Old Port in Marseille (Photo: Envato)
Marseille might not be the first city that comes to mind when planning a kosher vacation to France, but it absolutely should be. This sunny, coastal city is home to one of the largest Jewish communities in Europe and offers an incredible variety of kosher restaurants—close to 50 of them! Whether you're craving fresh Mediterranean fish, North African flavors, or just a good slice of pizza, you'll find it here.
Located on the southern coast of France, Marseille sits along the Mediterranean Sea just west of the more famous French Riviera. While it’s not technically part of the Côte d’Azur, Marseille shares the same stunning blue coastline and warm, sunny weather—making it a great year-round destination. Summers are hot and dry, with lots of beach days. Winters are mild and often sunny, perfect for exploring without the crowds.
Marseille blends a laid-back coastal vibe with a rich Jewish heritage and a very kosher-friendly atmosphere. Whether you're coming for a long weekend or adding it to a broader tour of southern France, this city makes it easy to enjoy a relaxing and delicious kosher vacation.
Jewish Life & Kosher Eats in Marseille
Jewish Life & Kosher Eats in Marseille
One of the best parts about visiting Marseille as a kosher traveler? You won’t have to work hard to find kosher food. With an estimated 70,000–80,000 Jews living in the city, Marseille is home to one of the largest and most active Jewish communities in Europe, second only to Paris.
There are dozens of kosher restaurants, bakeries, and grocery stores spread throughout the city, offering everything from French patisserie to North African meat dishes, pizza, sushi, falafel, and more. Whether you’re dining in or grabbing something to go for a day trip, there are plenty of options.
The community here is primarily Sephardic, with strong roots from Algeria, Tunisia, and Morocco. You’ll notice this influence in the food—think couscous, grilled meats, spicy sauces, and fragrant spices. Many kosher restaurants are under reliable local supervision, and you’ll find mehadrin options as well if that’s your preference.
There are also numerous synagogues around the city—some historic, some modern—and Chabad has a visible presence too. If you're staying over Shabbat, it’s fairly easy to find a minyan and even join a Shabbat meal with the local community or one of the Chabad centers.
Photo: Envato
What to See and Do in Marseille
When you’re not enjoying a kosher croissant or wandering through a local market, Marseille has plenty to keep you busy. The city is full of character, with a mix of old-world charm, stunning sea views, and colorful neighborhoods that are just fun to explore.
Start with a visit to the Old Port (Vieux-Port)—this is the heart of the city and a great place to take a stroll, grab a drink, or hop on a boat to explore the nearby calanques (those dramatic rocky coves you’ve probably seen in photos). From here, you’ll also get a view of Notre-Dame de la Garde, the iconic basilica that watches over the city from a hilltop. Even if you’re not going inside, the views from up there are some of the best in Marseille.
If you’re in the mood for culture, check out MuCEM—the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations. It’s right by the sea, and even the building itself is worth seeing. For a more local vibe, spend some time wandering the Le Panier neighborhood. It’s the oldest part of Marseille, with narrow alleyways, street art, and little artisan shops that feel a world away from the busy port.
Don’t miss Palais Longchamp, one of Marseille’s most eye-catching landmarks. It’s not just a fancy building—it’s also a peaceful park, perfect for a walk or a picnic. The fountains and arches make for great photos, and if you’re in the mood for museums, you’ll find both an art museum and a natural history museum right inside. It’s a great place to take a break from the busier parts of the city.
If you’re up for a little adventure, hop on a ferry from the Old Port and head out to Château d’If. This little island fortress is best known from The Count of Monte Cristo, and you can still tour the old prison cells and take in amazing views of Marseille from the water. It’s an easy and fun half-day trip that mixes history, legends, and a bit of sea breeze.
And of course, if you want some beach time, you’re in luck. Marseille has several beaches right in the city, like Plage du Prado or Plage des Catalans—nothing fancy, but perfect for soaking up some Mediterranean sun.
Looking to get out of town? You can take day trips to Cassis, Aix-en-Provence, or even Avignon. Most spots are within an hour or two, and they’re full of Provençal charm and scenic views.
Photo: Envato
Final Thoughts
Marseille has all the ingredients for a great kosher vacation—delicious food, a strong Jewish community, and tons to see and do. Whether you're exploring ancient forts, enjoying the sea breeze from a ferry, or grabbing a bite at one of the city’s many kosher spots, there’s something here for everyone. It’s easy to relax, eat well, and soak in the Mediterranean vibe without having to worry about where to find kosher food or a minyan.
If you’re thinking of expanding your trip beyond Marseille, check out our Kosher Vacation Guide to the French Riviera for ideas on where to go next—from Nice to Cannes and everywhere in between.
Bon voyage—and don’t forget to pack sunscreen and an appetite!
For more kosher-friendly cities in France and beyond, explore our full collection of kosher travel guides.