Marseille

The mildest winter on the Mediterranean

Winter in Marseille has nothing to envy other seasons! Forget the snow and the ski slopes, Marseille offers a multitude of activities to enjoy the mild winter weather while discovering the city. Between nature, traditions and delicacies, discover the city in a different way.

Jogging on Corniche Kennedy or on the good mother’s side

Sports enthusiasts will appreciate a morning run along the famous Corniche Kennedy. The panorama of the Mediterranean and the Frioul islands is simply breathtaking. A peaceful atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle. Prefer the morning, when the sunrise and morning atmosphere are incredible. If you prefer a challenge, you can climb Notre-Dame de la Garde. Your jog will be a little more strenuous, but the panorama on arrival will be just as beautiful!

Notre Dame De La Garde Joggingmassimomenucchi 1

Hiking in the Calanques

Winter is an ideal time to explore the Calanques. Mild temperatures allow you to appreciate the splendor of these rocky coves without suffering from the heat. Take a deep breath of fresh air and stroll along the hiking trails. The scenery is breathtaking!
NB: Don’t forget to check the weather forecast before heading to the Calanques, and bring all the necessary hiking equipment (hiking boots, water, cap, etc.).

Discover the Calanques

Gourmet delights in l’Estaque: panisses and chichis fregis

Head to theEstaque district to sample panisses, the delicious chickpea-based specialties usually served as an aperitif. Those with a sweet tooth will surely prefer a chichifregis, the famous sugar-coated doughnut, but be careful not to confuse them with Churros! You’ll also find them in l’Estaque.

Marseille navettes

Navettes, or orange blossom-flavored cookies, are a Marseilles tradition. Whether at the Four des Navettes, the oldest in town, or the Navettes des Accoules, tasting navettes is always an authentic experience. Some say they’re too dry, others prefer them dipped in coffee, but whatever the case, navettes are best enjoyed without moderation! Did you know that in Marseille, for Candlemas, we don’t eat crêpes, but navettes?

Discover Marseille's shuttles

Visit the Cité radieuse

Immerse yourself in the architectural world of Le Corbusier, with a visit to his famous Cité radieuse. This twentieth-century landmark is one of Marseille’s must-see modernist buildings. Known here as “La maison du fada”, discover its architecture through a unique guided tour that plunges you into the heart of the building.

Discover Palais Longchamp and Friche la Belle-de-Mai

Just a short streetcar ride from the Old Port, discover the Palais Longchamp! This nugget of Marseille’s heritage boasts a park, two museums and a multitude of photo opportunities. For street-art fans, you can continue on foot to the Friche la Belle de Mai, a not-to-be-missed venue with a farmers’ market, theater, unique exhibitions and year-round events. The skatepark, basketball court and children’s playground are just a stone’s throw from Gare Saint-Charles.

The islands of Marseille: Frioul and Château d’If

Winter is an ideal time to discover Marseille’s islands, away from the tourist crowds of summer. Among them, Ile d’If and the Frioul archipelago stand out as jewels of the Mediterranean. The island of If is famous for its castle, immortalized by Alexandre Dumas in his novel ” The Count of Monte Cristo “. A visit to this austere fort immerses you in tales of legendary escapes. Frioul, meanwhile, offers a striking contrast with its quiet calanques and deserted beaches, providing the perfect backdrop for a day of exploration and hiking.
Discover the islands of Frioul and Château d’If

Discover the islands of Marseilles

Museums and exhibitions

Winter is the perfect time to visit Marseille’s museums, with their captivating permanent and temporary exhibitions, all sheltered from the chill! From the Panoramas exhibition at the Vieille Charité, to “Revenir” at the Mucem on Mediterranean migration, or “Chiens et Chats” at the Muséum d’Histoire Naturelle, there’s something for everyone.

Discover Marseille's museums

An evening out in Marseille

After a busy day, there’s nothing like a night out in one of the city’s many bars and pubs. Warm ambience and comforting drinks are the order of the day.
Discover the best places to spend an evening in Marseille

Winter in Marseille is a privileged time of year for lovers of tranquillity. With its invigorating strolls, gourmet breaks and cultural discoveries, Marseille knows how to delight its visitors even when the weather turns cooler. So don’t let the short days keep you cooped up, and set off to conquer this dynamic, welcoming city, which knows so well how to combine the brilliance of the Mediterranean winter with the warmth of its welcome, its gastronomy and its activities. Make the most of every moment, because in Marseille, winter is a season when life never stops!