Things To Do
in Aix-en-Provence
Aix-en-Provence is a charming town located in the south of France known for its picturesque streets, historic architecture, and vibrant markets. The town is home to stunning fountains, beautiful gardens, and numerous cafes and shops. Visitors can explore the elegant Cours Mirabeau, wander through the old town's narrow alleys, and visit landmarks such as the Cathedral of Saint-Saveur.
Aix-en-Provence is also renowned for its cultural events, including music festivals, art exhibitions, and theatrical performances.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $80 - $200
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $2.50
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Cours Mirabeau to enjoy a coffee in one of the many charming cafés. Stroll past the beautiful fountains and historic buildings.
Head to the Saint-Sauveur Cathedral for a dose of local history and stunning architecture. Afterwards, explore the vibrant boutiques and shops in the heart of the city.
Enjoy dinner at a traditional Provençal restaurant, savoring local flavors and wine. Take a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets to soak in the evening ambiance.
Visit the Granet Museum to admire its impressive collection of works, including pieces by CĂ©zanne. Engage with the rich art history of the region.
Explore the Place des PrĂȘcheurs and relax at the surrounding cafĂ©s, watching the world go by. Don't miss the local market for some fresh produce and souvenirs.
Attend a performance at the Théùtre du Jeu de Paume for a taste of local arts. Enjoy a late dinner nearby, discussing the highlights of the day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural history with beautiful architecture and art
- Mild Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters
- Vibrant local markets and gastronomy
- Proximity to stunning natural landscapes like the Calanques National Park
- A lively atmosphere with numerous festivals and events throughout the year
- Tourist crowds during peak season can be overwhelming
- Higher cost of living compared to other regions in France
- Limited public transportation options may require a car to explore the area fully
- Hot summers can be uncomfortable for some people
- Language barrier for non-French speakers
Best Activities in Aix-en-Provence
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the famous artist's studio, filled with his works and personal items.
Enjoy a scenic hike on this iconic mountain, immortalized in many of CĂ©zanne's paintings.
Relax in this peaceful park with beautiful gardens and plenty of space for picnics.
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this traditional market, offering fresh produce, local crafts, and more.
Explore this historic mansion and its lovely gardens, a perfect spot for a leisurely walk or an outdoor concert.
Tours
Uncover the best of Aix-en-Provence with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Aix-en-Provence
Visit one of these nice places.
A prominent mountain offering stunning panoramic views of the Provence region and frequently featured in the paintings of Paul CĂ©zanne.
A beautiful park with avenues of trees, lawns, and a pond, providing a peaceful and scenic setting for photography.
A lively boulevard lined with beautiful buildings, fountains, and cafes, perfect for capturing the essence of Aix-en-Provence.
Food in Aix-en-Provence
Aix-en-Provence Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Provençal fish stew made with a variety of local fish, shellfish, and flavored with saffron and other aromatic herbs. It's a must-try dish for seafood lovers and can be enjoyed at restaurants like Chez Feraud or Le Riad.
Must-Try!
A classic Provençal vegetable stew consisting of tomatoes, zucchini, eggplant, onions, and bell peppers, all sautéed and seasoned with Provençal herbs. Visit La Petite Cave des Papilles or Les Deux Garçons to savor this iconic dish.
These diamond-shaped candies are made from ground almonds and candied melon, covered with royal icing. Maison LĂ©onard Parli is a renowned spot to buy authentic calissons.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Aix-en-Provence better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling open-air market offers a vibrant selection of fresh produce, local cheeses, cured meats, and artisanal products. It's a great place to sample and purchase regional specialties like olives, lavender honey, and tapenades.
Aix-en-Provence's popular food market featuring a variety of street food stalls serving everything from freshly prepared socca (chickpea pancake) to artisanal cheeses and organic fruits. It's a fantastic spot to experience the local food scene.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Aix-en-Provence, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, along with the common French greeting of 'Bonjour' (good day) or 'Bonsoir' (good evening) depending on the time of day.
When dining in Aix-en-Provence, it is polite to wait until the host indicates where you should sit. It is also customary to keep your hands visible on the table and to say 'Bon appétit' before starting your meal.
