Palais Longchamp: Ode to Water

A majestic 19th-century monument in Marseille celebrating water, art, and nature, housing museums and gardens, easily accessible and historically significant.

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Palais Longchamp

Palais Longchamp, a grand monument in Marseille's 4th arrondissement, celebrates the Canal de Marseille and the arrival of fresh water to the city. Designed by Henri-Jacques Espérandieu and inaugurated in 1869, it features an elaborate fountain, the Château d'Eau, flanked by the Musée des Beaux-Arts and the Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle. The surrounding Parc Longchamp offers gardens, sculptures, and remnants of a former zoo, making it a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can explore the museums, stroll through the gardens, and admire the architecture, all while learning about the city's history and relationship with water. The Palais is easily accessible by public transport, making it a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Marseille. Its historical significance, architectural beauty, and cultural offerings make it a unique and enriching experience.

A brief summary to Palais Longchamp

Bd Jard. Zoologique, Marseille, 13004, FR
+33491552551
Visit website

Monday 8 am-6:45 pm
Tuesday 8 am-6:45 pm
Wednesday 8 am-6:45 pm
Thursday 8 am-6:45 pm
Friday 8 am-6:45 pm
Saturday 8 am-6:45 pm
Sunday 8 am-6:45 pm

Local tips

Visit during the spring or fall for pleasant weather and blooming gardens.
Explore both the Musée des Beaux-Arts and the Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle to experience art and natural history.
Take a stroll through the Parc Longchamp to discover its diverse gardens and remnants of the former zoo.
Check for temporary exhibitions and events happening at the Palais during your visit.
Utilize public transportation, such as the metro or tram, for easy access to the Palais.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Marseille's city center, the most convenient way to reach Palais Longchamp is by Metro Line 1. Take the metro to the 'Cinq Avenues Longchamp' station. From the station exit, walk north along Boulevard Longchamp for approximately 5 minutes. The Palais Longchamp will be visible on your left. A single metro ticket costs €1.70 and is valid for one hour, allowing transfers between metro, tram, and bus lines.
Tram

Alternatively, take Tram line 2 and get off at the 'Longchamp' stop. The Palais Longchamp is just a short walk away. A single tram ticket costs €1.70 and is valid for one hour, allowing transfers between metro, tram, and bus lines.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services (Uber) are readily available throughout Marseille. A taxi ride from the Vieux-Port (Old Port) area to Palais Longchamp typically costs between €6-€8, depending on traffic. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver or check the app estimate before starting your journey.
Driving

If driving, navigate to Boulevard Jardin Zoologique, 13004 Marseille. Limited street parking is available near the Palais, but it can be challenging to find a spot, especially during peak hours. Several parking garages are located within a short distance, with hourly rates ranging from €2.20 to €4.30 and daily rates from €22 to €28. Consider using a parking app like Mobypark or Zenpark to reserve a space in advance and potentially save up to 60% on parking costs.

