Updated : 2 February 2026 at 10:02
Did you know that Marseille hides a picturesque fishing village within its city limits ? It may sound unbelievable, but it’s true, and it’s located in the southern districts of Marseille, right at the entrance to the Calanques National Park.
Les Goudes is a well-known treasure among locals and has now become a major tourist attraction thanks to its exceptional setting. If you’re planning to visit Marseille for three days or more, it would be a shame to miss this hidden gem !
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VISIT LES GOUDES, A CHARMING FISHING VILLAGE
Discovering Les Goudes
This still-active fishing village offers a completely different atmosphere from Marseille’s city centre. Nestled in nature at the entrance of the Calanques National Park, it is made up of flower-lined alleys and colourful little houses. As you wander around, you’ll feel as if you’re in a small, isolated village rather than in France’s second-largest city !
Today, this spot is no longer a secret and attracts a large number of visitors. To fully enjoy its unique atmosphere, we recommend to explore Les Goudes during the off-season (May–June or September–October).
We’ll later suggest a ready-made itinerary to explore the area properly, but here are our must-see highlights to begin with :
What to see in Les Goudes ?
- Pite-Pite street : a small winding street surrounded by traditional cabins and greenery. It climbs up to the heights of Les Goudes, offering breathtaking views over the harbour and the Calanques National Park (with the majestic “Pas de la Demi-Lune” far away).
- The fishing harbour : walk all the way to the end of the Quai Henri Gaudin jetty (passing the fishing nets) to enjoy a beautiful panorama of small boats and fishermen’s cabins.
- The Petanque avenue and Louvre street : two unmissable streets known for their charming, colourful, flower-filled cabins.
- Les Goudes beach : located right at the entrance of the village (below the bar 20,000 Lieues sous la Bière). This small sandy beach is perfect for watching the sunset.
– OUR TIP –
Don’t be afraid to wander into the small alleyways. Some may look like dead ends or private areas (due to terrace layouts), but they are generally open to visitors.
THE BEST VIEWPOINT OVER LES GOUDES
There are several ways to admire Les Goudes from above, notably from the Pite-Pite path or the old fortifications.
However, the most beautiful viewpoint lies higher up in the Calanques National Park itself. As a bonus, you’ll enjoy a lovely nature hike while taking in an exceptional panorama over the Bay of Marseille.
The trail leading to this viewpoint is called “Le Sentier du Président”. It starts in La Madrague-de-Montredon, just before reaching Les Goudes. The trail is well-marked, you won’t get lost !
– PRACTICAL INFO “Sentier du Président” WALKING –
- Duration : 40 minutes to reach the incredible viewpoint overlooking Les Goudes and La Baie des Singes
- Elevation gain : 200m, the climb is steeper at the beginning !
- Starting GPS point : N43.229342 E5.353593
- Return : via the same path, or descend toward Les Goudes if you wish to visit the village (around 30 minutes on foot)
- Tip : this hike is perfect at sunrise or sunset
LA BAIE DES SINGES, AN ORIGINAL PENINSULA
Visit les Goudes, yes, but la Baie des Singes too !
Cap Croisette, more commonly known as La Baie des Singes, is another unique feature of Marseille. Extending beyond the village of Les Goudes, this small peninsula is nicknamed “the end of the world” by locals.
Facing Maire Island, this rocky outcrop offers a wild, almost lunar landscape that feels a thousand miles away from the hustle and bustle of central Marseille.
Before reaching Cap Croisette, you’ll pass a small calanque called Anse de la Maronaise. Then you’ll come face to face with Maire Island, an impressive protected island that is strictly off-limits except to researchers and scientists. Its proximity to Cap Croisette creates a bay with incredible shades of blue.
Even though it may be tempting, swimming here is not recommended due to strong currents and frequent boat traffic.
Head towards the peninsula and follow the path along the ridge. Whether you’re looking toward the city or Maire Island, the views are absolutely breathtaking.
