✓ Handpicked Luxury Stays in Budget on 🏡 booking.com
If you have done the things to do in France, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Aix-en-Provence.
Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and scents of the Provençal town of Aix-en-Provence, where every corner is adorned with the graceful beauty of its historic architecture.
From sipping rosé at a secluded café to exploring the charming boutiques along winding cobblestone streets, Aix-en-Provence is a destination that will awaken your senses and soothe your soul.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Aix-en-Provence:
1. Cours Mirabeau
Cours Mirabeau is a lively tree-lined avenue in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, France.
What to see or do: Stroll along the avenue and admire the beautiful 17th and 18th-century architecture, enjoy a coffee at one of the many cafes, and browse through the local markets.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the famous fountain at the end of the avenue, which dates back to the 17th century and features three statues representing justice, agriculture, and fine arts.
Insider travel tips: Visit Cours Mirabeau in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the avenue is long and there’s plenty to see on foot.
2. Atelier Cézanne
Atelier Cézanne is a museum located in Aix-en-Provence, France, dedicated to the life and work of famous Post-Impressionist painter, Paul Cézanne.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the artist’s original workspace and see where he painted his famous still-life paintings of fruit and other objects.
The museum is filled with his personal belongings, art equipment, and many of his paintings.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the stunning view of Montagne Sainte-Victoire from the garden of the museum, which was one of Cézanne’s favorite views and a subject of many of his landscapes.
Insider travel tips: – The museum can get crowded during peak hours, so try to arrive early or later in the day.
3. Saint-Sauveur Cathedral
A stunning Roman Catholic cathedral located in the historic center of Aix-en-Provence, France.
What to see or do: Admire the impressive neoclassical facade, ornate interior adorned with frescoes and intricate stonework, and the grand organ. Attend a mass or concert for an unforgettable experience.
Don’t miss: The famous painting “Assumption of the Virgin” by Italian artist Luca Giordano, located above the high altar.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Visit on a sunny day to see the beautiful stained glass windows and intricate details of the architecture.
Check the Cathedral’s website for upcoming events and concerts.
4. Les Deux Garçons café
Historic café in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, France.
What to see or do: Stop by for a cup of coffee or a classic French breakfast. Admire the Belle Époque decor and the outdoor terrace overlooking Cours Mirabeau, one of the city’s main avenues.
Don’t miss: Trying their famous hot chocolate, which is known to be thick and decadent.
Insider travel tips: Come early in the day to avoid crowds and secure a spot on the terrace. Les Deux Garçons can be a bit pricey, but it’s worth the splurge for the ambiance and people-watching opportunities.
In the evening, the café transforms into a lively bar scene with live music and cocktails.
5. Vieil Aix
What to see or do: Stroll through the charming narrow streets lined with colorful buildings, visit the Cours Mirabeau promenade, admire the stunning architecture of the Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur, and wander around the local markets for souvenirs and fresh produce.
Don’t miss: The Musée Granet art museum and the Hôtel de Caumont art center.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the early morning or late evening to avoid the crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Wear comfortable walking shoes as the streets and sidewalks are uneven.
Don’t hesitate to ask locals for recommendations on authentic restaurants and bakeries.
6. Hôtel de Ville
Historical town hall situated in the heart of Aix-en-Provence.
What to see or do: Admire the ornate façade and elegant architecture of the building. Take a stroll through the adjacent square, Place de l’Hôtel de Ville, where you can find local markets and festivals.
Don’t miss: The beautiful fountain in front of the building which serves as an iconic symbol of Aix-en-Provence.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the golden hour (just before sunset) for stunning views and photo opportunities. Check the town hall’s website for any upcoming events or exhibitions that may be of interest.
7. Hôtel de Caumont Art Centre
Hôtel de Caumont Art Centre is a historic mansion turned museum and art center situated in the heart of Aix-en-Provence.
What to see or do: Expect to see a diverse range of art exhibitions, concerts, and cultural events housed within the magnificent 18th-century building.
Don’t miss: Be sure not to miss the beautiful French-style gardens that surround the property, which are perfect for a relaxing stroll after exploring the exhibitions inside.
Insider travel tips: Try to plan your visit in advance so you can catch one of the many temporary exhibitions that the center frequently hosts.
Also, grab a coffee or tea at their outdoor café before or after your visit for a truly French experience.
8. Pavillon de Vendôme
A 17th-century private mansion turned into a public museum located in the heart of Aix-en-Provence.
