Aigues-Mortes Travel Guide

Explore the charming town of Aigues-Mortes in France through this comprehensive travel guide - from its must-visit cultural and natural attractions to its local cuisine and customs.


Introduction to Aigues-Mortes

Located in the region of Occitanie in the south of France, Aigues-Mortes is a small medieval town surrounded by walls and salt marshes. Known for its rich history and cultural heritage, Aigues-Mortes attracts tourists who want to experience the authentic French charm. The town is also home to natural wonders, outdoor adventures, and delicious local food and drinks.

In this comprehensive travel guide to Aigues-Mortes, we’ll take you on a journey to discover the best things to do, see, eat, and experience in this charming town.

List of Places to Visit in Aigues-Mortes

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Constance Tower
  • Saint-Louis Church
  • Ramparts of Aigues-Mortes
  • Salins du Midi Museum

Natural Attractions of Aigues-Mortes: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Espiguette Beach
  • Camargue Regional Park
  • Salins d’Aigues-Mortes

Hiking/Biking Routes of Aigues-Mortes

  • Le Tour de Camargue
  • Circuit des Basses Terres d’Aigues-Mortes

Best Things to Do in Aigues-Mortes: Activities and Tours

  • Visit the pink salt flats of Salins d’Aigues-Mortes
  • Take a boat tour to explore the Camargue salt marshes
  • Walk around the medieval town and discover its fascinating history
  • Try horseback riding in Camargue

Week-Long Itinerary for Aigues-Mortes

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Constance Tower and learn about the town’s history
Day 2 Take a bike tour to explore the Camargue salt marshes
Day 3 Relax on Espiguette Beach and enjoy the Mediterranean sea
Day 4 Visit the Salins du Midi Museum and learn about salt production
Day 5 Take a boat tour in the Camargue Regional Park and spot flamingos
Day 6 Explore the town’s ramparts and Saint-Louis Church
Day 7 Try horseback riding in Camargue and enjoy the natural landscape

Food and Drink Scene of Aigues-Mortes

Must-Try Dishes

  • Gardianne: a signature stew made with beef.
  • Brandade: a creamy fish dish made with codfish
  • Fougasse: a bakery specialty that resembles a flatbread.

Local Beverages

  • Vin des Sables: a local wine made from grapes grown on sandy soil.
  • Muscat: a sweet dessert wine made in the Languedoc-Roussillon region.

Where to Stay in Aigues-Mortes: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel des Remparts
  • La Villa Mazarin
  • Hotel Saint Louis

What to Buy in Aigues-Mortes: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Fleur de Sel: the local sea salt that is used in many of the dishes in the region.
  • Camargue Rice: a local specialty that’s perfect for risottos and paella.
  • Handmade Soap: made with the locally produced Camargue honey and other natural ingredients.

Local Culture and Customs of Aigues-Mortes

Aigues-Mortes is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The town has strong ties to the Catholic Church and celebrates many religious festivals and traditions throughout the year. The town also has a strong connection with agriculture, especially rice and wine production.

Best Time to Visit Aigues-Mortes

The best time to visit Aigues-Mortes is from May to October, when the weather is warm and sunny. The peak season is in July and August, with many tourists flocking to the town to enjoy its beaches and outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Aigues-Mortes

Do:

  • Try the local food and drinks
  • Respect the town’s history and cultural heritage
  • Be polite and courteous to locals

Don’t:

  • Climb the town’s ramparts without permission
  • Wear inappropriate clothing in religious sites
  • Litter or damage the natural environment

Safety and Health

Safety in Aigues-Mortes

Aigues-Mortes is a safe town, with a low crime rate. However, it’s always advisable to take precautions when traveling, such as not leaving your belongings unattended and avoiding unlit and secluded areas at night.

Health in Aigues-Mortes

There are no specific health risks associated with Aigues-Mortes. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions or require medication, it’s always best to consult your doctor before traveling.

Getting to Aigues-Mortes: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Aigues-Mortes

The nearest airport to Aigues-Mortes is Montpellier–Méditerranée Airport, which is approximately 30 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Aigues-Mortes

There is a regular bus service that connects Aigues-Mortes to nearby towns and cities, including Nimes, Montpellier, and Arles.

Other Options

If you’re traveling from within France, another option is to take the TGV train to Nimes or Montpellier and then take a bus or taxi to Aigues-Mortes. You can also rent a car and drive to Aigues-Mortes from major cities such as Marseille, Toulouse, and Lyon.

How to Get Around in Aigues-Mortes

The town is quite small and can be easily explored on foot. If you want to cover more ground, you can rent a bike or a car to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Aigues-Mortes: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Montpellier: a vibrant university town with stunning architecture and beautiful beaches.
  • Arles: a picturesque town that inspired many of Vincent van Gogh’s paintings.
  • Marseille: a bustling port city with a rich history and cultural heritage.

Conclusion

Aigues-Mortes is a charming and picturesque town that offers visitors an authentic French experience. From its rich history and cultural heritage to its natural wonders and delicious local food, there is something for everyone in Aigues-Mortes. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be able to plan your trip to Aigues-Mortes and make the most of your time in this beautiful town.

View along the ramparts to the Constance Tower View along the ramparts to the Constance Tower