A university town, less than 30-minutes from Marseille, with a population of about 145k, Aix-en-Provence is big enough to be lively, but small enough to explore in two days.
Aix is full of sun-drenched, cobbled streets, elegant architecture, refined fountains and picturesque squares. It’s known for its markets, art museums and as the birthplace of rosé. Rosé is more than just a specialty in this region; it's a way of life!
Here’s how to spend the perfect weekend in Aix-en-Provence.
CHECK-IN
Le Pigonnet is an excellent hotel to base your stay. The former private estate is a short walk from the city center with buildings dating back to the 18th century, all currently being renovated. The grounds and gardens are beautiful, and the staff are super helpful, professional and courteous.
CONSUME
Start your day off with breakfast or brunch at Kava. The little gem is fairly small, and they don't take bookings, so be prepared to wait on the weekend. But it's worth it! I had the Eggs Factor with two fried eggs, mushrooms and hashbrowns. I also tried the bacon and truffle gouda. I highly recommend all of it!
For a bistro serving French and Provençal cuisine, pop by Le Ramus. The staff is uniformly charming and attentive, and the courtyard is a lovely spot to enjoy al fresco dining.
I asked our hotel concierge where to get the best croissants in Aix and there was no hesitation directing me to Maison Weibel. Go and enjoy all things baked - deserts, pastries, tarts, etc.
La Petite Ferme is a chic, contemporary brasserie showcasing dishes from all over the world, but specializing in a wide choice of meat (cooked over embers, spit-roasted or in a wood-fired oven).
For a unique setting, try La Table du Pigonnet. This gourmet restaurant is located within the enchanting gardens of the historic Le Pigonnet hotel, with both indoor and outdoor seating. Book ahead to guarantee a table.
I have no idea why Le Singe Vert is called The Green Monkey, but it's a very cute spot, centrally located on the Cours Mirabeau promenade. Stop by and enjoy a cocktail whilst watching the world go by. I would not recommend going for a meal, but definitely worth it for a beverage.
DO
A weekend visit to Aix wouldn’t be complete without exploring the city’s famous markets on a Saturday. Start with the market along the city’s main thoroughfare, Cours Mirabeau. This central avenue is taken over by dozens of stands selling Provençal textiles and clothing. At the end, go left and make your way toward Place de Verdun for vendors selling local produce, olive oils, tapenades and honeys. From there, weave through the narrow streets to the Place l’Hôtel-de-Ville, where you’ll find the flower market.
Take a tour to from Aix-en-Provence to discover the vines and wines of the famed Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence appellation. I did this Half Day Wine Tasting Tour, which took a small group of five us to Bargemone & Château Paradis, to try 12 acclaimed rosés, reds and whites.
Aix-en-Provence is a sophisticated and cultural city break destination, bursting with Provençal charm. Although you can see most of Aix in a matter of days, it's also a fantastic base from which to take day trips around the region. I will definitely go back at some point to experience more of Provence.
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