Planning a trip to the South of France? Aix-en-Provence, a historic ancient Roman town, seduced us with its rich artistic heritage, colorful alleyways and Mediterranean lifestyle. We were charmed by this city, where Paul Cézanne drew his inspiration and where history blends harmoniously with modernity. A destination well worth the detour to discover the soul of Provence!
Discover our ideas and useful tips on what to do in Aix-en-Provence, illustrated with photos.
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
1. Stroll through the alleys of the historic center
Why visit?
First stop: the historic heart of Aix-en-Provence. Its Provencal charm will immerse you in the authentic atmosphere of the town, with its colorful facades, numerous fountains and lively squares. What a pleasant stroll in this pedestrian zone, where every alley reveals architectural treasures. You’ll discover the old town, the Place de l’Hôtel de Ville and the Place des Cardeurs, which form a harmonious whole. Our favorites of the neighborhood? The pretty Place des Quatre Dauphins and surrounding colorful alleyways like rue Cardinale and rue du 4 septembre. Capture the essence of the city at your own pace!
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 2 to 3 hours for leisurely exploration
- Opening hours: open continuously
- Difficulties and PRM access: mostly pedestrian zone, some cobblestones but flat ground, sidewalks sometimes small in non-pedestrian areas, narrow streets.
- Access: several bus routes stop near the Fontaine de la Rotonde (see details here) or take a ride on the downtown tourist train – book your ticket now!
- Parking: Parking Mignet, Parking La Rotonde, Parking Carnot
- Restaurants: numerous terraces and cafés
- Would you like to discover the historic center in a different way? Book your gourmet and cultural tour of Aix-en-Provence now!
2. The Hôtel de Caumont, a jewel of art and architecture
Why visit?
The Hôtel de Caumont is one of our favorite museums in Aix-en-Provence! Firstly, because this 18th-century mansion, with its refined moldings and antique tapestries, reveals all the elegance of Provencal art de vivre. Then it’s on to the French gardens that surround this major art center: what a magnificent place, and what a soothing moment! Weather permitting, you can also enjoy the terrace of the Hôtel de Caumont café, which overlooks the gardens.
Temporary exhibitions are harmoniously integrated into rooms fitted out with refined period furniture. They have added a contemporary dimension to this major historical heritage.
Book your ticket now here!
Practical advice
- Tour duration: about 1h30
- Opening hours: open daily, April 30 to October 5, 10am to 7pm, October 6 to April 29, 10am to 6pm (more information on the official website here).
- Difficulties and access for disabled people: accessible for disabled people, flat floor, no steps to museum entrance, changing table available in ground-floor toilets, gravel and steps in gardens.
- Prices: full price €18, audioguide €4.50 (more details here)
- Access: several bus routes stop near the Fontaine de la Rotonde (see details here), just a 5-minute walk from the art center, or take a ride on the downtown tourist train – book your ticket now!
- Parking: Parking Mignet 5min walk, Parking La Rotonde less than 10min walk, Parking Carnot less than 10min walk
- Catering: Café Caumont on site with terrace overlooking the gardens
- Book your ticket now here
3. Discover the Musée Granet and its exceptional collections
Why visit?
As one of Aix-en-Provence’s major institutions, we couldn’t overlook the famous Musée Granet! You’ll discover masterpieces ranging from Antiquity to modern art. Our favorite area is the sculpture gallery, although we advise you to be very careful not to touch anything as the sculptures are numerous and close together. Note that the museum is spread over two spaces: the historic building on Place Saint-Jean de Malte displays collections from Antiquity to the 19th century, while the Granet XXe space in the Chapelle des Pénitents blancs on Place Jean Boyer showcases Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works. You’ll also discover a charming room dedicated to Paul Cézanne.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 2h to 3h for both areas, or 1 half-day depending on your interests
- Opening hours: Musée Granet (Place Saint-Jean de Malte) open Monday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. except Thursdays, 12 p.m. to 10 p.m., Granet XXe open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (see here for possible updates).
- Difficulties and PRM access: PRM access with ramps and elevators in the 2 areas, all exits are definitive, backpacks and bulky luggage prohibited, baby carriers for small children; strollers, scooters and pets not accepted.