In Aix-en-Provence, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others during conversations. It is also considered polite to maintain eye contact while speaking.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Aix-en-Provence with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Aix-en-Provence
Ensure a smooth experience
In Aix-en-Provence, tipping is not compulsory, but it is appreciated for good service. A 5-10% tip is customary in restaurants, cafes, and for taxi rides. Some establishments may include a service charge in the bill, so it's important to check before tipping.
Major credit and debit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are widely accepted in Aix-en-Provence. Contactless payment methods are also becoming increasingly popular. It's advisable to have some cash on hand for smaller vendors and markets, although ATMs are readily available throughout the city.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Aix-en-Provence.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Aix-en-Provence. The city is in full bloom with vibrant colors, pleasant temperatures, and numerous events and festivals.
Warm and sunny weather, perfect for exploring outdoor attractions, enjoying the charming cafes, and attending the renowned music and arts festivals.
Mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and the beautiful autumn foliage create a picturesque setting for sightseeing and leisurely walks through the city.
Cool and crisp weather. While some outdoor activities may be limited, the city's holiday markets and cultural events offer a cozy and festive atmosphere.
Aix-en-Provence at Night
Hiking in Aix-en-Provence
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A famous mountain range located east of Aix-en-Provence, offering various hiking trails with stunning views and diverse landscapes.
A regional natural park featuring trails through lush forests, picturesque cliffs, and caves, ideal for a day hike or picnic.
Located in Roussillon, not far from Aix-en-Provence, this trail winds through striking ochre cliffs and offers unique geological formations.
A stunning coastal park between Marseille and Cassis, featuring dramatic cliffs, clear waters, and spectacular hiking paths along the coast.
Known for its beautiful hilltop villages and scenic trails, this park offers a variety of hikes ranging from easy strolls to challenging treks.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Aix-en-Provence through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Aix-en-Provence by plane.
Located approximately 25 kilometers north of Aix-en-Provence, Marseille Provence Airport is the closest major international airport, offering various flights to destinations across Europe and beyond.
Situated about 175 kilometers east of Aix-en-Provence, Nice CĂŽte d'Azur Airport is one of the busiest airports in France, providing numerous international connections.
Approximately 65 kilometers northeast of Aix-en-Provence, Avignon-Provence Airport serves several seasonal flights and some international routes, primarily during the summer.
Located around 100 kilometers southeast of Aix-en-Provence, Toulon-HyĂšres Airport offers limited international flights and is mainly used for domestic travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
This group includes university students and young professionals, representing a significant portion of the population due to the presence of higher education institutions.
This demographic represents a stable workforce and family units, contributing to the city's economy and community life.
A growing demographic in Aix-en-Provence, often drawn to the city's quality of life and cultural offerings.
This group includes the youth population, influenced by families residing in the area.
A diverse group comprising expatriates and immigrants, enhancing the multicultural aspect of Aix-en-Provence.
The Soul of Aix-en-Provence
Discover the essence of Aix-en-Provence through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Aix-en-Provence, with local clubs and a strong following among fans.
Rugby is a significant part of the sports culture in Aix-en-Provence, with several teams competing at various levels.
Tennis enjoys popularity in Aix-en-Provence, with numerous courts and clubs available for both recreational and competitive play.
Basketball is well-followed in the region, with local teams and youth programs fostering a strong community around the sport.
Cycling is a favored pastime in Aix-en-Provence, thanks to its scenic routes and proximity to the countryside, making it popular among both locals and tourists.
Running is widely practiced in Aix-en-Provence, with scenic parks and trails attracting both casual and competitive runners.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aix-en-Provence.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Aix-en-Provence is renowned for its meat and seafood specialties, many restaurants and cafes in the city cater to vegetarians and vegans, offering diverse and creative plant-based dishes. La Tomate Verte and Les Aludes are excellent choices for those seeking vegetarian and vegan-friendly dining.
Visitors with gluten restrictions will find that several establishments in Aix-en-Provence accommodate gluten-free dietary needs. Restaurants like La Churascaia and La Cour de Théùtre offer gluten-free menus or options, ensuring a pleasant dining experience for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Aix-en-Provence with these cultural adventures.