Provencal Market Walking Tour with Tastings

Key Points

• Price: Only $41 per person for 1.5 hours of guided market exploration
• Locations: Visits to Place Richelme and Place des Prêcheurs markets in Aix-en-Provence
• Highlights: Tastings of local specialties like honey, olive oil, spices, and Corsican meats
• Guide: Led by a local farmers market expert who knows many vendors
• Schedule: Place Richelme is open daily; Place des Prêcheurs is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays
• Group Size: Small groups limited to 10 participants for a personalized experience
• Accessibility: Tour is wheelchair accessible
• Booking: Reserve now, pay later, with full refund available up to 24 hours in advance

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discover the Heart of Aix-en-Provence Markets in 1.5 Hours

The Provencal Market Walking Tour with Tastings offers a lively glimpse into local market life in Aix-en-Provence. For just $41, this guided experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours, perfect for a quick yet rich immersion into the regional flavors. The tour takes place at the Place Richelme and Place des Prêcheurs markets, two bustling hubs that showcase the best of Provence’s fresh produce, meats, spices, and clothing.

Led by a local farmers market expert, the tour emphasizes local specialties with tastings of honey, olive oil, Corsican meats, and more. The guide’s insider knowledge means you get to explore hidden stalls and learn which products to buy. The small group size ensures personalized attention, making it ideal for travelers looking for an authentic and relaxed market experience.

While Place Richelme operates daily, Place des Prêcheurs is only open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. If you visit on any of these days, you’ll experience both markets; otherwise, the tour focuses solely on Richelme. Note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so plan to meet at the Archevêché café.

Exploring the Markets: From Fruits to Corsican Charcuterie

The market tour begins with a meet and greet at the Archevêché café, where your guide introduces themselves and shares a bit of local flavor even before hitting the stalls. From there, the guide leads you through the places that buzz with shoppers, vendors, and the aroma of freshly cut produce and spiced goods.

At Place Richelme, you’ll find fruits, vegetables, and lavender, with the market open every day. The Place des Prêcheurs offers more diverse items, including clothing and specialty meats like Corsican meat—a delightful find for those interested in regional delicacies. You’ll also have the chance to sample prepared lunches, fresh daily, as part of the tastings.

Each stall is introduced by the guide, who points out best vendors and explains what makes their products special. The vibrant atmosphere offers a visual feast and a sensory overload of scents and sounds. The guide’s familiarity with local vendors enhances the experience, making every tasting feel personal and authentic.

Meet Your Guide at the Archevêché Café

The meeting point for this tour is the café called Archevêché, a convenient location in Aix-en-Provence. After a brief introduction session, the group sets out to explore the markets. The guide speaks both English and French, ensuring clarity for diverse groups.

The small group size—limited to 10 participants—means there’s plenty of room for questions and interaction. The tour’s duration of 1.5 hours strikes a good balance between thorough exploration and not overstaying in the busy market environment.

The Market Vendors and Their Specialties

The vendors at the markets are familiar faces, many of whom the guide knows personally. This knowledge helps facilitate sampling and discussions about the products. Visitors get to taste local honey, olive oil, and spicy condiments from Provence.

At Place des Prêcheurs, additional items like spices, clothing, and specialty meats such as Corsican meat are available. The prepared lunches made daily are perfect for those wanting a quick bite after the tour or to take local flavors home.

The guide also shares insider tips about shopping and additional places to visit in Aix-en-Provence, enriching the cultural experience beyond just the food.

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Flexibility and Cancellation Policies

Booking this tour is flexible with options to reserve now and pay later, ideal for uncertain travel plans. Cancellation is free if made at least 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for spontaneous itineraries or changing schedules.

Since hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, participants should plan to meet at the Archevêché café prepared for an outdoor walk. The tour operates in English and French, catering to a diverse audience.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The expert guidance from a local farmers market specialist is a key strength. Multiple reviews praise Eduard (or Ted) for his knowledge, friendly demeanor, and familiarity with vendors. The tastings are described as delicious, with many highlighting the variety of products sampled, including regional favorites.

The small group size ensures a personalized experience, and the pace allows for ample sampling and question time. The tour’s focus on local products and market life makes it especially appealing for food lovers or those wanting a local perspective on Aix-en-Provence.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This market walk is ideal for foodies and culture seekers eager to understand Provencal traditions through their local markets. It suits travelers who prefer short, focused experiences and enjoy sampling regional products.

Because hotel transport isn’t included, it’s best for those comfortable with meeting at the designated location. The wheelchair accessibility broadens its appeal for all mobility levels.

Final Thoughts on the Provencal Market Walking Tour

With a 4.6-star rating based on 46 reviews, this tour offers excellent value for those wanting to taste and see Aix-en-Provence’s vibrant markets. The knowledgeable guides, delicious tastings, and authentic atmosphere make it a worthwhile addition to a Provence itinerary.

Though the tour is short, it provides deep insight into local produce, market customs, and regional specialties. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors who want a taste of local life or food lovers seeking an up-close look at Provencal flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Provencal Market Walking Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours.

What is included in the price?
The tour guide, market exploration, and tastings are included in the $41 price per person.

Are there any days when both markets are visited?
If you book on Tuesdays, Thursdays, or Saturdays, you’ll visit both Place Richelme and Place des Prêcheurs markets. On other days, only Place Richelme is included.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at the café called Archevêché in Aix-en-Provence.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.

Do I need to pay in advance?
You can reserve now and pay later, giving you flexibility.

What languages are spoken during the tour?
The tour is conducted in English and French.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby