Europe: Child-Friendly Gems to Explore in Marseilles

The Orange Vélodrome is Marseille’s iconic football stadium and a must-visit for sports fans. Families can take a guided tour of the stadium, which includes access to the players’ locker rooms, the pitch, and the trophy room. The tour also offers insights into the history of Olympique de Marseille, the city’s beloved football team. For young football enthusiasts, visiting the Orange Vélodrome is an exciting experience, offering a behind-the-scenes look at one of France’s most famous stadiums. The stadium also hosts family-friendly events and matches, making it a fun outing for all ages.

The Mucem is a modern museum located on the waterfront of Marseille, offering interactive exhibits that explore the cultures of the Mediterranean. The museum is housed in a striking building, with outdoor spaces that provide stunning views of the sea and city. Inside, families can enjoy hands-on exhibits and family-friendly workshops designed to engage children in learning about history and culture. The museum also has a café and picnic area, making it a convenient stop for families. The Mucem offers a blend of education and entertainment, making it a great place for a family outing.

L’atelier du Chocolat offers a sweet experience for families visiting Marseille. This chocolate workshop allows visitors to learn about the art of chocolate making and even create their own chocolate treats. The workshop is interactive and designed to engage children, making it a fun and educational activity. Families can sample a variety of chocolates and take home their creations. The shop also offers a wide selection of chocolates and sweets, perfect for souvenirs. L’atelier du Chocolat is a delightful destination for families with a sweet tooth, combining learning with delicious fun.

The Prado Beaches are a series of public beaches located along the coast of Marseille. They are ideal for families, offering safe swimming areas, lifeguards, and plenty of amenities like cafes and playgrounds. The beaches are clean and well-maintained, with calm waters that are perfect for young children. In addition to swimming, families can enjoy beach games, sandcastle building, and even windsurfing lessons. The Prado Beaches also host events and festivals during the summer, adding to the fun. It’s a great spot for a day of sun, sand, and sea in Marseille.

The Marseille Soap Museum is a fun and educational attraction where families can learn about the history and production of Marseille soap, a traditional craft that dates back centuries. The museum offers guided tours that demonstrate the soap-making process, and there’s even a chance for kids to create their own soap. The museum shop sells a wide range of soaps and other products, making it a great place to pick up souvenirs. With its hands-on activities and interesting exhibits, the Marseille Soap Museum is a unique and engaging experience for both kids and adults.

Vallon des Auffes is a charming little fishing port located just off La Corniche. It’s a picturesque spot with colorful boats, traditional fishermen’s houses, and small seafood restaurants. Families can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the port, watching the fishermen at work or simply soaking in the atmosphere. The area is also a great place for taking photos, with its scenic views and vibrant colors. Vallon des Auffes offers a glimpse into Marseille’s maritime heritage, providing a unique and peaceful setting for a family outing.

The L’Estaque Railway Adventure is a fun and educational experience for families. This small train takes visitors on a scenic journey through the picturesque village of L’Estaque, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean and the surrounding countryside. The ride is short enough to keep young children engaged, and the train stops at several points of interest where families can explore and take photos. The commentary provides interesting facts about the area’s history and its connection to famous artists. This railway adventure is a relaxing and enjoyable way for families to experience the beauty of Marseille’s surroundings.

L’Estaque is a charming fishing village located on the outskirts of Marseille. It’s known for its picturesque views, traditional houses, and connection to famous painters like Cézanne and Braque. Families can take a short train ride or boat trip to L’Estaque and spend the day exploring the village. Kids will enjoy walking along the waterfront, watching the boats, and perhaps trying some local snacks from the food stalls. The village is also home to several small beaches, perfect for a relaxed family afternoon. L’Estaque offers a tranquil escape from the city, with plenty of opportunities for exploration and relaxation.

La Corniche is a scenic coastal road that offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Marseille coastline. It’s a great place for a family walk or bike ride, with plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the view. The route passes by several beaches, parks, and the famous Vallon des Auffes, a charming little fishing port. La Corniche also features a large seawall where kids can safely walk and watch the waves. The promenade is a wonderful way to take in the beauty of Marseille’s coastline while enjoying some fresh air and exercise.

Fort Saint-Jean is a historic fortress located at the entrance to the Vieux Port. The fort is now part of the Mucem complex and offers stunning views of the harbor and the sea. Families can explore the fort’s ramparts, towers, and gardens, learning about its history through interactive exhibits and displays. The fort is also connected to the Mucem by a footbridge, making it easy to combine visits. Kids will enjoy the sense of adventure that comes with exploring the ancient walls and towers, while parents can appreciate the historical significance of the site.

