
Marseille – One city, two faces
If you like sports, there’s lots to see and do in Marseille: Rugby is popular, as are petanque, sailing and climbing. If art and culture are more your style, this French city on the Mediterranean won’t disappoint, either. We show you both sides of Marseille.


Kickoff!
Stade Vélodrome is the biggest club soccer stadium in France, with space for a good 67 000 fans. This summer, it will host one of the European Championship semifinals on July 7.

Not for the fainthearted
Many people in France prefer rugby to soccer, and the name of Marseille’s rugby team is Stade Phocéen. Unfortunately, it hasn’t been too successful recently.

The European what?
This July, the world’s biggest petanque tournament is taking place in Marseille. If you’re not that into soccer, check out the Mondial la Marseillaise from July 3 to 8.

Climbing challenge
The steep limestone cliffs of Les Calanques (fjord-like inlets in the southern Mediterranean) are not far from Marseille – and very popular with rock climbers.

Anchors aweigh
Prime conditions for sailing: Amateurs are not the only ones who take to the water in the Gulf of Lyon. Professional regattas are regularly held here, too.
MRS


Cultural exchange
The Mediterranean separates and unites many cultures, and the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations (MuCEM) will help you understand exactly how.

Literary adventure
The Count of Monte Cristo, Alexandre Dumas’ famous character, spent 14 years on the prison island Île d’If. Tourists can also visit the well-known prison – for a few hours.

The spirit of Marseille
Can you imagine a meal without the right apéritif? Not in Marseille. That’s why the Maison du Pastis sells an amazing 95 different kinds of anise-flavored spirits.

Space for creativity
La Friche de la Belle de Mai, a culture center in a former tobacco factory, puts on exhibitions, festivals and performances – and has workspaces for 400 creatives.

Club sounds
How about some genteel jazz? Or pounding hip-hop? Both styles have a long tradition in Marseille. One of the city’s best and most popular clubs is the U.Percut.