Step Back in Time at Musée du Vieil-Aix
Discover Aix-en-Provence's captivating history and vibrant traditions at the Musée du Vieil-Aix, housed in a magnificent 17th-century hôtel particulier.
The Musée du Vieil-Aix, or Museum of Old Aix, offers a captivating journey into the history and traditions of Aix-en-Provence. Housed in the elegant 17th-century Hôtel Estienne de Saint-Jean, this museum showcases a diverse collection of artifacts that bring the city's rich past to life. From exquisite furniture and delicate faience pottery to colorful Provençal santons and intricate marionettes, the exhibits provide a glimpse into the daily lives and artistic achievements of Aix's residents through the centuries. The building itself, with its grand staircase and period details, adds to the immersive experience, transporting visitors to a time when Aix was the capital of Provence and a center of culture and refinement. Don't miss the paravent de la Fête-Dieu, evoking a very old festival long celebrated with éclat in Aix, and the modello by G. B. Gaulli, a maquette of his project for the baptistery of Saint-Pierre de Rome.
A brief summary to Musée du Vieil-Aix
- 17 Rue Gaston de Saporta, Aix-en-Provence, 13100, FR
- +33442918978
- Monday 10 am-12:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-12:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-12:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-12:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-12:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-12:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit on the first Sunday of the month for free admission to the museum.
- Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum's diverse collection and exhibits.
- Combine your visit with a stroll along the nearby Cours Mirabeau, Aix's most famous avenue.
Getting There
-
Walking
The Musée du Vieil-Aix is located in the heart of Aix-en-Provence's historic center and is easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From the Cours Mirabeau, walk north along the Rue Clemenceau, then turn left onto Rue Gaston de Saporta. The museum will be on your right after a short distance. Look for the grand doorway of the Hôtel Estienne de Saint-Jean.
-
Public Transport
Several bus lines stop near the Musée du Vieil-Aix. The closest stops are Briand, Pasteur, and Bourse. From any of these stops, it's a short walk to the museum. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. A single bus ticket costs approximately €1.60. Consider purchasing a 10-journey ticket for €7 if you plan to use public transport frequently.
-
Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Aix-en-Provence. A short taxi ride from the train station or another location in the city center to the Musée du Vieil-Aix will typically cost between €15 and €20, depending on traffic and the time of day.
-
Parking
Parking in the immediate vicinity of the Musée du Vieil-Aix is limited. The closest parking options are Parking Pasteur (100m away) and other city center parking garages. Expect to pay around €2.50 to €3.50 per hour for parking.
Discover more about Musée du Vieil-Aix
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Théâtre de l'Archevêché
0.1 km
Experience world-class opera in the enchanting, open-air Théâtre de l'Archevêché, the heart of Aix-en-Provence's renowned summer festival.
Provence France
0.1 km
Explore the enchanting landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture of Provence, France, a must-visit destination for every traveler.
Library Halle aux Grains
0.1 km
Discover a literary treasure in Aix-en-Provence's historic heart, where knowledge and history converge at the unique Library Halle aux Grains.
Librairie Le Blason
0.2 km
Discover a curated collection of books celebrating Provence and beyond at this charming bookstore in the heart of Aix-en-Provence.
Vieille Ville
0.2 km
Explore Aix-en-Provence's Vieille Ville: a charming maze of history, culture, and Provençal ambiance in the heart of the city.
Fontaine des Bagniers
0.3 km
Discover the historical charm of Fontaine des Bagniers in Aix-en-Provence, a serene landmark reflecting the city's rich heritage and artistic ambiance.
Rue des tanneurs
0.3 km
Explore the historic Rue des Tanneurs in Aix-en-Provence, where the city's leatherworking past meets its vibrant present.
Couvent des Prêcheurs
0.4 km
Explore the Couvent des Prêcheurs in Aix-en-Provence, a medieval convent with stunning architecture and a rich historical heritage.
Église de la Madeleine
0.4 km
Explore the historical Église de la Madeleine in Aix-en-Provence, a blend of Gothic and Baroque architecture, currently under renovation but rich in art and history.
Église du Saint-Esprit
0.4 km
Discover a serene 18th-century church in Aix-en-Provence, blending architectural beauty with a rich historical and spiritual legacy.
Hotel de France Aix-en-Provence
0.4 km
Charming 3-star hotel in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, steps from Cours Mirabeau and the city's best attractions.
Paul Cezanne Statue
0.5 km
Explore the Paul Cézanne Statue in Aix-en-Provence, a serene tribute to the legendary artist amidst beautiful Provençal landscapes.
Place de la rotonde
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant heart of Aix-en-Provence at Place de la Rotonde, a historic square featuring a magnificent fountain and lively atmosphere.
Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Aix
0.6 km
Discover centuries of religious history and architectural beauty at the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Aix-en-Provence.
Immobilière Sextius Mirabeau - Groupe FIGUIERE
0.6 km
Explore stunning properties and local culture at Immobilière Sextius Mirabeau, your gateway to real estate in the heart of Aix-en-Provence.
