Aix-en-Provence, our charming town in the south of France, offers to all travelers an authentic experience of French and Provençal gastronomy. In only two days, you can immerse yourself in the region’s rich food and wine culture, from its bustling markets to its world-renowned vineyards. This itinerary offers a good balance between tasting local specialties and discovering the traditions that make the essence of french cuisine and food culture.
Day 1: Savoring the Essence of Aix
Start your day with a traditional French breakfast at Maison Weibel, a renowned pastry shop. Order a café crème and a freshly baked croissant or pain au chocolat while enjoying the morning ambiance. Once energized, head to the Marché d’Aix-en-Provence, a vibrant market where you can sample local cheeses, olives, and artisanal bread.
Next, take a guided tour of the Calisson Museum, where you’ll learn about Aix’s famous almond-based sweet and even get a chance to taste different varieties. For lunch, visit Le Formal, a bistronomic restaurant that reinvents Provençal flavors with a modern twist.
In the afternoon, indulge in a wine-tasting experience at Mas de Cadenet, a winery run by the 7th generation of the Negrel family in the surrounding Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire vineyards, where you can explore the finest selections of their terroir-driven wines. To end your day, stroll through the Pavillon de Vendôme gardens, a peaceful retreat perfect for digesting the culinary delights of the day.
For dinner, book a table at Mitch, a restaurant that offers refined Provençal cuisine with a focus on seasonal and local ingredients. Pair your meal with a dry and fruity rosé, a rich and structured red wine from Côteaux d’Aix en Provence or a floral and mineral white wine from Cassis, all made with love and care in Provence.
Day 2: Markets, Vineyards, and Croissant Class
Begin your second day at the Place Richelme Market, where you can engage with local vendors and taste regional specialties like truffle-infused products, tapenade, and fresh fruits. After the market, take a short trip to the Château La Coste, a vineyard that combines wine, art, and architecture. Enjoy a guided wine tasting and learn about the winemaking traditions of Provence.
Return to Aix for a leisurely afternoon at the French Baking Academy, our baking and pastry studio, where you can participate in a hands-on pastry workshop taught in english and learn the art of crafting French croissants or french pastries under the guidance of local chefs.
Conclude your trip with an elegant dinner at Le Petit Verdot, a wine-centric restaurant offering exquisite pairings of regional dishes and local vintages. Take one last evening walk through the illuminated streets, reflecting on the incredible flavors and culinary traditions you’ve experienced in just two days.
By following our suggested itinerary, you can deeply connect with our French and Provençal food culture, discovering the passion and expertise of women and men behind each dish and bottle. Aix-en-Provence is not just a destination—it’s a gastronomic journey into the heart of French culinary heritage and we’d love to share it with you.
