4 Days of Charm and Culture in Aix-en-Provence

Experience the charm of Aix-en-Provence without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Aix-en-Provence, located in the south of France, is a stunning choice for a trip on a limited budget. This historic town is picturesque with its winding streets and stunning architecture, offering the perfect opportunity for budget-friendly sightseeing. You can also indulge in delicious cuisine, visit local markets, and enjoy free concerts and events held throughout the year.

Travel plan

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Day 1

First Impressions

  • Check into Hotel Le Mozart, a cozy and affordable option located within walking distance of Aix-en-Provence's main attractions
  • Wander through the charming streets of the old town, admiring the gorgeous architecture and quaint shops
  • Visit the bustling Saturday market on Place Richelme, where locals sell everything from flowers to cheese to clothing
  • Enjoy a lazy lunch at Le Pain Quotidien, a bakery/cafe offering delicious organic options, including hearty salads and fresh-baked bread
  • Explore the beautiful gardens of Parc Jourdan, an ideal spot to soak up the Mediterranean sunshine and people-watch
Day 2

Art & Culture

  • Start the day with a visit to the Musée Granet, which features an impressive collection of French and European art, including works by Cézanne and Van Gogh
  • Stroll down the iconic Cours Mirabeau, lined with grand mansions, dazzling fountains and lively cafes
  • Take a guided walking tour of the city's historic landmarks, including the majestic Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur and the ancient Roman baths
  • Treat yourself to a delicious home-made pastry and coffee at Léonie's, a cozy bakery with a rustic atmosphere
  • Catch a performance at the beautiful Théâtre de l'Archevêché, an open-air theater that hosts classical music and opera concerts in the summer
Day 3

Nature & Relaxation

  • Spend the morning hiking in the stunning Sainte-Victoire mountain range, a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and artists alike
  • Visit the Atelier de Cézanne, the charming studio where the famous painter spent the last years of his life, and admire the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape
  • Have a picnic lunch in the peaceful Parc Naturel Régional du Luberon, a protected area that showcases the incredible beauty of Provence
  • Pamper yourself with a spa treatment at Les Thermes Sextius, a luxurious wellness center offering massages, facials and thermal baths
  • End the day with a romantic dinner at L'Epicurien, a cozy restaurant with a lovely outdoor terrace and an extensive wine selection
Day 4

Local Experiences

  • Start the day with a traditional French breakfast at Les Deux Garçons, a historic cafe that has welcomed luminaries such as Cézanne, Picasso and Hemingway
  • Visit a local vineyard and taste some of the region's best wines, including the famous Côtes de Provence rosé
  • Sample some of the local delicacies, such as calissons (almond sweets), tapenade (olive spread) and socca (chickpea flatbread), at the vibrant food market on Place des Prêcheurs
  • Attend a cooking workshop at Cook'n with Class, where you'll learn how to prepare classic French dishes such as ratatouille, bouillabaisse and tarte Tatin
  • Round off your stay with a sunset cocktail at Les Toits Lounge, a trendy rooftop bar with panoramic views of Aix-en-Provence and the surrounding countryside.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Aix-en-Provence by plane is to fly into Marseille Provence Airport and then take a shuttle or train directly to Aix-en-Provence. The airport is located about 25km from Aix-en-Provence and the shuttle or train takes about 30 minutes.

Car

The best way to get to Aix-en-Provence by car is to take the A7 highway from Lyon or Marseille. From Lyon, it takes about 2.5 hours and from Marseille, it takes about 30 minutes. You can also take the scenic D7 road from Marseille to Aix-en-Provence which takes about 45 minutes.

Train

The best way to get to Aix-en-Provence by train is to take the high-speed train (TGV) from Paris or Marseille to Aix-en-Provence TGV Station. From there, you can take a local train or shuttle into Aix-en-Provence. The TGV from Paris takes about 3 hours and from Marseille takes about 15 minutes.

Boat

There is no direct way to get to Aix-en-Provence by boat as it is an inland city. However, you can take a boat tour from Marseille or Cassis which will take you to various coastal locations near Aix-en-Provence. From there, you can take a shuttle or train into Aix-en-Provence.

Bus

The best way to get to Aix-en-Provence by bus is to take the Eurolines bus from various cities in Europe or the Navette Marseille-Aix bus from Marseille. The Eurolines bus drops you off at the main bus station in Aix-en-Provence while the Navette Marseille-Aix drops you off at various locations in Aix-en-Provence. The travel time depends on your starting location.

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