southern-French boules game is widely played in town squares and near cafés — easy to watch and join informally.

Flat roads and coastal paths make cycling popular for locals and visitors; many rent bikes or e-bikes to explore salt flats and nearby coast.

Horse riding and demonstrations by local gardians are central to Camargue culture — traditional horsemanship and mounted cattle work are popular experiences.

Sailing, windsurfing and kitesurfing are available on the nearby Mediterranean coast and lagoons during the warmer months.

Vegetarian choices exist but are more limited than in big cities; expect salads, vegetable tarts, rice and Provençal ratatouille. Inform staff in advance in smaller kitchens and many restaurants will adapt dishes.

Vegan options are available but fewer; plan ahead, choose markets for fresh produce, and ask for vegetable-based dishes without butter or cheese. Larger restaurants and tourist-focused places are likelier to accommodate requests.

Gluten-free options are possible (salads, rice and seafood); cross-contamination is possible in smaller kitchens, so communicate needs clearly and carry snacks if needed.

Pescatarians will find good choice with local fish, shellfish and rice dishes — coastal restaurants excel in fresh seafood.