20 must-see excursions to do around Marseille

Marseille, the Phocean city with Mediterranean charm, offers much more than its famous calanques and Vieux-Port. The Marseille region is full of exceptional excursions that will take you from the perched villages of Provence to the natural wonders of the Alpilles, passing through the sunny vineyards of Luberon. Whether you're a nature lover, history enthusiast or epicurean seeking authentic flavors, these 20 excursions around Marseille promise unforgettable discoveries just a few hours from the Phocean city.

1. Calanques National Park

A true natural treasure, the Calanques National Park extends over 520 km² between Marseille and La Ciotat. These spectacular limestone cliffs plunge into turquoise waters of striking beauty. The calanques of Sormiou, En-Vau and Port-Miou offer breathtaking panoramas, accessible on foot by hiking trails or by boat for the luckiest ones. In summer, don't forget to check access conditions as certain areas may be closed to prevent fire risks. These coves with crystal-clear waters constitute one of the most beautiful nature excursions to do around Marseille.

2. Cassis

Just 25 minutes by train from Marseille, Cassis charms with its authentic fishing port and unique vineyards. The vines planted in terraces on the limestone slopes produce exceptional white wines, particularly renowned for accompanying bouillabaisse. Cap Canaille, Europe's highest maritime cliff, offers spectacular viewpoints over the Mediterranean. A perfect excursion to combine nature's pleasures with gastronomic discoveries in this charming Provençal village.

3. Aix-en-Provence

Elegant and refined, Aix-en-Provence embodies the Provençal art of living par excellence. Its shaded courses, singing fountains and 18th-century private mansions create a unique atmosphere. Don't miss Cézanne's studio, where the master of modern painting created his last works, nor the flower market on Cours Mirabeau. Visiting Aix-en-Provence means immersing yourself in Provençal authenticity just 40 minutes from Marseille.

4. Salon-de-Provence

The historic capital of Marseille soap, Salon-de-Provence perpetuates ancestral know-how. Traditional soap factories open their doors to reveal the manufacturing secrets of authentic Marseille soap. This city of Nostradamus combines artisanal heritage and historical discovery with its Château de l'Empéri and cobblestone streets. An authentic excursion 45 minutes from Marseille to discover Provençal traditions.

5. Alpilles Regional Natural Park

The Alpilles constitute a true setting of preserved nature in the heart of Provence. This natural park offers multiple hiking, equestrian or cycling trails through typically Mediterranean landscapes. Centuries-old olive trees, tall cypresses and fragrant scrubland compose an authentic setting. Rock climbing is also possible for outdoor sports enthusiasts. An ideal place to escape urban turmoil 1h10 from Marseille.

6. Les Baux-de-Provence

Perched on a rocky spur in the heart of the Alpilles, Les Baux-de-Provence ranks among the most beautiful villages in France. Its cobblestone streets wind between blonde stone houses to the remains of the medieval castle. The Carrières de Lumières offer a dazzling multimedia show, projecting the works of great masters on the walls of the former quarry. A captivating excursion 1h10 drive away that will transport you into the history of feudal Provence.

7. Camargue

At the gates of Marseille extends the Camargue, a wild territory unique in Europe. This nature reserve houses exceptional fauna: pink flamingos, black bulls, white horses roam freely in the salt marshes. Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, capital of Camargue, hosts the gypsy pilgrimage every May. The wild beaches of Espiguette offer kilometers of preserved fine sand. An unforgettable nature excursion 1h30 from Marseille.

8. Calanque du Port d'Alon

Located in the commune of Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer, this lesser-known calanque offers a calmer alternative to the famous calanques of the national park. Its crystal-clear waters and fine pebble beach make it an ideal place to relax and picnic with family. Car access makes it easy to discover this preserved little paradise. A relaxing excursion 47 minutes from Marseille to enjoy an exceptional natural setting.

9. Avignon

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Avignon fascinates with its rich medieval heritage. The Palais des Papes, the world's largest Gothic palace, testifies to the grandeur of 14th-century papacy. The famous Pont Saint-Bénézet and perfectly preserved ramparts complete this dive into history. In July, the Avignon Festival transforms the city into an open-air theater. Visiting Avignon means discovering one of the most beautiful pages in French history.

10. Arles

Arles concentrates exceptional ancient heritage listed as world heritage. The Roman arena, among the best preserved in the world, still hosts Camargue races and shows. The ancient theater, Constantine's baths and the Alyscamps testify to the splendor of Roman Arles. The city also inspired Van Gogh who created more than 300 drawings and paintings there. A major cultural excursion 47 minutes by train from Marseille.

Download the audio-guided tour to discover Marseille on foot and independently

Before leaving to explore the surroundings, first discover the hidden treasures of Marseille with our 3-hour audio-guided tour that will take you through 25 emblematic places of the Phocean city. From Notre-Dame de la Garde to the Vieux-Port, passing through the Panier district and the Canebière, let yourself be guided through Marseille's alleys to understand the soul of this thousand-year-old city.

11. Orange

Orange houses one of the best-preserved ancient theaters in Europe, classified as UNESCO world heritage. Its 37-meter high stage wall still impresses after 2000 years of existence. Orange's triumphal arch, another Roman gem, celebrates the victories of the 2nd Gallic legion. These exceptional monuments make Orange an essential stop to understand the ancient heritage of the region 1h15 from Marseille.

