Place Richelme, Aix en Provence

Market and Square in Aix en Provence

CC BY-SA 2.0 / fretless88

In the heart of Aix-en-Provence's old town, Place Richelme is one of the top attractions in Aix-en-Provence for anyone wanting to experience the city's authentic rhythm. This charming square bursts into life each morning with its daily farmers' market, a feast for the senses where stalls overflow with olives, lavender honey, ripe fruit, and cheeses from the surrounding countryside. Beneath the dappled shade of plane trees, the aroma of freshly baked bread mingles with the sound of vendors calling out their wares, creating a quintessential Provençal scene.

The square's relaxed atmosphere invites you to slow down, sip a coffee, and watch local life unfold. Surrounded by cafés and arcaded buildings, Place Richelme captures the essence of Aix — elegant yet unpretentious, vibrant yet intimate. It's often visited on walking-tours of Aix and remains a favorite meeting spot for locals, making it one of the must-see places in Aix-en-Provence.

History and Significance of Place Richelme
Things to See and Do in Place Richelme
How to Get There
Practical Tips on Visiting Place Richelme
Is Place Richelme Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting
Nearby Attractions to Place Richelme

History and Significance of Place Richelme

Place Richelme dates back to the Middle Ages and has long served as a focal point for trade and social interaction in Aix. Its name honors Jean de Richelme, a 15th-century jurist and philanthropist whose contributions to the city helped shape its civic life. Over the centuries, the square evolved from a simple market ground to a refined urban space surrounded by elegant 17th- and 18th-century buildings.

Its central location between the Hôtel de Ville and Cours Mirabeau made it an ideal gathering point for merchants, townsfolk, and travelers. Even as the city expanded, Place Richelme retained its traditional function as Aix's daily food market — a cherished institution that continues to link the city's past with its lively present.

Things to See and Do in Place Richelme

The highlight of any visit to Place Richelme is its vibrant morning market, open every day of the week. Here, local farmers and artisans display seasonal produce — sun-ripened tomatoes, fragrant herbs, truffle oils, and handmade soaps — all sourced from Provence's fertile lands. The market is not only a place to shop but to engage with the locals, who are always happy to share a recipe or a recommendation.

When the market winds down around midday, the square transforms into a peaceful spot for lunch or coffee. The arcaded cafés that line its perimeter, such as the popular Café des Deux Garçons, offer perfect vantage points for people-watching. In summer, the square hosts small festivals and cultural events that add to its lively character. This spot is one of the best places to see in Aix-en-Provence if you want to feel its local soul — equal parts tradition, gastronomy, and charm.

How to Get There

Place Richelme is centrally located in Aix-en-Provence's old town, just a few steps from Place de l'Hôtel-de-Ville and a short walk from Cours Mirabeau. The nearest train station is Gare SNCF d’Aix-en-Provence. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place. For visitors arriving by car, convenient parking can be found at Rotonde or Pasteur Car Park, both within a short walk of the square. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting Place Richelme

Best time to visit Place Richelme: Morning, between 8:00 a.m. and noon, during the daily market.
Entrance fee in Euros: Free public access.
Opening hours: Market open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Official website: www.aixenprovence.fr
How long to spend: 30–60 minutes to browse, shop, and enjoy a coffee.
Accessibility: Flat and easily accessible for all visitors.
Facilities: Nearby restrooms, cafés, and ATMs.
Photography tip: Capture the early-morning bustle when light filters through the plane trees onto colorful market stalls.
Guided tours: Included in many food and heritage tours of Aix.
Nearby food options: Numerous cafés and bistros around the square serving Provençal dishes and local wines.

Is Place Richelme Worth Visiting?

Definitely. Place Richelme is one of the things to do in Aix-en-Provence that best captures the daily life and culinary heritage of the region. Whether you're here to shop for fresh produce, sip a coffee, or simply enjoy the market's lively atmosphere, the square offers a perfect taste of authentic Provence. Its friendly, welcoming vibe makes it a favorite stop for both locals and travelers alike.

FAQs for Visiting

Is the market open every day?
Yes, the food market takes place daily, even on Sundays.

What time does the market end?
Most stalls close around 1:00 p.m.

Are credit cards accepted at the stalls?
Some vendors accept cards, but cash is recommended.

Can I sit and eat in the square?
Yes, many cafés and terraces offer outdoor seating.

Is it crowded?
It can be busy in the mornings, especially on weekends, so arrive early for the best experience.

Nearby Attractions to Place Richelme

Place de l'Hôtel-de-Ville – A nearby square known for its Clock Tower and flower market.
Cours Mirabeau – Aix's famous boulevard lined with cafés and fountains.
Saint-Sauveur Cathedral – A beautiful blend of architectural styles just north of the square.
Musée Granet – The city's premier art museum featuring works by Cézanne and others.
Pavillon de Vendôme – A 17th-century mansion surrounded by peaceful gardens.

The Place Richelme appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Aix en Provence!

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!