No getaway planned for the holidays? Staying close to the Bonne Mère for summer vacation? That’s perfect—the editorial team at Marseille Secrète has put together a program packed with activities that are perfect for getting away without leaving the region. Exhibitions, outdoor activities, summer concerts by candlelight… Discover the best things to do this summer in Marseille and the surrounding area!
Join the unique dinners organized by Marseille Provence Gastronomie
Unique and gourmet dinners are taking place all summer long in magical locations across Provence! At the Domaine de la Galinière, at the Étang du Jaï, or at Les Terres de Pierre… It’s in these magical and eclectic Provençal settings that these one-of-a-kind gourmet dinners—now in their fourth year—await you. Just like every summer, Marseille Provence Gastronomie is organizing gourmet dinners at exceptional venues throughout Provence! From July 1 through 31, several gourmet dinners will be offered in idyllic settings. But hurry— spots are filling up fast!
Marvel at the July 14 fireworks display (July 13)
As it does every year, the City of Marseille puts on a spectacular show for France’s National Day. However, its famous fireworks display will take place on July 13 instead of July 14 to avoid coinciding with the event planned in tribute to the victims of the Nice attack. A must-see, colorful highlight of the Marseille summer.
The temperature is rising and sunny days are here: the perfect opportunity to savor the best artisanal ice cream in Marseille! Summer 2026 is shaping up to be unusually hot. So to help you cool off, these artisanal ice cream makers have brought out the big guns. Italian-style, sorbets, organic, vegan, in cups or cones… And guaranteed chemical-free! You’re sure to find something you’ll love among these top picks, which include one of the ice cream shops voted among the best in the world this year!
Stroll through the Old Port Summer Market
Through September 1, local artisans will set up shop under the shade of the Vieux-Port to bring you the fourth edition of the iconic summer market. As every year, this is an opportunity to highlight the expertise of the region’s artisans and the diversity of local crafts. On the agenda: regional specialties (Marseille soap, Provençal tablecloths, sailor shirts, tableware, and more) will be featured alongside decorative items, jewelry, cosmetics, and ready-to-wear clothing…Not to mention local gourmet specialties and regional products!
Want a nature getaway without leaving Marseille? The remarkable garden of Villa Santa Lucia is opening its gates exceptionally this summer. Nestled in Roucas-Blanc in Marseille, Villa Santa Lucia is opening its remarkable garden for a special exhibition from July 1 to September 7, 2026. Visitors can discover more than 200 Mediterranean and exotic species, rock gardens, and views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Party outdoors at the ON AIR festival at the Friche Belle de Mai
All summer long, the rooftop terrace at Friche Belle de Mai takes things to new heights to light up your evenings. Set to the beat of live concerts and DJ sets at sunset, the ON AIR evenings continue throughout the month of August. Every Friday and Saturday, groove to the sounds of new artists: hip-hop, house, rock, techno, or Latin rhythms—there’s something for everyone!
It’s one of the summer’s most spectacular events: on August 12, Marseille will be the setting for a nearly total solar eclipse. An exceptionally rare event, unmatched since 1999—be sure to mark your calendar right away! With more than 96% of the Sun obscured, Marseille will be plunged into twilight around 8:25 p.m. for a two-minute celestial spectacle. Don’t forget your certified eclipse glasses to fully experience this magical moment.
Celebrate August 15 on the Gisèle Halimi Esplanade, Day 4
A highlight of the Marseille summer, the August 15 festivities promise to be full of excitement once again this year. Starting at 7 p.m., head to the waterfront to sing your heart out at a giant outdoor karaoke party! To satisfy everyone’s tastes, there will be activities for all ages, food trucks, and refreshment stands. Then, at 10 p.m., it’s time for some magic: the Marseille sky will light up for a grand finale combining a drone show and fireworks.
The ultimate unique spot, the Aygalades Waterfall is an oasis of water and greenery right in the heart of Marseille. Standing 9 meters tall, it hosts the “A Sunday at Aygalades” events every first Sunday of the month (except in August) . This friendly gathering features entertainment, free activities for everyone, and on-site dining courtesy of food trucks. Be sure to check out the program.
A must-see for summer evenings in Marseille, the Ciné Plein-Air festival reinvents cinema by taking over every corner of the city. Featuring a rich selection of films—from must-see classics to animated feature films and arthouse cinema—the event offers free screenings under the stars for the enjoyment of all attendees.
