A cultural family day out: between heritage and fun

A lively and engaging cultural morning

The day begins gently, along the water and through the narrow streets of Martigues. The air is still fresh, the light gliding across the colorful facades. We head to the Martigues History Gallery, a human-scale space, perfect for capturing teenagers' attention without ever overwhelming them. Here, culture isn't consumed, it's experienced. Gazes linger, questions arise. We observe, we exchange ideas, sometimes we're surprised. The exhibitions tell the story of the Provençal Venice with precision, blending art, history, and local identity. The journey is fluid, rhythmic, never tedious. The teenagers follow along, curious, surprised to find themselves so engrossed.

Air-conditioned spaces, clear displays, attentive staff: everything is designed to ensure that discovery remains a shared pleasure. An ideal, gentle, and stimulating introduction, before letting the city take over.

Suggested alternatives : The Ziem Museum also offers free admission for a permanent exhibition dedicated to the painter Ziem, as well as temporary exhibitions featuring other artists. Recently renovated, the museum was designed to spark the curiosity of both children and adults.
 

Relaxed, stress-free lunch

At midday, stomachs rumble, conversations become lively. We settle down at the table without any stress. At Le Bomba, the atmosphere is lively, contemporary, almost urban. The dishes evoke the South, the flavors are bold and modern. Parents savor the food, and teenagers approve. The decor is a hit, as is the atmosphere. For a simpler yet equally convivial break, La Pignata ticks all the boxes: generous pizzas, efficient service, and a reasonable price. We share, we laugh, we recharge our batteries. The essentials are all there: getting together, enjoying ourselves, without endless waiting or compromises.

The afternoon when the city becomes a playground

Then comes the moment the teens have been waiting for, even if they don't always admit it. Off to the Tourist Office to pick up My Explore Bag. And suddenly, Martigues transforms. For about two and a half hours, the city becomes an adventure playground. We observe, we search, we think, we gently challenge each other. The alleyways, the bridges, the canals become clues. Riddles pique curiosity, challenges awaken teamwork. The teens take the lead. The parents follow, surprised to find themselves swept along. The pace is free. We stop whenever we want. We look up, we listen, we breathe. The sun plays with the water, footsteps echo on the cobblestones. Learning happens effortlessly, almost without thinking.

Good to know : The My Explore Bag adventure can be played in 1, 2, or 4 of the cities included in the game. Starting in Martigues, continue your exploration in Istres, Miramas-le-Vieux, and Salon-de-Provence (2.5 hours per city) to discover the greatest treasures of Provence. The game is played on a mobile app that must be downloaded.
Suggested alternatives : For younger children (ages 6 and up), the Treasure Hunter box is available at the Martigues Tourist Office and is played exclusively in the city center of Martigues.