Marseille archivos - VOLARE MAGAZINE

In June-July 2026, the streets of many European cities will be packed with people, colour, music and the drive to party and protest during Pride, a mix of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transsexual, asexual, intersex, and queer pride demonstrations. Here are some ideas on how to spent this Pride in Volotea destinations, from Italy to Greece and right through to France. Break out the rainbow flags!

World Pride Day, celebrated on 28 June all over the world to reclaim the rights of LGBTQI+ people, is the real core of Pride, i.e. all those festivals and parades that aim to give visibility to homosexual, bisexual, queer, trans and other people and promote the freedom and social acceptance of every individual regardless of their sexual orientation and gender identity.

Taking part in Pride is a unique opportunity to celebrate the wealth of diversity and demand greater protection for all and that more rights be recognised. But we also need to have some fun along the way!

Euro Pride 2026

In Europe, the biggest event of the year is being held in Amsterdam for EuroPride 2026. This vibrant Dutch capital, cradle of canals, art and history, where urban life intertwines with the charm of its bridges and façades, becomes the capital of LGBTQ+ Pride, hosting the most eagerly awaited EuroPride. The dates for your calendar are 25 July to 8 August 2026, with a special mention to Saturday, August 8, the day on which the grand parade will take place, marking the peak of an amazing week full of activities, including shows, theatre performances, concerts and conferences. This year’s theme is UNITY, a call to celebrate solidarity and unity within the community.

In addition to EuroPride, the most popular events in Europe are held in Madrid and Paris.

One of the largest Pride events in the world is held in Madrid, a major LGBTQIA+ destination and a diversity capital. More than 2 million people take part every year, and there many concerts, festivities, and cultural events. The Orgullo festivities start on June 25 and end on the first Sunday of July, with the high point being the vibrant Pride Parade of Saturday 4 July.

Paris is also getting ready for a colourful invasion. Every year the French capital welcomes over half a million people who take part in the largest Pride event in France: in 2026, it will be held from 20-27 June. Don’t miss the fantastic Marche des Fiertés parade on Saturday 27 June. It’s a mix of party-vibes, unruliness, and activism that you cannot miss!

But in addition to these two main celebrations, it’s also worth discovering other events in different European cities that you can reach on a Volotea flight. Don’t forget to pack your party gear and rainbow t-shirts!

Salento Pride

Salento is one of the most popular summer destinations in Italy, particularly among young people and the gay community. From June to September, towns in Salento are filled with tourists, music, festivities, and events for every taste. During the Salento Pride, more and more important over the years, the LGBTQIA+ community, the locals, and tourists come together to have fun and demonstrate.
This year, Pride will be celebrated in the splendid city of Lecce, just a few kilometres from Brindisi, on Saturday 18 July 2026.

Naples Pride

Napoli Pride is one of the most interesting and vibrant Pride events in southern Italy. This year, the activities are being held the 27th of June and include a Pride Parade and numerous initiatives focusing on the themes of freedom and civil rights.

The parade will cross the city to raise awareness about key issues for the LGBT+ movement such asmarriage equality, citizenship by birth, and legislation against homophobia and transphobia. And, of course, it’s a call for peace, a great opportunity to discover a wonderful city, Naples, that carries creativity, openness, and extravagance in its DNA.

Palermo Pride

You probably associate Sicily with good food, beaches, and the island’s millenary history. But a big Pride parade is also held every year in Palermo, promoted by various movements and organisations; a very lively event that all can join. In the city, people return to the square to have fun and make their voices heard on Saturday 20 June. And if between one fashion show and the next you get hungry, take a look at our tips on what to eat or have for a delicious snack in Palermo, a real mecca of street food and delicious Sicilian gastronomy.

Marseille Pride

Marseille has a reputation for being a proud, confrontational and somewhat anarchic city. What better place to celebrate Pride? If you visit this city, known for its strong character, the oldest and second largest in France, between end of June and beginning of July, you will be able to take part in many activism, cultural, and festive events run by the associations and companies on the Marseille Pride Committee. The grand parade on 4 July will close the event in style.

