[2025 Marseille Attraction] Travel Guide for Palais Longchamp (Updated Jun)

Palais Longchamp Longshang Palace is not so much a palace as it is essentially a reservoir with waterfalls and gardens. There are two museums in the circular colonnade of the palace: the Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Natural History. In 1839, in order to solve the drought problem, the grand project of diverting water from the Durance River into Marseille took 10 years to be completed. This project was extremely large, with 85 kilometers of canals and 18 aqueducts built. In order to commemorate this hard-won water source, the rulers of Marseille decided to build a palace above the reservoir and named it Longchamp Palace. # Sign up as a hotel trial sleeper in June

The ‘Palais Longchamp’ is a must-see in Marseille: with a beautiful surrounding park, this historical monument was built to bring water to the city and is a true architectural achievement. In 1835, a cholera epidemic hit the Phocaean city because of a water shortage. After this tragedy, the architect Franz Mayor de Montricher – educated at the very prestigious Ponts et Chaussées – was chosen to implement a project dating back to the 16th century: the excavation of an 85km canal to bring water from the Durance river all the way to Marseille. #familytrip #mytravelhacks #freehotelstay #historicallandmarks #localguides #familytrip #paris #falltrip #couplestrip #2023 #holidayvacation #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2024travelwish #passionpassport After 10 years of hard work, 18 aqueduct bridges were built to bring drinkable water to Marseille. The architect Henry Espérandieu – the famous builder of the Notre-Dame Basilica – staged the arrival of water on the Longchamp plateau, a striking architectural monument from 1682 to 1869.

#summervacay Some places don’t shout for your attention—they simply stand, regal and patient, waiting for you to notice. That was Palais Longchamp for me. Tucked into Marseille like a crown atop a hill, it isn’t just a monument. It’s a love letter to water—celebrating the Canal de Marseille that once brought life-giving flow to a thirsty city. But what struck me wasn’t just the architecture, the fountains, or the cascading steps. It was the stillness. Last summer, in the golden light of a southern French afternoon, I wandered up its wide avenue. The air was dry, the sun generous, and behind me, Marseille murmured its usual busyness. But as I stepped into the space surrounding Longchamp, time stretched. Columns and statues rose like silent sentinels. Water spilled gently from the fountain’s bowl into the basin below—a sound that steadied the breath. Around me, families picnicked, children ran up and down the steps, and artists sat sketching the stone lions that guard the entrance like wise old friends. I took my time, as I always try to now. The park behind the palace, almost overlooked by those snapping photos in the front, became my favorite part. Quiet trails, cool shade, and the faint sound of city life slipping away with each step. And there, on a bench under a tree whose name I didn’t know, I paused. Not for anything grand. Just to sit. To feel the weight of the year lift, even briefly. Sometimes that’s enough. ⸻ 📍 Where I went: Palais Longchamp, Marseille, France 📷 What stood out: The symmetry, the pride in its curves and carvings, the fountain like a heartbeat in marble 🌤️ What I felt: Centered. Briefly timeless. ⸻ If ever you’re in Marseille, go beyond the port, beyond the bouillabaisse and markets. Walk uphill to where the water once came, and you might find a little peace waiting—quiet, and proud. #SonnySideUP #PalaisLongchamp #MarseilleMoments #SummerReflections #TravelLightFeelDeep

It is a monument built in the mid-1800s to commemorate the completion of the Marseille Canal. You can see the appearance of Marseille with the tram extending from the stairs. Behind the magnificent palace is a simple park, where you can see the daily lives of the citizens of Marseille. You can also see that the Longchamp Palace is used as a place of rest in this city from the free art galleries and natural history museums on both sides. 🌳 Address : Bd Jard. Zoologique, 13004 Marseille, France - 3 minutes walk from the 'Longchamp' tram stop 🌻 Admission : Free ⚘ Tip : It's great to visit on the day you return to Marseille Airport. It's not far from the train station, so you can take a quick look around, but it's a large and beautiful tourist attraction. #EuropeTravel #France #Marseille #LongchampPalace #SouthFrance #FranceTravel #SouthFranceTravel

A perfect day in Marseille! Palais Longchamp Built in 1862 during the reign of Napoleon III, the water tower's overall style combines Baroque, Roman and Oriental architecture. Super photogenic, very suitable for La Brûlerie MÖKA A very sympathetic cafe. We sat at the door, each with a cake and a coffee, and chatted for the whole afternoon without realizing it. Chez Aldo A highly recommended restaurant! The owner was very nice and enthusiastic, and took the initiative to greet us, but he didn't speak English, which was really a test of my French listening skills. But it does not affect our enjoyment of the restaurant's sea view and sunset Very cost-effective! Three dishes and fourteen drinks, four people per person 15-20€ and all the customers are locals, which shows that the restaurant is really authentic

#summerdestinations If you are craving to live the summers in Europe to its fullest glory, you must not miss Marseille it gets 300 days of sun. And has a lovely weather where you can sit by the beach or enjoy the charming old city charm, crepes and more great food. It is also very convenient to get there from London.And if you are in the south of france this is a must visit!

