marseille

Marseille: France’s Gritty, Gorgeous Mediterranean Gem

Perched on the sun-soaked southern coast of France, Marseille is a city that defies clichés. It’s not your polished, postcard-perfect destination like Paris or Nice—but that’s exactly what gives it soul. France’s oldest city, founded by Greek sailors over 2,600 years ago, is a mix of cultures, history, and raw Mediterranean energy.

A Melting Pot of Cultures

Marseille’s identity is deeply rooted in immigration and trade. From North Africa to Italy and the Comoros Islands, its population is one of the most diverse in Europe. That mix is reflected in everything—from the languages spoken on the street to the scent of spices in the air and the rhythm of daily life.

The Vieux-Port (Old Port)

This is where the heart of the city beats loudest. Colourful boats bob in the water, fishmongers sell the catch of the day at dawn, and cafés spill out onto pavements—perfect for sipping a pastis and watching the world go by. It’s been the city’s commercial and cultural hub since antiquity.

La Canebière: The City’s Grand Avenue

One of the most iconic streets in Marseille, La Canebière is often referred to as the city’s “spine.” This bustling, wide avenue stretches from the Vieux-Port to the Réformés district and is lined with grand buildings, shops, cafés, and historic landmarks. It’s a street full of life and energy, offering a glimpse into Marseille’s vibrant past and modern-day hustle. While some parts of La Canebière can feel a bit worn, the street exudes a sense of nostalgia and character that perfectly complements the city’s rugged charm. It’s a great spot for a leisurely walk, where you can admire the architecture, stop for a coffee, and feel the pulse of the city.

Cours Julien: The Bohemiam Heart of Marseille

If you’re looking for a lively, bohemian vibe, Cours Julien is the place to be. Known for its vibrant street art, quirky cafés, and independent boutiques, this district is a creative hub of Marseille. The area has a laid-back, eclectic feel, with colourful murals covering every available surface and a mix of cool bars where the locals gather. It’s a great spot for evening drinks, people-watching, or simply soaking in the artsy atmosphere. The area also hosts a lively weekly market, where you can pick up fresh local produce, handmade goods, or vintage treasures. Don’t forget to check out La Friche la Belle de Mai, a former industrial site turned cultural centre, offering everything from art exhibitions to outdoor concerts and theatre performances.

Hidden Gems in the City

Marseille is full of tucked-away spots that will make you feel like a local. Take a stroll through Le Panier, the city’s oldest district, with its narrow, winding streets and colourful houses that look straight out of a painting. The small squares are dotted with quaint cafés, and hidden courtyards reveal some of the city’s most charming corners. Another must-see is the Palais des Congrès—an unexpected oasis of green and peace tucked away behind the noise of the city, perfect for a quiet afternoon.

Marseille’s City Beaches and Le Lecques

While Marseille is a bustling port city, it’s also home to some surprisingly beautiful urban beaches. Plage des Catalans, located near the Vieux-Port, is the most popular city beach, where locals sunbathe and swim right in the heart of the action. For a quieter escape, head to Plage du Prado, a long stretch of sand perfect for a day of relaxation, picnicking, or a stroll along the seafront. But if you’re willing to venture a little further, Le Lecques—about 45 minutes from Marseille—is a serene beach destination in the neighbouring town of Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer. Known for its crystal-clear waters, golden sands, and relaxed atmosphere, Le Lecques is ideal for a day trip from the city. It’s a fantastic spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the coastal beauty away from the crowds.

History Meets Modern Cool

Marseille blends the ancient and the contemporary with ease. Wander the historic Le Panier district with its narrow alleys and pastel façades, then head over to the bold, modern architecture of MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations). Street art is everywhere—raw, political, and vibrant.

The Calanques: Nature’s Surprise

Just a short drive or boat ride from the city buzz, the Calanques National Park offers dramatic white limestone cliffs plunging into turquoise waters—an adventurer’s dream for hikers, climbers, and swimmers.

Food, Glorious Food

You can’t leave without sampling bouillabaisse, the city’s iconic fish stew. But also explore couscous restaurants, North African pastries, and lively markets like Noailles, where French, Maghrebi, and Middle Eastern flavours collide. For a more intimate experience, try the Café de la Banque in the heart of Noailles—a great place to taste traditional dishes, where the flavours of Marseille are celebrated in every bite.

How to get to Marseille

If you’re flying from the UK, Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) is well-connected to several major cities:

London: Direct flights are available from London Heathrow (LHR), London Gatwick (LGW), and London Stansted (STN). Airlines such as British Airways, easyJet, and Ryanair offer regular services. Prices can start as low as £23.99 for one-way tickets (easyjet.com).
Manchester: Direct flights are available from Manchester Airport (MAN), with airlines like easyJet offering services starting from £191 for round-trip tickets (wwws.airfrance.co.uk).
Edinburgh: Direct flights are available from Edinburgh Airport (EDI), with round-trip fares starting from £164 (wwws.airfrance.co.uk).
Bristol: Direct flights are available from Bristol Airport (BRS), with fares starting from £23.99 (easyjet.com).

Once you arrive at Marseille Provence Airport, it’s approximately a 25-minute drive or a 30-minute bus ride to the city centre.

Real, Rough, and Unapologetically Itself

Marseille isn’t trying to be anything other than what it is—gritty, proud, beautiful in its imperfections, and endlessly fascinating. It’s a city for travellers who like their destinations with a bit of edge and a whole lot of heart.

Discover top family-friendly beaches in France, from serene northern shores to sun-kissed southern coves.

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France has an incredible variety of beaches, and honestly, there’s something for everyone. Up in the north, you’ll find wide, dramatic stretches of sand that are perfect for long walks and windswept views. Head south, and the vibe totally changes—think rocky coves, turquoise water, and that dreamy Mediterranean sunshine. Whether you’re into snorkeling, surfing, or just soaking up the sun with a book in hand, there’s a beach in France that’s calling your name.

We’ve explored quite a few over the years and recently stumbled upon some absolute gems—so we put together a little roundup of our favourites and exactly what makes them so special. Let’s dive in!

Les Lecques

Located in the town of Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer on the southern coast of France, Les Lecques Beach is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and relaxation. Stretching along the Mediterranean, the beach boasts clear, turquoise waters and a scenic backdrop of lush hills, making it an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, or just soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. It’s especially family-friendly, with shallow waters perfect for kids to splash around in, and plenty of amenities like showers and sunbeds. We even hired surfboards and had the chance to catch some waves! Afterward, we treated ourselves to an incredible lunch at one of the seaside restaurants, where we had fresh, local seafood with a lovely beach view. Whether you’re into paddleboarding, sailing, or simply enjoying a delicious meal at the beach, Les Lecques has something for everyone. Located near the stunning Calanques National Park, it’s a great base to explore the region’s natural beauty, with nearby towns like Bandol and Cassis just a short drive away. Les Lecques really is a slice of Mediterranean paradise.

Mimizan

Mimizan Plage is a fantastic spot for a laid-back family beach holiday. The beach is wide and sandy, with gentle waves that are perfect for younger children to enjoy safely. We camped not too far away, which made it super convenient to spend full days by the sea. One of the highlights was hiring surfboards for the kids—while it wasn’t their first time surfing, the conditions here were ideal for them to keep practicing and building confidence. The smaller waves and friendly vibe make it a great place for kids to improve their skills without feeling overwhelmed. There’s also a lovely promenade nearby that’s perfect for family bike rides or evening strolls. And with plenty of beachside cafés offering kid-friendly menus, it was easy to keep everyone happy.

Soulac-sur-Mer

We happened upon Soulac-sur-Mer by chance, and it quickly became one of our favourite beach spots along the Atlantic coast. Located in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of France, this beach offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, family friendly atmosphere and laid-back charm. The long stretch of golden sand is ideal for relaxing, building sandcastles, or soaking up the sun. It’s also a hotspot for surfing and kite surfing, drawing in water sports enthusiasts. The town itself has a cozy, small-town, laid back vibe complete with charming cafés and beachside restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood and sip on a cool drink while watching the sunset. Plus, the Soulac-sur-Mer Lighthouse nearby offers stunning views of the coastline. Whether you’re into water sports, beach walks, or just unwinding by the sea, Soulac-sur-Mer’s welcoming atmosphere makes it the perfect place to spend a day—or even longer!

Bidart

We stumbled on Bidart Beach almost by accident, and it ended up being one of the highlights of our trip. Tucked along France’s Basque coast, it offers a great mix of natural beauty and a laid-back vibe that’s easy to appreciate. The coastline here is varied—cliffs, long stretches of sand, and reliable waves that make it a favorite for surfers. Some parts, like Parlementia, are more active, while others like Pavillon Royal are quieter and more secluded. What really surprised us was how many good places to eat are nearby. Within a short walk, you’ll find no-fuss spots serving fresh seafood, pintxos, and local dishes—all without the crowds you’d expect from more touristy beaches. If you’re in the area, it’s definitely worth a stop, even if you just have a few hours to spare.

Le Touquet

Le Touquet-Paris-Plage is a charming seaside town on the northern coast of France, offering a delightful mix of natural beauty and sophistication. Once a luxurious getaway for Parisian elites in the early 20th century, it still exudes a glamorous, timeless atmosphere, with its beautiful Art Deco buildings and chic vibe. Unlike the warmer, more crowded beaches of the south, Le Touquet features a breezy, peaceful coastline that feels worlds away from the typical southern beach scene. We absolutely loved our time there—the kids had a blast playing in the calm waters, building sandcastles, and running around the wide sandy beach. It’s a fantastic spot for families, combining relaxation with plenty of space for fun, making it the perfect destination for a more tranquil, yet still lively, beach experience.

Plage de Peyreffite

If you’re looking for a family-friendly beach in the south of France, Plage de Peyrefite is a hidden gem near Cerbère, close to the Spanish border. This beautiful pebble beach offers stunning views of the Pyrenees and crystal-clear Mediterranean waters. The real highlight for our family was snorkelling – the kids loved exploring the marked underwater trail, where we all discovered vibrant marine life in the Cerbère-Banyuls Marine Nature Reserve. Such a great activity for the kids and felt so safe. The beach is perfect for families, with lifeguards in the summer, toilets, showers, and accessible facilities. With nearby parking and activities like walking along the scenic coastal path, it’s an ideal spot to relax and explore. This is the perfect destination for a fun, active family beach day in southern France!

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