17 Delightful Things To Do in Aix-en-Provence
Aix-en-Provence is one of the most idyllic cities in southern France—and easily my favorite of the bigger towns and cities in Provence.
Built from limestone and accented with warm ochre pigments from the Roussillon hills, the city’s architecture is both simple and striking, inspiring artists like Cézanne, who spent much of his life here.
Located 45 minutes north of Marseille, Aix combines classic European charm with a vibrant, youthful energy as a university town. Known as “The City of a Thousand Fountains,” it’s filled with tree-lined streets, beautiful squares, and fountains around nearly every corner.
Aix is also decidedly an upscale city, known for its stylish independent boutiques and luxurious mansions. Yet, it still remains warm and inviting, a beautiful city for any visitor to discover.
Aix was one of the first places I visited in southern France years ago, and I instantly fell in love. When I returned in 2024, after exploring and experiencing dozens of other beautiful cities and charming villages across France, I was thrilled to find that the magic of Aix still holds strong—and I love it even more now.
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17 Unmissable Things to Do in Aix-en-Provence
These are the best things to do and places to visit in Aix-en-Provence – I know you’ll fall in love with the city too!
1. The Fountains
Aix-en-Provence is known as “The City of 1,000 Fountains,” a nickname that hearkens back to Roman times when aqueducts supplied water to the town’s residents via fountains.
While there aren’t actually 1,000 fountains today, (most being incorporated into the city water supply) between 100-200 fountains are scattered across the city. I personally saw maybe 20ish (which is still a lot!) as I walked around the City Center.
The fountains range from grand and majestic to small and hidden, and you’re never more than a minute or two from the fountains. While some of the fun is just stumbling across yet another cute fountain as you explore the city, these are a few of the major ones you should definitely make sure to see:
>>Fontaine de la Rotonde
The Rotonde Fountain is THE fountain of Aix-en-Provence. The fountain was created in 1860 and is the unofficial symbol of the city and truly a gorgeous sight, especially when viewed from the tree-lined Cours Mirabeau.
The three statues at the top of the fountain represent Justice, Fine Arts, and Agriculture – the three main economic activities of the city. Leopards and lions surround the basin close to the water.
The fountain also marked the entrance to the city in the mid-1800s. Today the city has expanded so the fountain is in the middle of the city.
Make sure to check out the statue of Paul Cézanne, created by Dutch sculptor Gabriel Sterk in 2006, and on the Rotonde roundabout (location here)
>>Fontaine des 9 Canons
This fountain in the middle of the Cours Mirabeau dates back to the late 1600s, and was originally a drinking trough for animals before being converted into a fountain for humans.
>>Fontaine Moussue
Constructed back in the mid-1600s, this fountain is named for the thick moss that covers it. It is known as the “Hot Water Fountain” as warm water from a nearby thermal spring flows from it – always a pleasant 18ºC (64°F).It is the only thermal spring in Aix.
The Fontaine Moussue is also in the middle of the Cours Mirabeau.
>>Fontaine Roi René
This fountain is at the opposite end of the Fontaine de la Rotonde on Cours Mirabeau and has a statue of good King René at its center. King René was a nobleman who wore the crown of the Counts of Provence.
He lived in Aix-en-Provence for many years in the 1400s, presiding over a period of peace and prosperity in the region.
>>Fontaine des Precheurs
This beautiful fountain, dating back to the mid-1700s, was designed by Provençal sculptor Jean-Pancrace Chastel, who created three of Aix’s fountains.
At its center stands a tall, imposing obelisk topped with a spread-winged eagle, symbolizing reason and order in the city.
The base of the obelisk is adorned with medallions and lions, with the medallions depicting notable figures from Aix’s history. One of them features Caius Sextius Calvinus, the founder of Aix.
>>Fontaine des Quatre Dauphins
Situated in the center of the Quartier Mazarin, this baroque fountain featuring 4 dolphins (dauphins) spitting water blends seamlessly with the upscale surroundings.
>>Fontaine de l’Hotel de Ville
This mid-1700s fountain features a Roman column and mascarons (or ornamental faces) spouting water at the base of the fountain.
It sits in the shadow of the grandiose Hotel de Ville (City Hall), and next to the Tour de l’Horloge (clock tower) and is a bustling square for the flower market in the morning and then cafes in the afternoon and evenings.
The square and fountain were featured in one of Cezanne’s paintings.
