Walk along the streets of the 4th Arrondissement, which all seem to lead to a celebration of culture. A bit apart from the hustle and bustle of Marseille’s center, the area is a cultural magnet and has been since the late 19th century. Visit the 4th Arrondissement for museums and spectacular architecture or for a concert featuring blockbuster stars. Stay for the community feeling in the air.

Many visits to the 4th Arrondissement start at the Palais Longchamp, an enormous complex of buildings and grounds designed by the architect of Notre-Dame de la Garde. Wander through the Botanic Garden, sniffing the telltale Provençal scents of rosemary and lavender. Visit the art collections of the Musée des Beaux-Arts or see an eclectic array of natural wonders at the Musée d’Histoire Naturelle. Appreciate even more natural beauty at the Observatoire Astronomique, which also has a planetarium.

The district’s religious heart centers on the Église des Chartreux, whose monks were among the first to settle the area in the early 13th century. Admire its striking neoclassical façade, built in the 18th century.

For modern architecture, head to the new government center of the department of Boûches-du-Rhone, which was nicknamed the Vaisseau Bleu, or Blue Ship, for its striking exterior. Across the street, see an example of eco-friendly architecture in the Nouvelle Nature by architect Jean Nouvel.

There’s excitement aplenty, from international as well as French and local stars, at Le Dome, Marseille’s biggest performance venue, which rocks nearly every weekend and is a great place to experience Marseille’s famous enthusiasm.

Find the 4th Arrondissement inland from Marseille’s main tourist attractions, northeast of the Vieux Port. Travel by subway from Gare St-Charles in 15 minutes or walk in 25 minutes. The area’s lower density makes it slightly easier to navigate by car although parking can still be difficult to find. Public transportation connectivity is somewhat lower than areas near the Vieux Port.