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

Neda Aryana
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
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
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
📍 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
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...
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.
Explore These Activities
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Entry fee | EUR 0 |
| Treasure hunt booklet | EUR 5 |
| Café snacks at Les Voûtes | EUR 15 |
| Souvenir postcards | EUR 10 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 30 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Address: Pl. de la Major, 13002 Marseille, France
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