2. The Markets
The markets in Aix are delightful and idyllic, with stalls situated under the characteristic Provencal oak trees in sunny squares. Fresh, vibrant fruits and vegetables are on display with plenty of options for Provencal goods to peruse and try.
I truly love a good market, and Aix-en-Provence offers some of the best market days in the region. The city has five different regular city markets, each with a different focus and vibe.
It’s definitely worth making sure you can stop in at at least a couple of the markets while you are in Aix, even if you don’t want or need to buy anything – they’re really an *experience.*
Here’s a breakdown of the five Aix-en-Provence markets:
>>Place Richelme
The most traditional food market is located at Place Richelme. It’s open every day of the week from 8am-1pm and you’ll find locals and visitors alike browsing the fruits, vegetables, honey, cheese, fish, eggs, jams, nuts, breads, and dried meats.
This square is set up perfectly for the market and its oh-so-very charming.
One thing I tried new during my most recent visit to Aix were the figs at the market, and oh my goodness. You MUST eat the figs in southern France – they were soft and juicy and flavorful – I could’ve eaten the entire basket myself.
>>Place de l’Hotel de Ville
Place de l’Hotel de Ville hosts a flower market every day except the first Sunday of the month, when there’s an antique book market instead. It’s lovely to walk through the square and admire and smell the beautiful flowers on display.
>>Place des Precheurs and Place de Verdun
Place des Precheurs and Place de Verdun are two squares right next to each other that practically flow together. The combined area of the two squares has recently been renamed as Place de Comtales.
While there is some overlap, Place des Precheurs is mainly a food market and Place de Verdun is mainly an artisan market.
Between these two markets, you can find fruits, vegetables, olives, spreads, Camargue salt, vinegar, jam, dried sausage, olive wood bowls and products, olive oil, lavender, Herbes de Provence, cheese, bread, Savon de Marseille soap, baskets, and ceramic bowls.
There are also some stands selling hot prepared foods to eat – a favorite stop for us at the markets.
These two markets are open Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.
>>Cours Mirabeau
Cours Mirabeau is THE main avenue in Aix-en-Provence, and on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday mornings, the entire avenue is lined with a textile market. Here you can find clothing items like dresses, shirts, pants, coats, bags, jewelry, accessories, scarves, and linens.
At the end of the Cours Mirabeau, next to the Rotonde Fountain, the market shifts into a flea/antique market – it’s fun to meander through and peruse all the treasures. There are also many good food stalls and cafes here in case you get hungry.
Market Quick Tips
- Markets run 8am-1pm
- Some stands take card, but make sure to have some cash with you
3. The Squares
Aix-en-Provence is dotted with adorable little squares all over the city, and its just a delight to stumble on each one lined with trees, cafes, and monuments. Many of the squares have been noted in the fountains or markets section, but there’s a few others that I want to highlight here:
>>Place d’Albertas
Home to the Fontaine d’Albertas, this is one of the most luxurious squares in Aix, but it hasn’t always been a public square.
In the 1700’s the Albertas family was one of the most powerful in Aix. Henri Rainaud d’Albertas commissioned a luxurious transformation of the facade to create his Rococo mansion.
He actually bought the buildings next door, had them demolished, and created a square as the entrance to his mansion that would mimic the “royal squares of Paris.”
The Fontaine d’Albertas was constructed in the mid-1800s and is a particularly picturesque fountain that perfectly matches the upscale vibe of the Place d’Albertas, and Aix-en-Provence in general.
>>Place des Augustins
Place des Augustins is the center of nightlife in Aix, with the biggest concentration of bars on the square and in the streets extending out from the square. This area is, of course, particularly popular in the evening.
Like every square in Aix, Place des Augustins also has its own fountain, which has an actual Roman column from the ruins of the Palais Comtal in Aix.
>>Place des Trois Ormeaux
This square used to be named for the consul of Aix in the 15th century, but was renamed to the “Square of 3 Elms” (ormeaux = elms) when elms were planted. The elms have since been replaced by the very traditional plane trees you’ll find throughout Provence.
It also features a fountain that was installed in the early 1600s which helps complete this quiet and charming hidden gem in Aix.
>>Place Comtales
Place Comtales is the newer name for the large square created by adjoining Place Verdun and Place des Precheurs that we talked about in the section about markets. Besides hosting the markets, it is also home to the Palais de Justice, the 14th century Eglise de la Madeleine, and the Fontaine des Precheurs.
