Aix en Provence is a treasure trove for those who love to explore lively markets, artisan shops, and authentic Provençal flavors. Its central location makes it easy to combine scenic village visits with vibrant local markets bursting with fresh produce, handcrafted goods, and regional delicacies. We particularly enjoy the Luberon Market & Villages Day Trip for its well-rounded mix of stunning scenery and authentic village charm, as well as the Provencal Farmers Market Tour for a more intimate, food-focused experience. Whether you’re after picturesque photo opportunities, culinary insights, or lively market atmospheres, Aix offers plenty of options to indulge your shopping and foodie instincts.
In this list, we cover everything from full-day excursions exploring the beautiful Luberon region to quick, flavorful market walks right in Aix itself. Each experience offers a unique way to connect with Provençal culture—whether through tasting local cheeses, discovering artisan crafts, or wandering colorful village streets. Check out the options below to find your perfect match.
1. Luberon Market & Villages Day Trip from Aix-en-Provence
This full-day tour is a standout for soaking up the essence of Provence. Traveling by air-conditioned minibus, you’ll visit four iconic towns—Lourmarin, Isle-sur-Sorgue, Roussillon, and Gordes—each offering a different slice of Provençal life. What sets this trip apart is the combination of scenic drives, charming villages, and lively markets. You can explore Isle-sur-Sorgue’s canals and antique shops, and take fantastic photos outside Senanque Abbey when it’s surrounded by lavender (mid-June to mid-July).
The itinerary offers several free periods, allowing you to wander at your own pace. For example, Lourmarin’s market on Friday is a highlight, and the view from Gordes’ panoramic spot is unforgettable. Guests consistently praise the guide for their engaging commentary and the freedom to explore each village on your own.
The tour’s value lies in its comprehensive coverage—covering seven stops, including medieval castles, markets, and abbeys—making it ideal for travelers wanting a taste of Provence in a single day. The price of around $173.79 includes a full 9.5-hour experience that balances guided commentary with personal exploration.
Bottom line: Perfect if you want a well-organized tour of Provence’s top villages and markets with plenty of photo ops and local flavor.
2. From Aix-en-Provence: Luberon Market & Villages Day Tour
This slightly shorter, more budget-conscious day trip highlights the vibrant markets and picturesque villages of the Luberon. Spanning about 9.5 hours and priced at $176 per person, it focuses on the regions’ most photogenic spots and authentic market days—Gordes on Tuesday, Roussillon on Thursday, and Lourmarin on Friday.
The tour emphasizes photo opportunities and exploring local traditions, making it ideal for travelers who want a relaxed pace with an emphasis on regional culture. The itinerary includes free time in each village, giving you the chance to browse artisanal crafts, enjoy regional specialties, or simply soak in the atmosphere.
Reviews note the tour’s excellent value, with travelers appreciating the well-chosen stops and informative guides. The balance of scenic drives and free exploration makes it a solid pick for those wanting a taste of Provence’s culinary and craft scene without feeling rushed.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers seeking a laid-back, culturally rich day with ample time to wander the villages and markets.
3. Provençal Farmers Market Tour
For those who want to dive into local Provençal flavors, this intimate, 1.5-hour gourmet adventure is a hit. Led by a knowledgeable local, this tour focuses on the best market stalls in Aix-en-Provence, with a focus on fresh fruits, vegetables, artisanal meats, cheeses, and dried lavender.
The tour is tailored to your taste and dietary preferences, making it a flexible and personalized experience. Participants rave about the enthusiastic guide and the opportunity to sample a wide range of regional products—think exotic spices, cheeses, and street foods. During the tour, you’ll visit some of the town’s top shopping spots, and there’s the option to buy your favorites to take home.
What makes this tour stand out is its gourmet focus—it’s perfect for food lovers keen to learn about Provençal ingredients and culinary traditions in a relaxed setting. The price ($41.50 per person) offers excellent value, especially for those interested in a comprehensive tasting experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for foodies who want a close-up, hands-on look at Aix’s local markets.
4. Provencal Market Walking Tour with Tastings
This 1.5-hour walking tour takes you through Aix’s lively Place Richelme and Place des Prêcheurs markets—two of the most vibrant spots in town. Led by a local guide, you’ll experience the day-to-day buzz of Provençal market life while sampling regional products like honey, olive oil, and local cheeses.
