Fontaine Moussue
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Fontaine Moussue

4.5
·117 reviews·Aix-en-Provence, France

A unique, moss-covered fountain on Aix-en-Provence's grand Cours Mirabeau, offering a cool, picturesque respite.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Fewer crowds, better light for photos

CrowdLow
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Fontaine Moussue

Fontaine Moussue

Best Time

Morning

Fewer crowds, better light for photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A unique, moss-covered fountain on Aix-en-Provence's grand Cours Mirabeau, offering a cool, picturesque respite.

4.5
(117 reviews)

"This moss-covered fountain was built in 1666 by architect Jacques Fosséon on Cours Mirabeau, level with Rue Clémenceau."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Fontaine Moussue is a great vantage point for photos of Cours Mirabeau. Capture its unique mossy texture!

🚶‍♀️ Explore with a Map

Use a city travel map to easily find Fontaine Moussue and other attractions in Aix-en-Provence.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Fontaine Moussue's Verdant Beauty

Fontaine Moussue's Verdant Beauty

Cours Mirabeau

A unique, moss-covered fountain built in 1666, offering a picturesque and cool respite.

Cours Mirabeau Promenade

Cours Mirabeau Promenade

Aix-en-Provence

Stroll along this grand avenue lined with plane trees, cafes, and fountains, soaking in the Provençal atmosphere.

Aix-en-Provence Markets

Aix-en-Provence Markets

Various squares in Aix-en-Provence

Experience vibrant local life with fresh produce, crafts, and regional specialties. Best on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Mossy Charm

Fontaine Moussue, a unique moss-covered fountain, is a must-see on Aix-en-Provence's Cours Mirabeau. Its constant 18°C water temperature fosters lush growth, making it a picturesque spot year-round. Arrive early to avoid crowds and capture the best photos.

Explore Aix-en-Provence's Heart

Fontaine Moussue is just one gem in Aix-en-Provence's historic center. Combine your visit with exploring charming streets, vibrant markets (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays are key!), and other beautiful fountains like the Rotonde. Consider a city travel map for easy navigation.

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Fewer crowds, better light for photos
Crowd
Low
When
Market days (Tue, Thu, Sat)
Why
Vibrant atmosphere and local finds
Crowd
Medium
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour light on the fountain
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Aix-en-Provence 🧡🇫🇷 Est-ce que tu as déjà visité cette ville ? Je crois qu’on est nombreux à être tombés amoureux d’Aix-en-Provence… 🥰 Voici nos visites incontournable pour un week-end 👇 - la place de l’Hôtel de ville avec la tour de l’Horloge - faire le tour des plus belles fontaines (fontaine Moussue, fontaine de la Rotonde ou encore la fontaine des Augustins) - la cathédrale Saint-Sauveur et so...
@frenchrivieraguide
14.8K likes • 491.9K views

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Fontaine Moussue is a great vantage point for photos of Cours Mirabeau. Capture its unique mossy texture! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore with a Map

Use a city travel map to easily find Fontaine Moussue and other attractions in Aix-en-Provence. Reddit

J’te présente le petit kiosque place des pêcheurs sur Aix en Provence : Chez Barth . #aixmaville #aixenprovence #aix #aixoise #aixenpce #provence #marseille
@lamodeaixoise
9.5K likes • 192.1K views
a dream Chateau in Provence 🤍#france #provence #aixenprovence
@besianazogu
6.7K likes • 56.9K views

☕ Relax at a Cafe

Numerous cafes surround the fountain, perfect for a coffee break and people-watching. Reddit

🛍️ Market Day Magic

Visit on Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday for the best local markets. TikTok

One of my favourite markets in Provence, in Aix-en-Provence 🍓🍉🍋🧺 #aixenprovence #provence #travelfrance #frenchmarket
@sonia.c.mota
5.4K likes • 76K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Fontaine Moussue is a great vantage point for photos of Cours Mirabeau. Capture its unique mossy texture! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore with a Map

Use a city travel map to easily find Fontaine Moussue and other attractions in Aix-en-Provence. Reddit

☕ Relax at a Cafe

Numerous cafes surround the fountain, perfect for a coffee break and people-watching. Reddit

🛍️ Market Day Magic

Visit on Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday for the best local markets. TikTok

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Toddler-Friendly Space

The open space around the fountain is relatively safe for young children. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(117 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Fontaine Moussue for its unique, moss-covered beauty and its picturesque location on Cours Mirabeau. The constant cool temperature and lush greenery make it a refreshing sight. It's also noted as a safe and pleasant area for families, with plenty of cafes nearby for relaxation. Some find it a great spot for photography.

"Great fountain covered with mousse. Great vantage point to click photos of cours Mirabeau."

Pavan Bommana

"This moss-covered fountain was built in 1666 by architect Jacques Fosséon on Cours Mirabeau, level with Rue Clémenceau. The 18°C water temperature all year round encourages the presence of moss."

Edward

"We visited the place with our (then) 2 yo. What we likes about the place was the open space which was relatively safe from the usual dangers to toddlers. Lots of cafes and small shops around and very picturesque. Lots of police and security around which gives a sense of safety. The officials are quite helpful for tourists as well. We followed the city travel map and walked to most of the city attractions."

kedR

What People Like

Unique mossy appearance
Picturesque location
Refreshing atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can get crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Fontaine Moussue is located on the famous Cours Mirabeau in the heart of Aix-en-Provence. It's easily accessible by foot from most central locations. If arriving by public transport, buses stop frequently near the Cours Mirabeau. TikTok

Parking in Aix-en-Provence can be challenging. Several underground parking garages are available near Cours Mirabeau, such as 'Parking Mazarin' or 'Parking Rotonde'. TikTok

The Aix-en-Provence TGV station is a bit outside the city center. You'll need to take a bus or taxi to reach the city center and then walk to Cours Mirabeau. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Fontaine Moussue is a public fountain located on Cours Mirabeau and is free to view and access. TikTok

As it's an outdoor public space, Fontaine Moussue is accessible 24/7. However, the surrounding shops and cafes have their own operating hours. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Fontaine Moussue is renowned for its unique appearance, covered in lush moss due to the constant 18°C water temperature. It's a beautiful natural spectacle. Reddit

Absolutely! It's a very picturesque spot and a great vantage point for capturing photos of the grand Cours Mirabeau. TikTokReddit

Yes, Aix-en-Provence is known as the 'city of a thousand fountains'! Other notable ones include the Fontaine de la Rotonde and the Fontaine des Quatre Dauphins. TikTok

The area is generally very safe, with plenty of police and security presence, making it feel secure for visitors. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Cours Mirabeau is lined with numerous cafes and restaurants offering a variety of cuisines, perfect for a meal or a coffee break. TikTokReddit

Don't miss trying calissons (almond-shaped sweets), madeleines, and exploring the local markets for regional produce. TikTok+1

📸 📸 Photography

Early mornings offer softer light and fewer people, ideal for capturing the fountain's details. Late afternoons can provide beautiful golden hour light. TikTok

Focus on the mossy textures, the water flow, and wider shots incorporating the grandeur of Cours Mirabeau. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Fontaine Moussue and its surroundings on Cours Mirabeau offer a relatively safe and open space for families with young children. The wide avenue allows toddlers to move around with less risk of danger compared to narrower streets. Reddit The fountain itself is a point of interest, and the numerous cafes provide convenient spots for breaks. Reddit Consider visiting during market days for added sensory engagement, but be mindful of crowds. TikTok+1

When exploring Aix-en-Provence with kids, focus on the accessible attractions. The markets are great for a sensory experience, and many of the city's fountains are visually appealing. Bringing a city map can help keep little ones engaged as you navigate from one point of interest to another. Reddit Pack comfortable shoes for everyone, as you'll likely be doing a lot of walking. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Fontaine Moussue is a photographer's delight, especially for those who appreciate unique natural textures. The moss covering creates a distinctive look that stands out from typical stone fountains. Reddit Aim for early morning or late afternoon light to capture the best atmosphere and avoid harsh midday sun. TikTok Experiment with close-ups of the moss and water, as well as wider shots that include the grandeur of Cours Mirabeau. Reddit

Beyond the fountain, Aix-en-Provence offers a wealth of photographic opportunities. The vibrant markets are a feast for the eyes, with colorful produce and local crafts. TikTok+1 The charming streets, historic architecture, and other fountains like the Rotonde and Quatre Dauphins provide endless subjects. Don't forget to capture the essence of Provençal life – the outdoor cafes, the plane trees, and the general ambiance. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Allure of Aix-en-Provence's Fountains

Aix-en-Provence is famously known as the 'city of a thousand fountains,' and Fontaine Moussue is a prime example of this rich heritage. Built in 1666 by architect Jacques Fosséon, its unique mossy appearance is a direct result of the consistently cool 18°C water that flows year-round. This natural phenomenon creates a lush, almost enchanted look, making it a beloved landmark on the prestigious Cours Mirabeau. TikTokReddit

Beyond Fontaine Moussue, the city boasts numerous other beautiful fountains, each with its own history and charm. The grand Fontaine de la Rotonde, with its allegorical statues, marks a significant entrance to the city, while the Fontaine des Quatre Dauphins adds a touch of elegance to the Place des Quatre Dauphins. Exploring these fountains is an integral part of experiencing the city's artistic and historical soul. TikTok

Many visitors find that simply wandering through Aix-en-Provence and discovering these water features is a highlight of their trip. The presence of so many fountains contributes to the city's serene and picturesque atmosphere, offering cool oases amidst the bustling Provençal life. TikTokReddit

Navigating Aix-en-Provence: Markets and Mobility

Aix-en-Provence truly comes alive on its market days, which are a significant draw for locals and tourists alike. The most vibrant markets are held on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, transforming the city's squares into bustling hubs of activity. Here, you can find everything from fresh produce and local delicacies to artisanal crafts and Provençal textiles. TikTok+2

For those planning to explore the city, including reaching Fontaine Moussue, walking is often the most enjoyable and practical method. The historic center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, allowing you to stumble upon hidden gems. Many visitors recommend using a city travel map to navigate efficiently and ensure you don't miss key attractions like the various fountains. Reddit

While the city center is best explored on foot, it's worth noting that the main TGV train station is located outside the city. From there, you'll need to utilize local buses or taxis to reach the heart of Aix-en-Provence. For those driving, be aware that parking can be limited and expensive, with several underground garages available as alternatives. TikTok