Martigues(France) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Martigues, the standout boutique hotel is Hôtel Le Clos des Oliviers, nestled in a tranquil olive grove overlooking the Mediterranean. This charming property offers private pools, panoramic sea views, and authentic Provençal architecture. Guests can immerse themselves in local culture through hands-on workshops like olive oil pressing and traditional Provence herb gardening.

Another excellent choice is Hotel La Bastide du Soleil, renowned for its sun-drenched terraces, rustic-chic interiors, and proximity to the historic Old Town of Martigues. The hotel organizes guided excursions into the Var region, including visits to weekly farmers’ markets and ancient Roman ruins. Both properties provide an ideal blend of comfort and regional authenticity, perfect for travelers seeking immersive cultural experiences.

The Old Town (Ville Ancienne) is Martigues’ premier district for visitors seeking authentic charm and walkability. Nestled along the Marseille-Provence Canal, this area features 17th-century red-brick houses, flower-filled balconies, and narrow cobbled streets reminiscent of Venice. Guests can stroll from the Church of Notre-Dame to the Town Hall Square, stopping at family-run cafés and artisan shops.

The Rive Gauche district is also highly recommended for tranquility and access to nature trails. Staying near the Martigues Museum or Cultural Center allows easy participation in local events like the annual Maritime Festival. With just a 30-minute drive to Marseille, this area strikes the perfect balance between seclusion and connectivity.

Martigues hosts the annual Fête de la Mer, a vibrant celebration featuring traditional rowboat parades, seaside concerts, and local seafood markets. Visitors can enjoy freshly caught fish at the harbor stalls while watching historic wooden fishing boats (Barques à Rames) glide through the canal.

For deeper cultural immersion, join a Provencal herbs and lavender tour led by local farmers, exploring fields where rosemary, thyme, and lavender thrive. History enthusiasts should visit the Martigues Historical Museum, which traces the city’s evolution from a fishing hub to a cultural center.

Many hotels also offer Mediterranean cooking classes, teaching guests how to prepare classic dishes like bouillabaisse and herbed sauces. These experiences highlight Martigues’ rich heritage and foster meaningful connections with the community.

Hotel Les Jardins de la Vigne stands out for its photogenic façade covered in climbing vines and grapevines, complemented by warm stone walls and flower-filled balconies—perfect for capturing Provençal charm. Its rooftop terrace offers sweeping views of the Marseille-Provence Canal, ideal for sunset and night photography.

Hôtel Le Petit Maroc blends Moroccan and Mediterranean aesthetics with blue-and-white arches, mosaic tiles, and an open-air courtyard. Its mirror-lined corridors and artistic lighting create stunning visual effects.

Also popular is La Maison des Ombres, whose glass-walled rooms transform into shimmering reflections during daylight and starlit nights—ideal for dreamy, ethereal shots. These hotels combine aesthetic design with unforgettable backdrops for social media content.

Yes, Martigues boasts several family-friendly hotels offering child-centric amenities. Hôtel Le Clos des Oliviers and Hotel La Bastide du Soleil both feature kids’ pools, playrooms, and themed programs like "Little Provençal Farmer Days," where children plant lavender, milk goats, and make jams.

The canal-side walking paths and natural ecological park include safe playgrounds and bike rentals for families. Many restaurants provide high chairs and children’s menus. With its small size, low crime rate, and relaxed pace, Martigues is ideal for stress-free family travel. Some hotels even offer family suites with separate bedrooms and living areas, ensuring comfort and privacy for all.

These features make it a top destination for parents seeking both fun and peace of mind.

Near hotels in Martigues, key attractions include the Marseille-Provence Canal, where visitors can rent bicycles and ride along scenic paths lined with red-brick bridges and fishing villages. The Church of Notre-Dame, dating back to the 16th century, features striking Gothic spires and stained-glass windows—ideal for photography.

The Martigues Museum in the Old Town chronicles the city’s transition from a fishing port to an industrial and cultural hub, hosting rotating contemporary art exhibitions. Just 15 minutes away, Provence Lavender Fields (Les Champs de Lavande) burst into purple bloom in summer, drawing photographers and nature lovers.

For relaxation, the Plage du Port offers sandy shores, Mediterranean sunshine, and thermal baths. All these sites are within walking distance or a short drive from central hotels, making them perfect for a day-trip itinerary.