Located in Parc Longchamp, the Marseille Zoo is a small but charming zoo that is perfect for younger children. Although it’s no longer a full zoo, the park still features animal sculptures and a few enclosures with animals like peacocks and goats. The park’s lush greenery and walking paths make it a pleasant place for a family outing. Kids will enjoy the playgrounds, and parents can relax in the peaceful surroundings. The Marseille Zoo offers a glimpse into the city’s history while providing a fun and relaxing environment for families.

Les Terrasses du Port is a large shopping center located along the waterfront in Marseille. While it’s primarily a shopping destination, it offers plenty of family-friendly features, including a children’s play area and restaurants with kid-friendly menus. The rooftop terrace provides panoramic views of the sea, and there’s even a small beach where kids can play. Les Terrasses du Port also hosts events and activities for children throughout the year, making it a fun and convenient stop for families looking to combine shopping with entertainment.

Plage des Catalans is a popular beach located close to the city center of Marseille. It’s a great spot for families, with soft sand, calm waters, and plenty of space for kids to play. The beach is also equipped with showers, restrooms, and snack bars, making it convenient for a family day out. During the summer months, the beach can get crowded, but it offers a lively atmosphere and a chance to mix with locals. Whether you’re building sandcastles, swimming in the Mediterranean, or enjoying a game of beach volleyball, Plage des Catalans is a fun and family-friendly destination.

Parc Borély is a large and beautiful park located near the Prado beaches. It’s perfect for a family day out, offering wide open spaces for kids to run and play, as well as gardens to explore. The park features a lake with paddleboats, a small train ride, and playgrounds. There’s also a lovely botanical garden with various plants and flowers that kids will enjoy. For a bit of history, you can visit the Château Borély within the park. Parc Borély provides a peaceful and scenic environment for family picnics and outdoor activities.

Plage de la Pointe Rouge is a sandy beach located in the southern part of Marseille. It’s one of the city’s largest beaches and is ideal for families, with shallow waters and plenty of amenities. The beach offers water sports rentals, such as pedal boats and kayaks, which are great for older children. There are also several beachfront cafes and restaurants where families can enjoy a meal or a snack. The relaxed atmosphere and family-friendly facilities make Plage de la Pointe Rouge a popular choice for a day by the sea in Marseille.

Vieille Charité is a historic building located in the heart of Le Panier district. Originally built as an almshouse, it is now home to several museums and cultural institutions. Families can visit the Museum of Mediterranean Archaeology or the Museum of African, Oceanic, and Native American Art, both of which offer fascinating exhibits. The courtyard of Vieille Charité is a peaceful place to relax, and there are often temporary exhibitions and events that are family-friendly. The building itself is architecturally impressive, with its classical design and beautiful chapel. A visit to Vieille Charité offers a mix of history, art, and culture, making it an enriching experience for families.

Le Panier is the oldest district in Marseille, known for its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and vibrant atmosphere. It’s a great place for families to explore, with plenty of shops, cafes, and street art to discover. The neighborhood has a rich history, and families can learn about it through guided tours or simply by wandering the streets. Le Panier is also home to several small museums and galleries, offering cultural experiences that are accessible to children. With its lively atmosphere and charming streets, Le Panier is a fun and educational place for a family outing.

The Marseille History Museum offers a fascinating journey through the city’s past, with exhibits that cover everything from ancient times to the present day. The museum is located in the Centre Bourse shopping complex and is one of the largest history museums in France. Families can explore interactive displays, archaeological finds, and multimedia presentations that bring Marseille’s history to life. The museum also offers special programs and workshops for children, making it an educational and engaging experience for young visitors. The museum’s location near the Vieux Port makes it an easy addition to a day of sightseeing in Marseille.

Parc Longchamp is one of Marseille’s most beautiful parks, centered around the grand Palais Longchamp. The park features fountains, gardens, and statues, providing a picturesque setting for a family day out. There’s also a playground for younger children and plenty of space for picnics. The park is home to the Natural History Museum and the Fine Arts Museum, which can be explored as part of your visit. With its blend of cultural attractions and outdoor space, Parc Longchamp is a perfect spot for families looking to relax and enjoy the beauty of Marseille.

Jardin de la Colline Puget is a hillside park located near the Vieux Port. It’s one of Marseille’s oldest parks and offers panoramic views of the city and the sea. The park is a great place for a family picnic, with plenty of shaded areas, benches, and grassy spots. Kids will enjoy the playground and the chance to explore the winding paths and terraces. The park is also home to several statues and monuments, adding a touch of history to the visit. Jardin de la Colline Puget is a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city, offering a break from the hustle and bustle of Marseille.

