Marseille, France’s second-largest city, is known for its ancient port, diverse neighborhoods, and unique culture.
While popular attractions like the Vieux Port and Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica draw crowds, the city has many hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
We traveled around Marseille for two days, but it is a huge city, so we could have stayed for a week.
We stayed with an old friend who spent two summers with us as an exchange student in high school.
Her parents welcomed us with open arms, fed us 4-course meals, and shared Marseille history and their favorite wines and champagne. A couple of the drinks were native to Marseille.
We tasted black olives from the trees, walked along the beautiful Mediterranean Ocean, and saw incredible street art.
We ate fantastic food prepared by our hosts and at the restaurants my friend Amandine picked for us.
We saw only a tiny bit of Marseille, but it was beautiful and amazing, and I am so glad we got to go.
1. Parc Borély
Parc Borély is a beautiful public park located in the 8th arrondissement of Marseille. Spanning over 17 hectares, it features gardens, a lake, walking paths, and a castle.
The park is a local favorite for picnics, walks, and escaping the city.
Don’t miss the unique 18th-century Château Borély, which houses the Museum of Decorative Arts, Fashion and Ceramics.
2. Cours Julien Neighborhood
The Cours Julien neighborhood is a vibrant, artistic area known for its street art, graffiti, and bohemian atmosphere.
Wander the colorful streets to discover trendy cafes, vintage shops, and the famous Cours Julien street market held every Wednesday morning. This market is a great spot to find fresh organic produce and artisanal goods and mingle with locals.
3. La Friche Cultural Center
La Friche is a former tobacco factory turned multidisciplinary arts center in the Belle de Mai neighborhood.
This massive cultural complex houses artist studios, exhibition spaces, performance venues, a cinema, and a popular rooftop bar with panoramic city views.
La Friche hosts regular events, workshops, and concerts, making it a hub for Marseille’s creative scene.
4. Malmousque Neighborhood
Malmousque is a charming coastal neighborhood located south of the city center. With its narrow streets, pastel-colored houses, and small fishing port, Malmousque feels like a slice of old-world Provence.
Take a leisurely walk along the waterfront, stop for a swim at one of the small beaches, and enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant.
This was a beautiful experience.
The first day was super windy, but it was very cool. We were the only people out, so we had open walkways and fantastic photo opportunities.
5. Vallon des Auffes
The Vallon des Auffes is a picturesque fishing port in a small cove between Malmousque and Endoume.
This hidden gem, dating back to the 18th century, is another local favorite for its atmosphere, colorful boats, and seafood restaurants.
Grab a table at a waterfront bistro, watch the fishermen bring in their daily catch, and savor the laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle.
We walked through Vallon des Auffes both days in Marseille. It was very pretty, windy, and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
6. Jardin de la Colline Puget
Perched on a hill in the Vauban district, the Jardin de la Colline Puget is one of Marseille’s oldest gardens.
This tranquil green space offers panoramic views over the Vieux Port and the city.
Pack a picnic and spend a relaxing afternoon enjoying the garden’s shaded paths, fountains, and Mediterranean plants.
7. Calanque de Morgiou
The Calanques National Park, a series of dramatic rocky inlets along the coast, is a natural wonder outside Marseille.
While most visitors flock to the popular Calanque de Sormiou, the lesser-known Calanque de Morgiou is equally stunning.
Take a hike from the nearby town of Luminy to reach this hidden gem, where you can swim in crystal-clear water and admire the limestone cliffs.
Note: Check the website for access; the park is protected, and visitor access can vary. That said, you can take a bus from Marseille to the park gates!
8. Les Grandes Halles du Vieux-Port
This was our favorite spot to eat.
They have 12 different restaurants and lots of outside tables under sun covers.
We all had a chance to get the food we wanted.
I tried the pizza and the Nutella pizza. That was delicious.
Everyone who worked there was super friendly and kind. They helped us with our French, and some spoke English.
We even ran into a family from Texas coming off a Mediterranean cruise. They agreed this was a must-stop.
Les Grandes Halles du Vieux-Port
9. Marché de la Plaine
Experience local life at the Marché de la Plaine, a lively outdoor market in the Noailles district.
Held every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday morning, this market is a favorite among Marseillais for its fresh produce, regional specialties, and friendly atmosphere.
What surprised us about Marseille?
We were very surprised at how windy the first day was. Our hair would not stay in one place.
We were also amazed at how beautiful it is there.
This photo was taken at the “End of the World, ” as the locals call it.
The road ends at a little town about 2 minutes from this view. It was amazing. We ended our tour of Marseille here, and it was worth the windy drive and slight car sickness on my part.