Marseille, France’s second-largest city, is a vibrant port city with a rich history and stunning Mediterranean views. While it might not be the first place that comes to mind for your France family holidays, Marseille offers a surprising array of activities and attractions that will keep kids entertained and engaged. Here’s a guide to the top attractions, family-friendly accommodations, and practical tips for making the most of your trip to Marseille with kids.
Contents
hide
Why Visit Marseille With Kids
- Outdoor Activities: With its sunny climate and beautiful coastline, Marseille is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Kids will love exploring the beaches, swimming in the clear waters, and hiking in the scenic Calanques National Park.
- Cultural Immersion: Marseille boasts a rich history and culture, evident in its museums, monuments, and architecture. Kids can learn about Roman history at the Museum of Roman Docks, explore the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, or marvel at the architectural wonder of Le Corbusier’s Cité Radieuse.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Marseille offers a variety of activities specifically designed for families. Kids can take a boat tour of the port, visit the zoo, or enjoy a day at one of the many amusement parks.
- Delicious Food: Marseille is a foodie’s paradise, and kids will love the variety of French cuisine on offer. From fresh seafood to delicious pastries, there’s something to tempt every taste bud.
- Affordable Destination: Compared to other major French cities like Paris, Marseille offers a more affordable vacation option, making it a great choice for families.
Things to Do in Marseille With Kids
- Explore the Vieux-Port (Old Port): Take a stroll along the picturesque harbor, visit the fish market, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Kids can watch boats coming and going, or take a boat tour for a closer look.
- Hit the Beach: With its long stretches of coastline, Marseille has plenty of beaches to choose from. Kids will love spending the day building sandcastles, swimming in the sea, or simply soaking up the sun. Some popular family-friendly beaches include Plage des Prophètes, Plage du Prado, and Plage de Bonneveine.
- Go Hiking in the Calanques National Park: For more adventurous families, the Calanques National Park offers stunning hiking trails with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean coastline. Choose a trail suitable for your kids’ age and abilities, and enjoy a day exploring the park’s natural beauty.
- Visit the Museum of Roman Docks: Immerse yourselves in Marseille’s Roman history at the Museum of Roman Docks. Kids can explore the ancient port ruins, learn about Marseille’s role in the Roman Empire, and see fascinating artifacts from the past.
- Ride the Ferris Wheel at the Notre-Dame de la Garde: Take a trip to the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, a beautiful Romanesque-Byzantine church perched on top of a hill. After exploring the basilica, enjoy the panoramic views of Marseille from the top, and take a ride on the Ferris wheel for an extra dose of fun.
Best Places to Visit in Marseille with Kids
- Notre-Dame de la Garde: A beautiful basilica offering stunning views of the city.
- Museum of Roman Docks: Learn about Marseille’s Roman history through exhibits and artifacts.
- Calanques National Park: Hike stunning trails with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean coastline.
- Frioul Archipelago: Explore the islands off the coast of Marseille, with hiking trails, beaches, and historical sites.
- Espace Oceanographique: Discover the underwater world at this impressive aquarium.
Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Marseille
- Vieux Port: Experience the heartbeat of Marseille in this lively neighborhood, with its proximity to attractions, restaurants, and waterfront promenades.
- Le Panier: Immerse yourself in Marseille’s artistic and cultural scene with a stay in this historic district, known for its charming cobblestone streets and eclectic vibe.
- La Joliette: Enjoy modern amenities and stunning waterfront views in this up-and-coming neighborhood, home to the MuCEM and the bustling Terrasses du Port shopping center.
- Prado: Relax in this residential area, boasting beautiful parks, family-friendly beaches, and easy access to public transportation for exploring the city.
- Vallon des Auffes: Experience a tranquil retreat in this picturesque fishing village, offering quaint guesthouses, seafood restaurants, and panoramic coastal views.
Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Marseille
- Hotel La Résidence du Vieux-Port: Located right on the Old Port, this hotel offers stunning views of the harbor and is perfect for families who want to be in the heart of the action. It features family rooms, a swimming pool, and a rooftop terrace.
- Nhow Marseille Plage: This trendy hotel is located on the Plage du Prado beach, offering direct access to the sea and stunning views of the Mediterranean. It features a swimming pool, a kids’ club, and spacious rooms perfect for families.
- Pullman Marseille Provence: A luxurious hotel located in the city center, close to the Bourse district. It features a swimming pool, a spa, and spacious family rooms with balconies.
- Appart’City Marseille Euromed: Perfect for families who want a more independent stay, this hotel offers self-catering apartments with kitchens and laundry facilities. It’s located in the modern Euroméditerranée district, close to the beach.
