The districts of Marseille:
explore our premium areas

The division of the city of Marseille follows a specific administrative structure. Covering an area of 240 km², the city is France’s second-largest metropolis, with a population exceeding 870,000 inhabitants according to the latest census. The history of this municipal division dates back to the 19th century, a period marked by the urban expansion of the Phocaean city. Marseille experienced remarkable growth as early as the Middle Ages and later in the 17th century with the development of the Old Port and Mediterranean trade.

The sixteen municipal arrondissements are grouped into 111 official neighborhoods, forming eight sectors and administrative districts. This organization provides local governance adapted to the city’s geographic specificities. Each sector has its own sector council and sector town hall, while the municipal council ensures coordination at the citywide level. The City Hall centralizes the municipal administration, with each sector mayor playing a key role in local governance.

6th Arrondissement: Excellence in the City Centre

The 6th arrondissement embodies one of the best districts in Marseille for luxury real estate. Located in the heart of the city, this area brings together the most sought-after neighborhoods around Rue Paradis, Avenue du Prado and Place Castellane. The 13006 Marseille postcode is synonymous with residential excellence, with around 45,000 inhabitants living in well-preserved Haussmann-style buildings — a legacy of the 19th century, when Marseille’s bourgeoisie heavily invested in these elegant boulevards.

The real estate market shows exceptional results, reflecting the premium status of this address. Rue de Lodi and Rue Saint-Ferréol represent the very essence of Marseille life since the 19th century. Haussmann apartments with high ceilings, mouldings and original parquet floors embody the quintessential prestige property. The proximity to Notre-Dame du Mont offers remarkable panoramic views over the city. Our expert advice: This area attracts an international clientele and liberal professions seeking a central location. The exceptional quality of life is enhanced by the proximity of the Marseille Opera House, the courthouse and top-tier schools. Reviews of the districts confirm that the 6th ranks among the best arrondissements for its prestige. Renovated properties with terraces or continuous balconies show steady appreciation.

7th Arrondissement: Historic Prestige and Sea Views

The 7th arrondissement stretches from the Old Port to the beaches, encompassing iconic tourist sites in Marseille such as Notre-Dame de la Garde, the Endoume district and the Corniche Kennedy. This unique geographical setting combines historical heritage, exceptional sea views and Mediterranean quality of life. The arrondissement had nearly 37,000 residents at the last census, spread across evocatively named neighborhoods: Saint-Victor, Endoume, Le Pharo, Roucas Blanc and Malmousque.

Architectural diversity characterizes this area. The Saint-Victor neighborhood preserves its Provençal atmosphere with narrow streets and restored fishermen’s houses, bearing witness to a maritime tradition dating back to the Middle Ages. Le Pharo, dominated by its 19th-century imperial palace, offers a unique outlook over the bay and the Old Port. The historic villas of Endoume and Roucas Blanc, built in the 18th century and expanded during the Belle Époque, represent rare opportunities.

Market trends show sustained demand for apartments with panoramic views of the islands and the Mediterranean. Properties located along the Corniche Kennedy benefit from exceptional appreciation. Our transaction data reveals that this district attracts an international clientele drawn to the Mediterranean lifestyle and the rich history of the Phocaean city.

8th Arrondissement: Modern Living by the Sea

The 8th arrondissement is the most dynamic sector in terms of new real estate developments. Bordered by the Prado, Pointe Rouge and Goudes beaches, it offers a residential setting highly prized by families. The population approaches 80,000 inhabitants, spread across a large area including the neighborhoods of Bonneveine, Montredon, Sainte-Anne and the southern section stretching to the Calanques National Park. The 13008 Marseille postcode has become synonymous with exceptional quality of life and seaside proximity.

Architectural innovation defines this sector, with the emergence of high-end new developments. Parc Borély, created in the 18th century on the grounds of the former eponymous estate, is the city’s largest green space and a major asset for daily life. Market statistics show steady growth, driven by increasing demand for modern homes with terraces and parking.

Our detailed analysis: Three strong trends are emerging: the search for large family apartments (T4–T5), the appeal of recent secure residences with services, and growing interest in villas with gardens and land on the outskirts. The proximity to beaches, the Calanques National Park and international schools enhances the district’s appeal. Also noteworthy are the new seafront residences redefining the standards of Marseille’s coastal luxury. Cultural diversity and numerous restaurants add to the charm of the area.

