Marseille is more than just its famous Old Port and bouillabaisse—it’s a city full of character, vibrant neighborhoods, and a rich cultural blend that makes it unique. To truly experience Marseille like a local, you need to go beyond the tourist attractions and dive into the city’s daily life, hidden gems, and local traditions. Here’s how to explore Marseille like a resident.
1. Start Your Morning with a Café au Lait at a Local Café
Marseillais love their morning coffee, often paired with a navette (orange blossom biscuit) or a simple croissant. Instead of heading to a touristy café, opt for a local spot where you can enjoy the slow rhythm of the city.
☕ Local Favorite Cafés:
Café de l’Abbaye – A small, laid-back café with stunning views over the Old Port.
La Samaritaine – A historic café perfect for people-watching.
Deep Coffee Roasters – A specialty coffee spot loved by locals.
2. Explore the Neighborhoods Beyond the Old Port
While the Vieux-Port (Old Port) is the heart of the city, locals prefer to hang out in different districts, each with its own unique atmosphere.
🏡 Best Local Neighborhoods to Explore:
Le Panier – Marseille’s oldest district with colorful streets, street art, and small artisan shops.
Cours Julien – The city’s bohemian hub, full of graffiti art, independent boutiques, and great bars.
Vallon des Auffes – A charming fishing village within the city, perfect for a quiet escape and fresh seafood.
L’Estaque – A lesser-known seaside district with a local market and amazing fried snacks like chichis frégis.
3. Shop Like a Local at the Markets
Marseille is home to some of the best markets in France, where locals buy fresh produce, seafood, and spices. Visiting a market is a great way to experience the city’s daily life.
🛍 Must-Visit Local Markets:
Marché des Capucins – A lively North African-style market with fresh fruits, spices, and local produce.
Marché aux Poissons (Fish Market at the Old Port) – Where fishermen sell their fresh catch every morning.
Les Halles de la Major – A modern indoor market with gourmet food stalls and local specialties.
💡 Tip: If you want to cook like a local, grab some fresh seafood and Provençal herbs to make your own bouillabaisse.
4. Have a Long Lunch with a View
In Marseille, lunch is not rushed—it’s an experience. Locals enjoy a long, leisurely meal, often by the sea or in a cozy bistro. Try some traditional dishes like panisse, aioli, or pieds et paquets.
🍽 Where to Eat Like a Local:
Chez Fonfon – Famous for its bouillabaisse, located in Vallon des Auffes.
Le Bistrot Plage – A beachside bistro serving fresh seafood.
Le Baron Perché – A hidden gem with great food and a rooftop terrace.
5. Escape to the Calanques Like the Locals Do
One of Marseille’s biggest treasures is Calanques National Park, a stunning coastline of limestone cliffs, hidden coves, and turquoise waters. While tourists often visit the main areas, locals hike to lesser-known spots for a more private experience.
🌿 Local Favorite Calanques:
Calanque de Sormiou – A beautiful, less crowded cove with a restaurant by the water.
Calanque de Morgiou – A great spot for swimming and cliff diving.
Calanque d’En-Vau – One of the most picturesque calanques, ideal for kayaking.
💡 Tip: Avoid weekends when these areas get busier, and start your hike early in the morning.
6. Enjoy an Evening Apéro Like a True Marseillais
The apéro (aperitif) is a sacred tradition in Marseille. It’s the time before dinner when locals gather with friends for a drink and small bites. The go-to drink? Pastis, an anise-flavored spirit that’s a Marseille favorite.
🍹 Best Spots for Apéro:
La Caravelle – A jazz bar with a view of the Old Port.
Le Café de l’Abbaye – A favorite spot for locals to sip pastis at sunset.
Gigi – A hidden rooftop bar with amazing cocktails and tapas.
7. Experience Marseille’s Football Passion at the Vélodrome
Football is a religion in Marseille, and the city’s pride is Olympique de Marseille (OM). If you want to experience true local passion, go to a match at Stade Vélodrome, where the atmosphere is electric.
⚽ How to Experience It Like a Local:
Get tickets for a home game and join the chants of the Ultras.
If you can’t go to the stadium, watch a match at a local bar like O’Brady’s or Le Dantès Skylounge.
Wear an OM jersey or scarf—locals will appreciate it!
8. End the Night in a Hidden Bar or Live Music Venue
Marseille’s nightlife is diverse, from casual bars to underground music spots. While tourists go to the main clubs, locals prefer smaller, more intimate venues.
🎶 Local Favorite Night Spots:
L’Intermédiaire – A cool live music bar with indie and rock bands.
Le Molotov – A great venue for reggae, punk, and world music.
Carry Nation – A hidden speakeasy with classic cocktails (reservation needed!).
💡 Tip: Bars close around 2 AM, but the fun continues at beachside gatherings.