Bordeaux Pride

To start experiencing the festive and rebellious atmosphere of Pride, your trip around Europe may just start in Bordeaux. This southern French city will be one of the first to celebrate gay pride on Saturday 30 May 2026. Organised by the Lesbian & Gay Pride Bordeaux association, which fights for the rights of LGBT people, thousands of activists and supporters take part in the parade every year. An event not to be missed if you too want to participate in the fight for equal rights and against discrimination due to sexual orientation. And all in a fairy-tale setting: the historic centre of Bordeaux, a World Heritage Site whose local wines are famous all over the world!

Bilbao Pride

Anyone who wants to take part in Pride events in Spain is spoilt for choice: from Madrid to party-central, gay-friendly Sitges, Barcelona and Ibiza; there are tonnes of events for whatever floats your boat. In the north, one of the most interesting and growing destinations for “Pride tourism” is Bilbao. Behind its industrial, artistic and foodie exterior, the capital of the Basque Country hides a rainbow soul that it unveils every year during Pride. This year, Bilbao is waiting to welcome the varied crowds ready to party the 25, 26, 27 and 28 of June, that between a pintxo, a visit to the Guggenheim and a ride on the surfboard, will participate in an eventful festival that supports LGBT visibility and diversity. The highlight of Bilbao Pride is the Saturday 27 June parade, where a fleet parades! The party boats are decorated in bright rainbow colours and leave from the Bilbao estuary to sail down the river. It’s a once in a lifetime experience!

Athens Pride

The Greek capital is a fantastic destination for all types of travellers: those looking for history and culture, beach lovers, families, and young people who can’t wait to go out at night. If you choose to visit Athens between 12 – 14 June 2026 you will be able to take part in their Pride 2026 (the main event of the year for the Greek LGBTQI + community) and enjoy the city at its best: in June temperatures are very pleasant and the days are very long! The main Athens Pride parade will take place on Saturday 13 June and, as stated on the event website , the goal is to continue to fight strongly for the community’s rights, now more than ever.

Have we convinced you to go and discover the best Pride events in Europe? If you are looking for other great plans for the summer, get inspired by our articles on the best beaches and outdoor activities!

Experiencing football while travelling doesn’t always mean buying a ticket for a match. Sometimes it’s enough to walk through an empty stadium, sit in the right bar, follow the murals of a local hero or stroll through a neighbourhood where the team colours are part of the cityscape. From Marseille to Naples or from Bilbao to Barcelona, these destinations offer a unique way to experience Europe through its passion for football.

or many travellers, football provides the perfect excuse for a city break. There’s no need to organise your trip around a sports calendar or buy tickets for a major fixture; you can soak up the atmosphere by visiting stadiums, museums, historic shops, bars frequented by fans, and neighbourhoods where the club is part of the local identity.

In many European cities, football serves as a gateway to exploring broader themes such as history, belonging, popular memory, neighbourhood pride, and urban culture. Here are some ideas for a football weekend in Volotea destinations, designed for those who want to combine travel, city life and a passion for football without making the trip purely about sport.

Marseille: the Vélodrome and a city that pulses with blue and white

In Marseille, football more than just another form of entertainment. Olympique de Marseille is part of everyday conversation, part of the city’s visual identity and part of a very intense way of experiencing belonging. Even those who do not follow Ligue 1 quickly realise that OM occupies a special place here.

The natural starting point is the Orange Vélodrome, one of France’s most iconic stadiums. Visiting it is a way of discovering the city’s history through its club and of remembering that football here is experienced almost like a religion, giving OM an aura that is unmatched by any other club in France.

A visit to the stadium allows you to explore areas usually reserved for match days: the stands, behind-the-scenes areas, tunnels and changing rooms, as well as spaces connected to the club’s history. You don’t have to be an OM supporter to enjoy it. The most interesting aspect is understanding why this stadium holds such significance in a port city shaped by diversity, popular culture and local pride.

The plan can be completed at the Vieux-Port, where football appears in a less organised but equally present way: shirts, conversations on terraces, bars showing matches and a distinctively Marseillais energy. If there is a match that weekend, even without a ticket, simply going to a bar before kick-off is enough to feel the atmosphere. If not, a visit to the Vélodrome remains highly representative and compact, and is perfect to combine with a walk along the Corniche, through Noailles or Le Panier.

