anse

11 off-the-beaten-path addresses for a dream weekend in Marseille

undefined undefined undefined 08h30

The Editor

Marseille, we think we know it: the Bonne Mère, the panisses, the Old Port… Yet, there’s another city, softer and more mysterious, existing parallel to the first. It’s one that you only discover if you’re very (very) well informed. So, we’re revealing our favorite spots to enjoy the city in a slightly different way.

Here are 10 carefully selected spots to rediscover Marseille away from the crowds, through secret gardens, forgotten creeks, and hidden dining gems.

1. Sleep at Château Beaupin, between sea and majesty

When it's time to settle in, forget about impersonal hotels and head to Château Beaupin, a stunning 19th-century mansion, tucked away between Prado and the beaches. Here, everything is calm, with blond stone and Mediterranean greenery. There are 14 charming rooms (some with sea views), a turquoise pool, a cozy cocktail bar, and a bistronomic restaurant (tried and approved x1000). Special mention goes to the weekend brunch and the hidden speakeasy behind a tufted door. We won’t spill any more secrets; you have to stay and experience it to love it!

Château Beaupin
138 avenue de Montredon – 13008
chateaubeaupin.com


2. Le jardin de la Magalone: an overlooked oasis

Nestled between two busy roads, this French garden is a hidden gem. Designed by Édouard André, a student of Le Nôtre, it surrounds an 18th-century bastide and provides a timeless escape. With manicured lawns, statues, fountains, and often, discreet concerts thanks to the Cité de la Musique set up nearby, it truly feels like a slice of Versailles under the Marseille pines.

Le Jardin de Magalone
245 boulevard Michelet – 13009
Free entry


3. Limmat, the Swiss bistro at Cours Julien

It's like the perfect vacation home: a terraced patio covered in graffiti, delicate dishes with a touch of the sea, a chef (Lili Gadola) from Switzerland, and nature wine that will wow you. The menu changes based on what’s fresh, the fish comes from the Old Port, and the service is wonderfully gentle. You feel right at home, away from the noise, like you're at a friend's place who has excellent taste.

Voir cette publication sur Instagram

Une publication partagée par Limmat (@limmatmarseille)

Limmat
41 Estelle Street – 13006
Lunch from Monday to Friday, Thursday and Friday evening


4. The Cove of the Bay of Monkeys

At the end of the road, at the edge of the city, at the end of the world. The Cove of the Bay of Monkeys, nestled behind Cap Croisette, seems like it came straight out of a movie. Turquoise waters, cozy little cabins, a few boats. You can access it on foot from the Madrague de Montredon, and it'll feel like diving into a postcard scene without any tourists around. Be sure to wear good shoes and bring a snorkel.

Cap Croisette – 13008


5. Chez Aldo, a beloved institution

Located at the port of Madrague, just a stone's throw from the boats and nets, you'll find Chez Aldo, a down-to-earth yet soulful Marseille institution. Grilled fish, sea bass with fennel, and a beautiful sea view right on your plate.
Here, there are no frills, just ultra-fresh ingredients and a marine vibe we all adore.

28 Audemar Tibido Street – 13008
Reservations recommended


6. The Flea Market 

It’s the joyful chaos of Marseille! A giant jumble sale where vintage lamps, forgotten dishware, Julio Iglesias vinyls, and palace furniture all coexist. You might stumble upon treasures here, and there’s always something to marvel at. It’s nothing like a sanitized Provence market: here, you negotiate, dig around, and truly experience life.

Rue du Marché aux Puces – 13014
Open every day except Monday


7. Yoga at Malmousque at Sunrise

Meet at dawn, mat under your arm, on the rocks of Malmousque. A magical spot by the sea to greet the sun facing the Frioul islands. Several independent instructors hold informal sessions there. Otherwise, you can just breathe in silence, facing the water.

Anse de Malmousque – 13007


8. Otto, iodized and vibrant eatery

In Vauban, Otto is a hidden gem where everything revolves around flavor. A small room with a big personality. On the menu: bottarga, cephalopods, local vegetables, and natural wines. A tribute to the raw and beautiful Mediterranean, far from clichés.

在 Instagram 查看这篇帖子

Lou 🐚🩵🪩🌞 (@_louguien) 分享的帖子

16 rue d’Iéna – 13006
Discover it peacefully on a summer evening


100. A sunset perched at Friche la Belle de Mai

Okay, it's not a secret. But it's always magical. Heading up to the rooftop of Friche for a DJ set, an exhibition, or just a drink with friends guarantees you'll see Marseille light up in pink right before your eyes. 

41 rue Jobin – 13003


11. Le Cabanon de Paulette, the cozy guinguette

This is the secret hideout for the locals in Marseille! A charming wooden guinguette, tucked away in a little alley in Roucas Blanc, surrounded by a cabanon, a suspended terrace, and lemon trees. People come here for the chill vibe, the small concerts, and the homemade cocktails. No WiFi, no stress. Just sunshine and good friends.

Impasse des Flots Bleus – 13007