The best spots for a sunset in Marseille

When we think of sunsets, we often imagine ourselves by the sea, immortalising the last rays of light of the day. But this magical moment can also be enjoyed from the city: from the heights or in the middle of the fishing ports, we reveal the secrets to enjoying sunsets in and around the Cité Phocéenne.

In the city

Esplanade du J4 and the panoramic walkway of Fort-Saint-Jean

Located right in the heart of the city, the J4 esplanade is ideally situated for watching the sunset. With your feet in the water or sitting on a bench, you can admire the Palais du Pharo on the opposite bank, and behind you the Mucem. As night falls, it takes on its most beautiful shades of blue, revealing the building’s architectural prowess. You can also walk along the panoramic walkway of Fort Saint-Jean, which offers an exceptional view of the sea.

Notre-Dame de la Garde

From the top of its hill, the “Good Mother”, as the people of Marseille call her, is the highest point in the city. It offers a 360° panoramic view of Marseille and, of course, the sea. The hills take on magnificent orange hues as the sun dips below the horizon. In the distance, you can see Marseille’s legendary stadium, the Orange Vélodrome, and many of the city’s monuments as they fall asleep. It’s a fabulous playground for photography enthusiasts!

Palais du Pharo

Just a stone’s throw from the Old Port, the garden of the Palais du Pharo offers a breathtaking view of the Mucem, Fort Saint-Jean and, of course, the Old Port. The masts of the boats seem to dance in the last light of the evening, and nightlife gradually takes shape in the distance. For just a moment, this walk in the hills will transport you away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Anse de Malmousque

Anse de Malmousque is located on the Corniche Kennedy. It’s a small fishing port with a magnificent view of the Frioul islands and the Château d’If. It’s certainly one of the best places to enjoy a sunset by the water… Don’t forget the aperitif, with friends, lovers or family – it’s well worth it!

Vallon des Auffes

When evening comes, this iconic spot in Marseille is like a postcard. Or rather, a painting with its most beautiful colours thrown in. Red, orange and yellow, it’s the warmth of the south in all its splendour. It brings out the beauty of the pointus, the typical fishing boats returning to port. As the sun begins to set, the terraces fill up to watch the sun fade behind the famous arches of the Vallon des Auffes bridge.

And a little further on...

Les Goudes

The end of the world is not so far away, it’s in Marseille, in the small fishing port of Les Goudes, just a few minutes from the first calanques. There’s only one road to get there. It’s the wilderness that gives it its charm. Why not bring a picnic, sit on the rocks and listen to the sound of the waves hitting the shore? Lovers be warned: this spot is as romantic as it gets. As a famous character from “The Jungle Book” would say, you don’t need much to be happy!

The Prado beaches

If you want to watch the sunset with your feet in the sand or in the water, the Prado beaches are the place to be! What’s more, there are plenty of restaurants and fast food outlets close by, so you can have something to eat after this magnificent spectacle.

The Massif de l’étoile or Garlaban

Take a deep breath of fresh air and recharge your batteries in nature. All you have to do is move away from the town centre and climb the surrounding hills. The views from the heights of Allauch or Aubagne are breathtaking. After a short, easy hike, enjoy the breathtaking view with your feet firmly planted in the garrigue: all in the utmost tranquillity…

Cap Canaille

Situated between Cassis and La Ciotat, around forty minutes from Marseille, Cap Canaille gives you the chance to soar to new heights… The highest cliff in Europe, it offers incredible panoramic views of the coastline. Motorbike enthusiasts will also love the mythical Route des Crêtes, which winds its way along the coastline.

From the sea, on a boat…

There’s nothing like taking to the open sea to enjoy a sunset in complete tranquillity. With the rhythm of the waves, the light fades and the Grande Bleue is adorned with beautiful coloured reflections. Weather permitting, this is the ideal way to admire Marseille and its monuments from the sea. Depending on the season, some shipping companies offer boat trips where you can enjoy an aperitif at sunset. This is particularly true of Les Amis de la Flâneuse, which offers both private and non-private outings.