The old quarter of Marseille, picturesque and multicultural
Le Panier , the oldest neighborhood, is the best exponent of the new Marseille scene , design-focused, protective of its multi-racial essence and scrupulously organic. The quarter in which he lived Napoleon with his mother and his sisters he maintains that scoundrel point as portly and foul-mouthed as it is appetizing and is a little babel in the middle of the Orthodox Côte d'Azur.
Almost hanging from the port, this steep labyrinth of shady streets and alleys where small squares and cafes spring up like mushrooms, is a street trend lab . Art galleries, ateliers for young creators, vintage clothing stores, North African-inspired restaurants, appetizing terraces and a very clear philosophy: claim a place of honor for Marseille on the international art scene.
Le Panier, the oldest neighborhood
It greatly facilitates the task barrage of young neighbors , recently landed in their independence, with suitcases full of talent, and wanting to take on the world starting with this privileged corner . We have followed in their footsteps to offer you a tour of the most sought-after addresses in Le Panier . A route that will return the pleasure of traveling to discover.
1. PLACE DES MOULINS
is the quintessence of the sunny calm that the neighborhood transmits . A small provencal square that still preserves three mills from the 18th century and where there is no shortage of fountains, schools, trees, or benches to read the newspaper on clear mornings.
a provencal square
two. RUE LE PANIER
The street that articulates the neighborhood and where you will end up passing no matter what you wear. white and steep, it is full of treasures . To start the flirty Au Vieux Panier Hostel , a delight if you like personalized service, design details and freshly squeezed juice. Right in front you will find the Manolo's , a small and alternative tapas bar with fornica tables and recycled lamps, which is the first to open and of course the last to close. Perfect if you want to exchange impressions with the most talkative regulars.
If you like sexy clothes with a powerful exotic touch – that garment that will force everyone to look at you - you can not stop visiting adjanas , the colorful boutique of a young woman from Togo that she has managed to merge in the elegant Asian forms with the thunderous African color . Her dresses and tops are irresistible.
The charming Au Vieux Panier Hostel
3. PLACE DE LORETTE
Another emblematic and cozy little square where two surprises await us. **The minimalist Vidéochroniques art gallery **, a spacious venue where the most eccentric proposals show off without complexes and where you can appreciate the beauty of the region's architecture in all its splendor. It hosts well-known temporary exhibitions and their inaugurations become the great event of the crazy bohemia . Don't miss the magnificent coffered ceiling.
If you want to try the best cous cous of your life, book a table at the restaurant Place Lorette , you will live a colorful experience and you will leave in love with the harissa that he prepares following the traditional recipe the mother of its owner Sarah Newi , that hand in hand with Alex , her current partner, They have converted this old hospital into the most appetizing restaurant in the neighborhood . You can also rent it for special events and while you eat enjoy the fantastic moroccan design that fills the room. Nothing better than waiting for the sunset on your terrace with a delicious Moorish tea.
Best Couscous at Place Lorette
Four. RUE DE L'EVÈCHE
If you like unique clothes, do not stop falling into temptation in Cecile aux Etoiles , at number 28. Daring proposals that its creator will suggest to you while she tells you the origins of her inspiration . At 38 you will find a gallery-atelier with delicious design: Le Gahlia Noir . Pictures, furniture, textiles, accessories and above all many good ideas for turn your house into a dazzling place . An initiative that started in 2010 thanks to a group of women designers and whose name has not stopped rising since then. You will want to take it all.
The same thing will happen to you birdsong , a charming boutique with the very personal touch of its owner, the restless traveler My-Linh Mary , half French, half Vietnamese, definitely a privileged talent when it comes to designing jewelry, clothing and accessories.
A cute boutique
5. RUE DES REPENTIES
Pay attention to the name of the street because it speaks of weekly walk to the Church given by prostitutes rescued -or repentant- by the community . Far from its history today this little alley is the kingdom of the young artist Julien Cassar and of all his friends and acquaintances dedicated to art. Since 2012 the pop gallery Und Art Ground exhibits and sells the best works of the city's artistic avant-garde and the clientele multiplies every month.
Marseilles , famous for its spectacular graffiti, manages to make them accessible and transportable in this space that in summer is the ideal place to take the first, listen live music and go with the flow that day is fashionable . To see a rarity typical of the neighborhood you have to turn the corner and reach the Rue des Petit Puits . There, we will be surprised by the facade of Miguel , decorated to the millimeter in paper mache . A photographable point that lives by the will and that evolves as the weather dictates, since the The rains undo the creation and Miguel has to start over.
Marseille, famous for its spectacular graffiti
6. RUE SAINTE FRANÇOISE
Nothing better than saying goodbye to the neighborhood while having some wines in the cheerful Bar of 13 coins , a classic that seals the experience and ensures the good memories thanks to the good vibes of its parishioners , imbued with the best Mediterranean spirit and absolutely willing to enjoy life . While you browse on its terrace, do not forget to notice the personalized decoration of its bollards , Yes, they are smiling at you.
A bar with a very good vibe
Yes, they are smiling at you