Palais Longchamp is probably the most recognisable of structures in Marseille. Such gorgeous statues. And stairs lead to the museum. Palais Longchamp may be an attraction in itself. However, It actually houses the Musée des Beaux-Arts and the Museum d'Histoire Naturelle. Both of which flank a fountain called the Château d'Eau. A stunning sight with a fountain and a garden. And while you are here do check out the natural history museum. Not only is it free but quite interesting too! #myhiddengems #france #summerdestinations #marseille #100waysoftravel #palaislongchamp #europe

#myhiddengems Did you know, it is absolutely FREE for you to visit? Palais Longchamp in Marseille is a hidden gem that feels like a fairytale come to life. Built in the 19th century, it's more than just a palace—it's a peaceful oasis with beautiful gardens, flowing fountains, and incredible views. Inside, you’ll find fascinating art and natural history exhibits. Whether you're wandering through the greenery, marveling at the architecture, or soaking up the culture, Palais Longchamp is a perfect spot to relax and explore. It's one of those places that leaves you inspired.

#OverseasFlightEvent Palais Longchamp It's bigger and more beautiful than you think. I recommend taking some time to visit. There's a park behind it, so you can take a break. It was such a beautiful place. It used to be a place that supplied water to the entire Marseille. It's beautiful. It looks even better if you go up and look inside.

#familytrips2024 Palais Longchamp is not just a destination; it's an experience. When my family visited Marseille, we made sure to include it on our itinerary. As we approached the grand structure, we were immediately struck by its majestic presence. The intricate architecture and elaborate fountains drew us in, promising a day of discovery and wonder. We started our exploration by strolling through the expansive gardens surrounding the palace. Lush greenery and vibrant flowers created a picturesque backdrop as we wandered along the winding paths. The children couldn't contain their excitement as they ran ahead, eager to discover what lay beyond each bend. As we reached the central courtyard, we were greeted by the breathtaking sight of the cascading waterfalls and the towering statues adorning the fountain. The sound of rushing water filled the air, adding to the enchanting ambiance of the place. We took our time to admire the intricate details of the sculptures, each telling a story of Marseille's rich history and culture. From mythological figures to allegorical representations, every piece seemed to have a tale to tell. After exploring the exterior, we ventured inside the palace to delve deeper into its history. The grandeur of the interior matched that of the exterior, with ornate ceilings, elegant staircases, and majestic halls. We marveled at the opulence of the architecture, imagining the grand events that must have taken place within these walls. Throughout our visit, we took breaks to relax and soak in the beauty of our surroundings. We found a quiet spot to enjoy a picnic lunch, savoring local delicacies while surrounded by the splendor of Palais Longchamp.

#winhkflight In the heart of Marseille, where the vibrant colors of Provence dance in the sunlight, lies a sanctuary of nature and beauty – the Zoological Gardens of Parc Longchamp. As I stepped through its ornate gates, I was transported into a world of wonder and enchantment, where the majesty of the animal kingdom awaited. The Zoological Gardens of Parc Longchamp are a testament to Marseille's commitment to conservation and education. Spread across lush greenery and manicured gardens, the zoo is home to a diverse array of species from around the globe, each one a symbol of the rich biodiversity of our planet. As I wandered through the winding paths of the zoo, I encountered creatures great and small, from graceful giraffes grazing on leafy branches to playful monkeys swinging from tree to tree. Every enclosure was thoughtfully designed to mimic the animals' natural habitats, allowing them to thrive in an environment that closely resembles their native homes. One of the highlights of my visit was the opportunity to witness the majestic big cats up close. I stood in awe as a pair of lions lounged in the shade, their golden coats shimmering in the sunlight. Nearby, a family of tigers prowled gracefully through the tall grass, their eyes gleaming with intelligence and curiosity. But it was not just the animals that captivated me; it was the sense of serenity and tranquility that permeated the air. As I sat on a bench overlooking a tranquil pond, I listened to the gentle rustle of leaves and the distant calls of birds, feeling a profound connection to the natural world around me. As the day drew to a close and the sun dipped below the horizon, I reluctantly bid farewell to the Zoological Gardens of Parc Longchamp, knowing that I had experienced something truly magical. But as I walked away, I carried with me memories of a journey through the wilds of Marseille – a journey that had touched my soul and left an indelible mark on my heart.