Naples: Maradona as living memory

Few European cities live and breathe football with the emotional intensity of Naples. There, SSC Napoli is much more than just a club, and Diego Armando Maradona is much more than a former player: he is a popular figure, almost a family presence, visible in altars, murals, shops, shirts and souvenirs.

The clearest route begins in the Quartieri Spagnoli district, where one of the most famous Maradona murals can be found, located at Via Emanuele de Deo 60, an area now known to many visitors as Largo Maradona. The mural was created in 1990 by Mario Filardi to celebrate Napoli’s second scudetto and has become a true place of football pilgrimage.

This walk does not need much planning. The best approach is to walk along Via Tole enter the Quartieri Spagnoli and let the tributes appear: flags, photos, small altars, souvenir shops, names written on walls. Football here is not enclosed in a museum. It is in the street.

For those who want to extend the route, another important stop is the large Maradona mural in San Giovanni a Teduccio. Created by the artist Jorit in 2017, it commemorates the 30th anniversary of Napoli’s first scudetto. As it is further from the centre, it is worth including only if you have more time.

A football weekend in Naples could end with a pizza, a beer and a conversation about Napoli in any bar, as the subject comes up almost without trying. In this city, football is not visited: it is breathed.

Bilbao: San Mamés and a unique identity

Bilbao offers a very different football experience. Here, it’s not so much about exuberance on the streets as it is about a very particular sporting identity: that of Athletic Club, one of Europe’s most unique clubs thanks to its philosophy, history and bond with the territory.

The key venue is San Mamés, known as “La Catedral”. The stadium is located right in the urban centre, on Calle Rafael Moreno “Pichichi”, and Athletic Club offers a museum with more than 1,000 original memorabilia items and 900 videos to understand the club’s history since 1898. The stadium visit allows you to tour the ground individually with an audio guide or in a group with a tour guide, depending on the chosen option.

One interesting aspect of Bilbao is how naturally football fits into a gastronomic and urban escape. In the morning, you can visit San Mamés, then walk towards the Ensanche or the Casco Viejo and finish with pintxos at a local bar. The club cannot be understood in isolation from the city; it is integral to how Bilbao presents itself to the world.

For travellers who already know the Guggenheim or are looking for a more authentic side to the city, San Mamés offers a different perspective: it is modern, emotional and quintessentially local. Although it is a new stadium, it has a long history behind it. And that can be felt..

Barcelona: Camp Nou as a myth in transformation

Barcelona is one of the world’s great football capitals, and although the Barça experience is currently going through a transitional period with the transformation of Spotify Camp Nou, it is still well worth seeing. Visiting it can therefore be interesting, not only as a historic site, but also as a stadium in the process of change.The club currently offers experiences linked to the Barça Stadium Tour & Museum, with an updated museum, immersive spaces, and visits adapted to the ongoing stadium renovations. It is the perfect place to explore the world of Barça, with areas dedicated to Leo Messi, European trophies and interactive content. During the renovation works, the format of some traditional visits to the pitch or changing rooms may vary, so it is advisable to check the available options beforehand.

Beyond the stadium, the footballing spirit of Barcelona can be found throughout the city. Barça can be felt in shops, neighbourhood bars, shirts, souvenirs and conversations, as well as in a sporting culture that extends beyond men’s football. The women’s team, the academy, the rivalry with Espanyol and the club’s global dimension all form part of the experience.

For a weekend, the plan can be simple: a morning spent exploring the museum and the area around Camp Nou, followed by lunch in Les Corts or Sarrià. Then, an afternoon exploring the city, followed by an evening watching football in a bar if there is a match. Even without entering the stadium, getting a feel for its surroundings helps you to understand the symbolic significance of the club in Barcelona.

Lyon: football, a modern stadium and an urban getaway

Lyon may not be as famous for football as Marseille or Naples, but it is a city with a strong sporting tradition and a very interesting scene for those who want to combine football, gastronomy and a city break.

Groupama Stadium, home of Olympique Lyonnais, offers stadium tours and the OL Le Musée. The museum is included among the proposals covered by the Lyon City Card and opens throughout the year on weekends, with services such as a shop, restaurant, guided tours and Wi-Fi. The stadium visit allows you to explore the inner workings of the club and learn about its recent history, particularly its dominance in the 2000s and the significance of its academy.

