The best races and sporting challenges in Marseille

Calanques national park trail: between sport and nature

An exceptional trail organised in the heart of the Parc National des Calanques, with several routes to suit all levels. This sporting challenge gives you the chance to discover one of France’s most beautiful natural sites, while practising an eco-responsible activity.
Date: 2 February 2025
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Marseille-Aix metropolitan trail: a promising first edition

For the first time, a trail will link Marseille to Aix-en-Provence over 42 km through a variety of landscapes, a major event for running enthusiasts. For those who prefer shorter distances, there will also be a 12km nature race and a children’s race. This new event fits in perfectly with the city’s sustainable development policy.
Date: 2 March 2025
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120th Critérium des Calanques: The ultimate hiking event

Organised by the Excursionnistes Marseillais, one of the oldest hiking clubs in the region, this annual event is a landmark in hiking. It attracts almost 600 participants every year. This year’s event will feature five different routes, to suit all levels of walker.
Date: 9 March 2025
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Full Moon Infinity: the urban run in the heart of Marseille

The Full Moon Infinity is a unique concept inspired by the ‘Backyard Ultra’, where participants have to complete a 6.7 km loop in less than an hour before starting again on a new loop. Accessible to all, the race offers a range of formats, from 1 loop (6.7km) to Infinity (up to 27 loops, or around 180km). The race highlights the cultural heritage of Marseille’s 2nd and 3rd arrondissements, taking in iconic sites such as the Cathedral de la Major, the Mucem and Fort Saint-Jean. The event also promotes strong values: inclusion, eco-responsibility and surpassing oneself.
Date: 15 March 2025
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10 km de Marseille by ASPTT: running in the heart of the city

This not-to-be-missed event offers two main races: 10km and 5km. Accessible to all, whether you’re an experienced runner or an amateur. The start will be given from the majestic Cathédrale de la Major, offering a unique setting. Participants will pass through some of Marseille’s most emblematic landmarks, including the Mucem, the Old Port, the Villa Méditerranée and the Palais de la Bourse.
Date: 6 April 2025
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Marseille-Cassis: the legendary half-marathon

The famous Marseille-Cassis half-marathon remains a must in the sporting calendar. With its 20km route through the Parc des Calanques, this race offers breathtaking panoramas and attracts thousands of participants from all over the world every year.
Date: 26 October 2025
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La Marseillaise des Femmes

The Marseillaise des Femmes is a committed and festive women’s race held in Marseille. Part of the entry fee is donated to causes such as breast cancer research and the defence of women’s rights.
Date: 18 May 2025

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Défi Monte-Cristo: Europe’s biggest open water swimming race

Created in 1999, this annual sporting event takes its name from the novel ‘The Count of Monte Cristo’ by Alexandre Dumas, which recounts the escape of Edmond Dantès from the Château d’If. Participants symbolically follow in the hero’s footsteps by swimming from the island of Château d’If to the beaches of the Prado. The Monte Cristo Challenge is open to swimmers of all abilities, from amateurs to professionals. The event offers a variety of courses, with distances ranging from 1km to 6km. As well as the main event in Marseille, an additional edition is held in La Ciotat in September. The challenge attracts thousands of participants and spectators, offering an intense sporting experience in an exceptional setting.
Date: 6 to 8 June and 14 and 15 June 2025 (Marseille)
12 to 14 September (La Ciotat)
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Monte-Cristo Swim Challenge: a sporting and committed challenge

This open-water swimming race offers a number of challenges, including an 18km course for experienced swimmers. The event also includes charitable and environmental initiatives, reinforcing its positive impact on the region.
Date: 14 & 15 June 2025
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Marseille Duathlon: cycling and running

Organised by the Sardines Triathlon association, the Marseille Duathlon will take place on Sunday 30 March at the Luminy sports faculty. Events on the programme: Regional Circuit D3 Duathlon Men/Women (morning), Youth Duathlon for 6-9 year-olds and 8-13 year-olds (lunchtime), Multi enchaînement XS for youths and adults (afternoon).
Date: 30 March 2025
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4th and 5th arrondissements urban raid: a multi-discipline challenge

This urban raid combines a variety of disciplines, including climbing, swimming, archery and ultimate Frisbee. It encourages the discovery of new sports in a friendly, collective atmosphere. The event is ideal for families or groups of friends who want to try out little-known sporting activities.
Date pending for 2025

Marseille Outdoor Experiences: The ultimate urban trail

Don’t miss Marseille Outdoor Experiences, an urban trail that will introduce you to the city in a whole new way. With courses of 21km and 12km, this event combines sport, culture and urban discovery. It’s the perfect opportunity for visitors to explore Marseille in an active and original way, while minimising their impact on the environment.
Date: 9 November 2025
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Eco-responsible accommodation

To make the most of these events, remember to book your accommodation in advance. Marseille has a wide range of eco-responsible accommodation options, with the Clef Verte label.
See all accommodation

Sustainable transport

Marseille has put in place environmentally-friendly mobility solutions to make it easier for you to get around.
See all soft mobility in Marseille

Responsible hydration

Find water bottle refill points in town thanks to the ‘Gourdefriendly’ initiative.
Find a bottle-filling point

On your marks, get set, go!

Whether you’re a keen runner, swimmer or hiker, Marseille offers an intense and varied sports programme for 2025. By choosing this destination, you’ll be able to challenge yourself, discover new cultures and make a commitment to eco-responsibility. So, are you ready to take up the challenge?