Vitrolles

The village dating from the 5th century has been remarkably preserved. The narrow streets wind around a hillock dominated by a rock topped by the Saracen Tower and the Sainte-Anne chapel. As you wander through the old streets, you can discover the remains of the old ramparts and historic houses, admire the facade of the Saint Gerard Church built in the Renaissance or linger on the Place de la République, near the fountain which has been paying homage since 1894 to the arrival of the waters of the Durance into the city.

Vitrolles, a plural city, is also a seaside resort bathed by the Etang de Berre. The beach of Les Marettes has been developed and has become a paradise for bathing lovers. You will find restaurants there to have lunch or dinner with your feet in the water. Nature activities are also numerous. You can follow the path leading to the source of the Infernet, or hike in the nearby Rove massif.

In the heart of the Bouches-du-Rhône, the town of Vitrolles is ideally located near the major tourist sites of Provence: Marseille and Aix-en-Provence are less than half an hour away by car, Arles awaits you at one hour drive. The ancient arenas, the MuCEM, the Cours Mirabeau, the Granet museum, the paths of the Calanques or the Sainte-Victoire are just a few ideas among an infinite number of activities.

Marseille, Arles or Aix-en-Provence

Vitrolles is ideally located to discover three of the most touristic cities of the department.

Marseille is famous for its museums and monuments. You can easily visit from Vitrolles the Mucem, the Museum of History of Marseille, the replica of the Cosquer Cave, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Cantini Museum, the Palais Longchamp, Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde, and many other museums and monuments in Marseille.

The city of Aix-en-Provence is also close to Vitrolles. You can walk along the Cours Mirabeau and in the pedestrianised historic centre, visit the Granet Museum, Paul Cézanne’s studio, the Camp des Milles Memorial and the many other museums in the city.

Not far away, the ancient city of Arles is renowned for its monuments dating back to Roman times. The Arles Arena, in particular, is in excellent condition.

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The source of the Infernet

Situated between Vitrolles and Pennes-Mirabeau, the Infernet ravine offers a walk on the banks of a small river. In the hollow of the valley hides a spring which brings a welcome freshness. You can then extend your walk by going into the garrigue until you dominate the surrounding countryside.

The hills around Vitrolles appeal to hikers, cyclists and lovers of wide open spaces.

The old village of Vitrolles

The historic village of Vitrolles was built around a rocky outcrop from the 5th century. A walk through the narrow streets will allow you to admire the beautiful old houses. At the top of the rocky outcrop, you can discover the Notre-Dame-de-Vie chapel, built in the Middle Ages, and an ancient medieval tower.

From the top of the rocky outcrop you can enjoy a panoramic view of Vitrolles, the Etang de Berre and the hills of Rove.

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Practical information

You can visit Vitrolles, a city located in the heart of a very touristic area.

Location: Vitrolles is located north of Marseille, on the banks of the Etang de Berre. The Marseille Provence international airport is located in Marignane, a neighbouring town of Vitrolles.
Accommodation: Many hotels and bed and breakfasts welcome you in Vitrolles. You can also find a campsite in the area, especially on the nearby Côte Bleue.
Market days: every Tuesday morning (Place de Provence, city centre), every Wednesday morning (Place de l’Amitié – Les Pinchinades), every Thursday morning (Place de L’Aire – Old Village), every Friday morning (Place de la Liberté – media library La Passerelle), every Sunday morning (Place de Provence, Centre ville)
Tourist Office (address): 10 Av. Maréchal Joffre
Tourist Office (phone): (+33)4 42 77 90 27
Official website: https://www.vitrolles13.fr/