How long does it take to walk through Cours Julien?

A typical stroll through the main streets of Cours Julien takes about 60 to 90 minutes. This distance is roughly 1.5 kilometers (1 mile), but you may want extra time for photos and coffee breaks.

Is Cours Julien safe for tourists?

Yes, Cours Julien is a popular, lively neighborhood frequented by locals and tourists alike. Like any urban area, stay aware of your surroundings at night and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded plazas.

When is the best time to see the street art in Marseille?

Late morning or early afternoon provides the best light for photography. Interestingly, Sunday mornings are excellent because many shops are closed, allowing you to see the artwork painted on their metal shutters.

Are there stairs on this walking route?

Yes, the iconic entrance to the neighborhood at the Escaliers du Cours Julien involves several flights of stairs. However, the rest of the plateau is relatively flat and easy to navigate.

Can I see the street art for free?

Absolutely. The street art in Cours Julien is an open-air gallery that is free for everyone to enjoy. There are no entrance fees or tickets required to explore these streets.

Is the street art in Marseille permanent?

No, the street art in Cours Julien is highly ephemeral. Murals are frequently updated or painted over by new artists, meaning every visit offers a slightly different experience.

What else is near Cours Julien?

Cours Julien is just a 10-15 minute walk from the Vieux Port (Old Port) and the Noailles market district, making it easy to combine with other central Marseille landmarks.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Marseille is a city of layers, and nowhere is its rebellious, creative spirit more visible than in the Cours Julien neighborhood. This self-guided walk invites you to explore France's largest district dedicated to street art, a hilltop plateau that has evolved from a gritty wholesale market hub into a vibrant sanctuary for artists, musicians, and the 'bobo' (bourgeois-bohemian) culture. As you navigate the winding alleys and sun-drenched plazas, you will discover that the walls here are never static; they are a living, breathing diary of the city’s social and political heartbeat. This neighborhood stroll takes you through the most iconic corridors of creativity, starting with the famous rainbow-colored stairs that bridge the gap between the bustling port area and this artistic enclave. You will encounter massive murals, intricate stencils, and spontaneous graffiti that cover almost every available surface, from shop shutters to residential facades. Beyond the visual feast, the route highlights the area's musical heritage at Espace Julien and its community roots at La Plaine, the city's most famous market square. Unlike a traditional walking tour Marseille experience that follows a rigid schedule, this audio walk allows you to linger at a particular mural or stop for a pastis at a local café whenever the mood strikes. You will learn about the transformation of the 'Cours Ju' from its 19th-century market origins to its current status as a global street art destination. Whether you are a photography enthusiast looking for the perfect shot or a traveler seeking the authentic, alternative soul of Marseille, this walking route offers an immersive look at the Mediterranean's most colorful district. Explore the intersection of heritage and modern urban expression at your own pace, discovering why this area remains the creative pulse of the city. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Highlights

The iconic rainbow-colored Escaliers du Cours Julien

Massive, ever-changing murals by international and local artists

Espace Julien, the legendary heart of Marseille's music scene

The bohemian atmosphere of Rue Pastoret and Rue des Trois Rois

La Plaine (Place Jean Jaurès), the site of the city's historic markets

Charming cafe culture at Place Notre Dame du Mont

Tour Stops (6)

Escaliers du Cours Julien

Begin your self-guided adventure at the base of these famous stairs. These steps are more than just a transit point; they are a vibrant threshold between the city center and the creative plateau above. Often painted in bright, cascading colors, the stairs serve as a canvas for local artists and a popular spot for photography. As you ascend, notice how the atmosphere shifts from the commercial bustle of Noailles to the bohemian vibe of the heights. This gateway has appeared in countless films and music videos, symbolizing the upward climb into Marseille's artistic soul. Take a moment to look back for a view of the city rooftops before reaching the top.

Espace Julien

You are standing before Espace Julien, a cornerstone of Marseille's cultural identity since 1984. This isn't just a concert hall; it's a multidisciplinary space that hosts everything from jazz and hip-hop to digital arts and community workshops. The building itself often features large-scale commissioned murals on its exterior, reflecting the sounds and movements found within. For decades, this venue has been the launchpad for local talent and a stop for international icons. The surrounding plaza is a central meeting point for the neighborhood's youth and creative professionals, embodying the energetic, inclusive spirit that defines the Cours Julien district.

Rue Pastoret

Turn into Rue Pastoret, one of the most densely decorated streets in the neighborhood. Here, the art is ephemeral; a masterpiece you see today might be replaced by a new vision next month. Look closely at the shop shutters—many are painted by artists who have worked in collaboration with local business owners. This street showcases the diversity of urban art, from intricate stencils and wheatpastes to large-scale freehand murals. Because the street art scene here is so active, the walls serve as a dynamic gallery. Please respect the residential nature of the street as you enjoy the visual storytelling that covers every nook and cranny.

Rue des Trois Rois

Rue des Trois Rois is often cited as the heart of the street art safari. This narrow lane is famous for its high concentration of murals, including frequent appearances by the neighborhood's unofficial mascot: cats. Many artists have left their mark here, including world-renowned stencil artist C215. As you stroll, notice the architectural contrast of the 19th-century buildings against the modern, sometimes provocative art. This street perfectly captures the 'village' feel of the neighborhood, where independent boutiques and bookstores sit nestled between layers of spray paint. It is a place where the boundary between public space and private expression completely dissolves.

Place Jean Jaurès

Known locally as 'La Plaine', this expansive square is the historic site of Marseille's most famous outdoor market. Recently renovated, it remains a site of fierce local pride and community activism. For generations, La Plaine has been the soul of the city’s working-class and alternative movements. While the market layout has changed, the spirit of social gathering remains. The walls surrounding the square often feature political art and messages of resistance, reflecting the neighborhood's history of standing up for its identity. It is a vast, open space that provides a breath of air after the narrow, art-choked streets you've just explored.

Place Notre Dame du Mont

Your neighborhood stroll concludes at Place Notre Dame du Mont. This leafy plaza, centered around a charming fountain, is the quintessential Marseille hangout. Surrounded by terraces, bars, and bistros, it is the perfect place to sit back and observe local life. The church overlooking the square, Notre-Dame-du-Mont, dates back to the 16th century, though it was largely rebuilt in the 19th. It offers a quiet architectural counterpoint to the wild art of the previous streets. After finishing your walk, consider staying for a drink or exploring the nearby Rue de Lodi for more local flavors and hidden gems.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Cours Julien area is the premier destination for street art in Marseille. A self-guided walk through this neighborhood allows you to see the highest density of murals, stencils, and graffiti in the city at your own pace.