Shopping & districts
Le Pharo
Le Pharo
Le Pharo is a district located on a hill overlooking the Old Port of Marseille. It is primarily visited for the Palais du Pharo, a palace commissioned by Napoleon III, and the surrounding public gardens. Visitors go here to walk through the grounds and view the Mediterranean Sea and the city skyline from an elevated vantage point.
Getting There
The area is located a short distance from the city centre. Depending on the starting point, it is accessible via local bus lines or a walk of approximately 20 to 30 minutes from the Vieux-Port area.
Duration of Visit
Allow roughly 1 to 2 hours to walk through the gardens and view the exterior of the palace and the coastline.
When to Visit
Late afternoon is a common time for visitors to arrive to see the city light up. The area is most pleasant during the spring and autumn when temperatures are moderate. Because of the open views and public spaces, it can get crowded during weekends and summer holidays.
Nearby Attractions
The district is positioned close to several other sites, making it possible to combine visits:
- Palais du Pharo: 0.3km
- Marseille Transporter Bridge: 0.5km
- Abbey of St. Victor: 0.5km
- Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations: 0.6km
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors