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At first glance, Marseille seems noisy, wild and unpolished. But that is precisely what makes it so appealing. If you take a little time and venture off the beaten track, you’ll discover a city full of contrasts: modern architecture alongside historic walls, hidden coves just a few minutes from the centre, and a surprisingly creative food scene. This selection shows Marseille not from the typical postcard perspective, but as you’ll actually experience it when you’re there.
30.04.2026
Miryana
Contents:
Photo: Marseille in the early morning – harbour atmosphere, culture and the first light at one of the city’s most impressive landmarks.
Culturally speaking, Marseille has much more to offer than just traditional museums and historic façades. Particularly fascinating is the mix of modern architecture, independent galleries, street art and places that are best discovered rather than simply ‘visited’. A highlight for architecture enthusiasts is Le Corbusier’s La Cité Radieuse. The building almost feels like a small town in its own right and showcases the visionary approach to housing that once existed. Another standout is the Southway Pavilion, a creative space at the intersection of art, design and architecture.
Anyone interested in contemporary art should also make time for the FRAC Sud – Cité de l’art contemporain. Kengo Kuma’s striking building combines modern architecture with changing exhibitions and showcases Marseille’s avant-garde side. Smaller, more intimate and often more surprising are places such as La Traverse or the Galerie des Augustines, which offer an insight into the local art scene.
Things take on a more urban feel in Le Panier: as well as street art in the alleyways, it’s well worth a visit to UndARTground, a concept store and small street art gallery featuring works by local artists. Cours Julien, meanwhile, is one of the city’s most creative neighbourhoods – with colourful graffiti, painted façades, small cafés and an alternative vibe that really brings Marseille to life.
Marseille often reveals its most charming side right by the sea – not just at the well-known sights, but also in places where you have to look a little harder or take a short walk.
The Vallon des Auffes is particularly atmospheric: a small fishing harbour with colourful boats, rocks and restaurants by the water. Along the Corniche Kennedy, Marseille repeatedly opens out onto the Mediterranean – ideal for a stroll with views of the coast, the islands and the sunset. Those who prefer a more unspoilt atmosphere will find small bathing spots full of Marseille’s character around Malmousque, the Anse de Maldormé or the Anse de la Fausse Monnaie. The Calanque de la Mounine feels even more secluded – a rocky cove that you have to work a bit to reach.
Outside the city, it’s also worth heading towards Niolon. The small beach at Niolon is a lovely stop-off, and between Carry-le-Rouet and Niolon you’ll find quieter spots by the water – often accessible only after a short walk or a brief hike. It is precisely there that the coast reveals itself to be particularly relaxed and surprisingly unspoilt.
Photo: Freshly baked biscuits in the narrow streets of Marseille’s old town.
Marseille offers a diverse culinary scene – shaped by the sea, Provence and a wealth of Mediterranean influences. As well as classics such as bouillabaisse, panisse and fresh fish, the modern food scene is particularly worth exploring. For special moments by the water, the Tuba Club in Les Goudes is an exciting spot. If you’re looking for good bread, pastries or coffee, Pétrin Couchette, Ferments Bakery and Pompe Boulangerie are modern bakeries with plenty of character. Risette is particularly well suited for breakfast, lunch or a relaxed coffee break.
In the evening, the Coin Coin Bistro is a great choice if you’re after something a bit more creative and less traditional. SOMA is perfect for an aperitif or a special evening in Cours Julien – a hybrid space combining art, a bar and a cultural programme.
As exciting as Marseille is off the beaten track, a few of the best-known sights are simply a must-see. Notre-Dame de la Garde is not only the city’s landmark but also the most beautiful spot from which to take in Marseille from above. The Vieux-Port is also a must-see. This is where Marseille begins: with fishing boats, cafés, a market atmosphere and that special blend of everyday life, history and Mediterranean charm. Right on the waterfront, the MuCEM and Fort Saint-Jean demonstrate just how impressively Marseille combines ancient fortress walls, modern architecture and sea views.
If you’d like to delve a little deeper, take a stroll through Le Panier, the oldest part of the city, visit the imposing Cathédrale de la Major, or discover one of Marseille’s most elegant sides at the Palais Longchamp. And then there are two experiences that make Marseille truly special: the Château d’If on its offshore island and the Calanques, where the city suddenly gives way to rugged cliffs, turquoise waters and unspoilt nature.
Video: Delta Festival 2025 Aftermovie
Marseille thrives not only on its landmarks, but also on its energy – and this will be particularly evident in 2026 through a host of events.
A cultural highlight is the Festival de Marseille, which takes place from 14 June to 8 July 2026. The city itself becomes a stage: dance, performance and music will be spread across theatres, museums and public spaces – often in the open air. A special concert moment awaits visitors on 1 July 2026: Bad Bunny will be performing at the Orange Vélodrome. A major live event that will bring an international atmosphere to the city.
This will be followed immediately by an exciting event for film fans: the FIDMarseille (International Film Festival) from 7 to 12 July 2026. Here, the focus is on independent cinema, new perspectives and creative productions. In the height of summer, Marseille reaches what is arguably its liveliest moment: the Delta Festival, from 23 to 26 July 2026, transforms the beaches into a huge festival site with electronic music, international acts and a genuine summer atmosphere right by the sea.
Photo: Hôtel Amista Marseille
Best time to visit: Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant, when it’s warm but not too hot. In summer, Marseille is lively, sunny and ideal for trips to the beach – though it’s also busier and hotter.
Accommodation: For a first visit, accommodation around the Vieux-Port, in Le Panier or near the Corniche Kennedy is ideal. Those looking for something a bit more off the beaten track will find a livelier, more local side of Marseille around Cours Julien. Our hotel recommendation is the Hôtel Amista Marseille – stylish, centrally located and an ideal base from which to explore Marseille at a leisurely pace. You’ll also find attractive offers for your next city break on our Travel Deals page.
Local transport: Marseille is easy to explore by metro, tram and bus. For short stays, there are handy 24-hour and 72-hour tickets for unlimited travel on the RTM network, including buses, the metro, trams and ferry boats. For more intensive sightseeing, the Marseille CityPass may also be worth considering, as it combines public transport with admission to attractions
Safety: Marseille is a large city with very diverse neighbourhoods. Keep an eye on your valuables in busy areas, be a little more cautious at night and avoid secluded streets.
Travel insurance: For a city break like Marseille – with trips to the seaside, spontaneous activities and changing plans – reliable travel cover is particularly valuable. With Swiss Bankers TravelProtect, you can travel with greater peace of mind and are well covered in the event of cancellation, luggage problems or an interrupted journey.
Travelling by car (from Switzerland): Marseille is easily accessible from Switzerland – depending on your starting point (e.g. Zurich or Geneva), the journey takes around 5 to 7 hours. The route usually takes you south via Lyon on the A7 motorway. Important: Tolls (péage) apply in France. Parking in Marseille’s city centre is often difficult, so we recommend accommodation with a car park or a multi-storey car park. Alternatively, you can leave your car on the outskirts of the city and use public transport.
Marseille is not a city that reveals itself fully at first glance – and that is precisely what makes it so exciting. With its famous landmarks, creative neighbourhoods, hidden seaside resorts and stunning natural surroundings, it is a destination that constantly reveals new facets.
Those who don’t just ‘tick Marseille off their list’ but experience it mindfully will discover a city full of contrasts: lively, authentic and surprisingly diverse. The mix of hidden gems, hand-picked sights and classic attractions makes all the difference – ensuring that the trip doesn’t feel like a typical city break, but rather a genuine immersion in Mediterranean life.
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