9th Arrondissement: Natural Heritage of the Calanques

The 9th arrondissement stands out for its exceptional natural environment, including the villages of Sormiou, Morgiou and Sugiton — true attractions of the Calanques National Park. This unique feature creates a district where nature and urban life coexist harmoniously. The area has about 32,000 inhabitants spread across preserved village-like neighborhoods such as Mazargues, Sainte-Marguerite, Sormiou and the hamlets of the massif. The Mazargues neighborhood has retained its 17th-century Provençal bastides, reminders of Marseille’s agricultural expansion.

The local identity is based on a balance between Marseille tradition and measured urban development. Village houses, Provençal bastides and small co-ownership buildings make up most of the housing stock. Our expertise allows us to identify opportunities in this niche market where every property has its own story. Recent data shows increasing interest in homes with generous land and a preserved natural environment.

Ongoing projects aim to improve infrastructure and access to the arrondissements via the transport network while preserving the authenticity of the area. The result is a stable market offering promising prospects. Demand mainly comes from families seeking peace, greenery and authenticity, while staying connected to the city centre via major roads. Must-see neighborhoods include the Sormiou and Morgiou calanques for their exceptional natural beauty.

11th Arrondissement: Transformation of Eastern Marseille

The 11th arrondissement has undergone remarkable development in recent years. Including the districts of Les Camoins, Éoures, La Treille and La Valentine, this area of more than 55,000 inhabitants benefits from major investments in facilities and transport. Access to Saint-Charles station by metro and bus takes less than 20 minutes, ensuring efficient connections with the city centre and the Old Port. The buyer profile is shifting toward younger populations and families, attracted by a more accessible real estate market than in the central arrondissements, while maintaining excellent quality of life. Recent statistics show an increase in T3–T4 transactions in modern residences with landscaped communal areas.

Our advice highlights the medium-term appreciation potential. The development of commercial, cultural (community centres, public spaces) and sports infrastructure enhances the district’s appeal. Families particularly appreciate the proximity of reputable schools, parks and local services. The market is dynamic, with a sustained turnover rate and encouraging results. Improvements to Marseille’s traffic flow and transport network offer additional advantages.

12th Arrondissement: Quiet Residential Excellence

The 12th arrondissement regularly ranks among the best districts in Marseille for family quality of life. Centred around the areas of Saint-Barnabé, Les Trois-Lucs, Saint-Julien and Montolivet, it is home to around 60,000 residents in a green and tranquil environment. Its defining characteristic is its strong residential identity, far from the urban hustle, while preserving traces of its agricultural past when Provençal bastides shaped daily life from the 17th century onwards.

The housing stock consists mainly of individual villas, terraced houses and small human-scale co-ownerships. This appeals to families seeking space, private gardens and tranquillity. Our database shows that 70% of transactions involve houses with outdoor areas and land — an exceptional figure for Marseille.

Our expert opinion highlights the growing interest of investors in this district, where the price-quality ratio remains attractive. Accessibility is continuously improving thanks to the development of the transport network (metro and bus), strengthening connections with central districts and business areas such as La Joliette. Daily life emphasizes calm and proximity to nature while providing all necessary services. Schools, shopping centres and sports facilities are harmoniously distributed across the district.

1st and 2nd Arrondissements: The Old Port and Le Panier

The central arrondissements embody the historical essence of Marseille. The 1st arrondissement is home to the Old Port, the epicentre of Marseille’s life since Antiquity, as well as the picturesque Panier district, the oldest area of the city dating back to the Middle Ages. La Canebière, the city’s emblematic boulevard, crosses these historic neighborhoods and serves as the main artery to access Marseille’s major tourist sites.

The 2nd arrondissement extends this atmosphere with La Joliette, a former port district transformed into a modern cultural hub. Recent urban development has created a new dynamic with contemporary architectural projects while preserving the city’s maritime heritage. These areas attract a diverse population, combining long-standing residents with newcomers drawn to Marseille’s authenticity.

