If you want to surprise your other half and are wondering what are the best things to do as a couple in Marseille, then you’ve come to the right place! Marseille is the perfect place to spend an unforgettable time together. Between nature, sport, culture and gastronomy, there is no shortage of activities for couples to discover each other in a new light, or simply enjoy a relaxing moment together. Here is a selection of the best things to do as a couple, combining romance, fun and discovery of the city of Marseille. Ready for a unique experience? Follow the guide!
Picnic in the calanques
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find yourself in front of crystal clear waters, surrounded by cliffs and the scent of pine trees? You have to admit, it’s a dream come true! The beaches and coves of Marseille are an idyllic setting for a romantic picnic. On the programme: hand-in-hand excursions, refreshing swims and sunbathing with a view. For easy access and little walking, head to Port-Pin, Port-Miou or Méjean. Looking for a challenge? Ask your partner to explore the Calanque d’En-Vau or Sormiou to win your snack! Don’t forget to pack all the essentials: swimming costume, sun cream, water and a decent snack, with a trip to Dwish, Mio Panino or La Bagelerie Marseillaise.
A night at the theatre
Want a change of cinema? Then go to the theatre. Marseille has something for everyone. For an elegant evening, La Criée and the Opéra Municipal offer plays, concerts and operas in magnificent halls. More of a party atmosphere? L’Étoile Bleue offers a colourful cabaret and theatre show. And if you like a good laugh, head to Le Garage, L’Art Du or the Comédie Club du Vieux-Port for a night of stand-up with comedians from all over France. Whichever option you choose, it’s the perfect opportunity to share an out-of-the-ordinary moment of conviviality.
Photo by theMarseille Opera.
Enjoy a romantic brunch
It is said that love begins in the stomach… So what better way to start the weekend than with a brunch for two? The best brunches in Marseille are waiting for you: La Fiancée, Biba Brunch, Deïa and Coogee delight your palate with generous gourmet dishes. Fluffy pancakes, avocado toast, fresh juices? All on a terrace in the sunshine of Marseille, doesn’t it sound tempting? After this feast, there’s nothing better than a digestive stroll through the narrow streets of the city centre or along the Old Port – one of the best things to do as a couple!
Photo by La Fiancée.
A spa duo: absolute relaxation
Need a break to recharge your batteries and recharge your batteries? Treat yourself to a moment of pure relaxation in one of the best spas in Marseille. For a luxurious experience, the Spa by Clarins at the InterContinental Hôtel Dieu offers duo massages and a hammam in a refined setting. For a warmer atmosphere, Escale Zen is the ideal address. If you’re dreaming of an oriental ritual, head to Hammam Zein or La Bastide des Bains, where scrubs and steam baths soothe body and mind. For more intimacy, Villa Zola offers a private hammam. And for a sensory journey, Au Cinq Mondes invites you to discover treatments inspired by rituals from around the world.
Photo of the Spa by Clarins.
Dare to go scuba diving!
How about diving into a new adventure together? A first dive is the perfect opportunity to discover the underwater wonders of Marseille while sharing a unique moment. Between the weightlessness and the soothing silence, the experience is as fascinating as it is relaxing. Colourful fish, rocky bottoms and underwater light effects: what a spectacle! Who knows, maybe this first dive will awaken a new passion? Several centres offer this experience, such as L’Atelier de la Mer, Plongée Tek Marseille and the YCPR. An unforgettable experience for both of you, with your eyes immersed in the depths or in each other’s!
Photo by L’Atelier de la Mer.
Cultural visit to a museum
Marseille is a city rich in history and culture, ideal for a day out with your partner. Strolling through its museums is an opportunity to discover fascinating works of art together and share moments of wonder. The Mucem (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations) and the Museum of the History of Marseille offer an immersion into the city’s past. Contemporary art lovers will love the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Monticelli Foundation. For a different experience, take a trip to the Cosquer cave or the Museum of Illusion. It’s a great way to learn together while enjoying the magic of the area.
Photo by Cosquer Méditerranée.
Jogging on the Corniche Kennedy
Want to get some fresh air and share a sporty moment together? Jogging along the Corniche Kennedy is the perfect way to combine exertion and relaxation. While jogging, you’ll enjoy a splendid view of the Mediterranean Sea and the sights of Marseille. Whether you are an experienced runner or a beginner, the route between the Plage des Catalans and the Pointe Rouge offers magnificent panoramas and, above all, a holiday atmosphere. It’s a chance to motivate each other while breathing in the fresh air, chatting about everything and finishing with a well-deserved break in a café or ice-cream parlour – a must-do activity for lovers of sport and nature!
Photo courtesy ofthe Marseille Tourist Office.
Dinner in a specialised restaurant in Marseille
What better way to end the day than by sampling the local cuisine? Dining in a Marseille restaurant is the perfect occasion to savour typical dishes such as bouillabaisse, daube or panisses. Around a warm table, you can share a moment of conviviality while tasting specialities reminiscent of the flavours of the Mediterranean. There is no shortage of places to eat, from brasseries in the Old Port to more intimate restaurants. And to make things easier for you, we’ve compiled a list of the best speciality restaurants in Marseille– all you have to do is sit down!
Photo by Clan des Cigales.
Participate in a creative workshop
Fancy doing something different and creating something together? Taking part in a creative workshop is a great way to spend quality time as a couple while developing your talents. Try a Marseille soap-making workshop to take home your own scented creations, or a pottery workshop to create ceramic objects – Marseille is full of activities for couples to express their creativity! For nature lovers, there is a flower arrangement workshop where you can create bespoke bouquets. And why not try a Pastis making workshop at the Distillerie de la Plaine or a graffiti workshop for a bit of street art? With all the workshops on offer, you’re sure to find something you like.
Photo by Barbotyne.
Admire a sunset
One of the most romantic things to do as a couple in Marseille is to watch the sunset. Notre-Dame de la Garde offers a sublime panoramic view of the city and the sea, while the Anse de Malmousque invites you to admire the islands of Frioul and the Château d’If. For a moment of peace and quiet, the Prado beaches and the Palais du Faro are perfect spots. The terrace of the Mucem offers a breathtaking view of the Old Port, while the Vallon des Auffes, a picturesque little harbour, creates a peaceful atmosphere. An idyllic setting for a moment of complicity and serenity.
Photo by Mucem.
Want to extend your stay? Check out our 10 ideas for an unusual night out in and around Marseille for an unforgettable weekend.
