QUICK GUIDE TO AIX-EN-PROVENCE
I’ve always dreamed of visiting the lavender fields in Provence, my dreams finally came true this summer. When I was planning my trip I had no idea where to stay, what to do besides visiting the lavender fields. There is so much more to see and staying in Aix-en-Provence is the perfect home base to explore Provence. Here’s a quick guide to Aix-enProvence with things to do, eat and best day trips.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOUR TRIP •The lavender fields bloom around late June and get’s harvested in August. It can vary by year depending on the weather •It is HOT during this time so be prepared to pack stylish sunglasses, sunscreen, hats and a lot of summer clothing •Rent a car, you’ll want to spend a few days exploring neighboring towns •4+ days is best when visiting the Provence Region WHERE TO STAY Hotel Negrecoste is a budget hotel. It’s clean, centrally located in the center of town which makes it perfect to walk around the city. They also offer overnight parking for 20 euros a night. WHAT TO DO
•LAVENDER FIELDS IN VALENSOLE •SUNFLOWER FIELDS IN VALENSOLE •DINE AT CUTE COFFEE SHOPS •EXPLORE DOWNTOWN •VISIT THE PAVILLON DE VENDOME •SPEND THE DAY IN MARSEILLE •THEN GO EXPLORE LES GOUDES
LAVENDER FIELDS IN VALENSOLE The lavender fields in Valensole are the number one tourist attraction for anyone visiting during the summer months from late June to August. It’s as beautiful as it seems, it’s an hour drive from Aix-en-Provence and the best time to see them is at sunrise or sunset. It’s quite easy to drive to, in google maps type in “Valensole” as you drive through you’ll see multiple lavender fields, feel free to stop by any but the most popular one is on the main road and you’ll see plenty of other photographers and cars parked on the side of the road.
SUNFLOWER FIELDS IN VALENSOLE If you’re lucky you’ll get to also experience seeing the sunflower fields right next to the lavender fields! It’s about a 2-minute drive from the main lavender field, you won’t miss it. Unfortunately, I only saw a few of them bloom but glad I still got a few good photos.
DINE AT CUTE COFFEE SHOPS Aix-en-Provence has plenty of cute coffee shops and cafes. My favorite is Mana Espresso. Get the apricot toast or avocado toast and you won’t regret it.
EXPLORE DOWNTOWN
Downtown has a lot of things to do, go explore take photos of the fountains, shop and on the weekends the streets close down with plenty of local vendors that sell souvenirs, clothing, accessories and so much more.
VISIT THE PAVILLON DE VENDOME
The museum is surrounded by a beautiful French-style garden and one of the most attractive tourist spot.
SPEND THE DAY IN MARSEILLE
Marseille is a cute port city in southern France. It’s about 40 minutes by car and worth a visit. Come here to explore the port or colorful streets for lunch. Don’t forget to also visit the NotreDame de la Garde!
THEN GO EXPLORE LES GOUDES
Les Goudes is roughly 30 minutes south of Marseilles. The water and views are beautiful and worth the drive, bring a swimsuit and jump in the water!