With the Mediterranean splashing, the sun shining and the smell of lavender in the air, the 8th Arrondissement is a peaceful haven. Though part of the city of Marseille, the area is best known for its beaches and natural beauties, which are supplemented by numerous impressive cultural institutions. A visit to 8th Arrondissement may include sunbathing on beaches in the morning, exploring rock formations in the afternoon and spending the evening in the city.
Join crowds descending on the beaches of Le Prado, which provides full immersion into the daily life of local residents. If the beach is too much, relax instead on the green lawns of the Parc Borely, which is dominated by the castle and its impressive gray stone architecture. Head farther south to see Marseille’s famous gorges, whose rocky cliffs are dangerous diving spots but make beautiful pictures.
Retain a sense of the urban character of Marseille in the 8th Arrondissement’s cultural institutions. Explore the history of the area’s famous earthenware at the Musée de la Faience or see new avant-garde work at the Musée d’Art Contemporain. Marvel at the modernism of Radiant City, one of the urban housing developments known as Unité d’Habitation, designed by Le Corbusier. Watch one of France’s favorite sports at the Orange Vélodrome, enjoying the sun as bikers spin around and around.
Get a sense of Marseille’s natural beauty and its deeply Catholic heritage by hiking up to the Croix de Marseilleveyre, perched on top of a mountain south of the city.
The 8th Arrondissement is one of Marseille’s biggest districts, stretching all the way down the city’s coastline. There is a metro connection in the northern part, but otherwise public transportation is provided by a network of buses. The beach areas are particularly easily accessible by public transportation. Driving is the best way to explore the calanques, though parking can become difficult to find, especially during the summer.