Discover more about Palais Longchamp

Palais Longchamp, a magnificent monument nestled in the heart of Marseille, stands as a testament to the city's ingenuity and its enduring relationship with water. Located in the 4th arrondissement, this architectural marvel was created to commemorate the construction of the Canal de Marseille, an ambitious project that brought fresh water from the Durance River to the drought-stricken city. The Palais, designed by the talented architect Henri-Jacques Espérandieu, the same mind behind the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, took nearly 30 years to complete, with its foundation stone laid in 1839 and its inauguration in 1869. The elaborate fountain, known as the Château d'Eau (water tower), serves as the centerpiece, a baroque-inspired masterpiece adorned with allegorical sculptures that celebrate fertility, abundance, and the life-giving power of water. The central figure represents the Durance River, flanked by figures symbolizing grapes and wheat, all pulled by bulls of Camargue. Flanking the fountain are two grand wings that house the Musée des Beaux-Arts (Fine Arts Museum) and the Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle (Natural History Museum). The Musée des Beaux-Arts, established in 1801, showcases a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and drawings from the 16th to 19th centuries, including works by French and Italian masters. The Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle, opened in 1869, boasts an impressive collection of over 80,000 animal specimens and 20,000 plant exhibits, offering visitors a glimpse into the natural world. Beyond the Palais lies the Parc Longchamp, a sprawling green space that invites visitors to wander and explore. The park features a classic French garden, the Jardin du Plateau, with meticulously manicured lawns and geometric flowerbeds. An English landscape garden offers winding paths and ancient trees, including a 150-year-old plane tree and a 120-year-old oak and Siberian elm. The park also contains remnants of a former zoo, which operated from 1898 to 1987, with its ornate cages and pavilions still visible, evoking a sense of nostalgia and wonder. Today, Palais Longchamp stands as one of Marseille's most recognizable landmarks, a symbol of the city's resilience, artistic heritage, and commitment to preserving its natural environment. Visitors can explore the museums, stroll through the gardens, admire the architecture, and learn about the city's history and relationship with water. The Palais also hosts temporary exhibitions and events throughout the year, ensuring there's always something new to discover. The Palais Longchamp is more than just a monument; it's a living testament to Marseille's past, present, and future. It's a place where art, nature, and history converge, offering a unique and enriching experience for all who visit. Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a tranquil escape from the bustling city, Palais Longchamp has something to offer. Accessibility is also a key consideration, with accessible gardens and museum spaces ensuring that visitors with disabilities can fully enjoy the site. The Palais is easily accessible by public transport, with the Cinq Avenues Longchamp metro station and several bus lines nearby. The Palais Longchamp is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Marseille. Its historical significance, architectural beauty, cultural offerings, and accessibility make it a truly unique and unforgettable destination. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in the city's rich history, appreciate its artistic heritage, and connect with nature, all in one stunning location. Visiting the Palais Longchamp is an experience that will stay with you long after you leave. It's a reminder of the power of human ingenuity, the beauty of art and nature, and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage for future generations. So, come and discover the magic of Palais Longchamp, and let it inspire you with its beauty, history, and enduring spirit. The Observatory of Marseille, located within the park, adds another layer of intrigue to the Palais Longchamp. While the researchers have relocated, the site is open to the public, offering astronomy-oriented activities and visits to the historic telescope. This provides a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of the universe within the grounds of this magnificent monument. Palais Longchamp is not just a place to visit; it's a place to experience. It's a place to learn, to reflect, and to connect with the rich history and culture of Marseille. It's a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in beauty, tranquility, and inspiration. So, plan your visit today and discover the magic of Palais Longchamp for yourself.

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Fontaine Esperendieu

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La Canebière

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Memorial of the Marseillaise

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Unmissable attractions to see

Musée des Beaux-Arts, Marseille

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Marseille Observatory

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Visite guidée Marseille - Balade d'une Marseillaise

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St. Vincent de Paul Church

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Municipal Odeon Theatre

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Pl. Jean Jaurès

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Palais des Arts

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Espace Julien

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Cours Julien

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Cr Julien

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Graffiti Stairs

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Marché des Capucins

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Legendes d'animaux

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Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Palais Longchamp: Ode to Water

A brief summary to Palais Longchamp

Local tips

Getting There

Public Transport

Tram

Taxi/Ride-Share

Driving

Unlock the Best of Palais Longchamp

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Palais Longchamp

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Zoological Gardens

Pavillon-de-partage-des-eaux

Pl. des Marseillaises

fontaine Fossati

Fontaine Esperendieu

La Canebière

Q-Park Cours Julien

Memorial of the Marseillaise

Maison du Figaro

40 La Canebière

Office of Tourism & Conventions

Palais de la Bourse

Monument commémoratif au roi Alexandre Ier de Yougoslavie et à Louis Barthou

Vieux Port

Statue of Milon de Crotone

Unmissable attractions to see

Musée des Beaux-Arts, Marseille

Marseille Observatory

Le palais longchamp

Visite guidée Marseille - Balade d'une Marseillaise

St. Vincent de Paul Church

Monument Des Mobiles

Municipal Odeon Theatre

Pl. Jean Jaurès

Palais des Arts

Espace Julien

Cours Julien

Cr Julien

Graffiti Stairs

Marché des Capucins

Legendes d'animaux

Essential places to dine

Les Eaux de Mars

La Delicatesse - Restaurant Marseille

Le Comptoir de Becca

Lacaille

L'Arôme

La Raclette Restaurant Marseille

Les Trois Rois - Restaurant Cours Julien

Ummagumma

La Cantinetta

Le Bistro Vénitien Chez Marie

Gerarh, restaurant bio et locavore, cave à vin à Marseille

Le Resto Provençal

Le Mélo

Le Jardin d'à Côté

Restaurant L'escalié

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Space vintage

Air de Provence

Marché de la Plaine

SEPIA SWING CLUB

Jalanjoe

HUMANA Vintage

Marché Noailles

Tante Emma

Maison Casablanca - Cours Julien

LE BESTIAIRE

Heritage Mecanik

Marie-Eve

Out Of Space Vintage Shop

Papyrus

Belsunce Shop

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Bar De Provence

Verre A Cruise - Tapas & Cocktail Bar