Frequently Asked Questions

Make the Most of Martigues

They asked us the question, we’re answering you.

Where is the Martigues Tourism and Leisure Office located?

The Martigues Tourism and Leisure Office is located in the Île district, in the heart of the historic center, near the famous Miroir aux Oiseaux.

Are there activities organized by the Tourism Office?

Yes, the Tourism Office organizes activities, tours, and walks throughout the year, allowing visitors to discover the local heritage, meet producers, and explore the region.

 

What are the must-see attractions in Martigues ?

 

What to do in Martigues?

  • Stroll along the canals of Martigues to discover the charm that has earned it the nickname "The Provencal Venice."
  • Visit the historic city center and marvel at the colorful facades of the Miroir aux Oiseaux.
  • Dine in a restaurant overlooking the canals of Martigues or the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Soak up the southern French sunshine on the sandy beaches of the Côte Bleue.
  • Enjoy a drink on a terrace under the plane trees or with your feet in the sand at the Ferrières beach summer guinguettes in the city center.
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Where to walk in Martigues?

  • Along the canals of "The Provencal Venice," crossing the city center bridges.
  • In the Île district, home to the famous Miroir aux Oiseaux, with its colorful waterfront houses.
  • At Carro port, known for its authentic fish market.
  • On La Couronne beach, the largest sandy beach on the Côte Bleue.
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Where is Martigues located?

Martigues is located on the Côte Bleue, 40 km west of Marseille, in the Bouches-du-Rhône department, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region.
 

Related questions

Which are the most charming neighborhoods to visit in Martigues?

  • The Île district: Considered the most picturesque, it’s in the heart of "The Provencal Venice." With its colorful waterfront houses, typical alleys, and small port with moored boats, this district offers a peaceful ambiance often captured by painters.
  • The Jonquières district: Known for its historic streets, numerous ramparts, architectural landmarks, and Provençal atmosphere.
    Don’t miss: The bronze statues depicting local scenes and the maritime history of the town.


What are the best viewpoints in Martigues?

  • The Miroir aux Oiseaux: The most famous postcard-perfect viewpoint, inspiring painters such as Delacroix and Dufy. It has been a listed site since 1942.
  • La Pointe Sant Crist (or Pointe de l'Île): Offers an exceptional panorama of the sea, accessible after a walk through the picturesque alleys.
  • The bridges connecting the three districts, especially the Pont Levant between the Île and Jonquières districts, offering a beautiful view of the Étang de Berre.
    Our tip: For a unique view, opt for a boat ride at sunset when the city is bathed in shades of pink and orange.
  • Canal lined with colorful houses and boats in Martigues, known as the Provençal Venice
  • Photo taken from the Miroir aux Oiseaux from the bridge of the Ile district. The colorful facades are reflected in the calm water, boats are moored at the quay

What are the must-do activities in Martigues?


Which historical sites should you prioritize?

  • Miroir aux Oiseaux: A picturesque small port where the colorful facades of Martigues' houses are reflected on the canal.
  • Ziem Museum: This museum showcases works by Félix Ziem, Raoul Dufy, André Derain, and other renowned artists.
  • Gallery of History: A 500 m² space retracing the history of Martigues through documents, photos, and models.
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What outdoor activities are available?

What are the best water activities on the Côte Bleue?

  • Boat rides on the canals, Étang de Berre, and along the calanques, organized by the Martigues Tourist Office.
  • Snorkeling to explore the underwater world in the protected marine area of Carry-le-Rouet.
  • Water sports: Paddleboarding, kayaking, and wakeboarding from the nautical bases on the Côte Bleue.
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Local experiences - Gastronomy and markets

  • Jonquières Market: The largest market in Martigues, offering fruits, vegetables, and artisanal products every Thursday and Sunday morning.
  • Poutargue tasting: A local delicacy made from mullet roe fished in the Martigues canal. Poutargue is typically enjoyed on a slice of bread.

Bonus: The city is nicknamed the "Provençal Venice," offering a unique setting between the Mediterranean Sea and Étang de Berre.
 

Related questions

 

What are the must-do activities in Martigues?

  • Grand Parc de Figuerolles: Activities for children like tree climbing, playgrounds, and family-friendly hikes.
  • Discovery tours: The Treasure Hunter Box, fun Randoland hikes, and the "An Odyssey in Provence" scavenger hunt.
  • Workshops for kids at the Ziem Museum, Gallery of History, or Chapelle de l'Annonciade.
  • Water activities: 45-minute boat rides on the canals of Martigues or relaxing on the Côte Bleue's equipped beaches.


What family-friendly festivals take place in Martigues during summer?

