Aix-en-Provence is a city where the elegance of the French aristocracy meets the vibrant energy of a bustling university town. Known globally for its outdoor markets, lavender-scented linens, and the legacy of Paul Cézanne, this southern French gem offers a shopping experience that is distinctly Provençal.
Unlike the homogenized retail found in major metropolitan hubs, Aix is defined by its independent boutiques and artisan workshops. Here, the act of purchasing is secondary to the experience of discovery, where narrow cobblestone lanes open into grand squares filled with the scent of fresh produce and freshly baked calissons.
From high-end French fashion houses to sprawling flea markets brimming with antiques, the city caters to a diverse range of tastes and budgets. Whether you are hunting for a vintage silk scarf or the perfect bottle of local rosé, understanding the geography of the city’s commerce is key to a successful spree.
The city is generally divided into distinct shopping zones. The Mazarin district, with its classical architecture, houses the luxury labels, while the older medieval streets near the Cathedral lean toward artisan crafts and souvenirs. The sprawling markets, however, remain the heart and soul of Aix’s commercial identity.
To truly shop like a local, one must embrace the rhythm of the day. Mornings are for market haggling and coffee stops, afternoons for shaded strolls along the Cours Mirabeau, and early evenings for browsing boutiques that stay open late during the summer months.
Before you set out with your tote bag and wallet, we have curated the definitive guide to the best retail therapy this city has to offer. Here are the premier destinations you should not miss.
Les Allées
| Address | Av. Giuseppe Verdi, 13100 Aix-en-Provence |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM |
| Phone | — |
Very colourful pedestrian street. Lots of shops. Good atmosphere
Not only a shopping mall you will find the Tourism Office of Aix en Provence, a meeting point a post office ATMs and much more like a statue of Cezannes a few steps from the Rotonde fountain
Aix en Provence is definitely worth a 3 hour trip from Paris. At least the weather is better and the locals are very friendly.
Like most of aix, it's a beautiful place that you can feel very safe shopping and enjoying your time!
Loads of shops, parking can be annoying but worth it
Nice viewing experience.. Especially
in summers and during festive seasons.
Shopping center Aix La Pioline
| Address | 1175 Rue Guillaume Du Vair Pole, 13290 Aix-en-Provence |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM Thursday: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM Friday: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM Saturday: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 04 42 39 59 81 |
Excellent variety of things permitting Easy choice and very good customer service
Great place to shop for every day needs and more
Unmanaged product selection. I do not like the fact that pigeons are still walking around the store, which can carry diseases and fleas - next to food, this is not a place for birds. Customer service is the worst, they work very slowly. The worst position is the department with cured meat, it goes through all possible acceptable norms of arrogance and neglect of the client. There are usually 3.4 people in a department, but only one works while cleaning, cleans meat cutting machines (and uses only one), covers the meat foil and during work, not before closing the store. The queue of waiting people is long, but only one employee serves, other employees talk to each other, laugh and tell each other stories in the presence of customers. The staff behave as if they were at a private party and do not pay attention to customers. If they do not want to work with the client and feel that they are going to this job as a punishment, let them change their job!
Sélection de produits non gérés. Je n'aime pas le fait que les pigeons se promènent constamment dans le magasin, qui peuvent transporter des maladies et des puces - à côté de la nourriture, ce n'est pas un endroit pour les oiseaux. Le service client est le pire, ils travaillent très lentement. La pire position est le département avec de la charcuterie, il passe par toutes les normes acceptables d'arrogance et de négligence du client. Il y a généralement 3,4 personnes dans un département, mais une seule travaille pendant le nettoyage, nettoie les machines de découpe de viande (et n'en utilise qu'une), couvre le papier d'aluminium et pendant le travail, pas avant la fermeture du magasin. La file d'attente des personnes en attente est longue, mais un seul employé sert, d'autres employés se parlent, rient et se racontent des histoires en présence de clients. Le personnel se comporte comme s'il était à une soirée privée et ne fait pas attention aux clients. S'ils ne veulent pas travailler avec le client et sentent qu'ils vont faire ce travail comme punition, laissez-les changer de travail!
Huge. They have everything 🛒
On route to get some shopping done during a public holiday in France!
Jas de Bouffan
| Address | 210 Av. de Bredasque, 13090 Aix-en-Provence |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | — |
Well, first Sunday of every month there would be a good kind of flea market. Can buy used things. In the parking area of the casino. Some antique things and some latest things. Could be a good bargain day For some middle class and low class citizens. The market opens early in the morning at around 6 during summer season. I liked it and enjoyed the day.
One of the good place to visit actually i just went without any idea but it's worth
Good mall for the area with a huge hypermarket.
It's very easy to rach by the bus
I like the shopping mall area because it's in my neighborhood and has all kinds of clothes stores, pet stores, supermarkets and fast food and the parking lot is huge. I recommend 100%
Nice shop, clean and with a good petrol station. Sometimes the car park gets busy but in general it's all great!
58 Cours Mirabeau
| Address | 58 Cr Mirabeau, 13100 Aix-en-Provence |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 04 42 53 47 05 |
440 meters long and 42 meters wide, the Cours Mirabeau is one of the most popular and lively places in the town. It is lined with many cafés, one of the most famous being Les Deux Garçons and during its history frequented by famous French cultural figures. By 1696 four fountains had been built : Fontaine des 9 canons, Fontaine "Moussue, Fontaine du Roi René and, to the west, "les Chevaux-Marins", now vanished.
Amazing locals selling handcrafted and natural local products from the region and further, really good atmosphere and delicious foods from Corsica to Brittany
The ultimate walkway in Aix. Several markets per week are along the Cours. The Christmas market is very special and is a must visit. Many restaurants are along the walk as well as many banks. The walk is always pleasant and pedestrian friendly. It is the heart and soul of Aix-en-Provence.
A very beautiful walkway! Worth going and it’s next to the old town too.
It's a very charming street with a lot of cafes, restaurants, and shops. It's a great place to start your route tour of Aix-en-Provence!
Place des Cardeurs
| Address | Pl. Forum des Cardeurs, 13100 Aix-en-Provence |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | 04 42 16 11 61 |
This is a wonderful plaza that's a blast to visit at night time with friends or family. With plenty of restaurants and more, it's got everything you need for a great representation of la vie de nuit en Aix-en-Provence. I visited the restaurant Tandem and got une arignée de porc, which was fantastic (even though they need to update their online menu 😂).
Lively square in the evening. Great atmosphere for a drink or even a meal. Had dinner there last night. Meal was very good, but people seemed to be just having a drink. We were there at 19:30, so that may have been a bit early for dining.
Beautigul vibrant market!! And the nougat is to die for!
With its many bars and restaurants, the Place des Cardeurs is a hub of Aix-en-Provence life.
Corresponding to the site of the Jewish quarter during the Middle Ages, the Place des Cardeurs was only created in 1963. A block of dilapidated houses, crisscrossed by narrow alleyways, was demolished to make way for this new space lined with renovated classic houses.
Great food, the owner and stuff are lovely and knowledgeable.
Very good English by the staff.
Centre Commercial L'Ensoleillée
| Address | Centre Commercial l'Ensoleillé, 724 Av. du Club Hippique, 13090 Aix-en-Provence |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 12:30 PM |
| Phone | 06 38 53 29 47 |
We were there for the Intermarche. Location is narrow and very unclear where to go
RAS
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I'm giving it 4 stars, mainly for the Intermarché supermarket. It's a shame there's no butcher or fishmonger. As for the pharmacy, I'm always missing medications from my prescription; I have to order them and go back. Since I work a lot, I don't really have the time, let alone chat at the checkout while customers wait their turn. And let's not even talk about the cleanliness—it leaves much to be desired. The new bakery has a friendly waitress and good products.
Nouvel Arrondissement
| Address | 6 Rue Matheron, 13100 Aix-en-Provence |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 1:00 – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 10:30 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 10:30 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 10:30 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 10:30 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 10:30 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 04 88 41 73 87 |
Wonderful selection of creative things e.g. puzzles, coloring books!
Best store for little gifts and gadgets for all! Friendly staff and a welcoming atmosphere. I will be back 🙂
The kindest safe and cutest gifts!!!
So cute inside
A superb boutique, bursting with color, textures, and patterns. A variety of brands, all equally lovely, offering plenty of options for finding perfect gifts, everyday accessories, little trinkets, home decor, and craft supplies. I go there regularly and always find something special; the service is always warm and welcoming! Highly recommended!
