Lunch in Provence: Discovering Local Flavors in Aix-en-Provence
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
The flavors of Provence go beyond restaurants; they are discovered while strolling through the streets, stopping by local artisans, and tasting regional specialties. This small-group tour is perfect for those who wish to explore Aix-en-Provence while uncovering its culinary treasures.
Follow your guide through the Cours Mirabeau, lively squares, and hidden alleys, stopping in front of historic buildings and colorful markets. Between anecdotes about the city's past, enjoy tastings of artisanal tapenades, aged cheeses, and the iconic Calissons d'Aix.
Perfect for a first introduction to the region, this experience allows you to understand the Provençal spirit through its stories and gastronomy. A journey designed for those who cannot venture further into Provence but still want to savor its essence through an immersive stroll.
Available options
Lunch in Provence: Discovering Local Flavors in Aix-en-Provence
What's included
Bottled water
Food is included
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Immerse yourself in the heart of Aix-en-Provence with a tour that blends local flavors and historical heritage. From the very start, your guide will introduce you to the city's culinary soul through tastings of its most iconic products. From the unmissable sweet calissons to Mediterranean-flavored tapenades and other regional delicacies, each stop will be a deep dive into Provençal gastronomy.
As you stroll through the city, you'll also explore Aix-en-Provence’s most emblematic sites. The Cours Mirabeau, with its lively terraces, the Place de l’Hôtel de Ville, bustling with a colorful market, and the elegant Place d’Albertas with its historic fountain will immerse you in the city’s refined history. Each stop will offer insights into architecture, local traditions, and the personalities who have shaped Aix through the centuries.
2
Stop 2
Your guide will tell you how this grand avenue, lined with plane trees, was once the strolling place of Aix’s nobility and how it has transformed into a lively hub today. Along the way, you will discover local specialties and the culinary traditions that have shaped this iconic avenue.
3
Your guide will explain the royal inspiration behind this unique square and how its architecture has evolved over time. You will hear the story of the Albertas family and the transformations that have shaped this remarkable place.
What's not included
Gratuities
Transportation to the meeting point and after the tour.
Personal expenses.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
5 reviews
5★
5
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
25 reviews
5★
24
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Your guide will meet you at the scheduled time in front of La Brûlerie. Please wait there and enjoy the Provençal atmosphere while awaiting the start of your culinary adventure.
Important notes
Upon arrival, please present your ticket to your guide to confirm your participation in the tour.
About Aix-en-Provence
Aix-en-Provence is a charming city in southern France, known for its elegant fountains, vibrant markets, and rich cultural heritage. It offers a blend of historical sites, beautiful architecture, and a lively arts scene, all set against the backdrop of the scenic Provence countryside.
Top Attractions
Cours Mirabeau
A grand boulevard lined with fountains, trees, and historic buildings. It's the heart of the city and a popular spot for strolling and dining.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
Free
Atelier Cézanne
The former studio of the famous Post-Impressionist painter Paul Cézanne. It offers insights into his life and work.
Historical/Cultural
1 hour
€6-€8
Basilique Saint-Sauveur
A stunning basilica with a mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, featuring beautiful stained glass windows and a crypt.
Religious/Historical
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free (donations welcome)
Jardin du Palais de Justice
A beautiful garden with fountains and a view of the old Palace of Justice. It's a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Nature/Historical
30 minutes
Free
Musée Granet
A renowned art museum housing works by Cézanne, Picasso, and other famous artists. It's a must-visit for art lovers.
Museum/Art
1-2 hours
€7-€10
Must-Try Local Dishes
Ratatouille
A traditional vegetable stew made with eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes, cooked with herbs de Provence.
Main Dish
Vegetarian
Bouillabaisse
A classic fish stew from Marseille, often served with rouille (a spicy saffron mayonnaise).
Main Dish
Contains seafood
Tapenade
A spread made from olives, capers, and anchovies, typically served with bread.
Appetizer
Contains anchovies
Calissons d'Aix
A traditional confection made from almonds, orange blossom, and candied melon.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Calanques
Cycling through the countryside
Sunbathing at the beach
Picnicking in the parks
Visiting museums and galleries
Attending festivals and concerts
Swimming and boating in the Calanques
Skiing in the nearby Alps
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the busiest time of year with warm weather, festivals, and outdoor activities. However, it can be crowded and more expensive.
20-32°C
68-90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: French
- Widely spoken: English, Provençal (Occitan)
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Aix-en-Provence is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you with unusual requests or offers
Getting there
By air
- Marseille Provence Airport • 25 km
By train
Aix-en-Provence TGV Station, Aix-en-Provence Centre
By bus
Aix-en-Provence Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Aix-en-Provence. The network is efficient and covers most of the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: G7, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Mazarin Quarter
Old Town (Vieux Aix)
Encagnane
Day trips
Cassis
30 km • Half day to full day
A picturesque fishing town known for its stunning calanques (rocky inlets) and beautiful beaches.
Lubéron
40 km • Full day
A scenic region known for its rolling hills, lavender fields, and charming villages.
Marseille
30 km • Full day
France's second-largest city, known for its vibrant culture, historic sites, and stunning views from Notre-Dame de la Garde.
Festivals
Festival d'Aix-en-Provence • July
Fête de la Musique • June 21
Festival d'Art Lyrique • July to August
Pro tips
- Visit the local markets for fresh produce, cheese, and other local specialties
- Take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Provençal dishes
- Explore the surrounding countryside and villages for a more authentic experience
- Visit the city's museums and galleries to appreciate its rich artistic heritage
- Try the local rosé wine, which is a specialty of the region
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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