Marseille — Port, sun and scene on the Mediterranean

Gay Marseille is a bit out of the ordinary suspects on the Mediterranean, as the city does not have a clearly defined gay district in the style of Paris or Barcelona. Spread over several corners lies queer life, with a clear focus around the Cours Julien in the 6th arrondissement. The quarter is considered an alternative, creative part of the city, full of street art and small bars with terraces. You won't find any pure trendy clubs here: The shops are mostly neighborhood addresses where a mixed audience of gay men, queer women and locals meet. Other bars are closer to the Old Port, the Vieux-Port, which is the natural centre for a visit to the city anyway.

The tone is Mediterranean and unpretentious: small terraces, regulars and music that goes more in the direction of house and techno than chart pop. In terms of prices, Marseille is noticeably below the Parisian level, with a drink costing around four to seven euros in most bars. In addition to the nightlife, the city is worth a whole day, from the Vieux-Port to the artists' quarter Le Panier to the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde, high above the rooftops and, in summer, the beaches along the Corniche. If you want to experience the weather warm and life outside, it is best to travel between late spring and early autumn. The area between Vieux-Port and Cours Julien is a good starting point, from which you can quickly connect the scene and sights on foot.