Historically, Place des Precheurs was one of the most important and busiest squares in Aix, especially before Cours Mirabeau was constructed.
4. Aix-en-Provence Food Tour
Food tours are truly one of my favorite activities to do in any city, and they give such an interesting and unique perspective of a place.
The Food Tour in Aix-en-Provence I did was no exception, as I joined a small group of people and a local guide to walk all over Aix for 2.5 hours, sampling all sorts of unique, local, and delicious foods. (Come hungry!)
We learned about how calissons are made, the famous local Aix-en-Provence treat, and saw a historic calisson press. We also tried several other locally produced desserts (sugared nuts, brioche with candied fruit).
We walked through the market on Place Richelme, where the guide showed us the best stalls and the best products that are truly quality, local vendors. We sampled local honey, including a variety made with the famous Herbes de Provence blend.
Goat cheese is very common in Provence, and I loved the stop we made to sample two goat cheeses: one made fresh the day before, and the same goat cheese that had been cured for several months. It was so interesting how different the taste and texture were after a few months of curing.
We stopped in a shop to try truffles, truffle powder, and truffle honey, served with cheese (all incredibly delicious).
Another favorite was a stop at our guide’s favorite bakery to try Pan Bagnat – a traditional southern France sandwich made with tuna and vegetables. I’m not usually a tuna girl but the sandwich was delicious.
Plus, on a food tour you get to learn a little bit more about the history and culture of the city, plus chat with a local and hear what it’s like to live in Aix. Can’t recommend enough!
Check prices and availability for my food tour here
5. Cours Mirabeau
Cours Mirabeau is the beating heart of Aix, a nearly ½-kilometer-long pedestrian avenue lined with beautiful manors, cafes, shops, fountains, and statues.
Among its highlights is the famous Maison Bechard, a renowned pastry and candy shop (#12), and the childhood home of Paul Cézanne (#55) . Created in 1650 to accommodate the city’s expansion, the avenue became a luxurious setting for wealthy citizens to build their mansions.
Cours Mirabeau separates the medieval city to the north from the Mazarin district to the south, an area filled with elegant manors and villas. Built on the remains of the city wall—destroyed around the same time—the avenue was designed wide and straight to accommodate carriages.
As we’ve mentioned in the fountains section, Cours Mirabeau is also home to four fountains: the grand Rotonde de la Rotonde, 9 Canons, Moussue, and Roi René, which add to the charm of the avenue.
6. Cathédrale Saint Sauveur
The Saint Sauveur Cathedral is the main church in Aix, and is an incredible structure with a beautiful interior that has been named a national monument in France.
The cathedral was built and added to many times over the centuries, resulting in a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles evident throughout the 3 naves (halls) inside the cathedral and on the facade.
I’ve been in a lot of cathedrals in Europe and France, and although I do love visiting churches, sometimes they do start to look very same-y. However, the 3 naves constructed in 3 styles were each noticeably different and unique, adding a real twist to a traditional European cathedral.
Compare the picture above (the Gothic nave) with the picture below (Baroque chapel) – the styles are very distinct!
Interestingly, the cathedral has an entirely separate, octagonal room for its baptismal font, a fairly unique feature. The baptistry was built in the 6th century and is the only feature of that first church to survive.
Plus, the paintings, sculptures, decoration, and baptistry made the Saint Sauveur Cathedral just feel very elegant and truly memorable.
7. Palais de l’Archeveché/Musée de Tapisseries
The Palace of the Archbishop is just next door to the Cathedral Saint Sauveur. The palace was built in the 17th and 18th centuries and was designed to be opulent and grandiose. The display of wealth helped project the bishop’s political power and authority in the city and to the nobles.
Today it is home to the fascinating Tapestry Museum. The sumptuous rooms of the palace are a beautiful backdrop to the remarkably large and intricate 17th and 18th-century tapestries on display.
8. Joseph Sec Monument
This hidden gem, located just a few steps outside the city center, is one of the few remaining examples of Revolutionary Architecture in Aix. Commissioned in the 1700s by Joseph Sec, a wood merchant, it features a grand carved facade and a serene interior garden.
An unassuming door from the street leads you into a small, charming garden adorned with statues along the walls. These statues depict scenes from Biblical stories, while the surrounding reliefs blend biblical, Freemasonry, and revolutionary ideals.
At the top of the walls, a figure representing Revolutionary Justice stands watch over Moses delivering the law, adding to the garden’s symbolism.
