Even if you consider yourself a true Marseillais or Marseillaise, it’s sometimes interesting to put yourself in a tourist’s shoes to rediscover your city from a new perspective. Always on the lookout for unique activities, we’re here to show you that Marseille still has plenty of surprises in store! With its dynamism and boundless energy, the Phocaean city continues to amaze us, move us, and reveal a multitude of experiences to enjoy. Here are just a few!
A symbol of the city dear to the hearts of the people of Marseille, the one nicknamed “La Bonne Mère” is worth seeing at least once in a lifetime. First, because the hike up to it is well worth the effort, and second, because once you reach the top, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking view of all of Marseille. And don’t hesitate to visit the interior of the cathedral—it might reveal many secrets to you.
Head to the Esplanade de la Major and step inside the cathedral
Also known as the Cathedral of Sainte-Marie-Majeure or “La Major,” the Cathedral of La Major is located in La Joliette. The cornerstone of this architectural gem of Marseille was laid by Louis-Napoléon Bonaparte based on plans by Léon Vaudoyer in 1852. It is considered one of the largest cathedrals built in France since the Middle Ages. In 1906, it was designated a historic monument.
Visit the MuCEM, a mecca for architecture and heritage
It’s called the MuCEM. Inaugurated as part of Marseille-Provence 2013, the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Folk prints, furniture, costumes, jewelry, prints… This Marseille museum draws visitors with its cutting-edge programming and high-caliber exhibitions. And for a moment’s respite, enjoy a coffee in the shade of the museum’s distinctive lace-like facade.
Discovered in 1985 by a diver who gave it its name, the Cosquer Cave is an archaeological marvel located in the Calanques National Park of Marseille. Inaccessible to the general public (only experienced divers can enter), history buffs and curious visitors can now admire an exact replica of the Cosquer Cave! A museum that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Is it a doughnut? Is it a churro? Neither! The chichi fregi has a identity all its own. A true Provençal institution, it’s flavored with orange blossom, deep-fried, and dusted with powdered sugar. You’ll also find variations filled with chocolate, jam, or whipped cream. And to savor THE traditional chichi fregi with a view of the sea, head toL’Estaque, where three must-visit spots await you.
There is indeed one thing that Mont Blanc, the Eiffel Tower, and the Millau Viaduct have in common…What is it? Their altitudes were calculated relative to a tide gauge installed on the Corniche in Marseille. In fact, it is relative to this very same tide gauge that all elevations in France are measured. As the zero point for elevation, it is thanks to this tide gauge that we know Mont Blanc is 4,810 meters high, the Eiffel Tower is 324 meters tall, and the Bonne Mère stands at 162 meters. Furthermore, since Switzerland has no coastline, it uses the Marseille tide gauge for its own reference points…
Head to the Noailles neighborhood, aptly nicknamed the “belly of Marseille.” It was there—more precisely at 4 Rue des Récolettes—that Maison Empereur was established in 1827. Still open nearly 200 years later, it fully deserves the title of France’s oldest hardware store. And don’t let its advanced age fool you! Hardware, gardening supplies, firearms, cutlery, as well as household goods and a café…With over a thousand items in stock, it still holds many treasures that are well worth the trip.
Pagodas are Buddhist places of worship that house relics and welcome the faithful who come to pray. Renowned for their impressive architecture, the city of Marseille is home to no fewer than three pagodas. As havens of peace and places to escape the hustle and bustle of Marseille, the city’s Buddhist pagodas are must-see destinations.
The Aygalades Waterfall is one of Marseille’s most unusual spots. Nestled in the heart of the 15th arrondissement, this 9-meter-high waterfall is located on the grounds of Château Falque. Back in the day, the site was reserved for Marseille’s 19th-century bourgeoisie. In the 1940s, the property was demolished to make way for the construction of the A7 highway. This construction work cut off access to the stream, and the waterfall was forgotten and neglected for a time. However, since 2016, artists and the Cité des Arts de Rue have taken on the task and made it possible to restore and preserve Les Aygalades. Now, every first Sunday of the month, you can enjoy free entertainment and food trucks!
They say you need to take 10,000 steps a day to stay healthy. To reach your goal, we suggest walking down Rue Paradis, which is 3,400 meters long on its own. As the longest street in Marseille, it crosses no fewer than four districts. So put on your sneakers, and if someone tells you along the way that the longest street in Marseille is Rue Saint-Pierre, have them read this article on our behalf.
Visit the Notre-Dame-du-Mont Church, where Frédéric Chopin once performed
You don’t have to be religious to visit a place of worship. Passersby and onlookers can stop there to find a moment of calm. The Notre-Dame-du-Mont Church is also worth a visit for two reasons. First, it gave its name to this much-loved neighborhood. Second, this church is a relic of Marseille’s history. The composer and virtuoso pianist Frédéric Chopin came here to play on April 24, 1839, for the funeral of one of his friends. This is a fun fact for fans of music and Marseille.
