There are days that don’t just pass — they linger. Our day in Aix-en-Provence felt like stepping into a film, where every corner could be a postcard, every bite a memory, and every fountain a small piece of history.
How It All Began
We started our morning in Marseille, picking up our rental car from SIXT Avenue du Prado. Our base was the dreamy Hôtel Bleu in Carry-le-Rouet (you can read more about that [here]). With fresh coffee in hand and excitement in our hearts, we began our 30-minute drive inland, arriving in Aix just past 9:30 AM.
Right away, the town swept us into another time — cobblestones, old fountains, and honey-hued facades glowing in the morning light. Aix felt cinematic. I whispered to myself, “It looks like a postcard.”
Favorite Corners: Where Time Stands Still
One of the most enchanting corners was Place des Quatre Dauphins, where four sculpted dolphins swim around a mossy fountain under dappled light. And then, Église Saint-Jean-de-Malte, our first church visit in Provence — peaceful, simple, and unforgettable.
Market Mornings & Street Magic
It was Saturday — market day. The streets were alive with the sounds of musicians, the buzz of conversations, and the scent of baked goods in the air. We wandered past stalls filled with artisan hats, hand-painted bags, and sun-kissed produce.
Though tempted by every charming shop tucked into narrow alleys, we kept our stops intentional — a few treats here, a sweet bite there.
Foodie Highlights: Bite by Bite
Oh, the food! Aix is made for food lovers. Here’s what we savored:
- Madeleines from L’Atelier des Madeleines
We tried Peach (Pêche), Apricot (Abricot), and Almond (Amande) — not too sweet, buttery, and freshly baked. Absolutely delightful
- Octopus Dish & Panisse at Le Ramus Restaurant Aix-En-Provence
A showstopper! The octopus was tender, flavorful, and beautifully plated. Served alongside crispy panisse — golden chickpea fritters native to Provence — the dish was a perfect balance of texture and taste. Even more special — we were treated by our dear Provence-based friends. (Follow them: @rizigoesplaces & @whatavicken)
- Gelato from Amorino at Aix-En-Provence, Rue Espariat
Instagram-worthy and joyfully delicious — this was our very first time trying Amorino, and we absolutely loved it! We chose multiple flavors and watched in delight as they shaped each scoop into a beautiful rose. Almost too pretty to eat… almost!
Slowness, Connection & Full Hearts
What made this day unforgettable wasn’t just the architecture or the food — it was the feeling. We slowed down, caught up with old friends, and made space for the simple things: laughter, stillness, candles in a church.
It was our first village visit in Provence, and it set the tone for the rest of our trip — experience-first, heart-full travel.
Practical Tips for Families
Would I recommend this place to other families?
Absolutely. It’s a feast for all senses — sight, taste, sound, scent, and soul.
Where we parked:
📍 Parking Mignet — convenient and walkable to the town center.
Where to eat lunch:
🍴 Le Ramus Provence — a perfect blend of style and flavor.
Where to go for desserts & snacks:
🍰 L’Atelier des Madeleines — light, buttery madeleines in seasonal flavors.
🍨 Amorino Gelato — beautifully shaped gelato roses and multiple flavor options the whole family will love.
When to go:
Saturdays are vibrant with market energy, but aim to arrive early. Vendors begin packing up around lunchtime.
Final Thought
If I could bottle the feeling of Aix-en-Provence in one word?
Grateful. Grateful for cobblestones under our feet, madeleines in our hands, and moments of connection that will stay with us long after the trip ends.
