Aix en Provence is a fantastic base for exploring Provencal markets and charming villages. Its lively markets, fragrant with lavender, herbs, and fresh produce, reflect the true flavor of the region. Whether you’re after handcrafted goods, regional delicacies, or just want to soak up local life, Aix offers a variety of tours to suit every taste. We particularly love tours that combine authentic village visits with market shopping, like the comprehensive Luberon Market & Villages Day Trip from Aix-en-Provence, which delivers an immersive experience of Provence’s most picturesque spots.
If you’re keen on sampling Provençal flavors firsthand, the Provencal Farmers Market tour promises a tasty adventure guided by a local connoisseur. For those with a more flexible schedule, private Sunday markets or short foodie walking tours offer intimate, authentic experiences away from tourist crowds. Below is a detailed look at each of these options to help you choose the perfect market tour in Aix en Provence.
1. Luberon Market & Villages Day Trip from Aix-en-Provence
This full-day tour takes you deep into the Luberon region, known worldwide for its stunning villages and lavender fields. Traveling by air-conditioned minibus, you’ll visit four iconic towns: Lourmarin, Isle-sur-Sorgue, Roussillon, and Gordes. The highlight? Exploring open-air markets in Isle-sur-Sorgue and Roussillon, and snapping photos of Senanque Abbey (mid-June to mid-July when lavender blooms). The guide shares engaging insights into each location’s history and quirks, making it more than just a sightseeing run.
What makes this tour stand out is how it balances free time and guided commentary. You can wander at your own pace, shopping for local crafts or tasting regional specialties, with stops at Lourmarin’s Renaissance castle and Gordes’ panoramic views. Reviewers praise Florence, the guide, for her enthusiasm and knowledge, making each village feel special. The itinerary is packed but well-paced, with each stop offering something different—whether it’s photo opportunities, sightseeing, or browsing local markets.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal if you want a comprehensive, well-organized day exploring multiple villages filled with history, markets, and scenic vistas. It’s a top pick for first-timers who want to see the best of Provence without the hassle of organizing transport.
2. From Aix-en-Provence: Luberon Market & Villages Day Tour
This slightly different take on the Luberon experience concentrates on market visits and village exploration, focusing on Tuesday and Thursday market days. It’s perfect if your main goal is to dive into the local market scene and enjoy the authentic charm of villages like Gordes and Roussillon. The tour includes time in Lourmarin on Friday, whether you’re after a lively market or a peaceful stroll through picturesque streets.
While similar in scope to the previous option, this tour emphasizes market activities and regional traditions. It offers a chance to photograph and shop in some of Provence’s most beloved villages, with an intimate feel. The guide’s insights make it easier to understand Provençal culture and local products. The price point is modest, offering good value considering the full-day itinerary.
Bottom line: This tour suits travelers who want to focus mainly on market days and authentic village charm, especially if you’re arriving on a Tuesday, Thursday, or Friday, and want to experience Provence’s local flavors firsthand.
3. Provençal Farmers Market Tour
For those who love food and local produce, this gourmet-focused tour is a short but tasty experience. Led by a local expert, you’ll visit Aix’s best farmers markets, exploring stalls overflowing with fruits, vegetables, artisanal meats, seafood, cheeses, and spices. The guide helps you navigate the bustling stalls, point out regional specialties, and even sample some street foods for lunch.
What makes this tour special is its focus on culinary delights. Unlike longer tours with sightseeing, this one hones in on the flavors of Provence—perfect for foodies or travelers eager to learn how local ingredients are selected and prepared. The reviews highlight how Eduardo’s knowledge enhances understanding of regional food customs, and how the sampling makes it a memorable experience.
Bottom line: This tour is a quick, affordable way to taste Provence’s best produce and learn about its culinary traditions. It’s best suited for travelers with limited time but a passion for food.
4. Provencal Market Walking Tour with Tastings
If you prefer an intimate, guided stroll through Aix’s two main markets, this walking tour is perfect. It takes you through Place Richelme and Place des Prêcheurs, two lively hubs of Provençal life. As you walk, you’ll sample local honey, olive oils, cheeses, and spices, discovering how regional ingredients are used in everyday cuisine.
