9 Things to Do in Marseille When it Rains
What to Do on a Rainy Day in Marseille
Marseille, the second-largest city in France, offers magnificent things to do any time of year. No one wants to be caught in the rain, whether it is a drizzle or heavy downpour. The good thing is that the city known for its Old Port offers plenty of places to explore indoors.
If you want to stay away from the elements, you can pop into one of the fascinating museums, explore historical sites or see a show. If you are searching for possibilities, these 10 things to do in Marseille when it rains are sure to delight you.
1. Museums and art galleries
Knowledge and discovery in these fascinating places
Good for: Couples, Families
Museums and art galleries in Marseille are great places to get lost, especially when it rains. The Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean is home to more than 1 million historical objects significant to the area spread across its 3 locations: the main CCR building, the newer J4 contemporary building, and the historic Fort Jean military Fortress, all near the Bay of Marseille.
One of the interesting museums and art galleries is the Musée de la Moto Marseille, which highlights motorcycle history from 1885 to the present. Meanwhile, in an old gallery arsenal in the old port, the Marseille Soap Museum traces soap-making history with exhibits, demonstrations, and an olfactory testing zone.
Location: France
2. Cathédrale La Major
One of the national monuments of France
Good for: Couples, Families
Cathédrale La Major, also known as Marseille Cathedral, provides a glimpse into the history, and you’ll want to explore this landmark. Near the old port in the 2nd district of Marseille between the “Panier” district and the Joliette area, this Roman Catholic cathedral is hard to miss with its Byzantine design.
Inside Cathédrale La Major, you’ll see many things of interest. In the 12th-century old cathedral, you can see the choir area and part of the nave, while the newer part of the cathedral features exquisite artwork, paintings, sculptures, and striking interiors. Read more
Location: Pl. de la Major, 13002 Marseille, France
Open: April–October: Daily from 10 am to 7 pm, November–March: Daily from 10 am to 5.30
Phone: +33 4 91 90 52 87
Cathédrale La Major
3. Friche la Belle de Mai
The performing arts converge at this cultural center
Good for: Couples, Families
Friche la Belle de Mai, or La Friche, which translates to the Wasteland, offers something interesting to experience, from art exhibitions to live concerts, theater productions and more. This spacious cultural complex, housed in a tobacco building from 1871, is in the Belle de Mai neighborhood near the Saint-Charles station. The venue hosts the EDM festival Marsatac each year, a nice addition to its performing arts productions.
Taking in culture is not the only way to spend your time at Friche la Belle de Mai. Pop into the buzzing Les Grandes Table restaurant for lunch and dinner or the cafe for a coffee.
Location: 41 Rue Jobin, 13003 Marseille, France
Open: Daily from 8 am to 11 pm
Phone: +33 4 95 04 95 95
Friche la Belle de Mai
4. Les Terrasses du Port
Retail therapy at this modern shopping mall
Good for: Couples, Families
Les Terrasses du Port appeals to shopping enthusiasts looking for something to buy on a rainy day. Located in the 2nd arrondissement of Marseille, this retail center features over 170 shops selling everything from clothes to beauty, gourmet treats and more from well-known global brands and French brands.
When you need a break from shopping, Les Terrasses du Port boasts dining establishments for all tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for something casual, steak, or French fare, you’ll find it at one of the 20 restaurants and cafes.
Location: 9 Quai du Lazaret, 13002 Marseille, France
Open: Daily from 10 am to 8 pm
Phone: +33 4 88 91 46 00
Les Terrasses du Port
5. La Vieille Charité
Several cultural organizations under one roof
Good for: Couples, Families
La Vieille Charité is one of the top places in Marseille to enjoy a mix of culture and exhibitions. Set in the old Panier quarter, the city’s historic core, this former 17th-century almshouse and refuge for beggars has been transformed into a center for local heritage and is home to several organizations.
If you’re searching for something interesting to do when it rains, you’ll find it at La Vielle Charité. Along with changing exhibitions, the arts destination is home to the Museum of Mediterranean Archeology, the Museum of African, Oceanian, and Native American Arts, and the Center International de la Poesia.
Location: 2 Rue de la Charité, 13002 Marseille, France
Open: Tuesday–Sunday from 9 am to 6 pm (closed on Mondays)
Phone: +33 4 91 14 58 80
La Vieille Charité
6. Abbaye Saint Victor
A monument to Marseille’s history
Good for: Couples, Families
Abbaye Saint Victor is a fortified church on the South Bank of the Vieux-Port that offers a glimpse into the past. Founded in the 5th century, this former abbey is named after Victor of Marseilles, a local soldier saint and martyr, and is considered one of the must-see places in the city.
It’s easy to spot the Abbaye Saint Victor, as its tower is a legendary landmark. Inside, there are several places of significance that provide a glimpse into the past, including the Basilica, old crypts, and other relics.
Location: Pl. Saint-Victor, 13007 Marseille, France
Phone: +33 4 96 11 22 60
Abbaye Saint Victor
7. Orange Vélodrome
All the action at this striking stadium
Good for: Couples, Families
Orange Vélodrome, also known as the Stade Vélodrome, is a modern multi-purpose venue that attracts sports fans and other spectators. Located in the southern part of Marseille, 2 miles from the city center, this venue is billed as the “Most Beautiful Stadium in the World” because of its sleek architectural design.
Along with being home to Ligue 1, an Olympique de Marseille soccer club, Orange Vélodrome also hosts international events. The stadium has welcomed several FIFA World Cups, a Rugby World Cup and other exciting sporting events through the years. Tours are available for those who want to explore the stadium behind the scenes.
Location: 3 Bd Michelet, 13008 Marseille, France
Phone: +33 4 13 64 64 64
Orange Vélodrome
8. Cité Radieuse
The architectural masterpiece of Le Corbusier
Good for: Couples, Families
Cité Radieuse, which means “radiant city,” attracts architectural lovers with exquisite modular design by famed French architect Le Corbusier. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the post-war apartment complex is in the 8th arrondissement of Marseille.
One of the must-visit sites of Marseille, Cité Radieuse captures the imagination with its interesting lines and colors. When it was built, it was considered an experimental and innovative project. If you want an in-depth look at the building, take a guided tour to learn about the building’s history, designer, and other fascinating details.
Location: 280 Bd Michelet, 13008 Marseille, France
Open: Daily from 9 am to 6 pm
Cité Radieuse
9. Opéra de Marseille
Exciting performances from the worlds of opera and classical music
Good for: Couples, Families
Opéra de Marseille offers a fantastic opportunity to take in world-class opera performances, symphonies, and other performing arts productions. Set in the appropriately named area called Opéra, this elegant venue is one of the oldest and largest opera houses in France.
The programing at Opéra de Marseille is exciting, with productions ranging from classical favorites to rare and newer works. While the playbill changes yearly, recent productions include George Bizet’s Carmen and Giuseppi Verdi’s Macbeth. You can also catch ballets and concerts featuring renowned performers from around the world. Read more
Location: 2 Rue Molière, 13001 Marseille, France
Phone: +33 4 91 55 14 99
Opéra de Marseille
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