Café des Deux Garçons Aix-en-Provence
Iconic Aix-en-Provence cafe known for its prime people-watching, delicious food, and vibrant atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, market day magic
Café des Deux Garçons Aix-en-Provence
Best Time
Fewer crowds, market day magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Aix-en-Provence cafe known for its prime people-watching, delicious food, and vibrant atmosphere.
"Great spot for a drink/lunch/dinner and people watching - would highly recommend."
🎯 Embrace the Market Days
Don't miss the vibrant markets on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays for local produce and crafts!
☕ People-Watch Perfection
Grab a seat at Café des Deux Garçons for prime people-watching and a taste of local life.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
People-Watching Paradise
Terrace of Café des Deux Garçons
Sip a coffee or wine and watch the world go by in this iconic Aix-en-Provence square. A true taste of Provençal life.
Provençal Market Buzz
Place Richelme & surrounding squares
Experience the vibrant colors and scents of Aix's famous outdoor markets, especially lively on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
Sweet Treats at Christophe Madeleines
Christophe Madeleines
Indulge in freshly baked, melt-in-your-mouth madeleines from this renowned local patisserie.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Aix Pace
Market Days & Dining Delights
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Embrace the Market Days
Don't miss the vibrant markets on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays for local produce and crafts!
☕ People-Watch Perfection
Grab a seat at Café des Deux Garçons for prime people-watching and a taste of local life.
💰 Price Check Menu
Verify prices on the outdoor board match the menu inside, especially for seafood.
🎶 Live Music Nights
Check for live music, especially blues nights, for an extra special dining experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Embrace the Market Days
Don't miss the vibrant markets on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays for local produce and crafts!
☕ People-Watch Perfection
Grab a seat at Café des Deux Garçons for prime people-watching and a taste of local life.
💰 Price Check Menu
Verify prices on the outdoor board match the menu inside, especially for seafood.
🎶 Live Music Nights
Check for live music, especially blues nights, for an extra special dining experience.
🍰 Sweet Madeleine Stop
Treat yourself to delicious madeleines from Christophe Madeleines for a perfect snack.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Café des Deux Garçons is a highly recommended spot in Aix-en-Provence, praised for its fast, friendly service and delicious meals, making it ideal for drinks, lunch, or dinner with excellent people-watching opportunities. While some find the prices a bit high, particularly for seafood, the quality of food, appetizers, wine, and the enjoyable atmosphere, especially during live music nights, make it a worthwhile experience for many visitors.
"I visited Deux Garçons today. The service was fast and friendly and our meals were delicious. Great spot for a drink/lunch/dinner and people watching - would highly recommend. I had the Madame monsieur and a rose wine."
Ashley Linkletter
"The price and some contents of seafood plate we got the menu after sitting down is different from the board standing outside the restaurant, seems they have not update it. Seafood is ok, the shrimp is good but quite expensive for €19 per 6 pcs."
gypsycat
"Friendly staff, good appetizers (we got the cheese platter & the foie gras), good wine (yet bit pricey) and it was a live blues night and the band was really amazing. Certainly will go there again!"
Amr Sadek
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Aix-en-Provence is accessible by TGV high-speed train, with direct connections from Paris and other major French cities. The nearest major airport is Marseille Provence Airport (MRS), about a 30-minute drive away. From the airport or train station, you can take a bus or taxi into the city center.
Yes, the historic center of Aix-en-Provence is very walkable and best explored on foot. Many attractions, including Café des Deux Garçons and the main squares, are within easy reach.
Walking is the best way to discover Aix's charming streets and hidden squares. For day trips to surrounding towns like Lourmarin or Roussillon, renting a car or joining a guided tour is recommended.
While walking is primary, Aix does have a local bus network that can be useful for reaching areas further from the center. Taxis are also readily available.
Absolutely! Aix-en-Provence makes for a wonderful day trip from cities like Marseille or Nice. You can easily spend a day exploring its markets, fountains, and charming streets.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Most of Aix-en-Provence's charm lies in its public spaces like squares, fountains, and markets, which are free to explore. Some specific attractions, like Hotel de Caumont or Cezanne's studio, require paid admission.
The main markets in Aix-en-Provence are typically held on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. The Place Richelme market is a daily food market.
Café des Deux Garçons is a restaurant and cafe, so there is no entrance fee. You pay for what you order.
Yes, wandering through the old town, admiring the numerous fountains (like the Fontaine de la Rotonde and Fontaine Moussue), and exploring the lively markets are all free activities.
Tickets for Cezanne's Studio can typically be purchased online in advance or at the studio itself. It's advisable to check their official website for current pricing and booking information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Aix is famous for its fountains! Don't miss the grand Fontaine de la Rotonde, the moss-covered Fontaine Moussue, and the elegant Fontaine des Quatre Dauphins.
Explore the Cours Mirabeau, visit the markets, discover Cezanne's studio, enjoy tea at Hotel de Caumont, and savor local pastries like madeleines. Café des Deux Garçons is perfect for people-watching. +1
The most popular market days are Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, offering a wide array of local produce, crafts, and flowers. Place Richelme hosts a daily food market.
Aix-en-Provence is incredibly photogenic with its colorful buildings, charming squares, beautiful fountains, and bustling markets. Golden hour is particularly magical.
Aix-en-Provence has a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere, known for its art, history, and the sweet life of Provence. It's a city that encourages leisurely strolls and enjoying the moment.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Aix offers a range of dining options, from casual cafes like Café des Deux Garçons to charming bistros and fine dining. Don't forget to try local specialties like madeleines.
Must-tries include fresh madeleines from Christophe Madeleines, local market produce, and classic French dishes. Café des Deux Garçons offers good appetizers like cheese platters and foie gras.
Dining can be a bit pricey, especially in popular spots like Café des Deux Garçons, but many find the quality and experience worth it. Exploring the markets for picnic supplies can be a budget-friendly option.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, especially those focusing on fresh Provençal ingredients. Market stalls are also great for fresh fruits and vegetables.
Café des Deux Garçons is a highly recommended spot for a drink, offering a great atmosphere for people-watching.
📸 📸 Photography
The colorful streets, ornate fountains (especially Fontaine Moussue), lively markets, and the grand Cours Mirabeau are all incredibly photogenic. The terrace of Café des Deux Garçons offers great people-watching shots. +1
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, while golden hour in the late afternoon provides a warm, magical glow over the city.
Look for the charming details like hidden courtyards, intricate ironwork, and the vibrant displays at the local markets. The unique 'trompe l'oeil' pastries are also a fun visual.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for street photography and capturing cityscapes. A wide-angle lens can be useful for architectural shots. Don't forget a portable charger for your phone!
Generally, taking photos inside cafes is acceptable as long as you are a patron and not disrupting other guests. Be mindful and respectful.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Picnics are a great option for families, with plenty of delicious finds at the daily food market on Place Richelme. For a sweet treat, the madeleines from Christophe Madeleines are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opt for accommodations slightly outside the immediate city center for potentially lower prices. While cafes like Café des Deux Garçons can be pricey, you can enjoy the ambiance by ordering just a coffee or a single pastry.
couples
Consider a visit to the Hotel de Caumont for a dose of culture and elegance, or simply find a quiet bench in one of the many beautiful squares to enjoy each other's company. The vibrant markets offer opportunities to pick out local souvenirs together. For a truly special treat, indulge in the exquisite madeleines from Christophe Madeleines.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Aix-en-Provence
Visitors are drawn to Aix for its beautiful squares, bustling markets, and the legacy of artist Paul Cezanne, who was born and worked here. The city's layout encourages leisurely exploration, with hidden courtyards and picturesque streets around every corner. Whether you're sipping coffee at a sidewalk cafe, browsing local produce, or admiring the historic buildings, Aix offers a quintessential Provençal experience.
While Aix is a popular tourist destination, it retains an authentic feel, especially during market days or in the quieter residential streets. It's a city that invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and immerse yourself in its unique blend of history, art, and natural beauty. The presence of the university also adds a youthful energy to the city.
Culinary Delights and Cafe Culture
The cafe culture in Aix is legendary, with numerous squares dotted with tables where locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy coffee, pastries, or a glass of wine. Café des Deux Garçons, situated in a prime location, is a particularly popular spot for people-watching and soaking in the city's ambiance. While the food and drinks here are generally well-regarded, some visitors note that prices can be on the higher side, and it's wise to check menu prices.
Beyond the cafes, Aix offers a range of dining experiences, from casual bistros to more upscale restaurants. Exploring the daily food market at Place Richelme is a great way to sample local products or pick up items for a picnic. For those seeking unique treats, innovative 'trompe l'oeil' pastries offer a fun and delicious surprise.
Exploring Aix's Artistic and Historical Heart
The numerous fountains scattered throughout Aix are not just decorative; they are historical landmarks and social gathering points. The Fontaine de la Rotonde, a grand centerpiece, and the unique Fontaine Moussue (Mossy Fountain) are among the most iconic.
Beyond these specific sites, simply wandering through the old town (Vieil Aix) is an artistic and historical journey in itself. The narrow, winding streets, the colorful facades, and the lively squares all contribute to the city's timeless charm. The Aix Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur), with its mix of architectural styles, is also a significant historical and religious landmark worth visiting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit