The Must-Visit Museums In Aix En Provence

Museums allow you to step back in time, travel the world, and get in touch with your creative side all at once. Read our guide to the must-visit museums in Aix en Provence, France.

1. Musée Granet

Art Gallery, Museum

France, Bouches du Rhone, Aix en Provence, Musee Granet, paintings and visitors

This elegant 17th century building houses over 600 exquisite paintings and sculptures, ranging in era and style. See works from as far back as the Renaissance to more modern and contemporary pieces. The museum is located in a city square, offering a great view that’s perfect for people watching. On the other side, the back of the museum opens out into a cozy courtyard, full of trees, tables and chairs, benches, and a fountain. Relax here after your museum visit, or pop by on a random day to enjoy a cup of coffee in a pleasant atmosphere. Be on the lookout or reduced rates and guided tours offered three times a week.

2. Atelier de Cézanne

Art Gallery

During the last years of his life, Aix en Provence native Paul Cézanne settled in a little country cottage to produce art and live out the rest of his days. Now, decades later, his studio is open to the public. Come and walk in the artist’s footsteps as you discover where he worked and created some of his most famous pieces. A few of the painter’s tools even remain, so you can admire those, as well original works. Cézanne loved Aix and is a source of pride for the city. Visit Atelier de Cézanne, get a peek into the mind of a genius, and you are sure to walk away loving him just as much. Be sure to check out the Painter’s Park as well.

3. Fondation Vasarely

Museum

Visit Fondation Vasarely and you won’t believe your eyes; really, the museum features a number art works that are actually optical illusions. For a small fee, attend a weekend tour and learn all about the large pieces, some of which are displayed on the museum lawn. The works are made of a variety of materials, including ceramics, glass, tapestries, and more, making each one unique in its own way. Fondation Vasarely offers workshops for adults, as well as children, and also hosts a number of events, including concerts, conferences, cultural festivals and activities. Every so often exhibits will change, so take the time to stop by and see what’s new. You won’t be disappointed.

5. Hôtel de Gallifet

Museum, Art Gallery

sculpture Nager dans le bonheur vom Senegalesen Diadji Diop im Garten des Hotel de Gallifet in Aix en Provence, Bouche du Rhone, france

Established within an eighteenth century mansion, Hôtel Gallifet opened in 2010 as a contemporary art center. There are numerous exhibitions, both permanent and ones that rotate a few times each year. The pieces span across multiple mediums, including paintings, drawings, sculptures, and more. In addition to the featured works, the museum itself is quite the sight to see, being a historic architectural beauty with a lush garden. Enjoy a refreshing cup of tea outdoors, or perhaps in the elegant tearoom situated within the museum walls. Be sure to look out for exciting cultural events hosted by the museum, such as conferences, film screenings, lectures, and more.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.