1. Parc Borély: the green jewel in the heart of Marseille
Located just steps from the Prado beaches and the famous statue of David, Parc Borély is one of the largest and most beautiful green spaces in Marseille. With its 54 hectares and impressive architecture, this park offers a true journey through time. Upon arrival, the majestic monumental gate sets the tone: a grand estate that extends all the way to the sea.
A chateau and French gardens
At the heart of the park, Château Borély, a bastide built in 1767 by the wealthy trader Louis Borély, impresses with its classical architecture. The French garden that surrounds it, designed by Jean Charles Alphand, is an ideal place for a walk. Visitors can admire ornamental basins adorned with statues, flower beds, and perfectly arranged paths. Sports enthusiasts will find joy with a long bike path running alongside the Hippodrome, allowing access to the sea with just a few pedal strokes.
Activities and events for young and old
Parc Borély is also an essential recreational area for families. Playgrounds, a fragrant rose garden, a Japanese garden, and even a lake where it’s possible to row among the ducks. In the summer, the park transforms into a theater for events like the Carnival or the Music Festival. Petanque enthusiasts gather here for exciting games.
2. The Pharo garden: breathtaking views of the Old Port
Perched on a promontory overlooking the Old Port, The Pharo garden offers a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean Sea. Built around the Palais du Pharo, erected by Napoleon III in 1855, this park is a true haven of peace in the city. The spot is ideal for a walk at sunset when the golden lights flood the waters.
3. Parc Longchamp: between nature and culture
Inaugurated in 1869, Parc Longchamp is one of the oldest parks in Marseille and a treasure of greenery in the city center. This 10-hectare park is renowned for its palace adorned with statues and waterfalls, offering an ideal setting for a refreshing walk. Art lovers will enjoy the museums located on either side of the palace: the Museum of Natural History and the Museum of Fine Arts.
4. The 26th Centenary Park: modernity in the heart of Marseille
More recent, The 26th Centenary Park celebrates the founding of Marseille over two thousand years ago. Inaugurated in 2001, this park pays tribute to the city’s diversity with thematic gardens representing the cultures that compose the population of Marseille: African, Provençal, Asian, and Oriental gardens. There is also a large esplanade ideal for skateboarders and ball games.
5. Parc de la Campagne Pastré: nature and history by the sea
Located at the gates of the Calanques, Parc de la Campagne Pastré extends over 120 hectares of scrubland and pine forests, perfect for hiking enthusiasts. Formerly the property of Lily Pastré, a patron who housed artists during World War II, the park now features an equestrian center, playgrounds, and marked trails leading to breathtaking views of the sea.
6. Parc Valmer: a green gem on the Corniche
Parc Valmer is located on the Corniche Kennedy and offers one of the most beautiful views of the city. In neo-Renaissance style, its estate is covered with Mediterranean plants such as palm trees, laurels, and Aleppo pines. This gently sloping park is the perfect place for picnicking and contemplating the islands off Marseille, such as Château d’If and the Frioul Islands.
7. La Magalone: a bastide and its French garden
Classified as a Historic Monument, La Magalone is a 17th-century bastide nestled in a park of one and a half hectares. It is also a place for musical culture where the Cité de la Musique regularly organizes concerts. The French gardens, statues, and fountains make it a peaceful place to relax away from urban bustle.
8. Parc des Bruyères: a corner of wild nature
Want to get away from the city? Head to Parc des Bruyères in the 10th arrondissement. This vast park of 100 hectares is an entrance to the Provençal scrubland, with its marked paths and panoramic views of the city. Ideal for hikers, it offers trails scented with thyme, rosemary, and lavender, leading up to Mont Saint Cyr at 570 meters above sea level.