Lyon is a good option for those who don’t want football to dominate their entire trip. You can dedicate a morning to the stadium and spend the rest of the weekend exploring Vieux Lyon, the Presqu’Île, the traboules, the bouchons and the riverside atmosphere along the Rhône and Saône. Here, football is just one of many attractions, adding to the city’s strong gastronomic and heritage identity without overshadowing it.

Palermo: rosanero football and Sicilian popular culture

Palermo brings a different energy to a football trip than Naples does. It is less mythological, perhaps, but very closely tied to the city’s everyday life. Here, football is lived in pink and black, the colours of Palermo FC, a club that is part of the local imagination and embodies the intense, Mediterranean, deeply popular nature of the city.

The key reference point is the Stadio Renzo Barbera, located in the La Favorita area, not far from the Parco della Favorita and the road towards Mondello. The stadium, known as La Favorita for years, is the home of Palermo FC and is one of those places where the atmosphere starts to build before the match, with rosanero shirts, groups of supporters, nearby bars and food stalls, and conversations mixing football, neighbourhood and city.

For those who cannot coincide with a match, the Palermo Museum inside the stadium is a good alternative. The route allows visitors to discover the club’s history through shirts, photographs, memorabilia, documents and audiovisual content from different eras of the team. It is a short but insightful visit, perfect for understanding the bond between Palermo and its footballing identity, independently of the sporting calendar.

The getaway can be completed very naturally. In the morning, take a walk through the historic centre and visit the Ballarò or Il Capo markets. Then, visit the Renzo Barbera stadium or the club museum. If the weather allows, spend the afternoon in Mondello and end the day by the sea. This blend of football, street life, popular food and the Mediterranean is the essence of Palermo.

Palermo proves that a city does not need to have the most famous club in Europe to offer an authentic football experience. Sometimes, all it takes is a characterful stadium, distinctive colours, and supporters who see football as an integral part of their city.

How to organise a football getaway without going to the match

The key is not to rely only on the calendar. A good football weekend should be built around three elements: an emblematic location, a local experience and free time to see the city.

The emblematic place can be a stadium, a museum or a mural, for example. The local experience could be a bar, a market, a street where fans gather or a historic shop. Free time is also essential to avoid an overly rigid itinerary.

Before travelling, it is worth finding out about tour schedules, museum opening times and possible changes due to works or events. It is also worth checking whether there is a match that weekend, even if you do not buy a ticket: the stadium surroundings or the city’s bars may offer enough of an experience to give you a taste of the atmosphere.

Travelling through football doesn’t mean missing out on seeing the city. Quite the opposite: it often helps you to understand it better. After all, clubs embody pride, memory, neighbourhood, rivalries, a sense of belonging and ways of coming together. For a curious traveller, this can be as revealing as a historic square or a major museum.A football weekend in Europe doesn’t have to end in the stands. It could begin with a coffee overlooking the port in Marseille, continue in front of a Maradona mural in Naples, take in the Cathedral of San Mamés, or include a visit to the Barça museum while Camp Nou undergoes a transformation. The important thing is to let the ball set the route, but not the whole journey.

On April 23, books take to the streets and cities become literary stages. An invitation to travel across Europe following the footsteps of great stories.

When travelling and reading tell the same story

Every April 23 marks UNESCO World Book Day, a date that celebrates literature and the power of stories to transport us to other places. The choice of this date is not arbitrary: it coincides with the deaths of great authors such as William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes, two giants of world literature.

But beyond its symbolic significance, this day is also a celebration of the joy of reading, of discovering worlds and cities through the eyes of those who have best portrayed them. Because reading, ultimately, is another way of travelling.

Following this idea, some cities have ceased to be just places and have become true literary characters—spaces that are best understood when explored with a book in hand. World Book Day is therefore the perfect excuse to embark on a different kind of journey: one where each destination is discovered through its stories.

Barcelona: books and roses in the most special celebration

If there is one city where World Book Day is experienced in a truly unique way, it is Barcelona. Here, April 23 is celebrated as Sant Jordi, a deeply rooted tradition that transforms the city into a vast open-air literary stage.