- B&B Hôtel Marseille Prado Vélodrome: A budget-friendly option located near the Velodrome stadium. It offers clean and comfortable rooms, breakfast is included, and it’s a great choice for families on a tight budget.
Best Time to Visit Marseille
- Spring (April to June): Enjoy mild temperatures and blooming flowers, perfect for exploring outdoor attractions and participating in cultural events like the Marseille International Documentary Film Festival.
- Summer (July to August): Experience vibrant street festivals, outdoor concerts, and lively beach scenes during Marseille’s peak tourist season.
- Autumn (September to November): Avoid the summer crowds while still enjoying pleasant weather and cultural events like the Marseille Jazz des Cinq Continents festival.
- Winter (December to February): Experience Marseille’s festive atmosphere with Christmas markets, holiday lights, and cozy cafes offering warm drinks and seasonal treats.
- Shoulder Seasons (March and October): Benefit from fewer tourists, comfortable weather, and lower accommodation rates, making it an ideal time to visit Marseille with kids.
How Long to Stay in Marseille
- Weekend Getaway (2-3 Days): Explore Marseille’s highlights, such as the Old Port, Notre-Dame de la Garde, and Le Panier, while enjoying leisurely meals and seaside strolls.
- Extended Stay (4-7 Days): Delve deeper into Marseille’s cultural and natural attractions, including day trips to Calanques National Park, Château d’If, and nearby Provencal villages.
- Family Vacation (1-2 Weeks): Immerse yourselves in Marseille’s vibrant culture, cuisine, and outdoor adventures, with ample time to relax, explore, and create lasting memories together.
Marseille Family Itinerary
This itinerary is a suggestion and can be customized based on your family’s interests and preferences.
- Day 1: Explore Vieux Port and Le Panier
- Start your journey at the Old Port, where you can take a boat tour, visit the fish market, and enjoy waterfront dining.
- Wander through the charming streets of Le Panier, discovering hidden gems like street art, artisan shops, and historical landmarks.
- Day 2: Discover Marseille’s Cultural Heritage
- Visit Notre-Dame de la Garde for panoramic views of the city and explore the basilica’s stunning interior.
- Explore the Marseille History Museum, engaging your children with interactive exhibits and educational displays.
- Day 3: Outdoor Adventures in Calanques National Park
- Embark on a family-friendly hike in Calanques National Park, exploring scenic trails and hidden coves.
- Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst breathtaking natural landscapes and cool off with a swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
Getting Around Marseille
Marseille has a well-developed public transportation system, making it easy to get around the city with kids. Here are your options:
- Metro: The Marseille Metro is a clean and efficient way to travel around the city. It has two lines that cover most of the major tourist attractions. Purchase tickets before boarding at metro stations.
- Tram: The tram network is a good option for shorter distances. Trams run above ground and offer a scenic way to see the city. Tickets can be purchased from tram stops.
- Bus: The bus network is extensive and covers the entire city. Buses can be a bit slower than the metro or tram, but they are a good option for reaching more off-the-beaten-path locations. Tickets can be purchased from bus drivers.
- Bateau Bus: Take a scenic journey on the Bateau Bus, a waterborne public transport system that connects the Vieux-Port (Old Port) with other coastal areas like Pointe Rouge and Callelongue. This is a fun and unique way to get around, especially for kids. Tickets can be purchased at the docks.
- Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Marseille, especially at major tourist attractions and train stations. They can be expensive, so consider using public transportation for most journeys.
- Car Rental: Renting a car can be a good option if you plan on exploring the surrounding area, such as the Calanques National Park or the Provence region. However, driving and parking in Marseille can be challenging, so only consider this option if comfortable navigating city streets.
Additional Tips for Traveling to Marseille with Kids
- Pack light clothes and comfortable shoes, as you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking.
- Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for everyone, as the sun can be strong, especially during the summer months.
- Don’t forget to pack swimsuits, towels, and beach toys for fun at the beach.
- Bring a small backpack for your child to carry essentials like water bottles, snacks, and entertainment.
- Learn a few basic French phrases before you go. This will help you communicate with locals and make your trip more enjoyable.
- Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season. Marseille is a popular tourist destination, so expect to wait in line at attractions and restaurants.
- Take advantage of the many free activities available in Marseille, such as exploring the Vieux-Port, picnicking in a park, or attending a free cultural event.
- Relax and enjoy your time in Marseille! The city has a lot to offer families, and you’re sure to create lasting memories together.
By following these tips and using this guide, you can plan the perfect family vacation to Marseille, a vibrant and exciting city in the south of France!
