Take a walk in the creeks
Marseille is famous for its calanques, these rock formations that plunge into the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean. The creeks of En-Vau, Sormiou or Sugiton are ideal for hiking, climbing and of course swimming. They are accessible from the center of Marseille by public transport.
Visit the Mucem
The Mucem (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations) is one of the most famous museums in Marseille. As in the other museums, access to the permanent exhibition is free on the first Sunday of each month. In addition to its rich collections, the Mucem is worth a visit for its architecture and its proximity to Fort Saint-Jean.
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Discover Borély Park
A veritable “green lung” of Marseille, Parc Borély is a place to explore. Opened in 1864, it houses centuries-old trees, as well as ponds and fountains. You can see a French garden, an English garden, and a botanical garden (also free) which brings together more than 3,000 species from around the world.
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Visit the Roman Docks Museum
Archeology enthusiasts will be delighted by the Roman Docks Museum, located on Place Vivaux. This museum dedicated to maritime trade in Antiquity contains a Roman port warehouse for storing wine. Admission is free for all.
Explore the Belle de Mai Wasteland
Opened in 1992, the Friche la Belle de Mai is a 100,000 m2 space dedicated to culture. Exhibitions, workshops, shows, skatepark, playground… there is always something to see or do, for children and adults alike. Many spaces are freely accessible. Not to be missed: a dance party on the 8,000 m2 roof terrace overlooking the city.
Dive into the underwater museum of Marseille
Off Catalans beach is a place as fascinating as it is little known: the underwater museum of Marseille. No need for a ticket to enter: all you need is a mask, flippers and a snorkel. The astonishing sculptures of the MSM indeed rest at a depth of 5 m. Access is free, but it is also possible to book a guided tour.
Climb to Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde
Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde is one of Marseille’s most emblematic monuments. It would therefore be a shame not to visit it. Admission is free from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. In Romano-Byzantine style, the “Bonne Mère” has an undeniable architectural interest: sculptures, mosaics, cupolas… From this basilica located at an altitude of 149 m, you can enjoy an unobstructed view of Marseille.
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Visit a soap factory
Soap making is an old Marseille tradition. The oldest soap factories offer guided tours to discover the secrets of soap making. This is particularly the case for the Fer à Cheval soap factory and the Licorne soap factory. Visits are free, but you usually have to book in advance.
Swimming at Catalans beach
Plage des Catalans is the closest beach to downtown Marseille (a 15-minute walk from the Old Port). It is therefore the perfect place if you do not want to travel for miles to go swimming. Nevertheless, Catalans beach is very busy. If you prefer to take a dip in a quiet place, prefer the beaches of Estaque.
Watch a movie outdoors
From June to September, it is possible to watch films during outdoor screenings, as part of the Ciné Plein-Air festival. The sessions are free and accessible to all. Ephemeral cinemas are installed in different places in Marseille: parks, museums, gardens, social centers, sports fields…
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