The streets fill with book and rose stalls, authors sign copies, bookshops spill out onto the pavements, and people exchange books as tokens of love and friendship. The atmosphere is festive, vibrant and deeply cultural—a perfect blend of literature and everyday life. Without a doubt, it is a celebration that should be experienced at least once in a lifetime.

But Barcelona doesn’t just celebrate books—it inspires them. Novels such as The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón or The City of Marvels by Eduardo Mendoza turn its streets into settings full of mystery, history and emotion. Walking through the Gothic Quarter, Plaça Sant Felip Neri or the Eixample district is like stepping into living pages of literature.

Naples: the intimate city of My Brilliant Friend

Few recent works have shaped the perception of a city as profoundly as My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante in Naples.

Through the story of Lila and Lenù, Ferrante immerses us in the everyday life of Naples’ neighbourhoods, exploring friendship, identity and social inequality in an intense and contradictory city. Naples emerges as a place of both beauty and harshness, where every street tells a story.

vesubio napoles blanco y negro niña en barco

Walking through its working-class neighbourhoods, along the seafront or through its historic centre allows visitors to grasp the unique atmosphere that the author manages to capture so precisely. Here, literature does not embellish reality—it lays it bare.

Venice: beauty, decadence and mystery

Venice has, for centuries, been one of Europe’s most fascinating literary settings. Its melancholic aura and timeless beauty have inspired unforgettable works.

In Death in Venice, Thomas Mann portrays a city of decadence and obsession, where beauty intertwines with the fragility of life. Decades later, The Talented Mr. Ripley by Patricia Highsmith presents another side of Italy, full of desire, moral ambiguity and suspense.

Walking through St Mark’s Square, getting lost among the canals or stepping into historic cafés like Florian means experiencing that same literary atmosphere—elegant, unsettling and deeply evocative.

Marseille: a port of tales and adventures

In Marseille, literature smells of the sea, of journeys and of stories that come and go. Although it is not always tied to a single contemporary masterpiece, its literary imagination is deeply linked to classics such as The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas, which begins precisely in this port.

Marseille is a city of passage, of cultural blends and intersecting narratives. Its neighbourhoods, its old port and its connection to the Mediterranean make it a perfect setting for stories of adventure, transformation and destiny.

For book lovers, there is also an essential stop: the bookshop at the Mucem (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations). Considered one of the most atmospheric in the city, it stands out for its carefully curated exhibitions and its privileged seafront location—making it the perfect place to keep reading Marseille… even after exploring it.

Tenerife: inner landscapes in Dogs of Summer

En Santa Cruz de Tenerife, la literatura adopta un tono más íntimo y contemporáneo con Panza de burro de Andrea Abreu.

The novel takes us to rural Tenerife, far from tourist clichés, where the landscape—shaped by mist and mountains—becomes a character in its own right. It is a story about adolescence, friendship and the desire to escape, deeply connected to its setting, and notable for its language and its portrayal of an island that “at first glance seems difficult to leave”. A literary journey that invites readers to discover another side of this destination.

Travelling through reading: a growing trend

More and more travellers are choosing their destinations inspired by books. It’s not just about visiting a place, but about understanding it—experiencing it through a different lens. Literary routes, book festivals and charming bookshops become essential parts of the itinerary for those seeking deeper cultural experiences.

Travelling with a book in your suitcase allows you to anticipate your destination, to recognise its landscapes and, in a way, feel as though you’ve been there before.

Reading the world, travelling through stories

World Book Day is much more than a literary celebration—it is an invitation to discover the world through the stories that have shaped it. From Barcelona’s Sant Jordi to Ferrante’s Naples or Mann’s Venice, each city holds a literary dimension that makes it unique. All it takes is opening a book to begin the journey.

Because, in the end, reading and travelling share the same essence: both transform us, invite us to look beyond, and remind us that every place hides countless stories waiting to be told.

Whether you’re a fan of rock, pop or electronic music, here’s everything you need to know about the best 2026 summer music festivals in Volotea destinations.

If you can’t wait to get moving to the beat in the top European locations, pick the event that suits you best, find your flight and get ready to soak up the festival atmosphere and explore some of Europe’s most charming destinations!

