Where is the Vallon des Auffes?

The Vallon des Auffes is situated on the Corniche Kennedy, in Marseille’s 7th arrondissement. Tucked away between Catalans Beach and Prophète Beach, this small fishing port is easily accessible on foot, by car or by public transport (bus 83)

Why is the Vallon des Auffes famous?

The Vallon des Auffes is renowned for its picturesque little fishing harbour, its traditional ‘pointus’ boats, its colourful little huts and its authentic atmosphere. It is also known for its fish and seafood restaurants, as well as for being one of the most photographed spots in Marseille.

Where can you eat in the Vallon des Auffes?

The Vallon des Auffes is home to several renowned restaurants, many of which specialise in fish, seafood and bouillabaisse. It is advisable to book in advance, particularly during the summer months.

Can you see the sunset from the Vallon des Auffes?

Yes. The Vallon des Auffes is one of the best places to watch the sunset in Marseille. Whether from the bridge or the rocks, the view of the Mediterranean is particularly spectacular at the end of the day.

Is swimming allowed at the Vallon des Auffes?

There is no beach at Vallon des Auffes. To go for a swim, you need to walk under the arches of the bridge and head towards “la piscine” (as the people of Marseille call it) – a popular spot for families, but please be aware that the water is not supervised and it gets very busy.

The Vallon des Auffes

A small, picturesque fishing harbour

Just a few minutes from the Old Port, the Vallon des Auffes offers a timeless retreat on the shores of the Mediterranean. This small fishing harbour, nestled beneath the Corniche Kennedy, is one of Marseille’s most photographed spots, prized for its authenticity, its heritage and its excellent restaurants.

A bit of history…

The Vallon des Auffes takes its name from the ‘auffe’ (or ‘auffo’ in Provençal), a plant once used to make ship’s ropes and fishing nets. This small traditional harbour has retained all its charm with its fishermen’s houses featuring colourful façades and its ‘pointus’, the famous Provençal boats that are now a familiar sight on the Marseille skyline.

The valley is spanned by a 60-metre-long bridge, built in the 19th century by the engineer Jean François Mayor de Montricher as part of the development of the Corniche. Its three arches, rising to a height of 17 metres, have become one of the neighbourhood’s landmarks.

At the entrance to the Vallon des Auffes, on the Corniche Kennedy, stands the war memorial to the Army of the Orient and distant lands. This imposing 5-metre-high sculpture, representing an allegory of Victory, was unveiled in 1927 by President Gaston Doumergue before being listed as a Historic Monument in 2009.

Did you know?

The Vallon des Auffes is home to the family-run pizzeria “Chez Jeannot”, whose history dates back to 1949!
A great reason to go and enjoy some Marseille-style “pizze” whilst taking in a lovely sea view.

A friendly neighbourhood brought to life by its restaurants

In Vallon des Auffes, there’s no beach but the atmosphere is unbeatable! To go for a swim, head under the arches towards what the locals call “la piscine du Vallon” – a popular spot for families (but please note that the water isn’t supervised). We recommend going early in the morning to enjoy the peace and quiet. For the more adventurous, don’t hesitate to climb the rocks to find a quieter spot where the water is deeper.

The neighbourhood offers a range of restaurants to suit all budgets: from the Jeannot pizzeria to the gourmet restaurant “Chez Fonfon”, which serves one of the city’s best bouillabaisse, and the Michelin-starred Auffo. And if you fancy a drink, the terrace at Viaghji di Fonfon welcomes you and even serves tapas!
When in season, you can also take part in an ‘Oursinades’ – a sea urchin tasting – at the restaurant ‘L’Avant-Cour’.