During my visit to the Palais Longchamp in Marseille's 4th arrondissement, I marveled at its historical significance and architectural grandeur. Surrounded by a picturesque park, the Palais Longchamp stands as a testament to Marseille's rich history. Built to supply water to the city, its intricate design showcases remarkable craftsmanship and engineering prowess. As I wandered through the corridors and admired the ornate fountains, I couldn't help but appreciate the ingenuity behind its construction. The Palais Longchamp isn't just a monument; it's a living testament to Marseille's past and a symbol of its enduring legacy. A must-see for anyone visiting this vibrant city. #park #craftsmanship #fountain

The gateway to the south of France, Marseille, is the second largest city in France after Paris and the oldest city in France. The main attraction here is the old town of Marseille, known as the heart of Marseille, from the ancient park, the city hall to the Catholic Cathedral. The La Canebière Avenue to the east of the old port is the street that Marseille is most proud of, comparable to the Champs Elysées in Paris. Continuing east along the street, passing the Avenue of Liberty, you will reach the famous Longchamp Palace, with an art gallery on one side and a natural history museum on the other, and a garden behind the palace. On a hill protruding from the southern part of the old port city, is the highest point of the city, where the Notre-Dame de la Garde is built. This is an excellent place to overlook Marseille and the sea view.

#2024wish Hey there! 🌎 I came back from the best holiday in Marseille. A must-see was Palais Longchamp – the highlight of our trip! The admission price was fair, about €8 euro to the beautiful architecture and green gardens. 🎟️🌳 The palace is a historical treasure, nestled in beautiful fountains and sculptures – an idyllic retreat from the urban madness. 🏰✨ Do not also forget to walk in the gardens - they are some kind of a secret, botanic refuge inside an urban jungle. 🌺🍃 The most interesting aspect, however, was the ambiance; so calm and tranquil. Perfect for a relaxing day immersed in culture and aesthetics. 🤩 In addition, there are some cool places around such as the Museum of Fine Arts for art enthusiasts. 🎨 #PalaisLongchamp #MarseilleMagic #VacayVibes

Marseille, the second largest city in France, is also the oldest city in France, a ancient city with a history of 2,500 years. Marseille is not only the largest port in France, but also the largest port in all Mediterranean coastal areas. During the French Revolution in 1792, the people of Marseille sang the 'Rhein River War Song' marching into Paris, which later became the French national anthem, known as 'La Marseillaise'. The main building of the Notre-Dame de la Garde Cathedral has a golden gilded Madonna statue that is 9.7 meters high. It is said that this shining Madonna statue can be seen from almost any angle in Marseille, and the cathedral has therefore become a symbol of Marseille (Figures 1, 8, 9, 10). The cathedral is built on a hill 150 meters high, from where you can overlook the entire city of Marseille and the Mediterranean scenery, which is very spectacular (Figures 6, 7). The old port of Marseille is the true center of Marseille, where you can experience the pure southern French style (Figures 4, 13, 14, 15). The palace of Napoleon III - Longchamp Palace, built in 1862, is a garden building that combines Baroque, Roman and Oriental architectural styles (Figures 2, 11, 12). The Marseille Cathedral is magnificent (Figure 5), and the Marseille train station is like a museum (Figure 18). The last 2 pictures are due to the French bus driver taking the wrong way, allowing us to see another side of Marseille.

At the beginning of the 19th century, Marseille suffered from severe water shortages and frequent droughts. In order to completely solve this problem, the municipal government of Marseille built a water diversion project in 1839 to bring water from the Durance River into Marseille. To commemorate this project, a palace named Château d'If was built above the reservoir and named Palais Longchamp. Longchamp means "narrow field". The basic layout of the Longchamp Palace is a group of sculptures and fountains in the middle, with a corridor extending on each side. At the end of each corridor, there is a museum, namely the Museum of Fine Arts and the Marseille History Museum. The river god stands in the center of the group of sculptures, with two goddesses holding grapes and wheat respectively, symbolizing wine-making and agriculture. Several loyal bulls on the periphery symbolize the animal husbandry and bullfighting traditions of the Camargue region. The galloping and spirited herd of cattle highlights the grandeur of the gods riding dragons and phoenixes and fighting in the chaos of the world during the ancient times. The huge and protruding pedestal under the feet of the goddess resembles the mouth of a giant beast, with several stalactite-like pillars, creating a "jagged teeth" effect.