Picture this: you’ve just arrived in sunny Marseille, your kids are full of energy, and you’re wondering how to make everyone happy without walking uphill all day (because, well… Marseille loves a hill).
Good news! You’ve landed in one of the most exciting, colorful, and kid-friendly cities in France.
Discover the best family activities, easy days out, and unforgettable moments
Ready? Let’s dive in!
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Best things to do in Marseille with kids
#1 Stroll around the Vieux-Port (Old Port)
Start your trip the Marseille way, by the sea. The Vieux-Port has been the city’s beating heart for over 2,600 years and is a favorite among families.
#2 Hop on the Petit Train de Marseille 🚂
Avoid tired legs and turn sightseeing into a fun ride! The Petit Train departs every 20–40 minutes from the Old Port and rolls along the Corniche to Notre-Dame de la Garde.
#3 Visit Notre-Dame de la Garde (with zero whining)
Sitting on Marseille’s highest hill, the basilica is one of the city’s must-see spots. Families usually reach it by the Petit Train or the shuttle bus, much easier than walking.
#4 Explore Le Panier: Marseille’s oldest district
Think colorful houses, narrow alleys, hidden squares, and plenty of street art. Wander through this village-like neighborhood and visit the Vieille Charité cultural center and the Cathédrale de la Major nearby. It’s stroller-friendly in parts and packed with family-friendly cafés.
#5 Make a stop at MUCEM & Fort Saint-Jean
Probably Marseille’s most family-friendly museum, MUCEM mixes interactive exhibits with gorgeous sea views. A crowd-pleaser for all ages.
#6 Sail to Château d’If & the Frioul Islands
A short ferry ride from the Vieux-Port takes you to: Château d’If, the famous fortress-prison from The Count of Monte Cristo and the beachy Frioul Islands, great for picnics and swims. Kids aged 6–12 can join themed games and get activity booklets for an immersive visit.
Bonus: under-18s enter the Chateau for free.
#7 Step inside prehistoric Marseille at Cosquer Méditerranée
The replica of the underwater Cosquer Cave is a real wow-moment. You can ride through the cave on a rotating wagon to see prehistoric paintings and animals.
Note: Some age restrictions apply for very young kids.
Outdoor adventures for families
#1 Discover Calanques National Park—by boat or on foot
Turquoise water. Dramatic cliffs. Hidden coves. The Calanques are stunning, and you can visit them by boat tours from the Old Port (best for younger kids).
#2 Relax in Marseille’s best parks
Marseille is full of green spaces where kids can run wild and you can kick off your shoes and relax.
🌳 Parc Longchamp
🌿 Parc Borély
🌊 Parc du Pharo
#3 Splash around at Prado Beaches
The Plages du Prado are family favorites thanks to calm shallow water, playgrounds, sports courts and shaded picnic areas.
Activities for kids in Marseille
#1 Savon de Marseille workshops 🧼
Make your own soap at local factories and museums. Kids get creative, and you get to make perfect souvenirs to bring back home.
#2 The Museum of Illusion
Optical tricks + interactive rooms = guaranteed giggles. Kids under 4 get in for free.
#3 Learn pétanque like a local
Family lessons are available across the city: fun, very French, and great for all ages.
#4 Ride the Belle Époque Carousel
Found right by the Old Port, this charming carousel is perfect for a quick, nostalgic break.
Fun day trips from Marseille
🌊 Water parks near Marseille
Not right in the city—but reachable by car or bus.
Top picks:
Wave Island (near Avignon): 32 attractions + surf simulators
Aqualand Saint-Cyr-les-Lecques: one of the region’s largest water parks
La Pyramide & Aquacity: slides, pools, and year-round fun
🎢 Theme parks in the region
Magic Park Land: new rides for 2025, including Splash Park and Crazy Bus
OK Corral: over 35 rides and shows in a Wild West setting
Parc Spirou Provence: comic-themed rides & coasters
Le Rocher Mistral: immersive shows inside a medieval castle
Practical tips for a smooth family trip
- Get the Marseille City Pass to save on transport and entrance fees
- Book activities in advance, especially in summer
- Use public transport or the Petit Train to avoid steep walks
- Pack sun protection, a water bottle, and comfy shoes
- Visit outdoor spots early or late to avoid heat
- Check Calanques access rules, as restrictions apply on some summer days
Top related articles:
Marseille hiking: discover the stunning Calanques
Best things to do in Old Port Marseille
Discovering Lyon with kids
Discovering Bordeaux with kids
Your family trip to Paris
🛏️ Where to stay in Marseille with kids
Make your family base at the MEININGER Hotel Marseille Centre La Joliette, a super central, budget-friendly stay that keeps you close to the Old Port, museums, shops, and tram lines.
Why families love staying with us:
✔️ Private or shared rooms for groups of all sizes
✔️ A guest kitchen for easy meals & snacks
✔️ Game zone for downtime between adventures
✔️ Laundry facilities (because… kids)
✔️ Awesome hotel staff
Start your Marseille days well-rested and ready to explore!
Address: 25/27 Rue de Forbin, 13002 Marseille, France
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Fun things to do in Marseille with kids: FAQs
Is Marseille a good destination for families?
Absolutely! Marseille is full of things to do with kids, from beaches and parks to hands-on museums and boat trips. It’s one of the most laid-back kid friendly destinations in the south of France.
What’s the best area to stay in Marseille with children?
The Vieux-Port and La Joliette areas are perfect—central, walkable, and close to many kid friendly attractions Marseille offers. The MEININGER Hotel Marseille Centre La Joliette is right in the middle of it all.
Are the Calanques suitable for young kids?
Yes—just choose the right option. A boat tour is the easiest and safest way to visit with little ones, while the hikes are better suited for older kids who enjoy walking.
Do you need reservations for the Calanques?
On some summer days, yes. Reservations help protect the park and manage crowds—a useful family holiday in Marseille tip if you’re planning to hike.
What’s the best museum in Marseille for kids?
Families love MUCEM for its interactive spaces and sea views, and Cosquer Méditerranée for its immersive cave experience—both great things to do in Marseille with kids.
Is Marseille walkable for families?
Mostly, yes. Some areas are hilly, but public transport and the Petit Train make exploring easy, especially if you’re traveling with strollers or younger children.
Are there free things to do with kids in Marseille?
Definitely! Beaches, parks, Le Panier, the Old Port, and scenic viewpoints all offer fun kid friendly attractions Marseille without spending a euro.
How long should families spend in Marseille?
3–4 days is ideal to enjoy beaches, museums, a boat trip, and even an amusement park near Marseille if you want an extra adventure.
What’s the best season to visit with kids?
Spring and early autumn offer warm weather and fewer crowds. Summer works too—especially for beach days and visiting a Marseille water park—just plan around the heat.
Are theme parks near Marseille worth it for families?
Yes! Parks like OK Corral, Magic Park Land, and Parc Spirou make great day trips. They’re fun, easy to reach, and perfect for kids of all ages.