Le Panier isn’t just Marseille’s oldest neighborhood—it’s also its most authentic, poetic, and down-to-earth. Overlooking the Old Port and the rest of the city, you’ll fall under the spell of its narrow little alleys, colorful shutters, and quaint shops with a Mediterranean flair.
Located in Marseille’s 1st arrondissement, the Noailles neighborhood is one of the liveliest in the city. Close to the Old Port and La Canebière, this part of downtown pulses with the energy of its many shops —some of which are centuries old—that give it its vibrant atmosphere. To help you find your way around this bustling neighborhood, Marseille Secrète has even put together an article featuring its top spots!
Take a stroll through the Old Port
It’s inseparable from Marseille! It even gave rise to the legend of the sardine that supposedly blocked the Port of Marseille. Here you’ll find entertainment, shops, cafés, and restaurants with views of the boats… (we never get tired of it!)! As touristy as it is authentic, this Marseille neighborhood is a must-see for locals and visitors alike.
Stroll through Notre-Dame-du-Mont
People say the Notre-Dame-du-Mont neighborhood is a village within the city— bohemian and colorful. One thing is certain: this Marseille neighborhood tends to be universally loved. While it takes its name from the church located there, Notre-Dame-du-Mont is full of great spots to eat, go out, and marvel. Marseille Secrète shares with you the places to check out in this neighborhood of Marseille’s 6th arrondissement.
Dreaming of a delicious bouillabaisse? Marseille Secrète has lovingly put together a list of the best restaurants where you can savor this gem of Marseille’s culinary heritage. Would you rather try pieds-paquets, authentic Provençal aioli, panisses, or chichis frégis? Here are our top picks.
Having seaside restaurants right on your doorstep is an undeniable luxury. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner to watch the sunset, a relaxing lunch overlooking the Mediterranean, or simply a change of scenery, Marseille Secrète invites you to discover spots where the sea is just a plate away. Le Tuba Club, Le Bistrot Plage, or Les Tamaris… Here is our complete list of seaside restaurants in Marseille.
Try the pétanque-ball-shaped chocolates from Chocolaterie Hubert
At this chocolate shop, you can buy real chocolate pétanque balls, crafted from authentic steel balls using a lifelike mold—they’re so realistic, you might mistake them for the real thing! At Maison Hubert, Marseille’s national sport is good enough to eat, complete with its balls, jack, ruler, and Fanny.
Among the stunning sights Marseille has to offer, the thousands of candles that light up the evening, and the exceptional musicians, Candlelight is more than just a concert— it’s a sensory experience. Let yourself be swept away by the magic of live music and discover your favorite songs in a classical setting!
It’s a little haven of peace —just a stone’s throw from the hustle and bustle of Marseille’s Old Port —where beautiful plants and delicious treats come together. More than just a café-florist, La Butinerie is a place for meeting others, sharing ideas, and learning about values. In addition to bouquets of flowers to buy and treats to enjoy, you can take part in various classes and workshops throughout the year.
If there’s one thing everyone in Marseille agrees on, it’s the sunsets. When the horizon is tinged with shades of ochre and crimson, many come to admire this natural spectacle. And as luck would have it, Marseille is brimming with breathtaking vantage points from which to savor the twilight.
Let’s stay on the theme of sunsets with a unique phenomenon that occurs every year in Marseille. Thanks to architecture designed with millimeter precision, the winter solstice creates a perfect alignment between the sun andthe Arc de Triomphe of the Palais. A one-of-a-kind spectacle not to be missed.
Because the Calanques are more than just beaches, they’re worth visiting at least once in a lifetime. The limestone cliffs, the scent of the garrigue, the sometimes winding paths leading to them… They’re a natural wonder that’s well worth the detour. The Calanques National Park is full of little wonders and is perfect for hiking, even in winter.
Do you love good wine but know absolutely nothing about grape varieties or tasting notes? Don’t panic! In Marseille, we’ve found the perfect antidote to the condescension of traditional wine experts. Part stand-up comedy show, part wine tasting, *The Idiot’s Guide to Wine* invites you to shake up the conventions of the wine world. Hosted by an expert who handles humor just as skillfully as a corkscrew, this experience is the perfect opportunity to taste excellent wines while enjoying a laid-back evening.
In the summer (or any time of year, for that matter), you can never say no to a good ice cream. To our delight, there’s no shortage of artisanal ice cream shops in Marseille. And while we’re at it, why not treat yourself to some distinctly southern flavors? Try the lavender, lemon-basil, navette, and even pastis ice cream for a truly refreshing taste of Marseille!
