Things To Do
in Aubagne
Aubagne is a sunlit Provençal town tucked at the foot of the Garlaban hills, just inland from Marseille. Known for its ties to Marcel Pagnol and its craft traditions, the town blends literary heritage with lively street markets. Its narrow lanes, sun-kissed façades and olive scented air invite easy wandering and lingering over coffee.
As a gateway to the Pays d'Aubagne et de l'Étoile, it serves as a quiet base for exploring southern Provence.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the local market, where you can sample fresh produce and regional specialties. Stroll through the streets lined with vibrant boulangeries and quaint shops. Don't miss the chance to relax at a café while enjoying a traditional French pastry.
Visit the Cezanne Museum, showcasing the works of the famed artist who drew inspiration from the nearby landscapes. Spend some time wandering through the historic district, taking in the unique architecture and vibrant street art. For lunch, try the classic dish called 'panisse' at a local bistro.
As the sun sets, head to a cozy restaurant for dinner during which you may sample local dishes paired with delicious Provençal wines. After your meal, enjoy a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, perhaps stopping for a nightcap in a nearby wine bar. To cap off your day, consider attending a local music performance or cultural event.
Begin your day with an early visit to a traditional santons (provencal figurines) factory to learn about this artisanal craft. Engage with the artisans as they create these delightful handmade pieces, and perhaps even purchase some to take home. Enjoy breakfast at a nearby café featuring traditional Provençal dishes.
Spend your afternoon at the nearby Parc des Calanques, where you can hike along scenic trails and take in breathtaking views of the Mediterranean coast. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy surrounded by nature, or stop by one of the local eateries for a refreshing meal. Take a dip in the crystalline waters to cool off, making it a perfect midday adventure.
In the evening, return to Aubagne and dine at a restaurant specializing in Mediterranean cuisine. Explore the quaint squares and enjoy the vibrant ambiance filled with laughter and conversation. Wind down with a stroll under the stars or join locals at a small tavern for a taste of regional music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel room per night | $90-150 |
| 🧺Groceries (weekly) | $60-120 |
| 🚆Public transit pass (monthly) | $30-60 |
| 🎟️Cultural event ticket | $12-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town with Provençal charm
- Gateway to Calanques and Provence wine country
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Some sights require car or local transport to reach
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good day
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est..." - Where is ...?
Places to Visit in Aubagne
Visit one of these nice places.
Sweeping views of Aubagne, the valley and the sea beyond on clear days.
Colorful shutters, arches and textured walls along the historic lanes.
Golden hour light on stone façades around the central square.
Rows of Provençal vines with hillside and distant sea views.
Food in Aubagne
Aubagne Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Provençal garlic mayonnaise served with boiled fish or cod, potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
Must-Try!
A fresh vegetable soup thickened with pistou made from basil, garlic and olive oil.
Olive paste served with bread as a starter or garnish.
Hearty vegetable stew of zucchini, eggplant, peppers and tomatoes, seasoned with garlic and herbs.
Almond pastry with candied fruit and orange blossom; a regional Provençal dessert.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market with fresh produce, cheeses, olives and local specialties.
Seasonal stalls and food trucks offering socca, grilled vegetables and regional pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say Bonjour or Bonsoir when entering shops and address staff politely.
Use polite forms and avoid loud behavior in public spaces and religious sites.
Wait for everyone to be seated; say Bon appétit before meals and keep hands on the table.
Safety
Tipping in Aubagne
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is usually included; it is common to leave 5-10% extra for good service if not included.
Credit and debit cards widely accepted; cash is useful for markets and small shops; contactless is common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days, flowering orchards and easy hiking conditions. Pack light layers.
Hot, dry days with abundant sun; carry water, sunscreen and a hat; coastal trips recommended.
Pleasant temperatures with harvests and wine festivals; light layers and a light rain jacket.
Mild winters with occasional rain; many outdoor sites remain accessible but plan for cooler weather.
Aubagne at Night
Hiking in Aubagne
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Classic hike with panoramic views over Aubagne and the coast.
Easy to moderate trails through pine and cork oak forests.
Longer day hikes through limestone forest and ancient caves in the Sainte-Baume massif.
Airports
How to reach Aubagne by plane.
Major international airport about 25-40 minutes by car from Aubagne; frequent connections to Europe and beyond.
Smaller regional airport about an hour to an hour and a half away by car; useful for some routes.
A larger international hub about 2.5-3 hours away by car or train; useful for longer trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly French with families and older residents; active in crafts and markets.
Aubagne attracts families and retirees seeking a quiet Provençal lifestyle.
Visitors from Marseille and beyond who come for markets, hiking and scenic viewpoints.
Regional workers and students who stay temporarily for work or study.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular amateur and local league games; many residents play in weekend leagues.
Traditional Provençal boules game commonly played in town squares and parks.
Road cycling through the hills and countryside; scenic routes around Aubagne.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aubagne.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Aubagne you can find vegetable-forward dishes in most restaurants; ask for a vegetarian plat du jour.
Vegan options are increasingly available; request olive oil based preparations and vegetable sides.
Gluten-free bread and pasta options are often available; inform staff to avoid cross-contamination.