Canebière Avenue

La Canebière, the legendary avenue of Marseille

Everyone knows La Canebière, or has at least heard of it. This legendary avenue is the emblematic artery of central Marseille. The Marseille audio-guided tour takes it to evoke its history, from the hemp trade to its golden age, and grasp the commercial and popular soul of the city.

From the hemp trade to the golden age

About one kilometre long, La Canebière was born in the seventeenth century from the hemp trade, from which it takes its name. In the nineteenth century, it became a great commercial and elegant avenue, a symbol of the influence of Marseille. Lined with fine buildings, shops and cafés, it links the Vieux-Port to the central districts and remains one of the most emblematic arteries of the city.

What to see

Here you wander between fine buildings, shops, cafés and monuments, including the Palais de la Bourse. The avenue links the Vieux-Port to the central districts and beats to the rhythm of Marseille life. It is a must-see stop to feel the popular and commercial soul of the city, during an emblematic walk.

Practical information

La Canebière stretches from the Vieux-Port towards the centre of Marseille, reachable on foot and served by public transport. It is a public avenue, freely accessible and on the level; shops and cafés have their own hours. Lively at all hours, it is easily explored on foot and is a central axis to explore the city.

Where does the name La Canebière come from?

From the hemp trade, canebe in Provençal, which developed here in the seventeenth century and gave the avenue its name.

What is there to see on La Canebière?

Fine buildings, shops, cafés and monuments such as the Palais de la Bourse, along this avenue linking the Vieux-Port to the centre.