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Aix-en-Provence Culture & history

Our most recommended Aix-en-Provence Culture & history

Aix-en-Provence: Private Old Town Tour

1. Aix-en-Provence: Private Old Town Tour

Start with pickup from your hotel and first visit the city's largest and most famous fountain, La Rotonde. Stroll through the Cours Mirabeau and the Quartier Mazarin to feel the atmosphere of the ancient former capital of the Provence region. Make your way to the heart of the city where you will see the famous Clock Tower of the city. First constructed as a watchtower, it is located adjacent to the city hall and is a popular meeting point on the central square. Finally, discover the Cathedral of St. Sauveur, which has a history dating back to the 5th century. Note the range of architectural styles of the cathedral such as Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque.

Aix en Provence Historical and Gourmet Walking Tour

2. Aix en Provence Historical and Gourmet Walking Tour

Meet your English speaking guide in front of the Tourist Information Center in Aix en Provence and start your gourmet walking tour in the historical center. Thanks to this guided tour, you will be able to discover this charming Provencal town and also to please yourself with the diversified scents and flavors of the region.  Let your senses be amazed by the colors and the smells of several local products, be tempted by some Calisson, the sweetest candy of all time created in Aix en Provence, appreciate a toast of green or black tapenade, taste a piece of cheese or a glass of wine from one of the local wine appellations. Everything is organized in order to allow you to discover what Provencal gastronomy truly means.

From Marseille cruise Terminal : Aix-en-Provence & Marseille

3. From Marseille cruise Terminal : Aix-en-Provence & Marseille

Drive to Aix en Provence: discover the Cours Mirabeau lined with 17th and 18th century private mansions. See the Four Dolphins Fountain and other amazing sights in the vibrant city like the City Hall and the Cathedral Saint Sauveur. The old town is packed with shops, architectural and religious sites, bustling squares and refreshing fountains. Free time for lunch (not included) on your own. Panoramic tour of the city of Marseille on the way back, including a photo stop at Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica. Enjoy a breathtakingview on the Phocaeancity, the Frioulislands and If Castle. Drive on the Corniche Road, a symbol of holiday and outward sign of wealth for merchants and bourgeois from the 19th century who built magnificent houses with many ostentatious splendid features. You will then reach Saint-Victor Abbey that guards the entry of the Vieux-Port

From Marseille: Marseille, Aix-en-Provence & Cassis Tour

4. From Marseille: Marseille, Aix-en-Provence & Cassis Tour

Start this comprehensive full-day tour of Provence with a visit to Aix-en-Provence, known as the city of water and art Located approximately 19 miles (30 kilometers) from Marseille, Aix dates back to Roman times and has a beautiful wide promenade called the “Cours Mirabeau” lined with plane trees. See the amazing fountain of the Rotonde, as well as many cafés that were once frequented by Cezanne, Camus, Zola, and others. The weekly market will give you the opportunity to savor the regional produce, including fresh cheese and olive oil, as well as scented Marseille soap. Then, head to the village of Cassis, driving the Crest road and up to the highest maritime cliff in Europe, Cape Canaillto, for spectacular views of the Bay. Stroll the charming fishing port, where you can try thier famous Pastis (anis flavored liquor), before an optional 45-minute boat cruise through the breathtaking calanques (rocky, limestone inlets).  End your day with a panoramic tour of Marseille, including a stop at the Basilica of Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde, with its panoramic view of the city, Frioul Islands, and Château d'If. End at the 11th-century Abbey of Saint-Victor, guarding the entrance to the Vieux Port.

From Marseille Cruise Terminal : Aix-en-Provence & Cassis

5. From Marseille Cruise Terminal : Aix-en-Provence & Cassis

In Aix-en Provence, walk along the Cours Mirabeau lined with 17th and 18th century private mansions, where large plane trees provide shade on hot summer days. The old town is packed with shops, architectural and religious sites, bustling squares and refreshing fountains. Take a stroll through one of the numerous markets taking place everyday in the center of the city. Free time for lunch (not included) on your own. The Crests roads will lead you to the outstanding site of Cape Canaille from where you will enjoy the exceptional view on the bay. Cassis is a very ancient fishing port and the harbour is probably the most beautiful part of the village. You will have the possibility to board on a 45-minute boat trip (ticket not included) to discover 3 Calanques, steep-walled coves sheltering tiny harbours or beaches.

Frequently asked questions about Aix-en-Provence

What top attractions are a must-see in Aix-en-Provence?

The must-see attractions in Aix-en-Provence are:

What are the best day trips and excursions from Aix-en-Provence?

The best day trips and excursions from Aix-en-Provence are:

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What are the best inexpensive tours in Aix-en-Provence?

Other Sightseeing Options in Aix-en-Provence

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What people are saying about Aix-en-Provence

Overall rating

4.5 / 5

based on 238 reviews

The group size is small so it feels almost like a private tour and more intimate. Our guide, Greg, was very knowledgeable and helpful. Because of the small group size, we were able to customise our itinerary and focus on where we want to spend more time on.

Brilliant introduction to the streets and history of Aix, our guide was fantastic and we finished with top class cheese and wine st La Fromagerie. We highly recommend.

This tour was one of the best of our 3 week trip to France. Nicholas was friendly, knowledgeable and did not rush. Thoroughly enjoyed our tour of Aix-en-Provence!

Pierre was an excellent guide. We learned about the history of Aix - as well as enjoying markets, food tastings and some wine and cheese. Great value.

Arthur tailored the tour for our young kids and kept it interesting for the adults. Very informative! Perfect amount of time.