Things To Do
in Châteauneuf-les-Martigues

Châteauneuf-les-Martigues is a charming commune located in the Bouches-du-Rhône department in southern France. Nestled between the Mediterranean coast and the Etang de Berre, it offers stunning natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage. The town is known for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant local markets, and proximity to the bustling city of Marseille.

Visitors can enjoy a mix of outdoor activities, historical sites, and delicious local cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Châteauneuf-les-Martigues
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and taste fresh produce.

afternoon
:

Explore the coastal paths along the Etang de Berre, enjoying the beautiful scenery and perhaps a picnic by the water.

evening
:

Dine at a local seafood restaurant and enjoy the sunset views over the Mediterranean.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Visit the historic church of Saint-Pierre, appreciating its architecture and serene surroundings.

afternoon
:

Take a short drive to nearby Parc de Figuerolles for a hike and explore the local flora and fauna.

evening
:

Enjoy a leisurely dinner at a bistro followed by a stroll through the town center to soak in the evening ambiance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15-30
Coffee$2-5
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2
🏨Hotel Night$70-120
🥖Baguette$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings and coastal views.
  • Rich local culture and cuisine.
  • Less crowded than major tourist destinations.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Public transport may be infrequent.
  • Fewer amenities compared to larger cities.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "Où est...?" - Where is...?
  • "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Je voudrais..." - I would like...

Places to Visit in Châteauneuf-les-Martigues

Visit one of these nice places.

Etang de Berre

A picturesque lake with stunning views and vibrant sunset colors, perfect for landscape photography.

Historic Old Town

The charming streets and architecture of the old town provide a captivating backdrop for street photography.

Coastal Paths

Scenic walking paths along the coast offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and ideal spots for nature shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Châteauneuf-les-Martigues

Châteauneuf-les-Martigues offers a delightful array of local dishes that reflect the rich culinary traditions of Provence, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Châteauneuf-les-Martigues Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bouillabaisse

A traditional fish stew originating from the region, made with a variety of fish, shellfish, and aromatic herbs.

Must-Try!

Panisse

Chickpea flour fritters that are crispy on the outside and soft inside, often enjoyed as a snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marché de Châteauneuf

A local market held weekly where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and artisanal products from the region.

Climate Guide

Weather

Châteauneuf-les-Martigues experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures often reach around 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 5°C (41°F). Rainfall is more frequent in autumn and winter, while spring brings mild and pleasant weather, perfect for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite greeting (Bonjour) is expected when entering shops or restaurants.

Table Manners

Keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) during meals as a sign of good manners.

Personal Space

Respect personal space and avoid overly familiar behavior unless invited.

Safety Guide

Safety

Châteauneuf-les-Martigues is generally a safe destination for travelers. Standard precautions should be taken, such as being aware of your surroundings, avoiding poorly lit areas at night, and securing personal belongings. Emergency services can be contacted via the European emergency number 112.

Tipping in Châteauneuf-les-Martigues

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory in France, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount (5-10%) is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot and sunny weather is typical, perfect for beach visits and water sports.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures with fewer tourists, ideal for hiking and exploring the local markets.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional rain; less crowded tourist attractions and a cozy atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Châteauneuf-les-Martigues at Night

Châteauneuf-les-Martigues has a relaxed nightlife scene, primarily centered around local bars and bistros. While it may not have the vibrancy of larger cities, there are a few cozy spots where locals gather for drinks and conversation. During the summer months, outdoor seating becomes popular, allowing patrons to enjoy the mild evenings under the stars.

Hiking in Châteauneuf-les-Martigues

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentier des Douaniers

A scenic coastal trail that stretches along the coast, providing breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and opportunities to explore local flora.

Parc de Figuerolles

This park offers a variety of hiking trails through lush landscapes, suitable for all skill levels and ideal for family outings.

Airports

How to reach Châteauneuf-les-Martigues by plane.

Marseille Provence Airport (MRS)

Located approximately 20 km from Châteauneuf-les-Martigues, this international airport offers flights to numerous destinations across Europe and beyond.

Getting Around

Walkability

Châteauneuf-les-Martigues is relatively walkable, especially in the town center where most attractions, shops, and restaurants are located. The town features pedestrian-friendly streets, but some areas may require walking along roads with limited sidewalks. It's advisable to wear comfortable shoes due to some uneven paths.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Predominantly French-speaking locals who enjoy a laid-back lifestyle and value community and family.

Tourists

Visitors from various regions, including Europe and beyond, attracted by the town's scenic beauty and cultural offerings.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a popular sport in the region, with local teams and community leagues actively participating.

Water Sports

Given its coastal location, water sports such as sailing, kayaking, and windsurfing are highly popular among locals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Châteauneuf-les-Martigues is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation includes buses that connect the town with nearby areas, although schedules may vary, particularly on weekends. It’s advisable to check local transport schedules in advance.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Châteauneuf-les-Martigues.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check their menus in advance.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are becoming more common; however, it's best to inquire directly with the restaurant.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Châteauneuf-les-Martigues is adequate, with several local clinics and hospitals available for residents and visitors. The town is serviced by the nearby city of Martigues, which has larger medical facilities. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for access to healthcare services.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide