Marseille is the second largest city in France, and its sunniest. Located on the country’s south coast, Marseille is a major commercial, port, and freight center. Our guide to running in Marseille features great routes along the Mediterranean, highlights of the old city, and the nearby geography featuring the Calanques, a rugged coastal area interspersed with small fjord-like inlets. Most of the attractions of Marseille are located in the 1st, 2nd, 6th and 7th arrondissements.
The signature running route in Marseille is the Kennedy Corniche, a gorgeous coastal run to the Plage du Prado. That can connect to Parc Borély, a major national garden with some lovely trails. We feature a couple of ‘runseeing’ tours, highlighting some of the old city’s notable sites. For a great challenge, take the famous road to Cassis, 20 km one-way, and take the quick train back. For a ‘destination’ trail run, head to the Parc national des Calanques.
Marseille’s weather is among the city’s star attractions. You’ll need a layer or two in winter, and be aware if the sun and heat in summer. Marseille is an easy city to get around, with 2 subway lines, high speed buses, free ferry in old port.
Marseille has a Mediterranean climate with mild, humid winters and warm to hot, mostly dry summers. During winter average high temperatures are 12 °C (54 °F) during the day and 4 °C (39 °F) at night. July and August are the hottest months, averaging temperatures of around 28–30 °C (82–86 °F) during the day and 19 °C (66 °F) at night. Temperatures are slightly cooler near the sea.