Cours Julien - a brick wall with writing on it in front of a building
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Cours Julien

4.5
·486 reviews·Marseille, France

Marseille's vibrant heart, Cours Julien pulses with colorful street art, eclectic shops, and a lively atmosphere day and night.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Vibrant atmosphere and nightlife

CrowdHigh
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Cours Julien - a brick wall with writing on it in front of a building

Cours Julien

Best Time

Evenings

Vibrant atmosphere and nightlife

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Marseille's vibrant heart, Cours Julien pulses with colorful street art, eclectic shops, and a lively atmosphere day and night.

4.5
(486 reviews)

"Cool area with many nice food places and vintage shopping. Lot’s of graffiti everywhere. Loved the vibe."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Art

Bring your camera! The street art is constantly evolving and offers incredible photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the art and shops, so wear comfy shoes. :athletic_shoe:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Graffiti & Street Art

Graffiti & Street Art

Wander through a living gallery of vibrant murals and intricate graffiti art that adorns every surface.

The Cool Staircase

The Cool Staircase

Central staircase area

A famous graffiti-covered staircase that's a must-see photo op and a symbol of the area's artistic flair.

Sidewalk Cafes & Vintage Shops

Sidewalk Cafes & Vintage Shops

Discover unique vintage treasures and enjoy a coffee or meal at one of the many charming sidewalk cafes.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Art & Vibe

Cours Julien is a vibrant hub for street art and local culture. Expect a lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings. It's a great spot for unique finds and soaking in Marseille's creative spirit.

Nightlife & Atmosphere

This district truly comes alive after dark, buzzing with energy and music. While perfect for a night out with friends, some find it can get a bit noisy. It's a popular spot for the younger crowd.

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Vibrant atmosphere and nightlife
Crowd
High
When
Daytime
Why
Explore street art and shops
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

1 Month in Marseille

📸 Capture the Art

Bring your camera! The street art is constantly evolving and offers incredible photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the art and shops, so wear comfy shoes. :athletic_shoe:

reddit.com

Two days in Marseille

reddit.com

where do young people get drinks in marseille?

🌃 Nighttime Buzz

Experience the lively nightlife, but be aware it can get noisy. Perfect for a fun night out. :musical_note:

🛍️ Vintage Finds

Hunt for unique vintage clothing and quirky items in the many independent shops. :shopping_bags:

reddit.com

Exploring Marseille

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Art

Bring your camera! The street art is constantly evolving and offers incredible photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the art and shops, so wear comfy shoes. :athletic_shoe:

🌃 Nighttime Buzz

Experience the lively nightlife, but be aware it can get noisy. Perfect for a fun night out. :musical_note:

🛍️ Vintage Finds

Hunt for unique vintage clothing and quirky items in the many independent shops. :shopping_bags:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(486 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Cours Julien is celebrated for its incredible street art, vibrant atmosphere, and unique vintage shopping. Visitors love the bohemian vibe and the lively nightlife, though some find it can get quite noisy in the evenings. It's a must-visit for its artistic flair and energetic spirit.

"Cool area with many nice food places and vintage shopping. Lot’s of graffiti everywhere. Loved the vibe."

Isa

"V cool laid back district with stunning graffiti and murals"

Gideon Cristofoli

"It's beautiful at night but can be a little too noisy sometimes. It's perfect for the younger generation to enjoy a night out with friends"

Raafat Osman

What People Like

Stunning street art
Vibrant nightlife
Unique vintage shops

What People Dislike

Can be noisy

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Cours Julien is easily accessible by public transport. The metro line 1 (La Rose - Bougainville) has a station named 'La Timone' which is a short walk away, or you can take tram lines T1 or T2 to the 'Belsunce-Alcazar' stop. Many visitors also find it a pleasant walk from the city center. :bus: :metro:

Yes, Cours Julien is relatively central and walkable from areas like the Old Port (Vieux Port) and Le Panier, though it's a bit of an uphill climb. It's a great way to see more of the city on foot. :walking:

Driving to Cours Julien can be challenging due to narrow streets and limited parking. It's generally recommended to use public transport or a taxi/rideshare service. If you do drive, look for parking garages in the vicinity. :car:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Cours Julien is a public neighborhood and does not require tickets for entry. You can freely wander its streets and admire the art. :free:

Cours Julien is always open as it's a public area. However, individual shops, cafes, and bars have their own operating hours, with many coming alive in the afternoon and evening. :clock1:

The street art in Cours Julien is part of the urban landscape and is free to view. It's an open-air gallery for everyone to enjoy. :art:

