Le Marégraphe: Marseille's Zero Point
Discover Le Marégraphe in Marseille: a historic tide gauge that set France's altitude and continues to monitor sea levels, offering a unique glimpse into scientific precision.
Le Marégraphe, nestled on Marseille's Corniche Président John Fitzgerald Kennedy, is a historic and scientifically significant site. Constructed in 1883-84, this unassuming building houses a unique tide gauge that served as the fundamental reference point for altitude measurements across continental France. For over a century, the Marégraphe meticulously recorded sea levels, providing crucial data for geodetic surveys and cartography. Today, it continues to operate as a high-quality monitoring station, equipped with modern instruments, playing a vital role in tracking climate change and rising sea levels. Visitors can explore this hidden gem and discover its fascinating history and ongoing importance in understanding our planet. The site is a classified historical monument, a testament to human ingenuity and scientific pursuit, offering a glimpse into the meticulous work of measuring the Earth's oceans.
A brief summary to Le Maregraphe
- 174 Cor Président John Fitzgerald Kennedy, Marseille, 13007, FR
- +33143988000
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Check for tour availability in advance, as access to the Marégraphe may be limited and require booking.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the Corniche Kennedy to enjoy stunning Mediterranean views.
- Learn about the Marégraphe's history and significance by visiting the website of "Les amis du marégraphe de Marseille".
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Marseille's Vieux-Port (Old Port), take bus line 83 towards Vallon des Auffes. The bus ride takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Get off at the 'Vallon de l'Oriol' stop, which is the closest to Le Marégraphe. From there, it's a short walk of about 5 minutes along the Corniche to the location. A single bus ticket costs €2. A taxi from the Vieux-Port would cost approximately €9-€11.
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Walking
If you're near the Vallon des Auffes, Le Marégraphe is a pleasant 15-minute walk along the Corniche Président John Fitzgerald Kennedy. Head east along the Corniche, enjoying the sea views. Le Marégraphe will be on your left, just past Villa Valmer.
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Driving
Driving directly to Le Marégraphe is possible, but parking in the area can be challenging, especially during peak season. Limited street parking is available along the Corniche. Consider using a parking app like Mobypark to find and reserve a spot in advance. Parking fees vary, but expect to pay around €1 per hour or €8 for 24 hours. Be aware of potential traffic restrictions or pedestrian zones, especially on Sundays when parts of the Corniche may be closed to cars.
Discover more about Le Maregraphe
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Villa Valmer
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La corniche
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Point de vue
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Port du Vallon des Auffes
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Monument aux Morts - Armée d'Orient et Terres lointaines - Marseille 7
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Point de vue corniche
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Mémorial des Rapatriés d'Algérie
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American World War II tank
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La Citadelle de Marseille (Fort Saint-Nicolas)
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Citadelle de Marseille (Fort Saint-Nicolas)
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Palais du Pharo
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Monument aux héros et victimes de la mer
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Tour du Roi René
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Tour du fanal
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Mémorial des Déportations de la Ville de Marseille
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Unmissable attractions to see
Corniche Président John Fitzgerald Kennedy
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Anse de Malmousque
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Plage de la Pointe d’Endoume
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Calanque Monsoleil
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La Corniche Kennedy
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Sun Set Spot
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Prophet's Beach
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Plage du Prophète
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Plage des Catalans View Sitting Area
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Jetée des Catalans
1.3 km
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Plage des Catalans
1.3 km
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Trouée de Vauban
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The Hanging Gardens
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Basilica of Notre-Dame-of-la-Garde at Marseille
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Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
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Essential places to dine
Le Rhul
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Inizio Ristorante
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Zia Concetta Corniche - Restaurant trattoria & épicerie à Marseille
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Restaurant les Dauphins
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L'Avant Cour
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L'Épuisette
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Bistrot Plage
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Chez Marco
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Le Baron perché
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Peron Restaurant
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Le Petit Pavillon
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LA TERRASSE DES EMBRUNS RESTAURANT PIZZERIA
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Les Trois Forts
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Ekume
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Ourea
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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POINT GÉ
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Santa Marius
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B.Marion
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Marseille En Provence
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Boutique La Corvette – Savon de Marseille et Huiles d'Olive
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Thalassa
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Faizanproducts
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Le Marseillais
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ZIG ZAG
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SOUS L’OLIVIER
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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L’îlot de la Corniche
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Le Monument
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Le Dantès Skylounge
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Skybar Marseille
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Carry Nation
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CopperBay Marseille
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Bar Gaspard
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The Shamrock
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Bar de la Marine
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Chill | Coooooocktail Bar | Marseille
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Propaganda - bar tapas Marseille
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Les Berthom
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The Queen Victoria
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