Unmissable attractions to see
Hôtel de Châteaurenard
0.0 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage of Aix-en-Provence at Hôtel de Châteaurenard, a captivating museum with stunning exhibits and elegant architecture.
Hôtel Boyer de Fonscolombe
0.1 km
Discover the enchanting Hôtel Boyer de Fonscolombe, a historical landmark in Aix-en-Provence that reflects the elegance of 17th-century architecture.
Tour de l'Horloge
0.1 km
Discover the historic elegance of Tour de l'Horloge, a must-see landmark in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, showcasing rich history and stunning architecture.
Cloitre Saint Sauveur
0.1 km
Explore the historical Cloitre Saint Sauveur, a stunning cathedral in Aix-en-Provence, rich in art, culture, and spiritual heritage.
Musée des Tapisseries
0.1 km
Discover exquisite 17th and 18th-century tapestries within the historic Archbishop's Palace in Aix-en-Provence, showcasing French artistry and the legacy of the renowned Festival d'Aix-en-Provence.
Fantastic Weekend Market
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant Fantastic Weekend Market in Aix-en-Provence, where local culture, artisanal goods, and delicious cuisine come together in a lively atmosphere.
Town Hall of Aix-en-Provence
0.1 km
Explore the historic Town Hall of Aix-en-Provence, a stunning architectural marvel in the heart of Provence, embodying local culture and heritage.
Paroisse Cathédrale Saint Sauveur Aix-en-Provence
0.1 km
Discover the breathtaking Paroisse Cathédrale Saint Sauveur, a stunning blend of Gothic and Romanesque architecture in the heart of Aix-en-Provence.
Fontaine de l'eau bénite
0.1 km
Discover the serene beauty of Fontaine de l'eau bénite, a historic fountain in Aix-en-Provence blending spirituality and architectural elegance.
Hotel de Caumont
0.1 km
Discover Aix-en-Provence's Hôtel de Caumont, a meticulously restored 18th-century mansion, now a vibrant art center showcasing masters of art and offering a glimpse into aristocratic life.
Place des Cardeurs
0.2 km
Explore the cultural heart of Aix-en-Provence at Place des Cardeurs, a lively plaza filled with history, charm, and local delights.
Niche votive
0.2 km
Discover the Niche Votive in Aix-en-Provence: a serene glimpse into the city's spiritual heart, showcasing centuries of faith, art, and Provençal tradition along the historic Rue Maréchal Foch.
Place Richelme
0.2 km
Explore Place Richelme in Aix-en-Provence: A vibrant market square filled with local flavors, artisanal crafts, and a lively atmosphere.
Fontana del Porcellino di Aix
0.2 km
Rub the snout of this bronze boar in Place Richelme for good luck, a charming Florentine tradition in the heart of Aix-en-Provence's oldest square.
Tourreluque
0.3 km
Explore Tourreluque, a 14th-century tower in Aix-en-Provence, a lasting vestige of the city's medieval ramparts, offering a glimpse into its fortified past and rich historical evolution.
Essential places to dine
A l'Ancienne
0.1 km
Experience the best of French and Italian cuisine at A l'Ancienne in Aix-en-Provence, where delicious flavors meet a charming ambiance.
Le Bistrot
0.1 km
Experience authentic Provençal cuisine at Le Bistrot in Aix-en-Provence – where every meal is a taste of tradition and flavor.
Le Papagayo
0.1 km
Experience exquisite French-Mediterranean cuisine at Le Papagayo in Aix-en-Provence – a must-visit culinary destination.
Follia
0.1 km
Experience exquisite Mediterranean and French cuisine at Follia in Aix-en-Provence - where culinary tradition meets modern flair.
Le Poivre d'Ane
0.1 km
Discover culinary excellence at Le Poivre d'Ane, where French sophistication meets Mediterranean flavors in the heart of Aix-en-Provence.
Restaurant Le Portofino
0.1 km
Discover exquisite French and Italian cuisine at Restaurant Le Portofino in Aix-en-Provence - a culinary haven for food lovers.
Restaurant Le Quatre
0.1 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Restaurant Le Quatre in Aix-en-Provence – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
de l'une à l'autre
0.1 km
Experience authentic Provencal cuisine at de l'une à l'autre in Aix-en-Provence – where every dish is a celebration of local flavors.
Angelina
0.2 km
Discover exquisite French cuisine at Angelina in Aix-en-Provence – where culinary artistry meets local tradition.
Le Bidule
0.2 km
Experience delightful dining at Le Bidule in Aix-en-Provence—where French elegance meets American comfort food.
O'Gustus
0.2 km
Discover the authentic taste of Provence at O'Gustus in Aix-en-Provence, where tradition meets modern French cuisine in a warm atmosphere.
L'incontournable
0.2 km
Experience exquisite French and Mediterranean cuisine at L'incontournable in Aix-en-Provence—a must-visit for food lovers.
La Cabane en Ville ( Vegan )
0.3 km
Experience exceptional vegan dining at La Cabane en Ville in Aix-en-Provence, where local ingredients meet culinary creativity for a delightful meal.