This tour is particularly good for those who want a hands-on tasting experience, learning how to recognize quality and pick out the best items. It’s also a chance to hear about the local food culture from an engaging guide. With just 1.5 hours, it’s a compact but flavorful introduction to Aix’s market scene.
Bottom line: Ideal for visitors who want a quick, engaging overview of Aix’s market life and flavors, with plenty of sampling and shopping tips.
5. Morning Provençal Market & Food Discovery Tour
This short but sweet tour is focused on the Place Richelme market, often called the last living market in Europe. Led by a local guide, you’ll learn how to select top-quality cheeses, ham, truffles, jams, and tapenades. The tasting sessions are planned to help you understand what makes Provençal ingredients special, and you’ll get insider tips on where locals shop.
At just over an hour, it’s perfect for food lovers who want a quick, immersive experience without a lot of walking. The highlight is the ability to buy and taste regional specialties, with options to pack items for travel or enjoy a picnic immediately.
Reviewers praise Benjamin’s knowledge and the quality of the tastings, calling it “a fantastic introduction to Aix’s markets.” It’s a good choice for those with limited time but a strong interest in Provençal cuisine.
Bottom line: Best suited for foodies who want a focused, insider-guided tasting of Aix’s market products.
6. Full Day Private Tour Sunday Market in the Luberon
For travelers seeking exclusivity and tailored experiences, this private tour offers a full day exploring the Sunday market in L’Isle sur la Sorgue. Known as the “Venice of Provence,” the town’s antique and craft markets spill into the streets, with plenty of antiques, fresh produce, lavender, and local delicacies. The private nature means you can customize your stops and pace as you prefer.
After market browsing, you’ll visit Fontaine de Vaucluse, a charming village with the spring that feeds the Sorgue River. The tour includes a scenic stop at Gordes for photos, making it a luxurious way to experience Provence’s less crowded, authentic markets.
Guests appreciate the flexibility and personalized attention. It’s ideal for a romantic getaway or small group wanting a more exclusive, private experience.
Bottom line: Best for couples or small groups looking for a bespoke, relaxing day exploring Provence’s Sunday markets and picturesque villages with a private guide.
$1,233.38 per group (up to 8)
7. Aix Morning Famous Living Market & Foodie Tour with a Local
This concise, 75-minute tour is perfect if you want to experience Aix’s oldest market and learn how locals shop without the tourist prices. Led by a local guide, you’ll taste Provençal cheeses, ham, and jams while discovering where to find the best-value ingredients for your own cooking.
It’s a short, lively introduction suitable for travelers pressed for time but eager to get a taste of authentic Aix. The emphasis on shopping tips and food tastings makes it especially appealing for food lovers wanting a quick but immersive experience.
Reviewers praise this tour for its local insights and tasty samples, making it a strong choice for a quick culinary immersion.
Bottom line: Great if you want a brief, insider food tour that combines shopping tips with authentic tastings in Aix.
$59 per person
How to Choose the Best Market Tour in Aix en Provence
When selecting your tour, consider what you’re most interested in: culinary experiences, village exploration, or market shopping. For a full immersion, the Luberon Market & Villages Day Trip offers a comprehensive look at Provence’s most scenic towns, while the Provencal Farmers Market caters to foodie travelers eager to sample regional ingredients.
If your priority is authentic local life on a shorter schedule, the Market Walking Tour with Tastings or Morning Foodie Tour deliver quick insights with plenty of tastings. For a personalized experience, the Sunday Market Private Tour offers flexibility and exclusivity.
Book early, especially in peak months (June to September), and check the market days—some tours focus on specific days like Tuesday or Thursday. Consider your budget, time constraints, and interests to pick the best fit.
Final Thoughts
Aix en Provence offers a delightful mix of market experiences, village visits, and culinary adventures. Whether you want a comprehensive day exploring the Luberon’s scenic towns, or a quick taste of Provençal flavors, there’s something for every traveler. For those who love food, the guided tastings and market tours will satisfy your cravings; if you prefer scenic strolls and shopping, private or walking tours will suit you perfectly.
Two standout options are the Luberon Market & Villages Day Trip for its well-rounded itinerary and engaging guide, and the private Sunday Market for a more personalized venture. Whichever you choose, booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on the best days and times to experience Provence’s vibrant markets. Happy shopping!