It’s a quiet and unique spot that I really enjoyed visiting.
9. Pavilion Vendome
Another hidden gem in Aix, this manor house and gardens are on the north end of town. The house is an art museum, but the French garden is free, peaceful, and open to the public.
10. Local Boutiques
It’s a very upscale city – everything feels luxurious and special. This is a great city for shopping, as the city is filled with independent boutiques – truly, hardly a name brand in sight.
There are so many local brands on display and stylish shoes, clothing, and jewelry for sale on practically every street in town.
11. Quartier Mazarin
This neighborhood on the south side of the Cours Mirabeau is home to mansions and estates belonging to the wealthy nobles of the 17th century. Many of these mansions are today used for museums.
A notable point of interest is the Eglise Saint-Jean de Malte, the biggest Gothic church in Provence. Rue d’Italie is a picturesque street filled with foodie boutiques – a great spot to stroll if you are a foodie.
12. Musée Granet
The Granet Museum, located in the Mazarin Quarter, is the Fine Arts Museum of Aix, with over 750 paintings and sculptures on display. The sculpture gallery features works by local artists, many of them students when the Musée Granet was also an art school.
I appreciated that several pieces by Paul Cezanne were on display, including two paintings of the countryside around Aix and his home of Jas de Bouffan. Les Baigneuses, (The Bathers), one of Cézanne’s more well-known works, is also on display.
13. Hotel de Caumont
Also in the Mazarin Quarter, the Hôtel de Caumont was the opulent home of Pauline de Bruny and her husband, the Marquis de Caumont. Note that this mansion was never an actual hotel—in French, a hôtel particulier refers to a city mansion.
Today, it serves multiple purposes: you can tour the gorgeous historic rooms to glimpse how the family lived, enjoy the rotating art exhibitions, stroll through the charming small garden, or relax at the delightfully pretty café, which is set in both the historic rooms and the garden.
14. Parc Jourdan
On the south side of town (even farther south than the Mazarin Quarter), is Park Jourdan, which is mainly composed of wide open green lawns for families, friends, and students to relax on.
While it’s a pleasant spot for locals to enjoy a picnic or some greenspace, I don’t think it’s worth visiting as a tourist. I’d recommend skipping it unless you’re specifically looking for a quiet lawn area.
15. Atelier de Cezanne
Cézanne’s workshop offers a glimpse into the life of one of the most celebrated Post-Impressionist artists. Born and educated in Aix-en-Provence, Cézanne loved Provence and spent much of his later life here. You can explore the studio on a guided tour or simply wander through the peaceful gardens.
Located a 15-minute walk from the north end of the city center, it’s well worth visiting to see his workspace, personal belongings, furniture, and gardens, and learn about his life story.
Do reserve your time online in advance, as space is limited and does sell out (however, the site is currently closed until 2025 for renovations).
16. Bastide Jas de Bouffan
The Bastide Jas de Bouffan was Paul Cézanne’s family home and the site of his first art studio. Purchased by his father in 1859, the grand 17th-century house and expansive grounds inspired many of Cézanne’s early works.
The surrounding gardens, with their tall plane trees and reflective pool, often appeared in his paintings. Cézanne used the upper floor as his studio, where he painted 36 oil paintings and 17 watercolors.
The site is currently closed for renovations until 2025, but then will be open again for guided tours.
17. Bibliotheque Méjanes
A short walk outside the center of Old Town of Aix-en-Provence is the city library, Bibliotheque Mejanes. The entrance of the library has a larger than life sculpture of 3 famous French books, including the beloved Le Petite Price.
As someone who loves books and reading, I LOVED this little “art installation.” Note that while the entrance is a fun photo-op for the book lovers on your trip, the actual library inside is super basic and nothing special.
Also be aware that the building is unfortunately under renovation until 2027 – when I visited in 2024, the entrance was surrounded and partially obscured by a fence.
Map of Attractions in Aix-en-Provence
How Many Days Do You Need in Aix?
With one day, you can soak up the vibe of the city, stroll through the beautiful streets, discover many of Aix’s fountains, and visit some of the attractions. If you want to do everything on this list, though, I’d recommend two full days in the city.
Aix-en-Provence works exceptionally well as a base for visiting the other cities and villages of Provence – with most spots only 30-60 minutes from the city. Plus, then you can come back and enjoy the vibes of Aix in the evenings.
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