Listen, I love a good cocktail. I love putting on something cute and going out with a gal pal to catch up over a well-crafted beverage. And if there’s a view, I’m not complaining either. The city of Marseille is chock full of bars and sips for every type. Whether you’re looking for the best rooftop bar in Marseille or are tempted by an evening at a clandestine bar, I’ve got the address for you. Here’s a roundup of some of the best bars in Marseille.
Copper Bay
This cozy chic bar is located in the Vauban neighborhood, not too far from Vieux Port. Copper Bay serves up creative cocktails and light appetizers and changes their menu throughout the year. No need to be dressed to the nines to enjoy a well-crafted cocktail. Think mango rum mixed with cranberry and curry. Or vodka with notes of amaretto and strawberry. Copper Bay is a great spot to catch up with friends as you sip on your cocktail or perhaps a glass of pastis.
Bar Gaspard
Not far from Vauban and the Palais de Justice neighborhoods sits Bar Gaspard. If you like out-of-the-box cocktails and a bit of mystery in your evening, this is the bar for you. You won’t find mojitos or Moscow mules on the menu; their drink list is composed of poems. If you can be picky and nervous about the drinks being a little too out there (like me!), talk to your waiter about what types of alcohol and notes you like. And they’ll take good care of you.
Carry Nation
Want to feel like Jay Gatsby and spice up your evening in Marseille? A reservation at speakeasy Carry Nation will do just the trick. The address isn’t public, so you’ll have to make online reservations in order to receive the address and secret code to get inside. They change their drink menu often and do not offer food service.
Splendido
This Italian restaurant is like a circus but make it adult. Splendido in and of itself is a feast for the eyes with its bright prints, leopard statues and wall-to-wall bathroom stall mirrors. Their fruity cocktails are almost as good as the glasses they come in. Note: when reserving, they often offer slots at Momento, which is their sister bar. I prefer Splendido for its ambiance and larger menu. You’ll be tempted by their signature Big Mamma cocktail, mixed with vodka, ginger beer and lime cordial. Their mocktails are not to be missed either. You’ll love their virgin piña colada in their bright blue cup.
La Restanque
Maybe you’re less about the gram and more about the vibe. Head to the more local, less touristy Lodi neighborhood. La Restanque is a neighborhood favorite; it’s cozy and full of character. During the week, they have a limited menu, and it would be a great spot for a beer or glass of wine. On the weekend, they typically have a light apéro menu and several cocktail options. If you’re looking for the local watering hole where the real Marseillais hang, this is it.
La Soifferie
If you’re into more alternative and artsy bars, you best head over to Cours Julien. This neighborhood is known for its graffiti alleyways, thrift stores and art scene. And la Soifferie is in the heart of the action. Sip on some sweet cocktails or a glass of pastis in a neighborhood that’s constantly bumping.
Les Réformés Rooftop
As you wander up la Canebière, you’ll discover the Réformés neighborhood centered around Église Saint-Vincent-de-Paul. This neighborhood is less touristy and is filled with restaurants, cafés and apartments. Les Réformés Rooftop is a sophisticated bar overlooking this neighborhood and serves up a full menu. This rooftop bar in Marseille is the ideal spot to catch up with friends or enjoy a date as you watch the sun set. Pro tip: don’t skimp on the patatas bravas!
Gyptis
This cozy bar is located in the Lodi neighborhood and serves up creative cocktails. I ordered the G Punch, a mix of rum, pineapple and cinnamon. The barman at Gyptis brought out the drink and lit one of the garnishes on fire. Too cool! On a typical weeknight, you’ll see locals sipping on beer and cocktails during Gyptis happy hour.
Massilia Beach
Just steps from the Vélodrome, or the soccer stadium where l’OM plays, sits yet another rooftop in Marseille. My friend and I enjoyed cocktails on this modern rooftop bar while a match was happening. Definitely a fun vibe for game day. When the team scored, we could hear cheering. Whether you’re a sports fan or not, Massilia Beach is a great spot for ambiance.
Viaghji di Fonfon
Don’t ask me how to pronounce it, but I can tell you how to get there. This bar is perched on the port of Vallon des Auffes, arguably one of the most picturesque places for Marseille sunsets. Viaghji di Fonfon is the ideal spot for a summer evening drink and tapas with a backdrop fit for a postcard.
Ciel Rooftop
This Italian restaurant is a must for your time in Marseille. Ciel Rooftop is a great spot for lunch, dinner or drinks. (Or perhaps all of the above!) Located on Rue Haxo, this restaurant bar sits in the heart of a lively neighborhood steps away from Vieux Port. Savor a glass of Prosecco or one of Ciel’s signature spritzes. Pro tip: be sure to reserve but not too far in advance; they typically open reservations two weeks prior.
Les Bords de Mer Rooftop
At this four-star hotel, you can enjoy dining at its gastronomic restaurant on the ground level and staying in one of its rooms — each one with a sea view. Head up to the rooftop bar for gorgeous cocktails and fruit juices overlooking the Plage des Catalans.
Pop-up bars
Sun-soaked days, beach afternoons, late-night strolls. Marseille becomes the best version of itself during the summer in my humble opinion. And there are several pop-up bars that open for the summer season that are worth mentioning. If you happen to be in Marseille during the summer, here are some of the best bars open during the summer.
L’Ilôt de la Corniche
Dying for good sea views as you sip on a summer cocktail? At l’Ilôt de la Corniche, you’ll have no problem as the bar is on a small concrete peninsula off la Corniche Kennedy stretch. Be sure to check their Instagram for hours and location.
Seasonal bar from le Petit Guste + le Grand Guste
During the year, you can enjoy a drink and a dinner respectively at le Petit Guste and le Grand Guste in the cush Vauban neighborhood. But during the summer, these sister establishments shake things up for the summer with a new location and theme each summer. One year, their summer location was named le Comptoir des Gustes. Another year it was le Jardin du Petit Guste, located in the Roucas Blanc neighborhood in a secret garden-like setting. Keep an eye on their Instagram account to see where their upcoming summer bars will be.
Le Bon Air
During the summer, Marseille’s famed Notre Dame de la Garde cathedral opens its guinguette, or open-air bar. Admire one of the city’s most iconic spots while enjoying Provençal tapas and drinks. To check if it’s open for the season, take a peek at its Instagram.
All in all, Marseille is flooded with creative bars for every type of person. Whether you’re dying for sea views or want to sip like a local, these best bars in Marseille are ready to show you the flavor of this port city.
Did I miss a spot? Tell me in the comments, and follow me on Instagram for more France guides and tips.