Vallon des Auffes

The basics

Vallon des Auffes looks like a miniature village and is worth visiting for its aesthetic beauty alone, with great photo opportunities at every turn. It's also a well-known dining destination (and a great place to sample the city's famous bouillabaisse), with restaurants ranging from simple local spots to upscale affairs. Because of the neighborhood’s charm, plenty of tours come here, including guided bike excursions, walking tours, and—naturally—food tours.

Things to know before you go

• Vallon des Auffes is a must-visit for foodies and photography buffs.

• Parts of the neighborhood are narrow and have uneven pavement, which might prove challenging for wheelchair users to navigate without assistance.

• Many people swim right in the harbor here, so pack a swimsuit in case you get the urge to jump in.

How to get there

The Vallon des Auffes neighborhood is southwest of the Vieux Port of Marseille, about a 35-minute walk or 10-minute bike ride away. If you aren't coming here as part of a guided tour, you can walk, rent a bike, or hop on bus 83, which will take you straight from the Vieux-Port metro station to the heart of the Vallon des Auffes.

When to get there

The best time to visit the Vallon des Auffes depends on what you want to do there. For the best photos, come at dusk, when the light is most beautiful, and stick around to watch the sunset. If you’re coming to eat, come in the early afternoon for lunch or at night for dinner, keeping in mind that restaurants sometimes close for a few hours between meal services.

The best places to eat in Vallon des Auffes

When it comes to food, this village-like neighborhood has loads of options. Chez Jeannot is a good place for families, offering fresh pizza, while swanky Chez Fonfon serves up Marseillais and Provencal specialties. L'Épuisette is another great option, with a sophisticated ambiance—complete with white tablecloths—and gorgeous harbor views.