La Grande Boutique / Carlotta
| Address | 7B Rue de la Glacière, 13100 Aix-en-Provence |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 2:00 – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 2:00 – 7:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 2:00 – 7:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 2:00 – 7:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 2:00 – 7:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 04 42 26 30 72 |
La Grande Boutique is my go-to store for R13. The best pieces are often available here first – or exclusively – and every item is curated with a keen sense of style.
On top of that, the customer service is always friendly and attentive. Shopping here is simply a pleasure!
If I lived in Aix-en-Provence instead of Hamburg, La Grande Boutique would definitely be my favorite local store.
Bought a pair of $820.00 Golden Goose sneakers from this boutique on Farfetch. After wearing them once the sole is beginning to fall off the shoe. Their response has to send my shoes away for repair for 2-3 months. Worst $820.00 I have ever spent in my life.
I am based in London and the boutique is in the South of France, I have been a follower on Instagram and love all the labels the boutique offers. Very unique and individual not following trends setting a trend! The clothes are wearable and timeless, maybe s little pricy but one or two pieces is better than five average from other brands. Charlotte is very helpful and accommodating and this makes the experience pleasant and straight forward. I have ordered from the online store which is very easy to navigate with excellent images and the perfect model! Love it all!! J’adore Lagrandeboutique ! Merci
Got a few pairs of shoes, nice selection of brands, super fast delivery, nicely wrapped too and easy payment!
Very Bad Service!!!
LULLI
| Address | 4 Rue Peyresc, 13100 Aix-en-Provence |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 04 88 60 56 21 |
This store has one of the best curated collections I have ever come across - great combination of international designers and French niche brands. The staff are knowledgeable, kind, and super service-minded. It’s one of the loveliest shopping experiences I have had!
Looking for an exquisite shopping experience in a cozy boutique? This store offers it all, with a selection that feels handpicked just for you. The 5-star service truly shines, with shop assistants and a manager who are not only friendly but genuinely invested in helping you find what you need. Every visit is a delight! Highly recommend stopping by.
Several times I’ve been to this beautiful boutique. The team (Laure and some others) are so welcoming and helpful without being pushy. I adore the selection of jewelry that they have ..especially the brands Ginette NY and Vanrycke. I will be back soon!
A fabulous store with such a great edit of designers including my favourites Ancient Greek Sandals, Cecilie Bahnsen & JW Anderson! Laure is so helpful, never pushy, its a must visit for shopping in Aix!
Worse experience 😑.
I came with a friend of mine she was looking for a coat and me to fix my bracelet that my best friend offered me for xmast 2021, unfortunately i don’t remember where i put the receipt. I asked the young lady (une vendeuse) politely if the shop can fixed it since i know they have SAV. I gave my bracelet and continue to visit the shop with a friend of mine. So i go to the lady that i assumed as the supervisor of the shop, i asked if she can fixed it. And her answer was surprisingly unfriendly at all! She said they can not fixed since i don’t have the receipt and doesn’t give me a chance to give my friends name (the one who offered me the bracelet) even i was ready to pay extra to fix it.
2nd she said “oh sorry we cannot fix the thing more than 2 years ago!”
This lady doesn’t even know how to count from December 2021 and i came yesterday on 24th of January 2023 😑.
That bracelet cost my friend more than 300€ and i cant even wear it anymore. I preferred shopping at the shop next to this shop, Hermès always know how to treat their customers.
Les Commerces du Marché Aixois
| Address | 563 Rte du Puy Sainte-Réparade, 13090 Aix-en-Provence |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
Yes, since the renovation, the place is really very, very nice. There used to be no pharmacy, fishmonger, butcher, or bakery/pastry shop on site, but now it's absolutely perfect.
The price increase as soon as tourists arrive is really not cool.
A shop full of wonders, with incredibly fresh fruits and vegetables and wonderfully fresh local cheeses—in short, I'll definitely be back. I need to explore the deli section because I spotted some amazing things... A treasure trove for true food lovers.
The best fresh produce in the Bouches-du-Rhône
Excellent store, very high quality products, thank you.
Sézane & Octobre Aix-En-Provence
| Address | 5 Rue Papassaudi, 13080 Aix-en-Provence |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | — |
You can’t even touch the items! The attitude of the salespeople is awful. Such a bad experience even though I love this brand. I just had to leave the store.
Chic and stylish. Staff is very kind and helpful.
