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France/Things to Do in Marseille, with kids

Cathedrale de la Major (with kids)

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How Kids-Friendly is Cathedrale de la Major?

68%Kids-Friendly
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What makes it 68% Kids-Friendly: Bright mosaics and a wide car-free terrace briefly engage children, but the silence rule, lack of games and limited toilets mean many kids tire after 15–20 minutes.

Google
Reviews4.7/ 5
(from 19,049 reviews)

Positives:

  • Free entry: No ticket required helps families stay on budget.
  • Stroller access: Wide doors and ramps allow easy entry with a stroller.

Challenges:

  • No child facilities: No play area or dedicated baby-changing rooms on site.
  • Limited interior seating: Benches are few; young children may need to stand.
  • Closed Tuesdays: Plan around the weekly closure to avoid disappointment.
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🏖️ Explore Cathedrale de la Major with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Cathedrale de la Major. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is Cathedrale de la Major?

  • A 19th-century cathedral constructed between 1852 and 1896 in neo-Byzantine and Romanesque revival styles, anchoring Marseille’s Old Port waterfront
  • A monumental structure clad in alternating green limestone and white Carrara marble, crowned by twin bell towers and a central dome that fuses Eastern and Western motifs
  • An opulent interior of soaring vaulted ceilings, intricate mosaics, polychrome marble columns and sculpted altars by leading 19th-century artists

What is so special about Cathedrale de la Major for with kids?

  1. Free entry with wide ramps for strollers
  2. Interactive mosaic hunt keeps kids engaged
  3. Open terrace offers safe play and harbor views
  4. Short visit fits well into a busy family day

Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours

Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Families can explore the main interior and outdoor terrace without tiring younger children.

(View Cathedrale de la Major on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in Cathedrale de la Major

Mosaic spotting tour:

Walk the nave and side chapels to find vibrant marble mosaics.

Tip: Give each child a list of three colors or shapes to spot for a fun game.

Esplanade terrace play:

Let kids run safely on the open terrace while you enjoy harbor views.

Tip: Bring a small ball or bubbles to keep little ones entertained.

Treasure hunt booklet:

Pick up a child-friendly jeu de piste at the Marseille Tourist Office.

Tip: Allow 30–45 minutes; include a small treat when they solve each clue.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Cathedrale de la Major

  1. Combine with Vieux-Port: Walk from Old Port along the quays for more views and ice cream stops.
  2. Early visit: Arrive at 10 am to enjoy quieter corridors before tour groups.
🏖️ Tour Cathedrale de la Major like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Cathedrale de la Major. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Cathedrale de la Major

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Neda Aryana

Neda Aryana

Jan 2026

Standing right by the port, this cathedral felt naturally connected to the sea. We had arrived in Marseille by cruise, and the embarkation and disembarkation point was just a short walk away, which made the visit feel effortless almost like the city was welcoming us straight into this space. From an architectural perspective, what stayed with me most was the way glass is used as an art form. Ligh...

Cory Sakai

Cory Sakai

Jan 2026

Quite impressive from both the inside and outside. Free to enter. It may take a little work to access since it is situated on an elevated section and might require you to climb stairs. We were lucky enough to see many art displays that were set up inside.

Rena Koleda

Rena Koleda

Dec 2025

I didn’t expect La Major to impress me as much as it did. Seeing it from the outside already feels special: the striped stone, the huge domes, the way it stands right by the sea. When I walked inside, it was quiet and surprisingly calming. I stayed longer than planned just looking around and enjoying the atmosphere. Even the area around the cathedral is beautiful to walk through. It’s one of the p...

Amrit Das

Amrit Das

Oct 2025

📍 Start Point: MuCEM / Fort Saint-Jean Bridge (Esplanade J4) Duration: 10 minutes • Begin your tour at the MuCEM plaza, right by the sea — it’s one of Marseille’s most scenic starting points. • Your guide introduces the area’s layered history: • The Old Port as Marseille’s trading heart since 600 BC. • The fortifications (Fort Saint-Jean) built by Louis XIV. • How this area became the cultural g...

Ivy Huong Nguyen

Ivy Huong Nguyen

Oct 2025

Cathédrale La Major is one of Marseille’s most striking landmarks — a grand 19th-century basilica that towers above the sea near the Old Port. Built in a bold Byzantine-Roman style with striped marble and elegant domes, it stands out beautifully against the Mediterranean backdrop. The interior is equally impressive, adorned with mosaics, marble columns, and vaulted ceilings that create a serene, m...

When is the best time to visit Cathedrale de la Major (Marseille, France)?

From April to October visit after 10 am when doors open; in winter (Nov–Mar) arrive before 5:30 pm to finish before closing at 6 pm. Avoid Tuesdays when it is closed.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Marseille on Trip.com

Explore These Activities

Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Entry feeEUR 0
Treasure hunt bookletEUR 5
Café snacks at Les VoûtesEUR 15
Souvenir postcardsEUR 10
Total EstimatedEUR 30

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Map of Cathedrale de la Major

Address: Pl. de la Major, 13002 Marseille, France

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About Cathedrale de la Major

Opening Hours

Monday:10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Tuesday:10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Wednesday:10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Thursday:10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Friday:10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Saturday:10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Sunday:10:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+33 7 72 15 60 10

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