La Corniche was a place to see and be seen in 1920s Marseille, and it’s still a hotspot of people-watching, scenic views, and culture. Along its promenade, you can view the Iles du Frioul, the Prado beaches, the 19th-century villas juxtaposed with fisherman’s houses, the Chateau d’If (of The Count of Monte Cristo fame), in addition to accessing the seaside restaurants, stepping down to Catalans Beach, and more.
For places to stop, check out Chez Fonton, a local restaurant and Corniche institution; l’Épuisette, where a Michelin-starred chef operates out of an old house; and Le Petit Nice, a 3-star hotel and restaurant offering top-of-the-line service.
The roadway was named after US President John F. Kennedy, who was assassinated during its expansion.
Small monuments dot the entire path, like the Monument Aux Morts Des Orients, honoring World War I soldiers.
Steps at various points lead to beaches, the fishing village of Vallon des Auffes, and more.
La Corniche is a main roadway in Marseille, accessible via dozens of points between Catalans Beach and the Prado Beaches. If you have a vehicle, you can drive along it; parking is available at major points, like the beaches. You can also walk its length or take bus #83 from Vieux Port, which serves as transit and La Corniche sightseeing.
La Corniche Kennedy can get quite busy between cars, joggers, walkers, and sight-seers wanting to take in the views. Typically, Monday is the least busy day; you’ll also find fewer crowds early in the morning. Of course, if you’re there for the people-watching, come on a sunny Saturday afternoon.
Get ready for some epic sitting—the world’s longest bench can be found here on La Corniche. It runs for 1.8 miles (3 kilometers) along the promenade’s length, between the Pont de la Fausse-Monnaie and Hotel Sofitel Palm Beach. It’s concrete, truly part of the walkway, and makes stopping momentarily and appreciating the view a no-brainer, wherever you are.