- Prices: Musée Granet (Place Saint-Jean de Malte) full price 18€, Granet XXe 6€ full price / 3€ on presentation of ticket Musée Granet audioguide available and paying in the 2 spaces
- Access: two separate sites downtown, by bus (from Fontaine Rotonde) lines M1, 3, 5, 6 and 13 (Gambetta or Saint-Jean stop)
- Parking: Carnot or Mignet parking lots
- Eating out: no on-site restaurant, Restaurant Licandro le Bistro (bistronomic) or salad bar L’Atelier des saisons (healthy and inexpensive) less than 15min walk away.
- Entrance to the museum is also included in the Aix-en-Provence tourist city pass – find out more here.
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4. In the intimacy of Cézanne, the master’s museum and studio
Why visit?
Pushing open the doors of Cézanne’s studio (also known as Atelier des Lauves), we immersed ourselves in the intimacy of the Impressionist master. Personal objects, period furniture, sketches… An atmosphere preserved from its place of creation. We were delighted by this insight into the painter’s daily life, where you can wander among the easels and still lifes that inspired his greatest works. The audioguide included with the City Pass greatly enriched our visit. Remember to book in advance. You can also enjoy free access to the studio’s outdoor garden to discover the environment that inspired the artist’s last creative project. Another strong point for us: the small seating capacity makes for an intimate experience.
Practical advice
- Duration of the visit: 1 hour
- Opening hours: open from June 28th to September 30th daily from 9am to 7pm, from October 1st to November 2nd daily from 10am to 5.30pm.
- Difficulties and PRM access: slightly steep climb to get there on foot, a few steps before entering the workshop, large outdoor garden, so bring good shoes, prefer small bags and baby carriers, avoid bulky bags and strollers.
- Prices: full price €9.50, concessions €7.50, audioguide included with City Pass
- Access: on the Colline des Lauves, about 35min walk from the town center, by bus lines 5 and 12 (Atelier Cézanne stop)
- Parking: Parking Pasteur 15 minutes’ walk away
- Catering: No on-site catering, so we suggest you return to the town center for a bite to eat (Maison Weibel tearoom, Restaurant Licandro or l’Atelier des Saisons salad bar).
- Visit the official website for more info here
5. Saint-Sauveur Cathedral, witness to a thousand years of history
Why visit?
Back to the heart of the city, where Saint-Sauveur Cathedral bears witness to a thousand years of religious architecture. With a fascinating superposition of Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque styles creating a unique solemn atmosphere, we were impressed by the building’s 3 naves. Classified as a historic monument in the 1st half of the 19th century, you’ll also discover the magnificent cloister and the famous Retable du Buisson-ardent. Note that the building has a few steps at the entrance, but ramps inside for access to the various chapels. This self-guided tour allows you to appreciate centuries of sacred art in a unique architectural setting. The icing on the cake: the sublimely coloured 15th-century stained glass windows that caught our eye!
Practical advice
- Visit duration: 45min to 1h15 depending on your interest
- Opening hours: open daily from 8am to 6.30pm, see mass times here
- Difficulties and PRM access: a few small steps to enter, but ramps inside to access the chapels.
- Admission: free entry
- Access: pedestrianized downtown area, difficult to reach by car or public transport, bus lines 3 (Bourse stop 5min walk) or 5 (Bellegarde stop 10min walk), access by downtown tourist train – book your ticket now.
- Parking: nearest parking lot avenue Giuseppe Verdi
- Eating and drinking: within 5-10min walk Restaurant Licandro (bistronomic), Restaurant Niro (bistronomic), Restaurant Kava Aix (excellent brunch)
- Book your ticket now for the sublime digital music show inside the cathedral – magic and enchantment guaranteed!
6. Dive into optical art at the Vasarely Foundation
Why visit?
This is one of the museums that made the biggest impression on us. Further south, the Vasarely Foundation promises an artistic escape in a different register, with its gigantic kinetic and optical art modules. As we entered these large rooms with their impressive high ceilings, we were mesmerized by these interesting works in motion, creating a strikingly immersive journey. In our opinion, the combination of art and architecture makes this foundation a cultural landmark of its own in Aix-en-Provence. You can park your stroller under the stairs when you arrive, and the spaces are fully accessible to people with reduced mobility, with wide aisles. Although a little out of the historic center, the site has free dedicated parking on site. Some works were being restored at the time of your visit.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 1h30 to 2h depending on your interests
- Opening hours: open Wednesday to Sunday, 10:30am to 5:30pm; from July 1 to August 31, 2025, open daily, 10am to 6pm; December 24, 10am to 4pm; closed December 25 and January 1 (see here for updates).
- Difficulties and access for PRMs: spaces accessible to PRMs, no difficulty in accessing flat ground
- Prices: full price €15 (see details of discounts and freebies here), admission included with City Pass Aix-en-Provence (more info here)
- Access: a little off the beaten track in relation to the city’s attractions
- Parking: free dedicated parking on site
- Catering: before or after the tour, in the city center (see our suggestions later in this article or our forthcoming selection article).
7. Nature break at Parc Saint-Mitre and its Japanese garden
Why visit?
Still in the Jas de Bouffan district, we continued our visit with a stop at Parc Saint-Mitre. What a soothing breath of nature! Its large, calm, open spaces, century-old trees and magnificent Japanese garden won us over. We enjoyed this large park with its beautiful botanical garden, where you can relax away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Children’s playgrounds also make it an ideal family destination. As you move deeper into the park, you’ll come across Théâtre No, a performance venue located near the Japanese garden, which adds a cultural dimension to this place of relaxation. Are you ready for a moment of peace and quiet in the heart of Provence?
Practical advice
- Tour duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Opening hours: November to January daily 8am to 5pm, February 9am to 5:30pm, March 8am to 6:30pm, April 9am to 7:30pm, May and August 8am to 8pm, June and July 9am to 9pm, September 8am to 7:30pm, October 8am to 7pm (see city website for updates )
- Difficulties and access for disabled people: accessible, wide aisles, no walking, good shoes for greater peace and quiet.
- Rates: free of charge
- Access: bus lines 3 and 26 (Flemming stop a 5-minute walk away), bus line 8 (Stade Ouest stop a 10-minute walk away)
- Parking: available in the surrounding lanes
- Catering: no catering facilities but picnic areas in the park
8. Contemplating the Montagne Sainte-Victoire from the Terrain des Peintres
Why visit?
Did you know that Paul Cézanne regularly visited this spot to find inspiration and admire the Montagne Sainte-Victoire? Le Terrain des Peintres promises exceptional panoramas of this mountain in an inspiring atmosphere. And we weren’t disappointed after that great climb! What a thrill to discover this mythical view and the landscaped plateau.
Several canvases of the Sainte-Victoire by Cézanne’s contemporaries are on display. This would have been one of the places where Paul Cézanne regularly went outside his studio to paint and find inspiration. From the Terrain des Peintres, we also hiked for a few hours, following the signposts.
Practical advice
- Visit duration: 1 hour to several hours depending on the hike
- Times: open-air site, continuously accessible, but preferable during the day for safety reasons (path and difficulties better visible during the day).
- Difficulties and PRM access: very steep slope, PRM access possible by going around, good shoes and comfortable clothing recommended.
- Rates: free access
- Access: viewpoint accessible by car or uphill on foot (35-40min from downtown), bus line 5 (Les Peintres stop 5min walk)
- Parking: difficult, residential area, no dedicated parking lot
- Catering: no catering facilities on site or nearby, picnics possible on site, respecting the site and its natural environment.
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9. The Pavillon Vendôme and its formal garden
Why visit?
With its geometric garden and remarkable art museum, you’ll agree with us that the Pavillon Vendôme displays all the classic elegance of the Grand Siècle. We were seduced by this place, described as a classic-style “folie”. Built in 1665 by Pierre Pavillon and Antoine Matisse, it was destined for the Duc de Vendôme, Governor of Provence and cousin of Louis XIV. A must-see: the double-revolution staircase, one of the finest in the Aix series. This technical feat combines the harmony of the overall volume with the grandeur of the Baroque décor. Finally, you can admire the collections dating from the 17th to the early 21st century, before the highlight of the visit: the vast French garden, listed as a historic monument since 1953.
Practical advice
- Tour duration: 1h to 1h30
- Opening hours: open every day except Tuesday, from April 15 to October 15, 10am to 12:30pm and 1:30pm to 6pm, and from October 16 to April 14, 10am to 12:30pm and 1:30pm to 5pm.
- Difficulties and PRM access: please contact us.
- Rates: full price 6€, guided tour add 2€, included with City Pass Aix-en-Provence (free admission see details here)
- Access: bus line M3 (Vendôme stop in the immediate vicinity), bus line M2 (De La Molle stop a 5-minute walk away), bus lines 110 and 140 (Silvacane stop a 10-minute walk away)
- Parking: Cardeurs, Rotonde and Pasteur parking lots within a 10-15 minute walk
- Catering: no catering facilities on site, not allowed in the park, prefer our selection of downtown addresses
10. The Rotonde Fountain and Cours Mirabeau, the beating heart of the city
Why visit?
As soon as we arrived, we felt the Provencal atmosphere near the Fontaine de la Rotonde and the Cours Mirabeau, with its lively terraces and alley lined with century-old plane trees. This legendary thoroughfare embodies the beating heart of the city, where residents and visitors mingle. You can sit back at one of the historic cafés and shop in the iconic boutiques that line this legendary route. We’ve noticed that the entertainment varies according to the season, with the Christmas market in particular transforming the area during the festive season. This self-guided stroll will give you a taste of Aix-en-Provence’s art de vivre in all its splendor!
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interests
- Opening hours: open continuously
- Accessibility, flat ground, pedestrian zone on Cours Mirabeau
- Rates: free ride
- Access: several bus routes stop near the Fontaine de la Rotonde (see details here), just a 5-minute walk from the art center, or take a ride on the downtown tourist train – book your ticket now!
- Parking: Parking Mignet, Parking La Rotonde, Parking Carnot
- Eating out: a number of historic but rather touristy cafés and terraces, but we recommend heading into the back streets to try out other restaurants such as Restaurant Licandro (bistronomic), Restaurant Olivia et Mickaël Féval (Michelin-starred gourmet) or the Atelier des Saisons salad bar (healthy and inexpensive).
- Let a local guide take you on a tour of the historic heart of the city!
Why try it?
You can’t leave without tasting the Aix-en-Provence shuttles! It’s a gourmet tradition that’s a must-try, with a delicate orange blossom fragrance that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. We discovered this local speciality in the artisanal cookie factories in the town center, which perpetuate this ancestral know-how. You’ll be able to sample these legendary cookies at iconic addresses like Les Navettes Aixoises, an artisanal cookie factory located in the heart of Aix-en-Provence’s historic district. These pastries are available individually, in bags or in souvenir boxes, to bring a bit of the Provencal soul home with you.
Practical advice
- Most traditional cookie shops are located in the historic heart of Aix-en-Provence, so choose artisanal bakeries and pastry shops in this area, some of which have been renowned for generations.
- And don’t forget to try some of Aix-en-Provence’s famous calissons, to complete the sweet experience.
12. Relax in the Thermes Sextius, heirs to Antiquity
Why visit?
Want to relax in a place steeped in over 2000 years of spa heritage? Visit the Thermes Sextius in the district of the same name. The Romans had already recognized the curative properties of these waters, which gush out naturally at 34°C. Thermes Sextius owes its name to the ancient Roman city of Aquae Sextiae, founded in 123 B.C. The mineral-rich hot waters were considered sacred by the Romans. Enjoy the modern thermal spa, personalized treatments and swimming pool in a setting that combines contemporary relaxation with ancient heritage.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: half-day or full day depending on formula
- Opening hours: open Monday to Saturday, 9.30 a.m. to 7.30 p.m., closed on Sundays, booking required.
- Rates: rates according to formulas, book for treatments
- Access: bus lines 3 and 140 (Rotonde Bonaparte stop a 10-minute walk away), bus line A (Rotonde stop a 10-minute walk away)
- Parking: pay parking lots Therm’Park, Pasteur, Cardeurs
- Visit the official website for more info here
Best things to do in Aix-en-Provence: other ideas
Other museums
The city is home to other cultural institutions that we visited:
- the Musée du Vieil Aix will plunge you into local history with its collections of traditional Provencal objects (included with the City Pass) – details here
- the Musée des Tapisseries presents an exceptional collection of textile art in a sumptuous architectural setting in the Palais de l’Archevêché (included with the City Pass) – details here
Other churches
You can also discover Aix-en-Provence:
- Église Saint-Jean-de-Malte: former priory of the Knights of Malta, 2 steps from the Musée Granet, at the end of rue Cardinale, east of the historic heart of the town.
- Église de la Madeleine : on Place des Prêcheurs, built in the 13th century
Try a tour of the heart of the city including these monuments!
Other parks and walks
To prolong your moments of natural relaxation:
- Parc Jourdan with its vast lawns and playgrounds
- the Jardin du Monument Joseph Sec offers a more intimate setting for a peaceful stroll in the heart of the city
- An e-bike tour of the famous Montagne Sainte Victoire – book now
Things to do in Aix-en-Provence with children
Travelling with the family? Don’t panic, we’ve found plenty of activities in Aix-en-Provence to do with your children:
- all the parks and gardens: Parc Saint-Mitre with its Japanese garden (and numerous play areas), Parc Jourdan (also with a play area), Pavillon Vendôme garden
- Musée Granet: to introduce children to art, special children’s workshops are organized – download game booklets here
- the Vasarely Foundation: optical and colorful works can be fascinating enough to awaken curiosity and a playful approach to art, and dedicated workshops are sometimes organized for 3-12 year-olds – see details here
Excursions around Aix-en-Provence
Visit to lavender fields
Provence is famous for its lavender fields. From June to August, the tops turn a deep purple. Let yourself be seduced by this olfactory escapade, less than an hour’s drive from Aix-en-Provence, to discover the region’s emblematic fragrant landscapes – see photos, details and prices
Perched villages of Provence
The lovely villages of Provence are architectural gems perched on their hills. The village of Gordes is one of our favourites, with its castle, abbey and lavender museum!
These picturesque villages offer breathtaking views of the Provencal countryside and medieval castles – see options
Discover the famous Côtes de Provence wines
You can’t leave Provence without tasting the world-famous Côtes de Provence wines. Local wineries offer rosé tastings, but that’s not all! We spontaneously associate Côtes de Provence with rosé… But did you know that the appellation also produces red and white wines? This oenological exploration will reveal the terroirs that make the reputation of Provencal wines – book your tasting now!
Useful tips for visiting Aix-en-Provence
Where is Aix-en-Provence?
- Bouches-du-Rhône department, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region
- Avignon to Aix-en-Provence: 1h drive
- From Marseille to Aix-en-Provence: 30min drive
- Nice to Aix-en-Provence: 2h30 drive
- Here is a map to help you find your way:
How do I get to Aix-en-Provence?
The Aix-en-Provence TGV station links the city directly to Paris in 3 hours.
See the available schedules and book your train tickets now.
Marseille-Provence airport is 30 minutes from the town, with regular bus connections. Check available flights.
Aix-en-Provence is at the crossroads of several freeways, making it very accessible by car. The A8 (La Provençale) links Aix to Nice and Marseille, the A51 climbs towards Sisteron and the Alps, and the A52 provides a quick link to Toulon. From the A8, you can also join the A7 (also known as the Autoroute du Soleil) to head for Lyon and Paris. Discover our tips if you want to rent a car in Aix-en-Provence.
Getting around Aix-en-Provence
The Aix en Bus bus network efficiently serves the city and its suburbs, and you can find route maps on the Aixenbus website here. The historic center is a pleasant place to walk around, thanks to its many pedestrian zones. Self-service bicycles also complete the urban transport offer for added peace of mind (see here). If you’re a soft mobility enthusiast, there are plenty of cycle paths to choose from.
Finally, opt for a ride on the Little Tourist Train through the city center – book your ticket now!
Parking in Aix-en-Provence
There are several pay parking lots in the historic center: Mignet, La Rotonde, Carnot and Giuseppe Verdi. Surface parking remains limited in the pedestrian heart of the area, so we recommend using the secure pay parking lots to enjoy greater freedom of movement when visiting the center. You can also opt for accommodation with parking if you arrive in Aix-en-Provence by car. In more outlying neighborhoods, such as Jas de Bouffan, parking is possible and easy on certain main roads.
The Aix-en-Provence Tourist City Pass
We opted for the City Pass Aix-en-Provence to visit the essential parts of the city with ease. It includes admission to the main museums (e.g. Granet, Atelier Cézanne, Fondation Vasarely…), access to public transport and even a guided tour of the historic center. A practical plan to save time and money during your stay – see options here
Where to eat in Aix-en-Provence
Aix’s gastronomy blends Provencal traditions with modern creativity. The offering is tight, but we’ve unearthed a few gems:
- Restaurant Licandro: delicious bistro cuisine in an intimate setting
- Atelier des saisons salad bar: healthy, inexpensive gourmet dishes
- Restaurant Kava Aix: an excellent, creative and gourmet brunch
Visiting Aix-en-Provence in winter
In winter, Aix-en-Provence enjoys a mild, sunny climate, ideal for lounging on a terrace or strolling through its narrow streets. Out of season, the city reveals itself differently, with fewer crowds, a more authentic atmosphere and a calmer pace. Museums and monuments remain accessible, sometimes with reduced opening hours.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO provence
Our articles are coming!
- Most beautiful cities in Provence (coming soon)
- Most beautiful beaches of Provence (coming soon)
- Most beautiful villages of Provence (to come)
- Most beautiful destinations in Provence (coming soon)
