Discover the best of Marseille on a guided tour. Explore the atmospheric Fort Saint-Jean, take a scenic ride along the Corniche Kennedy, and gaze at the stars from the rooftop of Le Corbusier’s Cité Radieuse.
Begin your evening at the atmospheric Fort Saint-Jean, a fortress that dates back to the 12th century and guards the entrance to the Old Port. As the sun sets, explore the MuCEM Gardens (Jardin des Migrations) on the fort’s upper levels. From here, you’ll have sweeping views of the sea and the port as the golden hour bathes the stone fortifications in warm light.
Walk through the gardens, which showcase Mediterranean plants, and wander along the footbridge connecting Fort Saint-Jean to MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations). The museum's modern architecture, designed by Rudy Ricciotti, is beautifully illuminated in the evening.
Travel via an eco-friendly electric tuk-tuk to the iconic coastal road of Corniche Kennedy. As the evening breeze sweeps through your hair, enjoy breathtaking views of the sea, the rocky outcrops of the Calanques, and the shimmering islands of Frioul in the distance.
Along the route, pass Vallon des Auffes, a picturesque traditional fishing cove, and the impressive Monument aux Morts de l’Armée d’Orient, dedicated to soldiers from WWI.
After the scenic coastal drive, arrive at the Phare de Sainte Marie (Sainte Marie Lighthouse), an often-overlooked spot that offers exceptional nighttime views of the Old Port and the Mediterranean. This charming, small lighthouse is located at the entrance of the harbor and is particularly photogenic under the moonlight. As you enjoy the fresh sea air, learn about the lighthouse’s significance to Marseille’s maritime history.
Next, venture into a lesser-known part of Marseille’s historical architecture: the underground tunnels of Palais Longchamp. While the grand palace and its fountains are a marvel during the day, few know that beneath the surface lies a network of old water tunnels connected to the 19th-century Marseille Canal.
With a local guide, explore these tunnels by torchlight, learning about how they once provided fresh water to the city. The atmosphere inside is cool and mysterious, offering an intriguing contrast to the city above. Emerging from the tunnels, take a moment to admire the grandiose architecture of the palace under the stars.
End the evening with a visit to the rooftop of the famous Cité Radieuse, the architectural masterpiece designed by Le Corbusier. This UNESCO-listed modernist building, often called "La Maison du Fada" (the Madman's House), is an icon of post-war architecture and a hub of artistic expression.
As night falls, the rooftop terrace transforms into a stargazing haven. With the help of a local astronomer, you’ll be able to peer through telescopes to observe the stars, planets, and constellations above Marseille's skyline. The minimalist architecture of the rooftop adds to the ethereal feel of the experience.
