Palais Longchamp Marseille
A magnificent 19th-century monument with a grand waterfall, housing museums and surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light for photos
Palais Longchamp Marseille
Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent 19th-century monument with a grand waterfall, housing museums and surrounded by beautiful gardens.
"Stunning palace in a nicer area of Marseille. Very scenic and picturesque as you're walking up."
📸 Free Photo Ops Galore
Capture stunning shots of the architecture and waterfall. Perfect for Instagram lovers!
🚶♀️ Walkable from City Center
Easily accessible on foot from Marseille's city center, making it a convenient visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Waterfall
Central Courtyard
A breathtaking monument with a cascading waterfall, celebrating Marseille's water supply. A true architectural marvel.
Palace Gardens
Surrounding Grounds
Expansive and picturesque gardens perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering beautiful views and photo opportunities.
Fine Arts Museum
Palais Longchamp
Explore a rich collection of paintings and sculptures within the magnificent palace architecture.
Natural History Museum
Palais Longchamp
Discover fascinating exhibits on local flora, fauna, and geology, a hit with families.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Grand Views
Museums & Green Spaces
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
A weekend in Marseille
📸 Free Photo Ops Galore
Capture stunning shots of the architecture and waterfall. Perfect for Instagram lovers!
🚶♀️ Walkable from City Center
Easily accessible on foot from Marseille's city center, making it a convenient visit.
Travelling to Marseille Museums to visit and more
Any suggestion what to see in Marseille, France?
🚋 Tram Access is Easy
Take the tram directly to Palais Longchamp for a hassle-free journey.
🌳 Gardens Undergoing Renewal
The park is being restored, so expect some areas to be improved for future visits.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Free Photo Ops Galore
Capture stunning shots of the architecture and waterfall. Perfect for Instagram lovers!
🚶♀️ Walkable from City Center
Easily accessible on foot from Marseille's city center, making it a convenient visit.
🚋 Tram Access is Easy
Take the tram directly to Palais Longchamp for a hassle-free journey.
🌳 Gardens Undergoing Renewal
The park is being restored, so expect some areas to be improved for future visits.
🏛️ Museums for All
Visit the Fine Arts and Natural History museums for a dose of culture and science.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Palais Longchamp's stunning architecture and picturesque gardens, calling it a must-visit in Marseille. The free access to the grounds and the impressive waterfall are major highlights, offering fantastic photo opportunities. While the museums are appreciated, some find the park a bit neglected, though it's noted to be undergoing restoration.
"Stunning palace in a nicer area of Marseille. Very scenic and picturesque as you're walking up. Lots of great photo opportunities and there's gardens and a playground at the top behind the pillars. Easy to access to via tram. Definitely don't miss this if you're in Marseille."
James
"A beautiful monument which houses two museums: the Beaux-Arts and the Natural History Museum. The latter was small (free) but packed full of information on life and the earth. Great for kids but not only... The park itself was a little scruffy and neglected, notices indicated that it was undergoing an extensive restoration plan."
Catherine York
"Gorgeous palace, walkable distance from the city center of Marseille. Completely free to explore their large garden and stand in awe of their beautiful fountain / waterfall. Worth a visit while staying in Marseille"
RYAN
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Palais Longchamp is easily accessible via public transport. The tram lines T1 and T2 stop nearby, and it's also a pleasant walk from the city center.
Yes, public parking is available, though it might require a short 10-minute walk to reach the palace itself.
Yes, it's a walkable distance from the Vieux Port, offering a scenic route through the city.
Tram lines T1 and T2 both serve the Palais Longchamp area, making it convenient to reach from various parts of the city.
Several bus lines also stop near Palais Longchamp, providing additional public transportation options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The gardens and the exterior of the palace are completely free to explore.
Entry to the museums (Fine Arts and Natural History) typically requires a separate ticket. Check their official website for current pricing.
The gardens are generally open daily, but museum hours vary. It's best to check the official Palais Longchamp website for the most up-to-date information.
Museum tickets can often be purchased online in advance to save time, especially during peak season.
While the grounds are always free, some museums offer free entry on specific days or during certain hours. Inquire at the museum information desk.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is widely permitted throughout the palace grounds and gardens, making it a photographer's paradise.
The grand waterfall, the palace facade, and the surrounding gardens offer numerous stunning photo opportunities.
Tripod usage might be restricted in certain areas or during busy times. It's advisable to check with the site management if you plan to use one extensively.
Early mornings or late afternoons during the golden hour provide beautiful lighting for photography, with fewer crowds.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in public spaces like Palais Longchamp for safety and privacy reasons. Always check local regulations.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
You can explore the beautiful gardens, visit the Fine Arts and Natural History museums, and enjoy the peaceful park atmosphere. There's also a playground for children.
There is a cantina located within the park area, offering refreshments and light meals.
The gardens are generally lovely, though some reviews mention they are undergoing restoration, suggesting ongoing improvements.
Yes, the Natural History Museum is great for kids, and there's a playground in the park. The open spaces are also good for them to explore.
Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully enjoy the grounds, gardens, and potentially one of the museums.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🚶 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel of Palais Longchamp
The monument's design is both functional and aesthetic. The water from the fountain flows into a basin, symbolizing the city's newfound abundance. The surrounding parkland was also designed as part of the grand vision, creating a beautiful public space for relaxation and enjoyment. Many visitors are struck by the sheer beauty and the historical significance of this structure, often calling it an architectural masterpiece.
For those interested in history and architecture, Palais Longchamp offers a fascinating glimpse into Marseille's past. The intricate carvings, the scale of the construction, and the story behind its creation make it more than just a pretty sight; it's a symbol of the city's progress and resilience. It's a must-see for anyone visiting Marseille who appreciates grand historical monuments.
Exploring the Museums of Palais Longchamp
The Natural History Museum, located in the other wing, is particularly engaging for families and those interested in the natural world. It houses extensive collections of zoology, botany, and geology, offering insights into the region's biodiversity and geological history. While one review noted it was small, it was also described as packed with information, making it a worthwhile visit for all ages.
Both museums offer a cultural complement to the stunning architecture of the Palais Longchamp itself. Visitors can easily spend a few hours exploring the art and natural wonders within these institutions, adding depth to their experience of this iconic Marseille landmark.
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