Palais Longchamp (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Palais Longchamp?
What makes it 90% Kids-Friendly: Three playgrounds, animal statues, pony rides, a dinosaur zone in the Natural History Museum, and child planetarium shows keep 5-12 year olds busy for hours, with flat paths for parent supervision.
Positives:
- Stroller Friendly: Smooth stone paths and wide lawns allow easy stroller access around the monument and gardens.
- Free Drinking Water: Refill water bottles at fountains located near playgrounds and the café.
Challenges:
- Age Limits: Planetarium junior show requires kids to be at least 5 years old.
- No Baby-care Rooms: There are no dedicated nursing or changing facilities; bring a portable changing mat.
What is Palais Longchamp?
- A mid-19th-century monument and hydraulic marvel featuring a triumphal fountain and cascading waterfall commemorating Marseille’s new Durance water supply
- A classical colonnaded complex that houses the Musée des Beaux-Arts in its left wing and the Natural History Museum in its right wing
- Set within Parc Longchamp, where landscaped reservoirs, formal gardens, and sculptural ensembles reflect its engineering and artistic ambitions
What is so special about Palais Longchamp for with kids?
- Playgrounds and animal sculptures keep kids active.
- Garden trail with hidden fiberglass animals turns exploration into a game.
- Natural History Museum offers hands-on exhibits for curious minds.
- Pony rides and vintage carousel add extra fun breaks.
- Planetarium junior show introduces children to stargazing.
Recommended visit duration: 1–3 hours
Why 1–3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for playgrounds, museum visit, and a picnic without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Palais Longchamp
Animal-shaped playgrounds:
Let kids climb and swing on equipment shaped like Camargue bulls and other animals.
Tip: Head there first to beat midday crowds and secure a shady spot.
Fiberglass animal-hunt trail:
Search for life-size animal figures hidden among the gardens.
Tip: Turn it into a game with a simple checklist to keep children engaged.
Natural History Museum interactive zone:
Explore hands-on exhibits about dinosaurs, minerals, and insects.
Tip: Buy tickets online to skip the line and get direct access to the kids' area.
Pony rides and vintage carousel:
Enjoy pony rides on park trails or a spin on the carousel near the café.
Tip: Bring small change (€6 per pony ride) and ask the staff for operating hours.
Planetarium junior show:
Attend the 15:30 circuit designed for ages 5–10 with a telescope visit.
Tip: Book in advance; arrive 15 minutes early to choose front-row seats.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Palais Longchamp
- Arrive Early: Get to the park by 9 am to grab quiet playground spots and cooler temperatures.
- Pack a Picnic: Bring snacks and a blanket to enjoy lunch by the fountain and save on café prices.
- Book Tickets Online: Reserve museum and planetarium tickets ahead of time to skip the ticket line.
Reviews of Palais Longchamp
Stephen Buttigieg
Beautiful building and a decent garden behind it. Houses 2 museums. I visited both but particularly loved the art museum. Not to miss if you're in Marseille
Adam Thompson
Beautiful park, and stunning architecture. The water fountain was gold plated and we enjoyed a quite leisurely stroll through the park. Must visit if you are in Marseille!!!
Ivana Obradovic
Mesmerizing and above all charming palace built by the instructions of Napoleon III. Great place for Instagram photos because of the gorgeous building architecture with an artificial waterfall under the statue. Two lovely fountains that are set in the small artificial lake are making you see the rainbows under the proper light conditions which certainly adds to the charm of this place. On one side...
Vishal Meena
It's one of the beautiful historical architecture place I have visited. Beautiful for day spending.also I have seen people coming here to read books, paint and spent time with family and friends. And it holds an importance of how a city used to get water from river and this was a canal back in 16th-17th century. Built by Duke of Orleans. Beautiful and scenic
Latham woodward
Easily one of the best sites to visit in Marseille and France as a whole. Interesting and valuable history, and fantastic grounds. The fountains are simply breathtaking. Palais Longchamp also has the Beaux-Arts Museum and The Museum of Natural History. So all-in-all a great place to spend the day.
When is the best time to visit Palais Longchamp (Marseille, France)?
In spring, admire blooming flower beds across the park. In summer, visit before 10 am to avoid heat and crowds under shady plane trees.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Natural History Museum entry (2 adults + 2 kids) | EUR 28 |
| Planetarium junior show (2 adults + 2 kids) | EUR 28 |
| Pony rides (2 kids) | EUR 12 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 68 |
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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Map of Palais Longchamp
Address: Bd Jard. Zoologique, 13004 Marseille, France
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About Palais Longchamp
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+33 4 91 55 25 5110 BEST nearby Activities
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