Love the brand but some staff (not all) are giving such an attitude. I went there after Christmas. Ask to try 4 Maille items. I felt I was disturbing her and felt almost sorry to ask (I was the only customer in this section). She was fairly arrogant and left me with not a nice smile when I returned the items after trying. Not the service we expect walking on eggshells to not hurt some feelings. Left saying I will buy online. Better.
I visited this store for the first time and was disappointed by the unprofessional service from one of the 'vendeuse'. The racks were mostly stocked with only small sizes in both men's and women's clothing. I asked if they had an item in size L or XL, and the salesperson brought the piece to the fitting room but never returned. After waiting, I went to look for her and saw she was pretending to be busy before disappearing.
I had to seek assistance again on my own. While my husband was trying something on, I overheard this new salesperson asking others for help because she was left alone at the front. So they not only abandon their clients, but happens the same among the staff.
My new fashion find. Love my new shoes and top!! Excellent quality. Beautiful products. I love this French fashion line!!
Boutique Kitch
| Address | 3 Rue Chabrier, 13100 Aix-en-Provence |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 2:30 – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 04 42 28 54 08 |
Way too much pushing towards the more expensive stuff. The staff make you feel ill at ease. I tried to exchange a very expensive mistake for another slightly less expensive item and I was basically told to go and get stuffed, they had my money and that was that! Shame as it's a good shop with interesting brands.
For women a must go in Aix.
horrible
Super!
A boutique I've always loved! My mother used to shop there, and now I continue to do so with the same pleasure. Sylvie, her daughter Justine, and Myriam are always very helpful, welcoming, professional, and incredibly kind. They have original, high-quality clothing, with some truly unique pieces. It's a real pleasure to go there; I recommend this boutique without hesitation!
This address has become a true family tradition, and I hope it stays that way for a long time to come! ❤️
Practical Tips for Shopping in Aix-en-Provence
To ensure your shopping excursion is as seamless as it is enjoyable, it is essential to understand the local etiquette and logistical nuances. A little preparation regarding timing, payment methods, and local customs can significantly enhance your experience, allowing you to navigate the boutiques and stalls with the confidence of a resident.
- Master the Market Hours: The famous markets are predominantly morning affairs. Arrive before 10:00 AM to see the best produce and avoid the heavy tourist crowds. Most stallholders begin packing up by 12:30 PM, so early birds truly do get the worm—or in this case, the best lavender and the freshest goat cheese.
- Carry Cash and a Sturdy Bag: While major stores accept credit cards, many vendors at the flea markets, antique stalls, and food markets operate on a cash-only basis. Furthermore, plastic bags are heavily discouraged in France, so bringing your own reusable tote is both environmentally friendly and practical for carrying fragile purchases.
- Understand "Les Soldes": If you are visiting in January or July, you are in luck. These are the official government-regulated sale periods in France. Discounts are real and strictly controlled. However, if you visit outside these months, do not expect to haggle in boutiques; prices are fixed, unlike in the open-air flea markets where polite negotiation is expected.
- Embrace the Siesta (Fermeture): Many smaller, independent boutiques close for a long lunch break, often from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM or even 3:00 PM. Plan your day around this. Use this time to sit at a café on the Cours Mirabeau; shopping resumes when the shopkeepers return refreshed.
- Look for "Fait Main" and AOC Labels: To ensure you are buying authentic local goods rather than mass-produced imports, look for specific markers. For crafts, "Fait Main" (handmade) is a good sign. For food items like honey, wine, or lavender, look for AOC/AOP labels or "Produit en Provence" to guarantee origin.
- Tax-Free Shopping: Non-EU residents can benefit from a VAT refund (détaxe) on purchases exceeding a certain amount (usually around €100) made in the same store on the same day. Look for the "Tax Free" sticker in shop windows and bring your passport with you when shopping for larger ticket items.
Aix-en-Provence is more than just a destination; it is a sensory experience, and its shops are the storytellers of the region’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you leave with a suitcase full of calissons, a handwoven basket, or simply a memory of a sun-drenched square, the treasures you find here carry the essence of the South of France.
As you wander from the bustling markets to the quiet, art-filled alleys, remember that the best purchase is often the one that connects you to the place. Take your time, engage with the artisans, and allow the city’s timeless elegance to guide your journey through its most beautiful storefronts.
