Discover Aix-En-Provence

Those who choose Aix-En-Provence as a destination for culture and history can shape their stay around several themes: Cézanne’s studio and art collections, architectural history, art in architectural form, and a landscape associated with Cézanne. Local specialties at the markets are another highlight.

Cézanne and the art collections

Atelier Cezanne was built in 1901 on Chemin des Lauves. It preserves the artist’s furniture, objects for his still lifes, and several original watercolors and drawings. The Musée Granet complements this connection to Cézanne with a broad span of art history: it displays around 750 works, from the early masters and the Renaissance through to modern and contemporary art; two rooms are devoted to Paul Cézanne. Thus, a focus closely tied to Cézanne is set alongside a collection spanning several periods of art. The Musée Granet regularly hosts international exhibitions and also offers multilingual guided tours, educational activities, and a dynamic cultural program.

Architectural history and monuments

Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur brings together three naves in different styles: Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque. The first group of bishops at the site of today’s cathedral dates back to the 5th century; it followed the ancient Roman forum, built in the center of Aquae Sextiae in the 1st century BC. Fontaine de l’Hôtel de Ville was built in 1756 and classified as a historic monument in 1905. The dates for Pavillon de Vendôme are separate: the building was classified as a historic monument in 1914, and its garden in 1953. The pavilion also houses a museum illustrating the furnishings of Aix-En-Provence’s hôtels particuliers during the Grand Siècle.

Vasarely: Art and architecture

Fondation Vasarely offers another focus at the intersection of art and architecture. On the ground floor, sixteen hexagonal modules display 42 monumental architectural integrations and two sculptures. The Fondation is classified as a historic monument and has been recognized as a Musée de France since December 10, 2020. This site therefore combines a precisely described artistic presentation with its own institutional status.

Carrières de Bibémus: Hiking and planning

Carrières de Bibémus offers a guided hike through an ochre-colored landscape associated with Cézanne. When planning, take the route’s requirements into account: it is steep and requires good mobility and sturdy hiking shoes. Visits are booked through the Aix-En-Provence tourist information office. As booking arrangements may change, check the current procedure with the tourist information office in advance.

Local specialties

You can try local specialties at the markets in Aix-En-Provence. This adds a culinary aspect to the art and architecture themes when planning your stay.

Discover more destinations: Barbentane, Saint-Savournin, Rognonas, Bouc-Bel-Air, Roquevaire, Gignac-La-Nerthe, Eguilles, Beaurecueil

For the regional travel overview: Bouches Du Rhone.