Bouches du Rhone
Looking for the perfect vacation destination that offers the ideal mix of sun, sea, nature, culture and culinary delights? Bouches du Rhone is calling you!
Located in the heart of the Mediterranean region Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, this department offers an impressive variety of landscapes and treasures to explore. From the dazzling beauty of Marseille’s calanques to the picturesque landscapes of the Alpilles in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, not to mention the exotic charm of the Camargue and the urban allure of Aix-en-Provence, the Bouches-du-Rhône promises a rich and varied experience.
We've put together a comprehensive tourist guide to help you explore the wonders of the Bouches du Rhone, discover its unmissable gems, immerse yourself in its Provencal culture, and enjoy its diverse range of activities and leisure pursuits. Whether you're a heritage enthusiast, a nature lover, a sports enthusiast or simply in search of relaxation, this department, rich in discoveries, is sure to please. Get ready for an exceptional experience in the Bouches du Rhône!
Discovering the must-sees of Bouches du Rhone
The Bouches-du-Rhône department is a mosaic of magnificent landscapes, rich history, and authentic traditions. Whether you’re drawn to vibrant cities, unspoiled nature, historical heritage, or Provençal traditions, this region, rich in diversity, is sure to meet your expectations. Discover below some of the gems of the Bouches-du-Rhône that will take you on a journey through time, art, and gastronomy.
Marseille, the vibrant heart of the region
Marseille, France’s second-largest city, is also its oldest, having been founded by the Greeks in the 6th century B.C. Today, it boasts a cosmopolitan and dynamic atmosphere, rich in remarkable cultural and historical heritage. Among the must-see attractions, the Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde Basilica offers a breathtaking view of the city and the Old Port. The MuCEM, a museum dedicated to European and Mediterranean civilizations; the Palais Longchamp, home to the Fine Arts and Natural History museums; and the Panier district are all essential stops. Marseille is also renowned for its cuisine, particularly bouillabaisse and navettes, orange blossom cookies.
The Calanques, a paradise between land and sea
The Calanques offer breathtaking scenery of limestone cliffs plunging into the Mediterranean Sea, forming coves with crystal-clear waters. Stretching from Marseille to Cassis, this protected national park is the perfect destination for hikers, kayakers, and divers—or for those who simply want to enjoy idyllic beaches. The Calanques are home to a unique biodiversity, including flamingos and Posidonia seagrass, set against a breathtaking natural backdrop.
Arles and the Camargue, a journey through time and nature
Arles, a city of art and history, reveals a heritage of rare richness dating from Roman times to the present day. It was a source of inspiration for Van Gogh and Picasso, whose influence can still be seen throughout the city. Just outside Arles lies the Camargue, a wild and mysterious region nestled between the branches of the Rhône River, boasting remarkable biodiversity—from white horses and black bulls to pink flamingos. The Camargue invites visitors to discover its varied landscapes, its culture, and its unique traditions through its cattle herds and votive festivals.
Aix-en-Provence, a city of water and art
Aix-en-Provence, known for its elegance and sophistication, charms visitors with its thermal heritage, exemplified by countless fountains. The Cours Mirabeau and its iconic Rotonde Fountain, the Place des Quatre-Dauphins, and the Place d’Albertas are among the city’s highlights. Aix is also a city of art, the birthplace of Cézanne and home to Zola. The Granet Museum, Cézanne’s studio, and the Musée du Vieil Aix offer a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural and artistic heritage.
Provençal Culture in the Spotlight
The Bouches du Rhône department shines with its exceptional culture, revealed through its unique gastronomy, rich traditions and remarkable heritage. Whether you're a gourmet, an enthusiast or a culture buff, there's something for everyone in this eclectic region.
Here are just a few of the fascinating facets of Provencal culture to explore in the Bouches du Rhône.
Savour the local gastronomy
Provençal cuisine, known for its exquisite flavors and rich array of colors and aromas, showcases local ingredients and Mediterranean influences. Be sure to try bouillabaisse, a savory fish stew; pistou soup, packed with vegetables and basil; ratatouille, a delicious vegetable stew; and tapenade, a paste made from black olives and capers. Goat cheese, calissons from Aix, navettes from Marseille, and candied fruit from Apt also enrich this culinary palette.
Provence wines, such as rosé from Bandol, red from Châteauneuf-du-Pape, or white from Cassis, are the perfect accompaniment to these dishes. Enjoy Provencal gastronomy in the department's many restaurants, markets and specialty stores.
Living traditions: festivals and markets
In the Bouches-du-Rhône, traditions are celebrated with joy and a spirit of togetherness. Throughout the year, take part in festive events that reflect the cultural richness of Provence. The Saint-Jean Festival, with its symbolic bonfires; the Christmas markets, showcasing local crafts and culinary specialties; the grape harvest festival, celebrating the grape harvest, and the ferias, where music, dance, and bullfighting come together, are all opportunities to celebrate.
