Official website of the Tourist Office of Marseille
Hiking Calanques

This town has the widest choice of outdoor activities in France!

Easily accessible by road, train or plane, this major french city offers the widest choice of outdoor activities in Europe.

Published on 3 May 2024
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Jade Orengo
  • Marseille in 3 words

    Wonderful, diverse, native.

  • My favourite neighbourhood

    Les Goudes, and its quiet side (in the off-season) for sipping a drink and having an aperitif facing the sunset.

A privileged location between sun, sea and hills

This dynamic metropolis of nearly a million inhabitants enjoys a privileged geographical location, with its generous climate, sheltered harbour, beaches and hills. With its feet in the water, its hiking trails, its islands and the squares of its village-like neighbourhoods, it’s a place where you can live outside all year round in Mediterranean style, enjoying the good weather all year round.

France’s sunniest city also boasts the widest choice of outdoor activities in the country, whether you’re a sports fan or a hedonist, whether you’re looking for performance or just want to spend some quality time with family and friends. Enjoy unforgettable experiences in sunny Marseille!

Nature activities for young and old alike

The Calanques National Parkoffers an exceptional playground for lovers of the great outdoors. A host of activities await you all year round, on land, on water and underwater.

Hiking immerses you in the heart of the calanques’ sumptuous landscapes. You can follow the easiest paths, such as the one linking Luminy to the Sugiton lookout, or take the long-distance footpaths that blend into the austere, grandiose scenery. Take part in a guided family excursion, and combine the pleasures of walking and discovery!

The cliffs of the calanques form a vertical world that fascinates climbers the world over. You can challenge the void in complete safety in the company of a qualified instructor. Whether you’re looking for a major climbing route, a via cordata or an introduction to rock-climbing, there’s a vast choice of activities on offer from local guides and services. The treasures of Provence can also be found underground: a number of caves around Marseille can be explored with headlamps on!

Mountain bikers will love exploring the creeks and hills around Marseille on two wheels. Every bend opens up a new perspective on the city, the sea or the hills. An electric bike is a must if you want to enjoy the view without straining your pedals!

Nautical experiences on and under the Mediterranean

What would Marseille be without the Mediterranean Sea? From the calanques to the Frioul islands, via the Côte Bleue, the city of Marseille is the playground of choice for all water sports enthusiasts.

Excursions by boat, stand-up paddle or kayak offer a different view of the city and its coastline. Set sail for two hours, half a day or a full day, and take in the sights, sounds and sea spray of the gabians just a stone’s throw from the Old Port.

An internationally-renowned spot for scuba diving and snorkelling, Marseille can be experienced just as intensely underwater. Put on your wetsuit, mask and flippers, and set off to meet the fish, coral, sea grass and wrecks that offer a unique spectacle just a few metres from the coast. Half-day or full-day excursions introduce you to these activities.

Experience Marseille intensely, simply outdoors

Why not take advantage of the fine weather to discover Marseille, or simply bask in the sun?

Our city tours and guided tours on foot, by bike or in a tuk-tuk invite you to see Marseille from a human perspective. From the Panier, the city’s oldest district, to the Cours Julien, the temple of street art, via the Estaque district so beloved by 19th and 20th century painters, these walks in the company of enthusiastic guides have so much to tell you. Treasure hunts and orienteeringraces add a playful and unusual touch, for a fun-filled family day out.

Time for a break? Marseille’s terraces are the perfect place to stop off for a bite to eat or a refreshing drink. Take a seat at the Ciel Rooftop, with its uninterrupted view of Notre-Dame de la Garde, or on the roof of Prado Shopping at Massilia Beach, just a ball shoot away from the Orange Vélodrome stadium. Looking for a seaside atmosphere? On Roucas Blanc beach, the Cabane des Amis promises a change of scenery, while the cafés and restaurants of Escale Borély and Pointe Rouge add the finishing touches to the impression of a perpetual holiday.

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