Maeght Foundation (Fondation Maeght)

The Basics

Many tours of the Vence area include stops at Fondation Maeght, home to one of the largest collections of contemporary and modern art in Europe. Independent travelers can book admission ahead of time for skip-the-line access to the gallery’s themed exhibitions, small selection of works that remain on permanent display, and elegant sculpture garden.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Fondation Maeght is a must-visit for fans of modern art and architecture.

• On-site facilities include a library, a bookshop, and a small café.

• There is no elevator in the building, and only some areas on the ground floor are accessible to travelers who rely on wheelchairs. However, wheelchair users get free access.

How to Get There

The foundation is located in Saint Paul de Vence, a short drive inland from Nice on the A8 freeway, and visitors get two free hours of on-site parking. Those traveling by bus can take line 400 from Nice or Cagnes-sur-Mer to the Fondation Maeght or St. Paul Village stop and then hike up a steep path for about 10 minutes to reach the entrance.

When to Get There

The foundation is open daily throughout the year from midmorning until evening, with even longer hours in July and August. It closes in the afternoon on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve. Make sure to get there half an hour before closing time if you want to be let in, and aim for a midweek visit for the most peaceful experience.

Labyrinth

One of the most visited attractions in the museum isLabyrinth, a sculptural collection created by Joan Miró, a close friend of the Maeght family. This maze of sculptures was made specifically for the foundation over the course of two decades and is set up in its gardens to this day.