Notre Dame de la Garde à Marseille

Top 14 most beautiful monuments in Marseille2026 ranking

Discover below the monuments most appreciated by our members in Marseille. You can also contribute to this ranking by publishing your reviews :)

Our members' favourite monuments, approved by the editors

#1 Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde +24 recs 5/5

Towering over Marseille from its hilltop perch, Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde is the city's most iconic landmark. Its Romano-Byzantine architecture, intricate mosaics, and nautical ex-voto offerings define the space. Whether you hike up for a workout or take public transit, it provides a quiet escape and the best views of the coast.

#2 Château d'If +19 recs 4.6/5

Built on an islet off the coast of Marseille, the Château d'If is a former fortress turned prison, made famous by the novel and its many film adaptations, The Count of Monte Cristo. Visit in half a day for a deep dive into history and sweeping views of the Mediterranean. Catch a quick boat from the Vieux-Port.

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#3 Fort Saint-Jean +18 recs 5/5

Fort Saint-Jean, at the entrance to the Vieux-Port (Old Port) of Marseille, is a 17th-century bastion turned public promenade. Now part of the Mucem (Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean), it blends military history with modern footbridges and Mediterranean gardens. Entry is free, offering panoramic views of the city and sea.

#4 Palais du Pharo +16 recs 4.3/5

Overlooking the port of Marseille, the Palais du Pharo and its gardens offer a prime view. Originally built as a residence for Emperor Napoleon III, who visited Marseille often, the structure was only finished after his death. This late 19th-century landmark now hosts events and houses the Université d'Aix-Marseille (Aix-Marseille University) headquarters.

#5 Palais Longchamp +12 recs 5/5

The Palais Longchamp in Marseille is a grand monument celebrating water, housing both the Musée des Beaux-Arts (Museum of Fine Arts) and the Musée d'Histoire naturelle (Natural History Museum). Its iconic fountain and lush gardens create a peaceful cultural escape. This 19th century architectural masterpiece offers a unique mix of art, science, and nature.

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Latest reviews

Beautiful architecture worth checking out

I was simply impressed by the beauty of its architecture! The large fountain, statues, and colonnades are enhanced by the Provencal sun. You can also visit the Museum of Fine Arts, which really rounds…

21 0

The real prison of the Count of Monte Cristo

I love The Count of Monte Cristo, I am an absolute fan! During one of my trips to Marseille, I naturally decided to go visit the Château d'If. It is funny, because you do not necessarily imagine the p…

11 0

Stunning building

I love this place, right in the middle of the city, super close to the Canebière. On top of being built in a kind of baroque style, it houses several museums, the Fine Arts museum and the Natural Hist…

11 0

A relaxing spot with beautiful views

The perfect spot for a break away from the crowds. I stopped there to have a quiet lunch on a bench. While the site is mostly used for hosting conventions, it has a beautiful garden with a splendid vi…

14 0

A beautiful walk above the sea

Very easy to visit from the Mucem. I really enjoyed the walk along the ramparts and through the narrow corridors. The site is very well laid out. There are chairs available to soak up the sun. There i…

10 0

A must-see landmark

This is the one monument in Marseille you cannot miss! From the top of the hill, just the stunning view over the port is worth the climb. I recommend walking up to better enjoy the panorama, but it is…

15 0

Les Réformés

For locals in Marseille, this church is better known as Les Réformés. It was recently renovated. The facade has become white again after being black for years. And it is really beautiful! The stained…

6 0

A great exhibition center

A place that hosts many trade shows and brings a lot of life to Marseille. For me, it is associated with the famous Japan Expo Sud that comes back every year. Although it is smaller than the one in Pa…

5 0

A one-of-a-kind project

Le Corbusier designed this funny building as a work of art, but also to give a new dimension to housing. And it really does! Some parts are open for free visits. At first, I was a little confused, but…

5 0

A century-old opera house

First off, the building is really beautiful from the outside. I recommend exploring the neighborhood nearby (not very far from the Old Port). You will find plenty of cafes, tea rooms, and restaurants…

4 0

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