Getting Around In Aix-en-provence

Aix-en-Provence is a relatively small town and as such, it does not have a metro system. The bus network is extremely comprehensive and buses are very clean and comfortable. Train services take you out of the town to other regions throughout France, but do not serve inner suburbs of Aix. It is also possible and enjoyable to walk around the town, as most sights and conveniences are all within close proximity of each other.

By train

It is possible to catch trains from Aix to the rest of Provence, such as Marseille, Meyrargues and Pertuis, and to cities farther afield such as Paris. The journey to Paris on the TGV train takes under 3 hours. There are two train stations in Aix, the TGV station, which is easily accessible by road and is serviced by bus routes, and the SNCF station, which can be found in the centre of the town.

The TGV trains are high-speed and the SNCF is the national network. Tickets must be validated before boarding and there are discounts rates available for people aged from 12 to 25 years old. There are also discounts and services for disabled passengers and a special service for children travelling unaccompanied. First class and second class are available; however, most people travel second class, as it is very comfortable and a fraction of the cost of first class.

By bus

Buses are the most popular mode of transport in the town and because of this, there is an extensive bus network. There are 21 routes serving the town and its surrounding suburbs, making travel extremely easy. The main bus station, Gare Routière, can be found in the town centre and from here you can travel around the town to areas surrounding Aix and also to other regional and national destinations.

Tickets can either be bought in advance or you can pay as you board the bus. Books of 10 tickets can be bought at a reduced rate from newsstands or at the bus station. Bus schedules are posted in bus shelters and detailed bus maps can be found at the main bus station.

Taxis

Taxis can be found all across town and there are taxi ranks on many corners. Taxis are metered and fairly good value for money for short journeys. They get more expensive the longer your journey is. If you would rather book a taxi in advance, you can all Taxi Radio Aixois on: +33 0442 277 111.

Tourist services

There are no tourist buses in Aix, mainly due to the town’s small size and the fact that all of the major attractions are within close proximity of each other. The public bus service is excellent and runs throughout the town, with stops at all the major sights.

From the airport

There is a convenient shuttle bus that runs from the airport to the centre of Aix, stopping en route at the TGV station. This is an efficient service running every 30 minutes. Public buses also run from the airport to the main bus station in the city, taking approximately 30 to 50 minutes. Taxis are available outside of Arrivals 24 hours.