Attractions and Places To See around Martigues - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Martigues, often called the "Venice of Provence," offers a diverse range of attractions. Situated between the Étang de Berre and the Mediterranean Sea, the town features an intricate network of canals and bridges. Visitors can explore its rich history, vibrant culture, and picturesque natural landscapes, including the scenic Côte Bleue. The area provides opportunities for exploring historical sites, charming fishing villages, and natural parks.
Best attractions and places to see around Martigues
- The most popular attractions is Port of Carro, a charming little port with fish markets on weekends. This tranquil harbor also features a Petit Musée de Carro and offers opportunities for walks along the coast.
- Another must-see spot is Oppidum of Saint-Blaise, a major archaeological site in the western Mediterranean. This historical location includes a magnificent chapel and offers views of the surrounding ponds.
- Visitors also love Cap Couronne Lighthouse, a man-made monument and viewpoint located on the Côte Bleue. It marks the entrance to the Gulf of Fos-sur-Mer and provides an exceptional site for walks along the rocky coast.
- Martigues is known for its historical landmarks, natural coastal features, and cultural sites. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient ruins to picturesque fishing villages and scenic lighthouses.
- The attractions around Martigues are appreciated by the komoot community, with 30 highlights and more than 100 upvotes. These places are documented with 26 photos, showcasing the diverse appeal of the region.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Port of Carro
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Oppidum of Saint-Blaise
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View of Marseille
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In Roman times it was a loading point for limestone rock from the nearby quarries (hence the name "Carry") and has been a fishing harbour since at least the 12th century.
Today Carry le Rouet is a lively small town that, thanks to the Blue Coast train line, has become a commuting outpost for Marseille.
A short walk from the station, slung around the port, is the centre, with its Art Deco-style casino, a little art gallery, La Bergerie, housed in a former sheep hut, and a wide array of bars, cafés and restaurants, as well as a single unsightly high-rise block that somewhat blights the skyline.
From here you can walk along a well maintained and easily accessible coastal footpath to the beaches of the Blue Coast, or even as far as one of the neighbouring towns. It's punctuated with illustrated plaques (in French only) about the local flora, fauna and other curiosities.
At the eastern edge of the town, the Parc Marin de la Côte Bleue (Blue Coast Marine Park) has a lively programme of activities centred about conservation and the environment. Avenue Jean Bart, plage du Rouet, 13620 Carry le Rouet.
A little further still out of town is the restored, 17th century chapel of Notre Dame du Rouet which can be visited on certain days only.
GET HERE: by GR51 (Grande Randonnée 51) hiking trail, from Ensuès la Redonne in one direction or Sausset les Pins in the other.
Blue Coast train from Marseille Saint Charles station to Carry le Rouet about 30 minutes.
Carry is - along with neighbouring Sausset les Pins - one of the key destinations for the open-air sea-food feasts held along the Blue Coast throughout the winter (Carry on Sundays throughout February).
marvellous-provence.com/other-places/towns/carry-le-rouet
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Cap Couronne Lighthouse
Highlight • Monument
He tags the entrance to the Gulf of Fos-sur-Mer from the direction of Marseille.
In 1960, ignition of a red flash fire, on a cylindrical tower of reinforced concrete on a basement of 33 m height. It is a slightly frustoconical tower made of reinforced concrete painted white with the red top. Automated since 2001, the lighthouse can not be visited.
fr.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phare_de_Cap_Couronne
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Rock tombs in the Castillon forest
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Tips from the Community
An iconic spot for photography and sunset enthusiasts
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A small, charming harbor town with several restaurants, a very nice campervan site, a harbor with a small fish market, and a delicious bakery. Well worth a visit.
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Small, nice harbor town with a few restaurants, a very nice RV parking area, a harbor with a small fish market and a very tasty bakery. It's worth a visit.
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From Cap Couronne you can enjoy a wonderful view along the Côte Bleue and, in good weather, you can see as far as Marseille. There is a paved road leading to the lighthouse and the car park there. The cape itself is rocky at its very tip.
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Small, nice harbor town with a few restaurants, a very nice RV parking area, a harbor with a small fish market and a very tasty bakery. It's worth a visit.
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U-turn in the oppidum because it is surrounded by fence then impassable path in the descent above the Etang du Pourra, charred trees and many branches on the way... So some parts to avoid especially in VAE ...
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A magnificent chapel and a high place of local archeology to visit which also offers magnificent views of the surrounding ponds and the town of Istres! Unavoidable !