12. Vaison-la-Romaine

This exceptional ancient city reveals remarkable archaeological heritage with its two excavation sites. The Roman bridge still spans the Ouvèze after 2000 years, while the remains of patrician houses testify to the splendor of the Gallo-Roman era. The medieval upper town, dominated by its county castle, offers a striking contrast. A fascinating cultural excursion 1h40 from Marseille for ancient history lovers.

13. Nîmes

Although located in Occitanie, Nîmes is worth the detour for its exceptional ancient heritage. The Maison Carrée is one of the best-preserved Roman temples in the world, while the arena still hosts shows and bullfights. The Musée de la Romanité, bold contemporary architecture, dialogues with ancient remains. The Jardins de la Fontaine complete this discovery of "French Rome" 1h12 by train from Marseille.

14. Toulon and La Seyne-sur-Mer

The military port of Toulon offers a unique maritime discovery with its sheltered roadsteads and impressive fleet. The Mont Faron cable car reveals exceptional panoramas over the roadstead and the Îles d'Hyères. The Provence Landing Memorial traces the history of the 1944 liberation. La Seyne-sur-Mer completes this escapade with its beautiful beaches and naval heritage. A maritime excursion 45 minutes from Marseille.

15. Hyères and Porquerolles

Hyères, nicknamed the "city of palm trees," charms with its Mediterranean sweetness of life. Porquerolles island, accessible in 20 minutes by boat, offers beaches with turquoise waters worthy of the Caribbean. Botanical discovery trails reveal preserved Mediterranean flora. Fort Sainte-Agathe dominates the island with its military architecture. A magical island escapade 1h15 from Marseille to feel like you're in the Caribbean.

16. L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue

Nicknamed the Provençal Venice, L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue charms with its canals bordered by centuries-old plane trees and its historic waterwheels. This city of antique dealers par excellence hosts one of France's most important antique markets every weekend. Art lovers and antique objects enthusiasts will find treasures in the numerous galleries. A cultural excursion 1h05 from Marseille that will delight bargain hunters and artisanal heritage enthusiasts.

17. Roussillon

Classified among the most beautiful villages in France, Roussillon displays its colorful facades in a medley of flamboyant ochres. The Ochre Trail takes you through former quarries with extraordinary colors, a true Provençal Colorado. The ochre ecomuseum traces the history of this industry that made the region's fortune. This excursion 1h20 from Marseille combines geological discovery and village charm in a preserved natural setting.

18. Mornas

This perched medieval village dominates the Rhône valley from its rocky spur. The fortress of Mornas, former stronghold of the Counts of Toulouse, offers exceptional panoramas over Mont Ventoux and the Dentelles de Montmirail. The cobblestone streets and the Court des Platanes testify to the rich historical past. An authentic heritage excursion 1h18 from Marseille to discover a village preserved from time.

19. Aigues-Mortes

At the confines of Camargue, Aigues-Mortes raises its perfectly preserved ramparts in a landscape of salt marshes. This royal bastide founded by Saint-Louis in the 13th century keeps the aspect of an authentic medieval city. The Salins du Midi offer a striking spectacle with their white salt mountains and basins of changing colors. The small salt train reveals this thousand-year-old industry. A captivating excursion 1h40 from Marseille.

20. Gorges du Verdon

1h30 drive from Marseille, the Gorges du Verdon constitute Europe's largest canyon with its vertiginous 300-meter high cliffs. The turquoise waters of the Verdon river offer an exceptional playground for kayaking, canoeing or water hiking. Lake Sainte-Croix, with its milky blue waters, allows you to extend the adventure with varied water activities. A spectacular nature excursion for lovers of wide open spaces.

In conclusion, excursions around Marseille reveal the extraordinary richness of Provence. Between ancient heritage and perched villages, turquoise calanques and lavender fields, renowned vineyards and artisanal traditions, each outing becomes an authentic discovery. These 20 destinations offer a complete range of experiences, from the most contemplative to the most sporty, from the most cultural to the most gourmet. To explore Marseille before discovering its region, don't hesitate to follow our 3-hour audio-guided tour that will reveal all the secrets of the Phocean city.

What is the best season for excursions around Marseille?

Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer ideal conditions with pleasant temperatures and less crowds. Summer allows enjoying water activities but beware of strong heat and the closure of certain calanques for fire risk. Winter remains mild and perfect for discovering villages and cultural sites.

How to get around to visit the surroundings of Marseille?

The car remains the most practical means to explore the region at your own pace. Some destinations like Cassis, Aix-en-Provence or Arles are accessible by train. For the calanques, maritime shuttles depart from Marseille's Vieux-Port. Organized excursions constitute a comfortable alternative to discover several sites in one day.

Which excursions to do as a family with children?

The Carrières de Lumières in Les Baux-de-Provence fascinate both young and old with their immersive projections. The Camargue allows observing horses and flamingos in freedom. The beaches of Cassis and the islands of Hyères offer family water activities. The small salt train of Aigues-Mortes pleases children while being educational.