Did you know that Aix-en-Provence is situated only a couple hours drive from the southern Alps and about ½-hour from the Mediterranean? Aix is great as a “home base” for fun day trips any time of year, no matter whether they involve ski parkas or suntan oil.
One of my favorite day trips is Cassis, where you can walk the town, have a terrific seafood lunch in the marina, hike a nearby calanque, and enjoy a wine tasting at one of the scenic domains all in the same day. Or within 2½-hours, you can be in Saint-Tropez, Monaco, L’Isle sur la Sorgue, the Alps or even sit down for a pasta lunch across the border in Italy. Another intriguing idea to consider is Marseille, which is just a short 32km (20 miles) to the south of Aix-en-Provence. With so many options, it’s less a matter of what vibrant places can you see and enjoy, and more how can you choose?
Driving Suggestions for Day Trips
Have plenty of change (coins) or a credit card with the electronic chip handy on your outing. France tolls the major roadways, and only coins or contactless card payments are accepted at the electronic peages (toll booths). If you have paper money or are expecting to enter a pin with your card payment, you’ll find yourself with some annoyed drivers in line behind you as you try to get it sorted out. There’s a speaker that you can use to contact someone if you get stuck, and it’s likely they will speak at least enough English to communicate if needed.
Don’t worry, it’s easy when you’re prepared and you‘ll quickly get the hang of it, because no matter which direction you go you’ll pause frequently to make a donation.