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Cours Julien is famous for its incredible street art, vibrant nightlife, unique vintage shops, and numerous cafes and restaurants. It's a place to explore, shop, eat, and soak in the local atmosphere. :sparkles:

While Cours Julien is lively at night, it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings, as with any bustling urban area. It's generally considered safe, especially in the main areas with many people around. :shield:

You'll find a fantastic array of independent boutiques, vintage clothing stores, record shops, art galleries, and craft stores. It's a treasure trove for unique finds. :gift:

Absolutely! Cours Julien boasts a diverse culinary scene with everything from casual cafes and creperies to more upscale restaurants offering various cuisines. :pizza: :coffee:

Cours Julien is more geared towards adults and young adults due to its nightlife and edgy vibe. While families can visit during the day to see the art, it might not be the primary destination for young children. :family_restroom:

📸 📸 Photography

The entire area is a photographer's dream! Don't miss the iconic graffiti-covered staircase, the colorful murals on various buildings, and the lively street scenes. The vibrant art provides endless backdrops. :camera:

For the best light and fewer crowds, consider visiting in the late morning or early afternoon. However, the area has a different charm at night with its neon lights and buzzing atmosphere, offering unique photographic opportunities. :sunriseovermountains:

While it's a public space, it's always respectful to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals. Street photography is common, but be mindful of privacy. :iphone:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Photographers

Cours Julien is your paradise! Prepare to be amazed by the sheer volume and creativity of the street art. Dedicate ample time to wander and discover hidden gems. The graffiti staircase is a must-capture shot. Visit during the day for optimal lighting and fewer crowds, but don't discount the unique atmosphere at night. TikTokInstagram

Bring your best camera gear and be ready to fill your memory cards. Look for unique angles and details in the murals. Remember to be respectful of the art and the neighborhood as you explore and photograph. :camerawithflash: :art:

🛍️ Shoppers Seeking Unique Finds

If you love vintage clothing, quirky boutiques, and independent shops, Cours Julien is your go-to destination. Spend an afternoon browsing through racks of unique fashion, discovering handmade crafts, and picking up one-of-a-kind souvenirs. It's a far cry from typical tourist shops. Reddit

Don't be afraid to explore the smaller side streets, as that's often where the most interesting boutiques are hidden. You might find anything from retro fashion to artisanal goods. It's a great place to find something truly special that reflects the bohemian spirit of Marseille. :shopping_bags: :gift:

🌃 Night Owls & Social Butterflies

Cours Julien truly shines after dark, offering a lively and energetic nightlife scene. It's the perfect spot to meet up with friends, enjoy a cocktail at one of the many bars, and soak in the buzzing atmosphere. The area is known for its vibrant social scene, especially popular with a younger crowd. Instagram

Be prepared for a lively, and at times noisy, environment. The abundance of bars and cafes means you'll have plenty of choices for your evening entertainment. It’s a great place to experience the authentic, spirited side of Marseille after sunset. :musical_note: :cocktail:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Cours Julien

Cours Julien is renowned as Marseille's epicenter of street art. The neighborhood is a dynamic canvas, with walls, staircases, and even entire buildings adorned with vibrant murals and intricate graffiti. This isn't just random tagging; it's a curated outdoor gallery showcasing local and international artists. The art is constantly evolving, meaning each visit can offer new discoveries. Many creators highlight the sheer density and quality of the artwork, making it a must-see for art enthusiasts. TikTokInstagram

Beyond the visual spectacle, the street art in Cours Julien reflects the cultural identity and social commentary of Marseille. It's a space where artists express themselves freely, often touching on themes relevant to the city's history, diversity, and contemporary issues. The famous graffiti staircase is a prime example, a visually stunning piece that has become an iconic landmark. Exploring this area is like walking through a living, breathing art exhibition that changes with the seasons and artistic trends. Reddit

Vibrant Nightlife and Atmosphere

As the sun sets, Cours Julien transforms into a hub of Marseille's nightlife. The streets come alive with music spilling from bars, lively chatter from outdoor seating, and a palpable sense of energy. It's particularly popular with the younger generation looking for a place to socialize, enjoy drinks, and experience the city's vibrant evening scene. Instagram

While the atmosphere is undeniably exciting, some visitors note that it can become quite noisy, especially on weekends. This is part of its charm for many, offering a quintessential urban nightlife experience. If you're looking for a buzzing environment with plenty of options for drinks and entertainment, Cours Julien after dark is the place to be. However, if you prefer a quieter evening, it might be best to visit during the day or explore other parts of the city. Reddit

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