Located just east of Marseille, Aubagne sits between the rugged landscapes of the Garlaban massif and the hills of eastern Provence. While modern development has spread around the town, its cultural identity remains strongly tied to Marcel Pagnol, one of Provence’s most beloved writers and filmmakers.

Aubagne is best known as Pagnol’s birthplace, and fans can explore his world through local exhibitions like the Petit Monde de Marcel Pagnol, as well as nearby landscapes that inspired his stories.

The town also has a long-standing tradition of producing santons, the small hand-crafted figurines used in Provençal nativity scenes. Workshops and boutiques throughout Aubagne continue this craft, making it one of the best places to discover authentic santons.

Just outside town, you’ll find the Musée de la Légion Étrangère, dedicated to the history of the French Foreign Legion, whose headquarters moved here after Algeria’s independence.

Aubagne is not a destination where you’ll spend days, but it makes a worthwhile cultural stop if you’re exploring between Marseille, Cassis, and the inland hills.

👉 Visit during santon season in late autumn and early winter, when workshops are active, and markets showcase local artisans. For a more meaningful stop, combine Aubagne with a short walk in the nearby Garlaban hills, where you’ll recognize landscapes from Pagnol’s stories.