Things to do in Marseille

All about Marseille

When to visit

Marseille is a city that marches to the beat of its own drum. Lively year-round, France’s second-largest city is a stone’s throw from some of the best beaches in the country, making it a popular summer destination. From June to August, it feels as though the parties will never stop—festivals, beach parties, and rooftop clubs keep the music pumping 24/7. For cooler temperatures but the same lively atmosphere, visit in March for Carnaval de la Plaine.

Getting around

Leave the car at home: Parking in Marseille is a nightmare. Fortunately, the city’s metro network is reliable and comprehensive, and there are plenty of tram and bus lines. An app such as Citymapper makes it easy to navigate the city. Guided tours, meanwhile, make it easier to reach points of interest outside of Marseille, such as Grasse, famous for its perfume industry, and Monaco’s Monte Carlo Casino.

Traveler tips

Marseille is well-known for sailing—so much so that the 2024 Olympic Summer Games, hosted by Paris, will hold all sailing events in Marseille. The city also has an international sailing week, called the SNIM Regatta in Marseille, which takes place in April each year. But you don’t need to be an ocean-crossing sailor to get out on the water. The best day trip from Marseille is boating through the millennia-old calanques, a series of rocky inlets formed from limestone.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Marseille famous for?

Marseille is set on the Mediterranean coast and is famously sunny, both in weather and culture. A less-bourgeois, laid-back kinda place, the city blends the culture of southern France with French tradition; think pastis liqueur and pètanque (lawn bowling), bouillabaisse fish stew, and yachts bobbing at the Vieux-Port.

How much time do you need in Marseille?

The city is large, but two days gives enough time to check off Marseille must-sees such as Chateau d’If, Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica, and Old Port of Marseille. To discover the surroundings, take a long weekend and explore the coastline of Calanques National Park.

Is Marseille a walkable city?

Yes. Marseille’s key sights are mostly within walking distance, with the Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica, atop a steep hill, being an exception. Active folks may like the hike, but others can take a bus or the Petit Train Marseille to the parking lot.

Are there beaches in Marseille?

Yes. Many of the beaches are southeast of the Old Port of Marseille, starting with the small, pleasant Plage des Catalans. Beach lovers have options, from the soft sands of Plage de la Pointe Rouge, to the popular shores at Plages du Prado, to the wilder inlets of the Calanques.

Is Marseille good for nightlife?

Yes. While it’s not a hedonistic party capital like Barcelona or Berlin, Marseille’s nightlife is decidedly fun. Especially in spring and summer, when the evenings are balmy and the revelry shifts outside. Expect beachside DJ sets, alfresco dining, and festival-style concerts organized by the Mucem.

What is there to do in Marseille for free?

Discover the city’s international vibe at Marché des Capucins, a bustling central market where African spices are sold. For respite, head to Parc Borély or the Prado beaches for some people watching, or head to the rooftop at the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations for views of the sea.

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