Gay Marseille Marseille City Guide

Curation by Jamie McGhee, words by Ian Packham

Despite being France’s oldest city, predating the foundation of Paris by several centuries, Marseille remains one of the country’s most underrated destinations. But as a port city with a sublime location on the Mediterranean Provencal coast, an abundance of natural wonders, a plethora of new museums, and a history that stretches back to ancient Greece, Marseille is slowly gaining the recognition it deserves. More than two millennia as the de facto gateway to France have resulted in an open-minded melting pot accepting of all manner of cultures and counter-cultures. Known historically as having a rather macho image, you won’t find much visible same-sex affection on the street. However, hosting EuroPride in 2013 helped lead the way in broadening minds, and although still discrete, there is a plethora of gay and gay-friendly bars with more opening every year. So while you won’t find a dedicated gay quarter, that’s largely because Marseille’s down to earth, sometimes gritty, sometimes glamorous streets have become home to all. Looking for the ultimate Marseille gay guide? Mr Hudson has got you covered.

The best hotels in Marseille

Let’s start this gay Marseille travel guide with a roundup of the best hotels in Marseille. Having been a family home for almost a century, the Hotel C2 features a contemporary interior spotlighting the best of this nineteenth-century mansion’s original features. Right in the heart of the city—just a stroll from the elegant Old Port—the airy guest rooms feature designer decor, while the lounge, spa, indoor pool, and bar provide plenty of opportunities to admire not only the chic furnishings but also the monthly in-house art exhibitions and performances. The exquisite performances at Le Petit Nice – Passedat are instead centred around this hotel’s kitchens, which boast three Michelin stars. Located on the Corniche, Le Petit Nice is a great choice for those seeking a fine panoramic seascape and a relaxed environment within easy reach of the city centre.

Slightly further along the Corniche, but still just ten minutes’ walk from the centre, nhow Marseille offers a touch of effortless French style. Its 150 rooms exude a bright maritime theme, with each offering Mediterranean views from large picture windows and private terraces. However, if you’d prefer a more personal experience, the three-star Alex Hotel and Spa debuted as Marseille’s sole boutique hotel. Its contrast of traditional architecture with sleek lines and contemporary furnishings aims to create a stylish, textured home away from home, all just five minutes’ walk from the TGV and Eurostar terminal of Marseille Saint-Charles station. A little closer to the heart of the action, the Hotel Maison Montgrand – Vieux Port is just a few paces from the throb of the Old Port, where row after row of yachts gleam in the sunlight. Centred around a nineteenth-century Provencal mansion, the space includes a 400m² courtyard garden, concept store, and tea room, while historic annexes to either side house the 37 simply but elegantly decorated rooms.