Things to do in Aix-en-Provence

The old town

Wander along the narrow, winding streets lined with old houses with coloured façades and soak up the authentic Provence atmosphere. Admire the many mansions left behind from the time when Aix was the capital of Provence and explore the delightful squares dotted around the area. Visit the Mazarin district and Saint-Saveur cathedral.

Cours Mirabeau: the buzzing historical heart of Aix-en-Provence

Created in the 17th century, the Cours Mirabeau has been witness to the history of the city. From carriage rides to cultural events, it is the backdrop against which life in Aix has played out over the years. Nowadays, under the hundred-year-old plane trees, this iconic place is alive with cafés and fountains, reflecting the art de vivre of Provence.

Cézanne’s studio

Aix-en-Provence was the birthplace of famous post-impressionist painter Paul Cézanne, and his presence still makes itself felt around the city today. Step into his studio, the Atelier de Cézanne, to get a close insight into the artist’s life and creative process. Admire his masterpieces at the Musée Granet and follow in his footsteps on the ‘In the steps of Cézanne’ walk.

The Jas de Bouffan Bastide: Cézanne’s Family Home

The former residence of Paul Cézanne in Aix-en-Provence, the Jas de Bouffan bastide will gradually reopen from summer 2025. The first restored rooms, including his studio, the kitchen, and Madame Cézanne’s bedroom, along with an immersive park walk, allow visitors to discover the legacy of the father of modern art.

Musée Granet: one of the best museums in France

The Musée Granet is a real goldmine for art and history lovers. In one place, you can retrace the evolution of European art and marvel at the masterpieces of great artists like Renoir, Monet, Van Gogh, Degas, Redon, Bonnard, Rouault, Picasso, Braque, Dufy, Laurens, Léger, Klee, Bissière, de Staël and Dubuffet. A must-see for anyone with a love for art or an interest in history.
Other museums to visit include the Musée Vasarely, dedicated to the work of Victor Vasarely. Musée des Tapisseries (tapestry museum)

L’Hôtel de Caumont

The Hôtel de Caumont in Aix-en-Provence is a magnificent 18th-century mansion, offering an elegant and refined setting. It houses a contemporary art center featuring temporary exhibitions and a French formal garden. This historic hotel invites visitors to discover art and architecture in a place steeped in history.

Pavillon de Vendôme

The Pavillon de Vendôme is a treasure trove of history and greenery just a stone’s throw from Aix Cathedral. Its French formal garden and old furniture transport you back in time. Listed as a historic monument, it also contains portraits of its illustrious residents. Since 1990, modern and contemporary art has been displayed there too, making the pavilion a must-see for lovers of art and tranquillity.

The city of a thousand fountains

Aix-en-Provence, nicknamed the ‘city of a thousand fountains’ or ‘city of waters’, houses priceless treasure: over 250 public and private fountains are dotted around its historical centre – that’s one of the densest concentrations in Europe. These architectural gems include the La Rotonde, Quatre Dauphins, Roi René and Albertas fountains, as well as the Sextius thermal fountain.

“Biennale d’Aix”: Spring – Autumn. Jointly organised by various cultural bodies from Aix-en-Provence and the entire region, this major cultural festival features a multi-disciplinary line-up that supports contemporary artistic creation, big events in the urban area inviting the general public to share unique moments together, an array of artistic experiences spread throughout the city’s neighbourhoods and surrounding villages and the implementation of projects encouraging inhabitants to participate in cultural activities.

Aix-en-Provence Ironman race: 18 May 2025. The Aix-en-Provence Ironman race is a long-distance triathlon held in May. It involves a 3.8 km swim in Lac de Peyrolles, a 180 km cycling race through the Provence region and a 42.195 km marathon around Aix-en-Provence. Athletes come from all over the world to compete in the event, which represents a significant sporting challenge amid the outstanding natural landscape.

Aix-en-Provence festival: From 4 to 21 July 2025. Featuring operas, youth productions and famous Mozart operas, this event offers contemporary pieces, a chance to rediscover baroque masterpieces, chamber operas and incredible concert line-ups.

Dominating the landscape of Provence, the Montagne Sainte-Victoire is an iconic symbol of the region, immortalised by the painter Paul Cézanne. This mountain ridge located east of Aix-en-Provence reaches 1,011 metres at its highest point and offers remarkable views of Provence. Rich in history, it is home to the Saint-Ser hermitage, a pilgrimage site tucked into the rock, along with many other remnants of its past.

Located around 9 miles from the campsite, the Montagne Sainte-Victoire is easy to get to. It boasts stunning views of the surrounding countryside. You can hike up to the summit or take the shuttle bus.
There are several paths from the campsite that take you to the massif, with routes for all ability levels, from casual walkers to seasoned hikers.

With its pine forests, rocky crests and spectacular views over the valley, the Montagne Sainte-Victoire offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the nature and heritage of Provence.