Aix-en-Provence: A bucolic getaway in the former capital of Provence

Visits

The best way to discover Aix-en-Provence is by strolling through the narrow streets of the historic centre, browsing the market stalls or enjoying a coffee on a terrace. That's how it is in the south: you take your time. Of course, there are still a few monuments and museums not to be missed, so we suggest you buy the Aix-en-Provence City Pass. It costs €25 for 24 hours, €34 for 48 hours and €43 for 72 hours, and gives you free access to 14 museums and must-see tourist sites, as well as guided tours, a ride on the little tourist train and even a treasure hunt around the city. It also gives you discounts in certain restaurants and shops, and reduced rates for certain visits. Finally, it gives you unlimited use of public transport. You can get it from the Aix-en-Provence Tourist Office or directly online!

Best period

Aix-en-Provence is undoubtedly one of the sunniest cities in France, with 300 days of sunshine a year, so it can be visited all year round, making it an ideal place to spend a winter weekend in sunny Provence. Mind you, the Mistral does not only blow in Marseille! Spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons, with mild temperatures and the possibility of strolling through the city centre or hiking to the summit of Sainte-Victoire without feeling too cold... or too hot. In summer, the mercury can rise very quickly, making every outing an ordeal.

Safety

Aix-en-Provence is a rather middle-class town with no particular safety problems. As everywhere else, you should avoid showing off your valuables and be careful, but everything should be fine.

What to eat

A symphony of colours, scents and flavours, Provençal cuisine alone is worth the trip. Colourful vegetables, olives and olive oil, condiments and herbs, anchovies are always among the dominant notes. Meat and charcuterie specialities, and of course fish, have also become essential elements of the Provençal art of living. And when it comes to sweets, there's no shortage of honeys and jams, not to mention the famous calissons d'Aix! As for pastis and local wines, they should, of course, be drunk in moderation...

What to bring back?

As a souvenir, think Provençal fabrics, made according to traditions dating back to the 17th century. Shawls, scarves and fashion accessories from the region are now sold all over the world. A small sachet of lavender can also be a good idea, as it will perfume your home for several months. For gifts, consider Marseille soaps or a bottle of pastis. Of course, don't forget to bring back a box (or several) of calissons!

What to see around Aix-en-Provence?

The Aix-en-Provence region is full of nice places to discover. You could spend a day in Marseille, for example, or head to the Côte Bleue to enjoy the creeks and beaches. You can also take advantage of your stay in the region to head deep into Provence, the land of olive trees and lavender, to discover picturesque little villages to the sound of the cicadas. Aix-en-Provence is also quite close to the Luberon Regional Nature Park. Nor are you far fromAvignon or the Côte d'Azur, with Cassis, Toulon, Nice and Cannes.