What to do in Marseille when it's hot?

Marseille is renowned for its brilliant sunshine and summer temperatures. With summer in full swing, you may be looking for ingenious ways to escape the heat and make the most of Marseille. Fortunately, the city is full of refreshing activities that offer a welcome respite from the scorching sun. Here are a few suggestions for keeping cool while exploring our beautiful city.

Updated on 7 June 2026

Hiding in Museums and Art Galleries

Take advantage of the hottest part of the day to explore Marseille’s museums and art galleries. There are around thirty museums in Marseille, and there’s something for everyone: the Soap Museum, the Museum of Illusion, the Pastis Museum and the must-see museums like the MUCEM, the Natural History Museum and the Château Borély… Around twenty of them are free! So make the most of it!

Relax on the shady terrace

When the heat is at its peak, there’s nothing like relaxing in one of the many cafés with shady terraces. Enjoy a cool drink, an ice cream or a light salad while watching the world go by. The Place aux Huiles, the Vieux-Port and the Panier are just some of the places where you can relax and refresh yourself.

A stroll through Marseille's parks and gardens

Marseille’s gardens and parks offer a real haven of greenery, far from the concrete and tarmac. Parc Borély, with its lush greenery and soothing lake, is perfect for a relaxing stroll. The Jardin du Pharo, with its panoramic views over the Old Port, is also an ideal choice for a peaceful getaway and to enjoy a beautiful sunset at the end of the day.

A caving adventure

Opt for an original activity that’s sure to refresh you! There are a number of caving sites near Marseille where you can spend a day or half-day exploring caves and caverns. With temperatures hovering around 16 degrees Celsius, this is an activity that’s recommended in summer if you want to avoid the Marseille sun.

Opt for a cinema screening

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in an immersive experience while avoiding the heat, a trip to the cinema could be the perfect answer. Darkened cinemas offer a cinematic escape where you can lose yourself in imaginary worlds or experience thrilling adventures, all in a comfortably air-conditioned atmosphere. Now you just have to choose the film!

Freediving experience

Dive into a unique and refreshing experience by opting for a first snorkelling experience off the coast of Marseille. This immersive aquatic adventure lets you explore crystal-clear waters. Holding your breath, you embark on a captivating journey to the heart of an underwater kingdom, where tranquillity reigns and every movement instantly refreshes you.

Treat yourself to an ice cream break

One of Marseille’s must-do summer pleasures is ice cream. The city is home to many artisan ice-cream makers offering gourmet creations, from fruity sorbets to more original flavours. Whether you’re on the Old Port, in the Panier district or by the sea, this is the perfect opportunity to take a refreshing break while discovering the best ice-cream shops in Marseille.

When the temperature rises, there’s nothing like an artisanal ice cream to cool you down. In Marseille, there are a number of ice-cream parlours offering both classic and more original flavours, made with quality ingredients. A gourmet stop-off to enjoy while strolling along the Old Port, the narrow streets of Le Panier or the seafront.

Take a dip in Marseille's waters

With its miles of coastline, Marseille offers plenty of opportunities for swimming and escaping the heat. From the well-equipped beaches of the Prado to the more discreet coves of the Frioul islands, there’s a cool spot for everyone. It’s a great way to enjoy the Mediterranean while discovering exceptional landscapes.

Follow the freshness trails to discover Marseille in a different way

Even in the height of summer, you can visit Marseille without suffering from the heat thanks to the cool routes. These specially designed itineraries focus on shady streets, green spaces, fountains and the city’s most pleasant spots. An excellent way to discover Marseille’s heritage while enjoying a more comfortable stroll on the hottest days.

Practical advice ☀️

Remember to protect yourself from the sun (sun cream, hat, glasses) and keep well hydrated. Don’t forget to bring suitable footwear – flip-flops are not recommended for Frioul, the Calanques or the rocky areas.

All in all, Marseille offers a multitude of activities to escape the summer heat. Whether you prefer to venture out into nature, immerse yourself in culture or simply relax in shady spots, this dynamic city has everything to offer. So put the sun to one side and make the most of the beautiful city of Marseille!

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