Top Things to Do in Marseille

About the City

Marseille, the Vibrant Coastal Metropolis Nestled along the sparkling Mediterranean, Marseille stands as a bustling port city with a tapestry of cultural influences, echoed in its vibrant markets and the smatter of basil leaves in its signature dish, bouillabaisse. Sun-kissed beaches beckon locals and visitors alike, offering a splash of leisure by the azure sea, while the Calanques, with their rugged cliffs, provide a rugged retreat for those seeking adventure. However, this city isn't without its blemishes. The energy of its bustling streets sometimes tips into chaos, and visitors may find patches of the city bearing the weight of urban sprawl, with graffiti and litter disrupting its historical charm. Marseille's soul, though, lies in its resilience and the warmth of its people who embrace the good with the bad, creating a place that's authentically theirs, filled with aromatic markets, dynamic street art, and the ceaseless melody of the Provencal accent. Whether sipping pastis as the sun dips below the horizon or exploring ancient forts that whisper tales of bygone eras, Marseille is a city of contrasts, daring you to discover its secrets.

Things to Do in Marseille

Attraction Image

Hike in the Parc national des Calanques in August

Sights Outdoors

Pack a bag full of snacks, supplies, and plenty of water and get a bus to the edge of Marseille. From there, follow a route of your choosing to one of the national park’s many beaches. Prepare to get ...

Snorkel Secret Spots

Outdoors

Dip beneath the waves and discover the underwater secrets of Marseille! Snorkeling here is like opening a treasure chest filled with colorful marine life and mesmerizing views. Just float and gawk at ...

Underwater Sculpture Discovery

The Unexpected

Dive deep and discover a submerged world of art! Explore the 'subaquatic' sculptures scattered along the ocean floor near Marseille. Hold your breath as you swim alongside fish and sculptures alike – ...

Soap-Making Workshops

The Unexpected

Get sudsy with Marseille's traditional soap-making craft. Transform olive oil into beautiful bars of 'Savon de Marseille' that'll bring a whiff of Provençal charm to your bathroom. You'll have the cle...

Underground Cave Concerts

The Unexpected

Get ready to rock out in the raw beauty of an underground limestone quarry turned concert venue! Let the natural acoustics amp up the vibes as you jam to live music in a setting that's as unorthodox a...

Escape Game Enigma

The Unexpected

Lock yourselves in and sleuth your way out of an escape room! Prove your puzzle prowess and find hidden clues like a modern-day Sherlock. It's 60 minutes of mind-bending thrill – will you emerge victo...

Sailing the Seaside

Outdoors

Catch the sea breeze and sail the stunning Mediterranean waters! Channel your inner captain and navigate the azure blue, where every gust of wind fuels your seafaring soul. It's about as close as you ...

Petanque Pleasure

Outdoors

Get ready to toss your way into Marseille's favorite pastime – Petanque! Feel the cool metal boules in your hand as you aim for victory, all while soaking up the laid-back vibes of this beloved southe...

Rock Climb Les Calanques

Outdoors

Strap into your harness and challenge yourself with vertical adventures at Les Calanques! The rush of scaling those towering cliffs with the Mediterranean as your backdrop is like an action movie come...

Aioli Adventure

Food & Drink

Gear up for a garlicky gastronomic get-down with Aioli, Marseille's answer to mayonnaise, but with a punchy garlic twist! It's like a flavor fiesta in your mouth, where garlic is the guest of honor an...

Tapenade Tasting

Food & Drink

Get ready to have your palate painted with the deep, olive hues of Marseille's favorite spread – Tapenade! This olive paste mixed with capers, anchovies and olive oil is the life of the party on any s...

Savory Sardine Sampling

Sights

Fish fans, this one's for you! Dive mouth-first into the world of sardines, a Marseille staple. Smoked, grilled, or straight from the can, these little swimmers are a taste of the sea. Visit the fish ...

Street Art Scavenger

Sights

Ready, set, snap! Grab your camera and unleash your inner influencer on the streets of Le Cours Julien. Home to some of Marseille's best street art, Le Cours Julien is a canvas of creativity with mura...

Marseille History Hunt

Sights

Time travelers at the ready? Embark on a historical treasure hunt through the ancient Le Panier district! It's like stepping into a time machine, with every cobblestone and corner telling stories of p...

Frioul Archipelago Excursion

Sights

Set sail to the crème de la crème of Marseille's scenic spots, the Frioul Archipelago! Just a hop, skip, and a boat ride away, you'll find yourself in a mini paradise. Think crystal-clear waters, rugg...

Panisse Party

Food & Drink

Panisse will make your heart sing with joy! These chickpea flour fries are the crispy golden wands of goodness that'll bewitch your taste buds. Best enjoyed hot and with a sprinkle of salt!

Navette Nibble

Food & Drink

Get your munch on with Navettes, these little boat-shaped cookies are a sweet delight in your mouth with a hint of orange blossom – it's like a Provençal summer on your tongue!

Bouillabaisse Bonanza

Food & Drink

Dive into the iconic, saffron-scented stew of Marseille! Bouillabaisse is a sumptuous seafood melody that'll have your taste buds dancing the tango. It's like a hug from the Mediterranean in a bowl.

Thrifting Expedition

The Unexpected

Embark on a treasure hunt like no other. Delve into second-hand shops and vintage markets to snag some unique finds. From retro garb to antique oddities, you're in for a sustainable shopping spree!