The Palais du Pharo is a historic palace located on a hill overlooking the Vieux Port and the Mediterranean Sea. Built by Napoleon III, the palace is now used for events and conferences, but its beautiful gardens are open to the public. The gardens offer stunning views of the harbor and are a great place for a family picnic. Kids will enjoy exploring the grounds and watching the boats in the harbor below. The Palais du Pharo combines history, architecture, and natural beauty, making it a peaceful retreat in the heart of Marseille.

Les Docks Village is a vibrant shopping and dining complex located in a renovated 19th-century dock building. The space has been transformed into a trendy destination with shops, cafes, and restaurants that cater to families. There are also art installations and cultural events that add to the lively atmosphere. For families with young children, Les Docks Village offers a safe and interesting environment to explore, with plenty of options for dining and shopping. The combination of historic architecture and modern amenities makes Les Docks Village a unique and enjoyable place to visit.

The Vieux Port is the historic heart of Marseille and a must-visit for families. Children will enjoy watching the colorful boats bobbing in the harbor and the lively atmosphere of street performers and vendors. There are also plenty of cafes where families can relax and enjoy the views. The area is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy for kids to explore safely. The Vieux Port is also the starting point for boat trips to the nearby Calanques and Château d’If, offering additional adventures for young explorers.

The Calanques National Park offers stunning natural beauty with its steep cliffs and turquoise waters. While some areas require hiking, there are accessible spots suitable for families with young children, such as the Calanque de Sormiou. Families can enjoy a boat tour to see the dramatic landscapes or spend a day at one of the park’s beaches. The park is also a great place for kids to learn about nature and geology. With its breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities, the Calanques National Park is a must-see for families visiting Marseille.

The Palais des Sports de Marseille is a large indoor arena that hosts a variety of sporting events, concerts, and shows. Families can check the schedule for events that might interest their children, such as ice skating shows, basketball games, or circus performances. The arena is modern and well-equipped, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all ages. For young sports fans, a visit to the Palais des Sports is an exciting way to experience the energy of a live event. The venue is easily accessible by public transport, making it a convenient outing for families.

La Friche la Belle de Mai is a cultural complex located in a former tobacco factory in Marseille. It’s a hub for creative activities, with art exhibitions, workshops, and performances that are often geared towards families and children. The rooftop garden is a popular spot for families, offering space for kids to play and adults to relax while enjoying views of the city. La Friche also hosts regular events and festivals, many of which are family-friendly. With its vibrant atmosphere and diverse activities, La Friche la Belle de Mai is a fun and inspiring destination for families.

Château Borély is a beautiful 18th-century mansion located in Parc Borély. The château is now home to the Museum of Decorative Arts, Fashion, and Ceramics, which offers a variety of exhibits that can capture the interest of older children and adults. The surrounding park provides plenty of space for younger kids to play and explore, with gardens, a lake, and walking paths. Families can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the park before visiting the château, making it a well-rounded outing. Château Borély combines art, history, and nature, providing a cultural experience in a relaxing environment.

Château d’If, located on a small island just off the coast of Marseille, is a famous fortress with a rich history. Made famous by Alexandre Dumas’ novel "The Count of Monte Cristo," the fortress is an exciting place for kids to explore. Families can take a short boat ride from the Vieux Port to the island and tour the castle, learning about its history as a prison. The views of Marseille from the island are spectacular, and the boat trip itself is a fun adventure for young children. Château d’If combines history with a touch of adventure.

The Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde is one of Marseille’s most iconic landmarks, perched on a hilltop overlooking the city. The basilica is famous for its stunning architecture and panoramic views of Marseille and the Mediterranean Sea. Families can reach the basilica by car, bus, or a scenic hike, and the interior of the church is a beautiful sight to behold. Kids will be fascinated by the golden statue of the Virgin Mary on top of the basilica, which is visible from many parts of the city. A visit to Notre-Dame de la Garde offers a mix of history, culture, and breathtaking views.

The Palais Omnisports Marseille Grand Est is a modern sports complex that offers a range of activities for families. The facility includes an ice skating rink, swimming pools, and areas for gymnastics and other sports. It’s a great place for kids to burn off some energy, whether they’re trying ice skating for the first time or enjoying a swim. The complex is well-maintained and offers lessons and equipment rentals, making it accessible for beginners. With its variety of activities, the Palais Omnisports is a fun destination for an active family day out.