Il Etait une Fois
0.3 km
Discover the elegance of French haute cuisine at Il Etait une Fois in Aix-en-Provence - where every meal is a masterpiece.
Les Fils à Maman Aix en Provence
0.3 km
Experience authentic French cuisine with a modern twist at Les Fils à Maman in Aix-en-Provence—where every meal tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Le petit Souk Aix-en-Provence
0.0 km
Explore Le Petit Souk, a charming gift shop in Aix-en-Provence, offering unique toys, home goods, and delightful souvenirs for every traveler.
L'éphémère Boutique
0.1 km
Explore L'éphémère Boutique in Aix-en-Provence for unique artisanal finds and a taste of local artistry that embodies the spirit of Provence.
L'oiseau Bleu Concept Store - Dépôt vente
0.1 km
Explore L'oiseau Bleu Concept Store for a unique shopping experience in Aix-en-Provence, featuring antiques, fashion accessories, and local artisan treasures.
Mood
0.1 km
Discover unique fashion accessories and modern gadgets at Mood in Aix-en-Provence, where style meets sophistication in a charming boutique setting.
Sunday Morning
0.2 km
Explore the stylish charm of Sunday Morning, a boutique clothing store in Aix-en-Provence, offering unique fashion finds and local flair.
Insane Shop
0.2 km
Explore the Insane Shop in Aix-en-Provence for unique women's fashion and accessories that embody contemporary style and local charm.
Brin de Charme
0.2 km
Explore Brin de Charme, a charming gift shop in Aix-en-Provence, offering unique artisanal treasures that embody the spirit of Provence.
Boutique N°4
0.2 km
Explore Boutique N°4 for an exquisite selection of women's fashion in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, where style meets elegance.
Le Coin des Chineurs
0.2 km
Uncover unique fashion finds and enjoy a cozy coffee at Le Coin des Chineurs, the must-visit vintage store in Aix-en-Provence.
Nouvel Arrondissement
0.2 km
Explore Nouvel Arrondissement, a delightful gift shop in Aix-en-Provence, offering unique fashion accessories and local crafts for every traveler.
Boutique Aigle Aix-En-Provence
0.2 km
Explore stylish outdoor clothing at Boutique Aigle Aix-En-Provence, where fashion meets functionality in a charming Provencal atmosphere.
Blow Up
0.2 km
Explore Blow Up in Aix-en-Provence for a unique vintage clothing experience that combines style and history in every piece.
La Fabrique Aixoise
0.2 km
Discover exquisite handmade crafts at La Fabrique Aixoise, a unique shopping destination in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, showcasing local artistry and culture.
Boutique Kitch
0.2 km
Explore the charm of Boutique Kitch in Aix-en-Provence, where vintage allure meets contemporary style in a delightful shopping experience.
HERITAGE - Vintage Clothing
0.2 km
Uncover unique fashion treasures at HERITAGE - Vintage Clothing, a must-visit boutique in Aix-en-Provence for vintage lovers.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Ubc Events - Bar à domicile
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail culture of Aix-en-Provence at The Ubc Events, where innovative drinks meet a cozy atmosphere.
Bar des PTT
0.2 km
Experience the local nightlife at Bar des PTT in Aix-en-Provence, where vibrant ambiance meets affordable drinks for a memorable evening.
O'barrel
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of O'barrel, a charming pub in Aix-en-Provence, offering local drinks and a lively ambiance for an unforgettable experience.
O'Shannon
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of O'Shannon, a beloved pub in Aix-en-Provence, where locals and tourists gather for great drinks and lively entertainment.
Le Manoir
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant ambiance of Le Manoir in Aix-en-Provence, where delightful drinks and a lively atmosphere await every traveler.
Le césar pub
0.2 km
Discover the lively spirit of Aix-en-Provence at Le César Pub, where great drinks and friendly faces create unforgettable memories.
St James pub
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of St James Pub in Aix-en-Provence, where local charm meets a lively bar scene perfect for unwinding after your adventures.
Le Brigand
0.2 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and delightful drinks at Le Brigand, a must-visit pub in Aix-en-Provence's vibrant social scene.
La Cocina Negra
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Aix-en-Provence at La Cocina Negra, where exquisite cocktails and a lively atmosphere await.
Sunset Café
0.3 km
Discover the lively Sunset Café, a premier bar and nightclub in Aix-en-Provence, where vibrant nightlife meets exquisite cocktails and unforgettable moments.
Bar à Bières
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Bar à Bières in Aix-en-Provence, a craft beer paradise featuring local and international brews.
Le Vieux tonneau
0.3 km
Discover the charm of Le Vieux Tonneau, a top wine bar in Aix-en-Provence offering exquisite wines and savory tapas in a cozy setting.
BACK to BAC - Aix-en-Provence
0.3 km
Discover BACK to BAC, a premier cocktail bar in Aix-en-Provence, offering innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for unwinding and socializing.
Pub shakespeare
0.3 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and authentic flavors of Pub Shakespeare, an Irish pub in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, perfect for tourists and locals alike.
Céleste
0.3 km
Discover Céleste, the chic cocktail bar in Aix-en-Provence, offering unique drinks and an inviting atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
