“Three kilometers” might sound like just a number. But here on the Chemin du Bord de Mer that number translates into the length of the world’s longest urban bench. It invites everyone to pause. It invites everyone to soak in the stunning views.
The Chemin du Bord de Mer stretches almost five kilometers. This offers some of the city’s most beautiful panoramas. Think of it as Marseille’s answer to Nice’s Promenade des Anglais. Think of it as Marseille’s answer to Cannes’ Croisette. This route is a must-see for anyone visiting Marseille.
Once a simple path along the calanques, the Chemin du Bord de Mer was transformed between 1848 and 1863. It was later widened in the mid-20th century. Today it allows locals to easily travel to the city’s southern districts. They enjoy stunning views of the Château d’If and the Frioul Islands.
In 1963 the Chemin du Bord de Mer was named in honor of the recently assassinated US President John F. Kennedy. This site has been protected since 1924. It offers a panorama fitting for such a figure.
Joggers, walkers and fishermen gather here. They are all drawn to its unique charm. Along the Chemin du Bord de Mer, the longest urban bench in the world offers a place to rest. It offers a place to admire the view of the Frioul Islands.
During the warmer months, the Plage du Prophète and the Plages du Prado beckon visitors. They beckon visitors for picnics and sunbathing. Plage du Prophète is one of Marseille’s oldest beaches. Visit it in the late afternoon. You’ll avoid the crowds. You’ll enjoy an unbelievable sunset. The Prado beaches invite relaxation and fun.
The Chemin du Bord de Mer passes above the Vallon des Auffes. It passes near the monument to the dead of the Orient. It passes above the Fausse-Monnaie cove and bridge. The cove earned its name. Counterfeiters operated here in the 18th century.
Nestled between Plage des Catalans and Anse de Malmousque, Vallon des Auffes remains a traditional fishing port. This picturesque harbor is home to restaurants like the famous Chez Fonfon.
At number 174 Corniche, near the Fausse-Monnaie bridge, the Marégraphe de Marseille was established in 1884. This unassuming observatory defined France’s zero-altitude reference point. The sea level is marked by an iridium platinum marker. All French leveling measurements are based on this point.
From 1998 to 2006 a mural of Zinedine Zidane adorned a facade on the Corniche. It promoted a sports equipment manufacturer with the slogan “Made in Marseille”.
Today, walking along the Chemin du Bord de Mer remains the best way to experience it. The Marseille tourist office offers a 21-stage tour to discover this scenic route. You can uncover all of its secrets.
The almost five-kilometer route runs along a coastal axis. It links neighborhoods like the Old Port, the Catalans and Malmousque to the southern districts along the seafront. The route starts at the statue of David.
The walk begins on Rue des Catalans. The Catalans district owes its name to Spanish fishermen from Catalonia. In the 18th century they obtained permission to lay their nets along the coast of Marseille. They sold their catch here. Marseille has always been a welcoming city of transit.
The Place Paul Ricard offers a wide view of the islets of Endoume. See the black and yellow cardinal marks Canoubier and Sourdaras. They indicate an isolated underwater danger for sailors. You can also see the Château d’If and the islands of the Frioul archipelago.
Malmousque took off with the opening of the Corniche. Fishermen’s cabins and villas coexist here. You’ll find Gérald Passédat’s hotel and restaurant here. This is Marseille’s first 3-star Michelin restaurant.
During the construction of the viaduct in 1861 workers discovered counterfeit money. This was in the foundation excavations at Anse de la Fausse Monnaie.
Marseille’s industrialists built villas along the Corniche. They rivaled each other in originality. The seaside “follies” built during the Second Empire testify to Marseille’s wealth and maritime power at the time.
Take the pedestrian walkway to the Parc Valmer. This is directly opposite the Marégraphe. A tarmac road leads up to a belvedere. This offers panoramic views of the harbor and the islands of Marseille.
The mosaics on the Corniche bench were created in schools, social centers and retirement homes. The theme of all the Marseille creations is friendship.
The walk ends at the foot of the statue of David. From here Avenue du Prado 2 leads down to the sea. So take a moment to soak it all in. Let the spirit of Marseille embrace you. Let the Chemin du Bord de Mer become a cherished memory.