The tour emphasizes delicious tastings and cultural insights, making it a perfect choice for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with culinary discovery. You’ll learn how to pick the best ingredients and understand the significance of Provençal foods. The guide’s engaging commentary helps you appreciate the sensory overload of sights, smells, and flavors.
This experience is highly rated for its authentic feel and manageable length, fitting easily into a morning or afternoon. It’s suited for those who prefer a more casual, food-focused exploration of Aix’s markets without the lengthy commitments of a full-day tour.
Bottom line: Great for a quick, immersive taste of Aix’s market culture.
5. Morning Provençal Market & Food Discovery Tour
This 1-hour, food-centric tour offers a fast-paced yet thorough introduction to Aix’s vibrant market scene. Led by a local guide, you’ll visit the Place Richelme and explore the best-value stalls for cheese, ham, truffle, jam, tapenade, and fresh fruit.
The highlight is learning how to select top-quality ingredients directly from vendors, plus sampling regional specialties. You can opt to buy your favorites to bring home or enjoy a prepared picnic. The tour is tailored to those who want a quick, authentic taste of Provençal food culture, with insider tips on where locals shop.
The rave reviews underscore the tour’s value—especially for first-time visitors wanting an authentic, hands-on shopping experience in a short amount of time. The price of around $57.82 makes it an accessible option for travelers with limited time.
Bottom line: Perfect for food lovers with a tight schedule who want to get a quick yet genuine taste of Provençal flavors.
6. Aix-en-Provence: Market & Heritage Walking Tour
This 2-hour guided walking tour combines cultural sights and market experiences. Stroll along the iconic Cours Mirabeau, enjoy the fountains and cafés, and explore the historic Arbaud Jouques mansion. You’ll also visit the local market, tasting authentic Provencal specialties along the way.
Ideal for travelers seeking a balanced view of Aix’s history and food scene, this tour offers a leisurely pace that allows time to absorb the atmosphere and learn about the city’s architecture and traditions. The guide’s insights help you see beyond the surface, making history and architecture come alive amidst the bustling market stalls.
While specific reviews aren’t available, the pairing of heritage and food makes this tour particularly suited for travelers wanting a comprehensive introduction to Aix.
Bottom line: A solid choice if you want a taste of Aix’s history and local flavors in a relaxed, scenic walk.
7. Aix Morning Famous Living Market & Foodie Tour with a Local
For a small-group, insider experience, this 75-minute tour takes you to one of Europe’s oldest living markets. Led by a local guide, you’ll visit the market stalls where locals shop for gourmet Provençal products. You’ll learn tips to shop like a local, find discounts, and uncover regional specialties.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience without a lengthy commitment. The focus is on experiencing local food culture, tasting regional ingredients, and gaining insights into Provençal shopping habits. It’s a good choice if you prefer a more intimate, personalized tour with practical tips.
Reviewers mention the guide’s passion and the opportunity to discover hidden spots and local recommendations. The price at $59 per person offers excellent value for a quick, immersive foodie adventure.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers eager to explore Aix’s authentic food scene with a local expert in a short, friendly tour.
How to Choose the Right Market & Shopping Tour in Aix en Provence
When deciding which tour fits your style, consider your budget, time, and interests. If you want a full-day adventure with scenic villages and markets, the Luberon Market & Villages Day Trip offers a comprehensive experience. For a culinary focus with personal attention, the Provençal Farmers Market Tour is perfect. If your schedule is tight but you still want an authentic taste of local flavors, the Morning Provençal Market & Food Discovery Tour or the Famous Living Market Foodie Tour are excellent choices.
Think about whether you prefer guided walks with tastings, self-guided exploration, or focused food shopping. Booking early is advisable during peak seasons (spring and summer), especially for day trips and popular market days.
Final Thoughts
Aix en Provence offers a range of shopping and market tours that showcase the region’s culinary and cultural richness. For those seeking a full immersion, the Luberon Village & Market Day Trip is hard to beat. If you’re more interested in sampling local flavors, the Provencal Farmers Market Tour provides a delicious, insider look. For a quick, authentic experience, the Famous Living Market & Foodie Tour delivers in a compact package.
No matter your preference, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these flavorful, scenic, and culturally enriching experiences. Dive into Aix’s markets and let your senses guide the way—you’ll leave with more than just souvenirs, but a true taste of Provençal life.
