In Aix-en-Provence, museums and art centers abound and are essential stops. Throughout the year, they offer a rich program of exhibitions, both permanent and temporary. Much more than simple places of culture and transmission, they can sometimes be discovered as buildings steeped in history, open-air spaces, or true architectural masterpieces. Each visit thus becomes a dual experience, both artistic and sensory, intended to awaken everyone’s curiosity.
Here are the main museums in the city of Aix
Things to visit during your stay:
- Granet Museum: A must-see for art lovers, it houses an impressive collection ranging from classical to contemporary painting, with works by Cézanne, Picasso, and many others. Don’t miss the Chapel of the White Penitents, which is part of the museum and exhibits modern works of art. Place Saint Jean de Malte, 13100 Aix-en-Provence. www.museegranet-aixenprovence.fr
- The Hôtel de Caumont: an architectural gem located in the heart of the Mazarin district of Aix-en-Provence. Formerly an 18th-century private mansion, it now houses a renowned art center. This exceptional venue offers major temporary exhibitions dedicated to major artists every year. Its French-style garden and elegant café complete the visit in a refined atmosphere. The Hôtel de Caumont combines heritage, art, and the Provençal way of life. 3 Rue Joseph Cabassol, 13100 Aix-en-Provence. www.caumont-centredart.com/fr
- Calisson Museum – Roy René Confectionery: the Calisson d’Aix is recognized as part of the heritage of the city of Aix-en-Provence and more broadly as one of the gastronomic emblems of Provence. 5380 Route d’Avignon (RD7N), 13089 Aix-en-Provence. www.calisson.com/fr
- Musée des Tapisseries: Founded in 1909, it is located on the first floor of the former Archbishop’s Palace in Aix-en-Provence. This historic building, composed of four wings surrounding an interior courtyard, houses a rich collection of 17th- and 18th-century tapestries. Visitors can admire iconic series, such as those illustrating the adventures of Don Quixote. In addition to its permanent collection, the museum regularly organizes temporary exhibitions highlighting contemporary textile art. https://p-a-c.fr/les-membres/musees-d-aix-en-provence-musee-des-tapisseries
- The Pavillon de Vendôme: is an elegant 17th-century building surrounded by a French-style garden. Today, the Pavillon de Vendôme museum hosts temporary exhibitions of contemporary art and presents a collection of 17th- and 18th-century Provençal furniture, as well as portraits from the period. The garden, faithfully reconstructed according to 17th-century documents, is open to the public and offers a peaceful setting for strolling. It is decorated with a circular fountain in its center and surrounded by crenellated walls, witnesses to its history. 32 rue Célony in Aix-en-Provence. https://p-a-c.fr/les-membres/musee-du-pavillon-de-vendome
2025 the year of Paul Cézanne,
In 2025, the wind of Cézanne blows through Aix-en-Provence. This year marks the beginning of a grand reunion between the city and its most illustrious resident. A tribute to the man, the artist, and his work heralds a major international exhibition, as well as the restoration and gradual reopening of his family home and his last studio. This pivotal year inaugurates a new cycle, bringing Cézanne back to the heart of the city he loved so much.
From June 28 to October 12, 2025, the Granet Museum in Aix-en-Provence presents the international exhibition “Cezanne at Jas de Bouffan.” More than just a place to live, the Jas de Bouffan country house is a veritable laboratory where Cezanne experimented with his art for nearly 40 years. Through an exceptional selection of around a hundred paintings, drawings, and watercolors, this retrospective immerses you in the artist’s intimate world, revealing his deep connection with this family home.