Attractions include museums, historic cafés, Mediterranean restaurants and artisanal boutiques that contribute to the cultural richness of these arrondissements. The proximity to City Hall and major landmarks (palaces, ancient churches) enhances the touristic and residential appeal of these uniquely characterful neighborhoods.

Northern Districts: Château Gombert and L'Estaque

The northern districts of Marseille, including Château Gombert and L'Estaque, offer a different facet of the Phocaean city. Château Gombert has preserved its village-like character with Provençal bastides and a well-preserved historic centre. L'Estaque, immortalised by Impressionist painters for its exceptional light, combines maritime heritage with a natural setting offering views of the sea and surrounding hills.

These areas are undergoing gradual development with new urban planning projects aimed at improving infrastructure and services. The popular diversity of these districts contributes to the social and cultural richness of Marseille. Access to the central arrondissements is ensured via the public transport network, guaranteeing efficient connections despite their geographical distance.

Outlying Areas: Between Sea and Hills

The geography of Marseille offers remarkable diversity, from the southern calanques to the eastern hills. Peripheral villages such as Les Goudes, Callelongue or Les Riaux maintain their authenticity while remaining administratively part of the city of Marseille. These hamlets offer an exceptional living environment for those seeking tranquillity and proximity to Mediterranean nature.

The territorial organisation of Marseille therefore provides a variety of residential environments—from the historic urban centre to peaceful residential districts, as well as coastal areas and preserved village-like neighborhoods. This diversity is one of the city’s major advantages and explains why every family can find the sector that perfectly matches their lifestyle.

The Public Transport Network

Getting around Marseille is mainly done through a well-developed public transport network that includes two metro lines, three tram lines and an extensive bus system. The metro serves the main arrondissements from Saint-Charles station to residential areas, providing efficient access to both central and outlying districts.

Traffic in Marseille can be dense during peak hours in the city centre, which highlights the value of the public transport network for daily commuting. Infrastructure is constantly improving, with new projects aimed at easing traffic flow and strengthening connections between districts.

Accessibility and Mobility

The geographical scale of Marseille requires careful consideration of accessibility when choosing an arrondissement. Districts near the Old Port and the city centre offer immediate proximity to services, shops and cultural venues. Outlying arrondissements compensate for the distance with a quieter living environment and generous green spaces.

Our database incorporates these accessibility criteria to provide the best advice according to your mobility needs. Whether you prioritise proximity to your workplace, schools or leisure activities, each district offers specific advantages in terms of access and connections.

Our Expertise at Your Service

Our in-depth knowledge of Marseille’s arrondissements ensures personalized guidance in your real estate search. Each district offers specific opportunities according to your criteria: Mediterranean lifestyle, urban centrality, family-friendly environment, or investment potential. Our team of local experts has a thorough understanding of each neighborhood, Marseille’s administrative organization, and market trends.

We maintain an exhaustive database covering all neighborhoods in Marseille, from historic districts to new residential areas. Our personalized service allows you to explore selections of exceptional properties that precisely match your expectations. Every neighborhood, every street has its own character, which we know intimately—from the alleyways of Le Panier to the residential avenues of Bonneveine, and up to the heights of Notre-Dame du Mont.

Defining Your Priorities

To refine your search, we recommend defining your key priorities: proximity to the city centre and Town Hall, access to the beaches and southern coastline, a peaceful residential setting, or potential for property appreciation. Feedback from our clients confirms that personalized advice is essential to identify the best arrondissement in Marseille according to your profile.

Our detailed article has presented population data, quality of life, and the specific characteristics of each district. The success of your real estate project requires a nuanced understanding of Marseille’s territory. Our knowledge of the local market, urban developments, and future projects provides a decisive added value.

Starting Your Real Estate Project

Marseille Sotheby’s International Realty leverages its expertise to turn your search into a success, guiding you to the arrondissement that perfectly matches your lifestyle. Contact our experts for a personalized analysis of your needs and to discover our exceptional properties in the city’s premium neighborhoods.

Our tailored approach ensures a relevant selection of exceptional properties, organized visits according to your availability, and full support until the signing. The story of your new life in Marseille begins with choosing the right arrondissement, in a city where every district has its unique identity, a heritage shaped by Marseille’s rich history over more than 2,600 years.

Discover our exceptional properties by arrondissement and let us guide you to your future home in the Phocaean city.