Marseille
France
Attractions & Events in Marseille
Discover the top attractions, events, and festivals in Marseille, France
Top Attractions
Banksy's Street Mural
A recent artwork by the renowned street artist Banksy, featuring a lighthouse and thought-provoking message.
Tips: Located on a quiet street; visit during daylight to fully appreciate the details and context.
Calanques National Park
A stunning coastal park with dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise waters, ideal for hiking, swimming, and kayaking.
Tips: Wear sturdy shoes for hiking and bring plenty of water; some calanques are only accessible by boat or challenging trails.
Château d'If
A 16th-century fortress on a small island, famously featured in 'The Count of Monte Cristo.'
Tips: Check ferry schedules in advance and consider a guided tour to learn about the prison's history.
Grande Roue de Marseille
A 55-meter Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the city and coastline.
Tips: Best experienced at sunset for breathtaking views; ensure it's operational during your visit.
Jardin de la Magalone
A classical French garden surrounding an 18th-century bastide, featuring fountains, statues, and manicured parterres.
Tips: A peaceful spot for relaxation; check for any scheduled concerts or events in the garden.
Jogging
A trendy concept store and cultural hub offering fashion, art, and dining experiences in a renovated butcher's shop.
Tips: Perfect for fashion enthusiasts; explore the curated selection of local and international brands.
MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations)
A contemporary museum exploring Mediterranean cultures, housed in a striking modern building connected to Fort Saint-Jean.
Tips: Allocate a few hours to fully explore the exhibits and enjoy the rooftop views.
Notre-Dame de la Garde
A 19th-century basilica perched atop a hill, offering panoramic views of Marseille and featuring a gilded statue of the Virgin Mary.
Tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the sunrise over the city.
Old Port of Marseille (Vieux-Port)
The historic harbor of Marseille, now a vibrant area with markets, restaurants, and boat tours.
Tips: Explore the morning fish market and enjoy fresh seafood at nearby eateries.
Parc Borély
A 17-hectare public park featuring French and English gardens, a lake, and the historic Château Borély.
Tips: Ideal for a leisurely stroll or picnic; visit the botanical garden within the park.
Events & Festivals
Fête de la Saint-Louis
Honoring Marseille’s patron saint with processions, concerts, fireworks, and traditional games across the city.
When: August
Tips: Events occur in various neighborhoods; check local listings for specific activities and times.
Fête des Lumières
The city is illuminated with colorful lights and projections, creating a magical winter atmosphere.
When: December
Tips: Dress warmly and explore different neighborhoods to fully experience the light installations.
Grand Prix La Marseillaise
An annual cycling race marking the start of the European cycling season, attracting professional teams and riders.
When: January
Tips: Race routes vary; check the official schedule for the best viewing spots.
Fête de la Mer
Celebrates Marseille’s maritime heritage with sailing regattas, sea shanties, seafood, and fireworks over the Vieux Port.
When: July
Tips: Best views of fireworks are from the Vieux Port; consider arriving early to secure a spot.
Fête du Panier
A lively celebration of the historic Le Panier district, featuring local music, dance, and culinary demonstrations.
When: July
Tips: Great opportunity to taste traditional Provençal cuisine; arrive early to enjoy all activities.
FIDMarseille
An international film festival presenting a selection of narrative and documentary films, including world premieres.
When: July
Tips: Screenings occur at various venues; check the official website for schedules and ticket information.
Marseille Jazz des Cinq Continents
A jazz festival hosting artists from around the world in venues like Palais Longchamp and Théâtre Silvain.
When: July
Tips: Some concerts are free; arrive early to secure a good spot.
Fête de la Musique
A nationwide music festival celebrating the summer solstice with free concerts and performances throughout the city.
When: June
Tips: Events are spread across various neighborhoods; explore different areas to experience diverse musical acts.
Freestyle Cup
A sports and music festival featuring urban and water sports competitions, accompanied by electronic and house music performances.
When: June
Tips: Takes place on Borély beaches; free sports trials available for attendees.
Marsatac
A major festival celebrating its 25th anniversary, showcasing hip-hop, rap, and electronic music with a focus on French-speaking artists.
When: June
Tips: Located at Parc Borély; consider using public transport due to large crowds.
Le Bon Air Festival
An eco-responsible festival featuring a diverse lineup of electronic music genres, including techno, trance, house, and more.
When: May
Tips: Held at La Friche la Belle de Mai; tickets sell out quickly, so purchase in advance.
Fiesta des Suds
An autumn festival featuring a diverse range of music genres and cultural performances, celebrating the Indian summer.
When: October
Tips: Held on the Esplanade du J4; includes free access for families on Sundays.
Delta Festival
Celebrating its 10th anniversary, this festival offers an eclectic lineup of music, sports, and artistic activities on the Prado beaches.
When: September
Tips: Postponed to September to align with the 2024 Olympics; expect large crowds and vibrant atmosphere.
Journées du Patrimoine
Offers free access to museums, historical sites, and guided tours, highlighting Marseille’s rich history and culture.
When: September
Tips: Popular sites can have long lines; plan your visits early in the day.
Aires Libres
A free, multidisciplinary music festival showcasing electronic music and cultural activities in natural settings.
When: Summer
Tips: Events are held in various locations; check the official website for dates and venues.