  • Sea and Saint-Pierre Festival: Funfair, traditional rowing challenges, old-fashioned games, and wooden game workshops, held in late June.
  • Venetian Night: Nautical parade and pyromelodic show, early July.
  • Kite Festival: Held on La Couronne beach in April.
  • Les Fadas du Monde: Concerts, open-air cinema, performances, and artistic workshops during the summer.
  • Beach of Sainte-Croix in Martigues and its turquoise water. Bathers are in the water while the waves reach the edge of the beach. Surrounding hills protect the beach from the wind
  • Slices of bottarga on toasted bread with chives - culinary specialty of Martigues

What are the best hiking trails in Martigues?


The Grand Sentier de la Côte Bleue

Stretching 62 km, the Grand Sentier de la Côte Bleue runs from La Couronne/Carro to Ensuès-la-Redonne. Over 3 to 4 days, this trail offers 17 local loops ranging from 2 to 12 km. Accessible from several stations served by the Train de la Côte Bleue (TER), it provides panoramic views of the Mediterranean.


The Martégal Coastal Trail

With a length of 13 km (one way), this trail offers a 3-hour walk along the coast. From Les Laurons or the village of Carro to Sainte-Croix beach, you can admire exceptional coastal landscapes while discovering archaeological sites as well as local fauna and flora.


The Winegrowers’ Trail - Cépages Loop

Located between the Mediterranean Sea and the Étang de Berre, this trail showcases the wine-growing heritage of the Saint-Julien-les-Martigues cooperative winery. It is a 4 km local loop surrounded by poppy fields and vineyards. Duration: 90 minutes.


The Figuerolles Loop

A nature walk located in the heart of the Grand Parc de Figuerolles, it crosses the heights of the Étang de Berre. It allows visitors to explore the park's agricultural heritage while offering an exceptional panoramic view of the Étang.


Related Questions


Which hiking trails offer exceptional panoramic views?


Which hiking trails are the most accessible in Martigues?

  • The Figuerolles Loop: An adaptable loop ranging from 3 to 7 km through the 130 hectares of greenery in the Grand Parc de Figuerolles.
  • The Botanical Trail of the Carro Plain: A 4 km educational walk ideal for discovering local flora.

Tips for family hikes: Opt for short trails (less than 7 km), bring water, snacks, and comfortable shoes, respect the children's pace, and combine nature discovery with fun moments to make the experience enjoyable for everyone.

  • Quiet pebble beach in Martigues with a clear view of the Mediterranean Sea
  • Sunlit vineyards near Martigues, with hills in the background

What should I know about the Côte Bleue?


Where is the Côte Bleue located?

The Côte Bleue stretches over about 30 kilometers between Marseille and Martigues, in the Bouches-du-Rhône region.


What are the characteristics of the beaches on the Côte Bleue?

Most beaches on the Côte Bleue are made of pebbles and surrounded by seabeds rich in sea urchins. However, near Martigues, the beaches consist exclusively of sand.


What can you see on the Côte Bleue?

A series of coves, small creeks, and beaches, along with breathtaking views of the Frioul Islands, Marseille, and its famous calanques.


What activities can you do on the Côte Bleue?

The area is perfect for hiking, swimming, and exploring marine biodiversity.


What is the Parc Marin de la Côte Bleue?

The Parc Marin de la Côte Bleue is a protected marine area covering 28 km of coastline. Created to preserve the exceptional biodiversity of its seabeds, it is also a favored spot for eco-friendly activities.


What are the main towns of the Côte Bleue?

The main towns of the Côte Bleue are: Le Rove, Ensuès-la-Redonne, Carry-le-Rouet, Sausset-les-Pins, and Martigues (La Couronne - Carro).


Why are there algae on the beaches?

The "algae" seen on the beaches are actually dead Posidonia, intentionally left in place. These marine plants play a fundamental ecological role: they provide habitat for many marine organisms and are considered the "lungs" of the Mediterranean.


Related Questions


What are the best times of year to visit the Côte Bleue?

  • Spring (March to mid-June): This is the ideal time to enjoy the Côte Bleue. There are few tourists, nature is awakening, and the temperatures are mild—perfect for hiking and exploring picturesque villages.
  • Autumn (mid-September to November): The weather remains pleasant, the days are still sunny, and there are fewer crowds than in summer. Shops and restaurants are usually still open, creating a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.


Are there water sports or aquatic activities accessible from the Côte Bleue?

Yes, the Côte Bleue offers many water sports suitable for all levels:

  • Gliding sports: Stand-up paddleboarding, sea kayaking, surfing (especially at the Carro spot), wakeboarding, jet skiing (with or without a license).
  • Leisure and relaxation activities: Tubing, snorkeling, pedal boats, sailing.

Our partner nautical bases: Water Sports 13 in La Couronne, Verdon Détente on La Couronne beach, and Base Nature & Nautique (BNN) in Carry-le-Rouet. These activities are generally available from June to September, with conditions suitable for children, families, and beginners.

  • Wild beach of the Côte Bleue with yellow flowers and pebbles. The beach is rounded with the water of the Mediterranean Sea visible on the left
  • Panoramic view of turquoise water and pine trees from the coastal trail in Martigues