Top spots to enjoy un apéro in Marseille
In Marseille, as across the rest of France, the apéritif is a much-loved tradition, sacred almost in its role in French daily life. Visitors to France’s second city will be spoilt for choice when it comes to places to enjoy a pre-dinner tipple and nibbles, so the local tourist board has very helpfully put together their recommended list of apéro hotspots with a view.
Read Marseille: French city break for foodies
On the rocks
Bar-restaurant Tuba Club is set right on the rocks at Les Goudes, a fishing village on the edge of the city, where you can enjoy the Mediterranean lapping at your feet while you soak up this slice of paradise, cocktail in hand.
Down in the harbour
Nestled at the bottom of the steps in the harbour of Le Vallon des Auffes, enjoy your apéro surrounded by boats bobbing on the sea and picturesque fishermen’s huts… Viaghji di Fonfon puts the apéro at the centre of all it does, so indulge yourself in the colourful array of small plates as you sip a chilled glass of rosé or a Corsican beer.
At the Old Port
The rugby world cup comes to Marseille in 2023 so expect an electric atmosphere on the Quai de Rive Neuve side of the Old Port where you’ll find pubs such as the Queen Victoria, O’Malleys, and the Shamrock. It’s a chance to give your apéro an unusually Anglo-Saxon or Gaelic flavour as you enjoy a beer while cheering at the big screens showing all the sporting action.
Beside the seaside
A not-to-be-missed afterwork spot popular with locals and tourists alike, the Café de l’Abbaye combines a friendly, good-natured atmosphere with dramatic views of the Old Port. It is considered one of the city’s finest gems.
On a rooftop
Head to the top floor of the Artplexe cinema where you can enjoy a drink and nibble at Les Réformés, the rooftop bar which shares its name with the stunning church opposite and the neighborhood in which it is located. The panoramic restaurant has views like no other and offers a range of mouthwatering dishes and drinks to enjoy as the sun goes down.
On board
For true glamour, climb aboard the Noctilio, which is anchored at the foot of Fort Saint-Jean. This 90-year-old sailboat is the largest in the Port of Marseille and is the perfect spot to enjoy a drink or two and a tempting feast of cheeses, cold cuts and fresh seafood.
In the water
Le Cabanon de Paulette is a fantastic beach bar to while away the last hours of the day as you dabble your toes in the water. Popular with the summer crowds, its gorgeous appetisers are simply stunning.
On a hill
The colourful Café la Muse in the lively Cours Julien district offers a gorgeous array of cocktails, alongside local wines and non-alcoholic drinks, all in the heart of a vibrant, lively square. Perfect for watching the world go by.
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