What to see or do: Admire the exquisite architecture and elegant ornamentation of the mansion, stroll the beautiful French-style garden, explore the exhibitions featuring the 17th and 18th century arts and furniture, and take in the stunning views of the city from the rooftop terrace.
Don’t miss: The collection of 17th-century French paintings, including works by Nicolas Poussin, Charles Le Brun, and Simon Vouet.
Insider travel tips: Check out the museum’s website to learn about its cultural events, such as concerts, lectures, and guided tours. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning garden and city views.
Visiting during the weekdays tends to be less crowded.
9. Musée Granet
Musée Granet is a fine arts museum located in Aix-en-Provence, France.
What to see or do: The museum boasts an impressive collection of paintings, sculpture and art objects that date back to the 16th century. Art lovers will be thrilled to see works by famous artists like Cézanne, Rembrandt, Rubens and Van Gogh.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the permanent collection of works by Cézanne, who was born in Aix-en-Provence. The museum has one of the largest collections of Cézanne’s work.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is located in the historic heart of Aix-en-Provence, so you can combine your visit with a stroll around the charming cobblestone streets.
10. Quartier Mazarin
A historic neighborhood in Aix-en-Provence, France known for its elegant architecture and cultural significance.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets lined with 17th and 18th century mansions, art galleries, antique shops, and cafes.
Admire the stunning facades, ornate balconies, and grand doors of the buildings. Visit the Chapelle des Oblats, a beautiful 19th century chapel featuring stunning stained glass windows and intricate artwork.
Don’t miss: Exploring the beautiful gardens and courtyards hidden behind the grand buildings of Quartier Mazarin. Take an afternoon break with a coffee or a glass of wine in one of the many charming cafes.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit Quartier Mazarin is in the early morning or later in the evening when the streets are quieter and the light is perfect for photography.
Don’t be afraid to explore the alleys and side streets, as some of the most beautiful buildings are tucked away. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as the streets are cobbled and uneven in some places.
11. Château La Coste
Château La Coste is an expansive vineyard and cultural center located just outside of Aix-en-Provence, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the vineyards, which produces organic wines, or explore the on-site art installations and galleries, which include works by renowned artists like Ai Weiwei and Frank Gehry.
Don’t miss: The stunning Frank Gehry-designed Pavilion, which houses a performance space and exhibition gallery, as well as the Tadao Ando-designed water mirror.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to book a wine-tasting or vineyard tour in advance, and bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring the expansive property.
The property also features several dining options, including a Michelin-starred restaurant, so plan ahead to make reservations.
12. Camp des Milles Memorial Site
Camp des Milles Memorial Site is a former internment camp located in Aix-en-Provence, France, that has been converted into a memorial and museum.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the site’s various buildings and exhibitions to learn about the French internment experience and the role the camp played during World War II.
The museum features artwork, historical artifacts, and personal accounts from former internees.
Don’t miss: One of the most powerful exhibits is the “Convoy 73” train car, which was used to transport prisoners from Camp des Milles to Auschwitz.
Visitors can also see the cell where philosopher and political activist Walter Benjamin spent time before he ultimately took his own life.
Insider travel tips: – The site can be quite emotionally taxing, so be sure to plan for some downtime afterward.
13. Bibliothèque Méjanes
Bibliothèque Méjanes is a public library located in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, France.
It is a historic library that dates back to the 17th century and has undergone extensive renovations to modernize its facilities.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the library’s vast collection of books, manuscripts, and documents that cover a wide range of topics. The library also houses temporary exhibitions that showcase various aspects of history and culture.
Don’t miss: One of the standout features of Bibliothèque Méjanes is its unique architecture, which combines modern and historic elements. Be sure to check out the grand reading room, which boasts soaring ceilings and intricate frescoes.
Insider travel tips: Admission to the Bibliothèque Méjanes is free, but visitors must register at the reception desk upon arrival.
The library offers guided tours in both English and French, which are highly recommended to gain deeper insight into the library’s collection and history.
Plan to spend at least an hour exploring this impressive cultural institution.
14. Église Saint-Jean-de-Malte
Église Saint-Jean-de-Malte is a beautiful 18th-century church located in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning Baroque architecture of the church, including its impressive façade and grand interior. The church is also home to a number of beautiful works of art, including a painting by Delacroix.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a close look at the intricate details of the church’s façade, which features elaborate carvings and sculptures.
Inside, don’t miss the impressive altarpiece and the ornate decorations that adorn the walls and ceiling.
Insider travel tips: – If you’re interested in the church’s art and architecture, consider taking a guided tour to learn more about its history and significance.