Enjoy a boat trip
At sunset
Leave the hustle and bustle of the city, off the coast, in the harbour of Marseille as it takes on its warm colours. You’ll be surprised by the changing panorama turning into a postcard setting. Hop aboard a typical boat where the atmosphere will be one of relaxation and contemplation. You will set sail for the Frioul islands, enjoy an aperitif while appreciating the last rays of sunshine. Click here to find out more.
10 unusual daymarks from the Marseille coast
Take half of a day to discover 10 unusual daymarks (A daymark is a fixed and identifiable landmark used for maritime navigation) of the Marseille coast on board a traditional sailing boat. A soft mix between curiosity and relaxation, without forgetting of course a short swimming break to get refreshed! Click here to find out more.
Visit the district of La Treille, a village dear to Marcel Pagnol’s heart
Close to the towns of Allauch and Aubagne, La Treille is one of the eastern districts of Marseille. Just like other districts of Marseille such as Château-Gombert, it is an authentic Provencal village where locals have been careful to maintain a traditional way of life.
This “village” very dear to Marcel Pagnol, has remained the same through times: quiet, authentic, and peaceful. The “Bastide Neuve” home where Pagnol and his family used to spend their vacations is located just after the village. If you plan to walk in the Garlaban hills in the footsteps of little Marcel and his friend Lili, you can’t miss it! To get an incredible view over Marseille, organize your walk in the evening! You will be amazed!
Marcel Pagnol and his family are buried in La Treille cemetery, at the very entrance of the village.
If you want to know more about this typical district of Provence, book your guided tour.
Visit the museums of Marseille
To get a nice and cool visit when the Mediterranean temperatures are too high, push the doors open. From big hitters to quirkier specialist museums, there’s one to suit every interest, and many of them are free to visit. Take your pick and use your Marseille map to work out how to get there and which one to visit next. Most of them are located in 17th-century Heritage buildings or are recently built. They are located in the center of Marseille or ealisy accessible via public transportation. Find here all the museums of the city.
Take a stroll in the alleys of l’Estaque district
On one end of the city, you will find the famous Goudes district, gateway to the Calanques National Park, which gets quite crowded in summer. On the other end, at the extreme north of the city, is l’Estaque, a typical fishermen’s district, and a real treasure sheltered from the mistral wind by La Nerthe massif.
The heart of the village is centered around ‘Place Maleterre’ just in front of the 19th-century church. From there, the panoramic view of the bay of Marseille and its harbor has been the main source of inspiration for Cezanne and the 20th-century modern painting mouvements (Fauvism and Cubism). The village is also a starting point to hike along La Côte bleue seafront and calanques.
A stroll along the narrow streets of l’Estaque will take you to taste the inevitable « chichi fregi » (Provençal churros) or the famous panisses (fried chickpea flour) for your aperitif !
To get to l’Estaque take bus 35s from La Joliette square or get on board the shuttle boats from the ‘Vieux Port’.
