What are some free things to do in Marseille?

Founded in 1918, the Marseille Botanical Garden is located in the 8th arrondissement of Marseille, within the grounds of Parc Borély. Organized into nine themed gardens, your visit—whether on your own, with family, or with friends—will allow you to discover approximately 3,000 plant species from around the world.

The Aygalades Waterfall is one of Marseille’s most unique spots. Nestled in the heart of the 15th arrondissement, this 9-meter waterfall is a destination that draws nature lovers. Every first Sunday of the month (except in August and January), during the event called “A Sunday at Aygalades,” you can enjoy free activities in Marseille, entertainment, and food trucks. Be sure to check out the program.

Among Marseille’s exceptional and free attractions, the Jardin du Pharo is a must-see. It’s the perfect spot to relax while gazing at the sea, the city, or simply the boats passing by in the distance; you can also stroll and picnic there in complete tranquility. The added bonus? It offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Old Port and the Mediterranean!

Fine sandy beaches, calanques with turquoise waters…The city of Marseille is unique and fortunate to be surrounded by lush nature and stunning places to swim. While in summer access to the Calanque de Sugiton requires a QR code, other spots in Marseille offer beautiful hiking trails.

This is the must-see cultural tip for lovers of free museums. Indeed, the first Sunday of the month is a date we eagerly await so we can visit these cultural sites without spending a single penny. And to make things easier for you, Marseille Secrète provides a list of museums that open for free every first Sunday of the month in Marseille.

Intimate and ever-changing spaces, Marseille’s art galleries are magical places to discover works by artists both well-known and lesser-known. Don’t hesitate to step inside an art gallery to add a touch of beauty to your day. And while, unlike museums, art galleries allow you to purchase the works on display, no one is forcing you to buy anything. So you can go there just to feast your eyes—for free!

Have you heard of Street Workout? It’s pretty much the same as a gym, but free and outdoors! There are several spots available in Marseille, notably at the Parc du 26e Centenaire or on David Beach in the Prado Seaside Park. And since the weather in Marseille is often great, why not plan a quick workout session in a park or on the beach? You can also go for a run along the Corniche Kennedy—it’s free and so relaxing!

Among the must-see free attractions in Marseille, La Cité Radieuse—Le Corbusier welcomes visitors for self-guided tours. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a unique architectural concept, designed as a laboratory for a new “housing system.” Although self-guided tours require visitors to limit their movement to the 3rd and 4th streets and the northern part of the rooftop terrace, it is well worth the visit!

Whether you’re just passing through or a local,the Tourist Office lets you (re)discover Marseille’s heritage through free tours. The Botanical Garden, Port Center, and other iconic sites of Marseille will hold no more secrets for you. Tours, walks, and activities are offered year-round; sign up online.

In addition to its magnificent architecture, which is well worth a visit, the Palais Longchamp houses two beautiful museums. The left wing is home to the Museum of Fine Arts, while the right wing houses the Marseille Natural History Museum. The observatory is situated on the Longchamp plateau and is considered the oldest scientific institution in Marseille. With activities dedicated to astronomy, a planetarium, and more, the observatory is also free to visit.

What would a visit to Marseille be without climbing the steps of Notre-Dame de la Garde? Good news for your wallet: the basilica welcomes visitors for free. While the climb from the Old Port requires a bit of effort, exploring the interior, its mosaics, and votive offerings —and even ascending to the top of the monument—won’t cost you a penny. It’s also a chance to enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Marseille.

Numerous free events take place in Marseille throughout the year: exhibitions, festivals, sports competitions, cultural outings… there’s something for everyone. Be sure to check the calendar on the City of Marseille website and let yourself be surprised.

Although its name is not protected,authentic Marseille soapis still made in a handful of soap factories in the region. For lovers of bubbles and olive oil, some of these establishments offer completely free tours. Visit Savonnerie La Licorne, Marius Fabre, Le Fer à Cheval, or Savonnerie du Sérail to learn all about the prized Marseille soap.

This immense 100,000-square-meter cultural space feels almost like a city within a city. With its children’s playground, skatepark, bookstore, and rooftop terrace, La Friche de la Belle Mai offers the perfect outing for all ages. Not to mention the Place des Quais, a public space where you can enjoy a pleasant time playing pétanque, having a picnic, or simply relaxing.

Among the must-do free activities in Marseille during the summer, the Ciné Plein-Air Marseille festival is the perfect event. The festival offers a rich program and free outdoor movie screenings throughout the city. With screenings of classic films, arthouse films, and animated films, there’s something for every viewer!