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical and cultural sites can I explore in Martigues?
Martigues offers a rich history. You can visit the 17th-century Église Sainte-Madeleine-de-l'Île, known for its Italian Baroque style, or the Chapelle de l'Annonciade, a jewel of Provençal Baroque art. For a deeper dive into the town's past, the Galerie de l'Histoire de Martigues in the Town Hall provides interactive displays and artifacts from prehistoric times to the present day.
Where can I experience Martigues' natural beauty and outdoor activities?
Martigues is surrounded by natural beauty. The Cap Couronne Lighthouse offers exceptional walks along the rocky coast with stunning views. You can also explore the 131-hectare Parc de Figuerolles (Grand Parc de Figuerolles – Paul Lombard) by the Berre Lagoon, perfect for walks, jogging, or mountain biking. The Étang de Berre, Europe's largest inland seawater lake, is ideal for birdwatching and natural trails.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Martigues?
Yes, Martigues has several family-friendly options. The Port of Carro is a charming spot with fish markets on weekends and a tranquil harbor. Many of Martigues' beaches, such as Plage de Sainte-Croix and Plage du Verdon, are Blue Flag certified, offering safe swimming and pleasant environments for families. Parc de Figuerolles also includes amenities for children.
What kind of hiking trails are available near Martigues?
Martigues provides access to numerous hiking trails. You can find sections of the Grand Sentier de la Côte Bleue and trails like "Between sea and ponds" that explore wild landscapes near coves and Mediterranean forests. For specific routes, consider the Coastal Path of Cap Couronne or the Port of Carro – Anse de Bonnieu loop. These trails offer varying difficulties, from moderate to difficult.
What are the best coastal areas to explore around Martigues?
The Côte Bleue, stretching from northern Marseille, is a highlight, featuring beautiful beaches, charming fishing ports, and transparent waters perfect for snorkeling. The area around Carro is particularly scenic, known for its daily fish market and historical tuna fishing methods, with plenty of coastal walks and beaches.
Are there any unique or lesser-known places to discover in Martigues?
Beyond the main sights, Martigues has hidden gems. The Miroir aux Oiseaux (Bird Mirror) is a picturesque fishing port with colorful facades, particularly photogenic in the early morning. The Quartier de l'Île, with its canals, painted houses, and bridges, offers an evocative backdrop for a stroll. You can also find statues celebrating Martigues' fishing heritage and even sculpted chairs paying tribute to actors Bourvil and Fernandel on the quay of the Île district.
When is the best time to visit Martigues for outdoor activities?
The region's Mediterranean climate makes spring and early autumn ideal for outdoor activities. The weather is generally pleasant for hiking, cycling, and exploring coastal areas without the intense heat of summer. Summer is excellent for beach activities and watersports, but trails might be very warm.
Can I visit ancient archaeological sites near Martigues?
Absolutely. The Oppidum of Saint-Blaise is a major archaeological site in the western Mediterranean, featuring a magnificent chapel and views of surrounding ponds. Nearby, you can also discover the Rock tombs in the Castillon forest, with nearly 300 tombs dating back to the Visigothic period (5th - 6th century AD).
What water sports or wild swimming opportunities are available?
The Côte Bleue offers excellent opportunities for watersports like windsurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and snorkeling in its transparent waters. The numerous Blue Flag certified beaches around Martigues, such as Plage de Sainte-Croix and Plage du Verdon, provide safe and pleasant environments for swimming. The Étang de Berre also offers a unique environment for water-based recreation.
What is there to see in Martigues' charming fishing villages?
The fishing village of Carro is a must-visit. It's known for its daily fish market where you can see the fresh catch and learn about historical tuna fishing methods. The village also hosts the Petit Musée de Carro, offering insights into local heritage and maritime traditions. Strolling through Carro provides a glimpse into an authentic, old-world fishing atmosphere.
Are there dog-friendly walking routes or attractions in Martigues?
Many of the natural areas and coastal paths around Martigues are suitable for walks with dogs, provided they are kept on a leash. Parc de Figuerolles offers extensive scrub and pine forest landscapes for walks. Always check local regulations for specific beaches or protected areas, as rules for dogs can vary seasonally.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints around Martigues?
For panoramic views, visit the Chapelle Notre Dame des Marins, which offers vistas of the Berre Lagoon, Martigues' canals, and the Estaque Mountain Range. The Cap Couronne Lighthouse also provides an exceptional site for enjoying the rugged beauty of the Côte Bleue.
Most popular attractions around Martigues
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