Provençal markets, the true beating hearts of towns and villages, offer a unique opportunity to meet producers and buy fresh, local products such as fruits, vegetables, cheeses, honey, and even flowers. They’re also the perfect opportunity to discover local specialties like socca, panisses, and aioli.
Museums and historic sites: a rich heritage to explore
The Bouches-du-Rhône boasts an exceptional cultural and historical heritage, reflecting a prestigious past. Don’t miss the Arles Antique Departmental Museum and its treasures, such as the bust of Julius Caesar; the Palais des Papes in Avignon, the residence of the popes in the 14th century; the ancient theater of Orange, one of the best-preserved in Europe, and the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, with its art collections and themed gardens.
You can also admire the works of famous artists drawn to Provence—such as Paul Cézanne, Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Marc Chagall—in museums dedicated to them or at the sites they frequented.
Activities and leisure: what to do in Bouches du Rhône?
The Bouches-du-Rhône department is a destination that will charm visitors with its wide range of activities and recreational opportunities, catering to all tastes and ages. Whether you’re looking for sports thrills, adventure, relaxation, or cultural discoveries, this diverse region is sure to fascinate you.
Let's take a look at some of the not-to-be-missed leisure activities in the Bouches du Rhône.
Hiking and nature discovery
With its diverse and breathtaking natural landscapes, the Bouches-du-Rhône offers the ideal setting for hiking, biking, or horseback riding. Explore the trails of the calanques—those magnificent coves with turquoise waters, lined with white cliffs, stretching from Marseille to Cassis. Explore the Sainte-Victoire mountain range—a source of inspiration for painter Paul Cézanne—for a breathtaking view of Provence.
Set out to explore the Camargue, a wild region home to white horses, black bulls, and pink flamingos, or venture into the Verdon Gorge—Europe’s largest canyon—to admire spectacular panoramic views and enjoy whitewater sports.
Beaches and water sports
With more than 200 kilometers of coastline, the Bouches-du-Rhône region offers beaches with fine sand, pebbles, and even rocks—something for everyone. Enjoy the sunshine and the laid-back lifestyle along the shores of the Côte Bleue, the Côte d’Azur, or the Camargue. Try your hand at—or hone your skills in—sailing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, surfing, scuba diving, or jet skiing.
Set out on boat tours to explore the Frioul Islands, Île Verte, the Riou Archipelago, and the Calanques. Be sure to visit the Château d’If, made famous by *The Count of Monte Cristo*, or the Planier Lighthouse, the tallest in France.
Unusual guided tours
With a rich historical and cultural heritage, the Bouches-du-Rhône region offers unique and entertaining guided tours. Learn gladiator techniques in the Arles amphitheater, dating back to the 1st century A.D. Take a walk accompanied by llamas in the Aix countryside and enjoy their soothing presence.
Discover traditional candle-making in Tarascon and create your own candle. Immerse yourself in local culture in Marseille by taking part in a friendly game of pétanque with local residents.
Bouches du Rhone - Conclusion
The Bouches du Rhône department welcomes you with an incredible variety of opportunities to explore, have fun, and indulge. Whether your passion is nature, culture, fine dining, or simply festivities, this rich and diverse region is sure to satisfy all your desires. Discover iconic sites such as Marseille, the Calanques, Arles, the Camargue, and Aix-en-Provence, and let yourself be transported through the ages by the art and splendor of these places.
Immerse yourself in Provençal culture, discover its traditions, savor its cuisine, and explore its heritage to fully appreciate the region’s richness and diversity. Enjoy a variety of activities—hiking, a day at the beach, water sports, or even unique guided tours—to create memorable and enriching experiences.
Don't wait any longer—plan your getaway to the Bouches-du-Rhône right away and take the opportunity to discover everything this magnificent region has to offer. It’s an experience you certainly won’t regret!
Bouches du Rhone - FAQ
What are the main towns in Bouches-du-Rhône?
The major cities in the Bouches-du-Rhône department include Marseille, Aix-en-Provence, Arles, and Martigues, which stand out for their large populations according to the 2007 census. These urban centers also serve as the administrative seats of the department’s four arrondissements.
What do we call the inhabitants of Bouches-du-Rhone?
Bouches-du-Rhône residents are known as Bucco-Rhodaniens, a name inspired by the department's location at the mouths of the Rhône.
Why are the Bouches-du-Rhone so named?
The name Bouches-du-Rhône refers to the department’s location at the mouth of the Rhône River, which splits into several branches, forming a delta. This name dates back to 1790, when the department was created, encompassing part of the former province of Provence as well as certain neighboring principalities.
What is the number assigned to the Bouches-du-Rhone department?
The Bouches-du-Rhône department is numbered 13, an identification assigned by INSEE and La Poste based on the alphabetical order of French department names.