At the very end of the path, you’ll find a restaurant called La Baie des Singes, which gave its nickname to Cap Croisette. As it’s private property, we recommend going around the back to reach the end of the peninsula. Once you reach the small harbour, you’ll discover a lovely sandy beach with calm, crystal-clear waters.
– anecdote ABOUT ANSE DE LA MARONAISE –
From 1957 to 2010, Anse de la Maronaise was home to a restaurant, and from 1997, a nightclub built on its roof, quite incredible given how wild the location is. Nicknamed “La Maro” by locals, this “end-of-the-world” nightclub was an institution for Marseille’s youth.
It was created by the owner’s son, inspired by Laurent Garnier, Carl Cox and DJ Ricardo. It’s even said that Daft Punk were part of the adventure.
On some nights, up to 600 cars would make their way to Les Goudes… Due to multiple issues caused by partygoers (noise pollution) and safety concerns (difficult access, fragile site), the nightclub permanently closed in 2009. It was demolished in 2010, two years before the creation of the Calanques National Park, restoring peace and quiet to La Baie des Singes.
HOW TO GET TO LES GOUDES AND LA BAIE DES SINGES
Several ways to get to Les Goudes :
🚙 By car : from Marseille city centre, it takes around 30 minutes (remember to book your car in advance). This option is convenient for driving along the coast and stopping to enjoy stunning Mediterranean views. However, access to the heart of Les Goudes is difficult, and parking is even harder. It’s best to park on the outskirts and continue by foot.
Parking spots : roadside parking on Boulevard Alexandre Delabre / the large free Napoleon car park above Les Goudes (continue along Boulevard Alexandre Delabre, on the right after the bend) / at the entrance to Les Goudes village (next to the bar 20,000 Lieues sous la Bière).
🛵 By scooter : solo or with a passenger, this is THE most practical way to get around Marseille. You can even take an electric scooter discovery tour with a smartphone guide.
🚍 By bus : from the Vieux-Port, take line 19 (30–45 minutes depending on traffic), then line 20 to Les Goudes.
🛥️ By boat : in season (late April to late September), a sea shuttle connects Marseille’s Vieux-Port to Les Goudes village, with a transfer at “Pointe Rouge” (fare €8, free with an RTM pass of more than 7 days). An exceptional activity idea : admire Les Goudes from the water by opting for a sailing excursion in the Calanques National Park !
🚲 🛴 By bike or e-scooter : available throughout the city (paid). However, Marseille’s bike lane network is limited, which can make riding challenging.
👟 Access to La Baie des Singes only on foot from Les Goudes village, as cars are not allowed (unless you have a reservation at La Baie des Singes restaurant).
OUR COMPLETE ITINERARY TO VISIT LES GOUDES
If you want to see the best of Les Goudes and Monkey Bay without overthinking it, we’ve put together a complete, easy-to-follow itinerary :
THINGS TO DO AROUND LES GOUDES
Located at the entrance to the Calanques National Park, Les Goudes is close to several Marseille gems :
WHERE TO STAY WHEN VISITING LES GOUDES ?
Staying in such a location is a truly unique experience. Several owners rent apartments or small houses right in the heart of Les Goudes, allowing you to fully enjoy the village atmosphere and relaxed lifestyle. Its proximity to the Calanques National Park also makes it an ideal base for a holiday combining nature and relaxation.
Two accommodations we recommend : L’atelier des Goudes, a small cabin with a terrace offering stunning views over the sea and the village. Another charmant cabanon fully equipped seaside cabin, very well located..
If you prefer the buzz of the city, you’ll easily find the perfect hotel in central Marseille.
WHERE TO EAT IN LES GOUDES ?
– OUR OPINION –
Like Vallon des Auffes, the village of Les Goudes is one of Marseille’s little extras. It’s a completely refreshing experience to find yourself in a village atmosphere just a few kilometres from the city’s hustle and bustle. We highly recommend placing it at the very top of your itinerary if you’re visiting Marseille for several days !
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