The best 2026 festivals in France

Les Nuits Sonores

Where: Lyon
When: 13-17 May 2026
Website: https://nuits-sonores.com/en/

Nuits Sonores calls itself a “cultural, artistic and urban laboratory”, focusing on the world of electronic and digital culture. An unmissable event for lovers of electronic music, taking place on four different sites in Lyon from 13 to 17 of May, turning the city and its different districts into one vast club. During the day, emerging artists will be performing in an industrial site, whilst at night, iconic names such as Amelie Lens, Four Tet and Ben UFO will take their turn on the other stages.

LES PETITES FOLIES

Where: Lampaul-Plouarzel
When: May 22-24, 2026
Website: https://www.lespetitesfolies-iroise.com/

Les Petites Folies is an essential music festival in Brittany, offering a unique experience for 13 years. Nestled on the beach with a view of the sea, it offers a diverse program of national and international artists, in a friendly and family atmosphere. This year, the event will take place from May 22 to 24, 2026 in Lampaul-Plouarzel.

More than 30,000 people are expected over 3 days.

Marsatac

Where: Parc Borely, Marseille
When: 12-14 June 2026
Website: https://marsatac.com/

The Marsatac festival has been taking place for 27 years and is the perfect event for kicking off summer with some music and fun; it’s held every year in mid-June in a large park covering an area of 12,000m2, Parc Borély, in Marseille, drawing artists from the worlds of electronic music, trap and rap. Emerging talent mixes with more famous names from the urban scene, such as Niska, Meryl and Théodora.

You can buy 1-day, 2-day and 3-day tickets on the festival’s website.

Hellfest

Where: Clisson (Nantes)
When: 18-21 June 2026
Website: https://www.hellfest.fr/en/

Founded in 2006 and based in the town of Clisson, Hellfest has established itself as one of the main European festivals dedicated to hard rock. A real marathon of rock, hardcore, punk, grind, death metal and trash, just a few minutes from Nantes by train. Over four days, metal legends will take to the stage (of which there are six), to literally raise hell. There are 180 acts in total, including Iron Maiden, Limp Bizkit, Deep Purple.

La Nuit de L’Erdre

Where: Nort-sur-Erdre
When: 2-5 July 2026
Website: https://www.lanuitdelerdre.fr/

La Nuit de l’Erde is a diverse music festival featuring artists from different genres and styles; the event is held every summer between the end of June and the beginning of July in the Atlantic Loire region, around 25km north of Nantes. French headliner acts, like Etienne de Crécy, and international artists, including Ben Harper and Lenny Kravitz, take their turn on the stage throughout the three days of the festival, which also aims to raise awareness of important social and environmental issues.

2026 marks the 26^th staging of the festival, and 1-day tickets can be purchased from the website.

la nuit de l'erdre — Bon Entendeur – La Nuit de L’Erdre © Nicolas Lebeouf

Garorock

Where: Marmande (Bordeaux)
When: 26-28 June 2026
Website: https://www.garorock.com/

“The Garorock Experience is impossible to explain, you have to be there”, say the organisers of this French festival, which promises to welcome the summer with a long weekend of madness!

From 26 to 28th of June 2026, Garorock returns to Marmande with an exclusive line-up of 60 artists, performing on four stages in over 20 concerts a day. The line-up for the largest festival of contemporary music in south-west France is unmissable, with acts such as Viagra Boys, Nico Moreno and Gims. You can also camp at this event and enjoy all kinds of entertainment, including a funfair.

Vieilles Charrues

Where: Carhaix (Brest)
When: 16-19 July 2026
Website: https://www.vieillescharrues.asso.fr/

Les Vieilles Charrues is the largest summer music event in France, a huge festival of indie rock and pop, lasting four days and held in the town of Carhaix, in northwest France. The festival will take place for the 34 time from 16 to 19 of July and aims to get thousands of festivalgoers singing and dancing to the beat of songs by the Katy Perry, Nick Cave, Mika and many more acts. You can camp on site if you like.

Delta Festival

Where: Plages du Prado, Marseille
When: 23-26 July 2026
Website: https://www.delta-festival.com/en/

Are you looking for a festival that combines electronic beats with culture, art, sport and beach life? The Delta Festival, held at Les Plages du Prado, the beaches to the south of Marseille, is a cracking five-day event full of music and entertainment that could be just what you need.

Three festival stages will host a line-up of big names in disco and electronic music: Benny Benassi, Cerrone, Lilly Palmer and many more; and between one session and the next, you can enjoy some water sports and beach parties. With the sea as your backdrop, the beach vibes and shows by acclaimed artists from the worlds of house, hardstyle, hip-hop and everything that gets your heart racing, Delta is without doubt an event to mark in your calendar of summer dates.

delta festival marsella — Delta Festival © Laurine Bailly

The best 2026 festivals in Italy

Firenze Rocks

Where: Florence
When: 12-14 June 2026
Website: https://www.firenzerocks.it

Calling rock fans from all over Europe: this event is for you! After the success of past events, 12, 13 and 14 June 2026 sees the return to Florence of one of Italy’s largest music events: Firenze Rocks. Two unmissable evenings at Visarno Arena, with a line-up of international rock acts, such as Lenny Kravitz, Robbie Williams and The Cure.

Ypsigrock

Where: Castelbuono, Palermo
When: 6-9 August 2026
Website: https://www.ypsigrock.it/en/festival/

A lovely, welcoming Sicilian town, the wonderful sea nearby, Sicilian food and hospitality and the best music of the moment. What more could you want? The most popular indie festival in Italy, Ypsigrock, returns for the 29^th time to the amazing location of Piazza del Castello in Castelbuono, close to Palermo, between the Madonie mountains and the coast.

This year’s final line-up has not yet been announced, but some of the confirmed names are Soulwax, I cani and The Antlers.

The festival also has camping facilities in the San Focà pine forest. Tickets and passes are available from Dice.

Red Valley Festival

Where: Olbia
When: 13-15 August 2026
Website: https://redvalleyfestival.com/

Following the huge success of the 2025 event, the largest August public holiday (ferragosto) music event in Italy is returning this year: we’re talking about the Red Valley Festival in Olbia, taking place on the large stage of the Olbia Arena for three nights, and featuring some of the best artists on the Italian music scene. So put 13 to 15 August in your calendar for some singing, dancing and all-night fun to the sounds of Kid Yugi, Sfera Ebbasta, Ernia and many more.

red valley olbia — © Red Valley Festival

The best 2026 festivals in Spain

Primavera Sound

Where: Barcelona and Madrid
When: 4-6 June 2026
Website: https://www.primaverasound.com/e s/barcelona

A total of 200 acts spread across this three-day festival in Barcelona, at the Parc del Fórum. An amazing and varied line-up, including artists of the calibre of Massive Attack, The Cure and Gorillaz, and always welcoming all genres and new trends in music, full of innovative, bold and surprising acts. The Barcelona venue, just outside the city overlooking the sea, has made Primavera a hugely popular event among European festivalgoers.

primavera sound barcelona — Primavera Sound © Eric Pamies

Bilbao BBK live

Where: Bilbao
When: 9-11 July 2026
Website: https://www.bilbaobbklive.com/en/

For some years now considered one of the top festivals both nationally and internationally, Bilbao BBK Live in 2026 will once again, for three days, be home to the most interesting current trends in music. The line-up for this summer is now complete and features some great artists, including David Byrne, FKA Twigs, Albama Shakes. Besides the quality of the music, the festival is also unique in terms of its exceptional natural setting, Mount Cobetas, in the heart of Bilbao.

The best 2026 festivals in Greece

Rockwave festival

Where: Athens
When: 20 June 2026
Website: https://www.rockwavefestival.gr/

The Rockwave Festival, held at the Terra Vibe Park in Attica, was first staged in 1996, and since then has established itself as one of the top European rock festivals, managing to attract some of the world’s greatest bands. More than 300 acts have appeared at the festival so far, and this year’s line-up includes Kneecap and Einstürzende Neubauten.

The best 2026 festivals in Croatia

Ultra Europe

Where: Split
When: 10-12 July 2026
Website: https://ultraeurope.com/

Ultra Europe is a great gathering of artists from the worlds of house, trance, dubstep, electronic music and many other genres with a common goal: to get the crowds dancing ‘til dawn! DJs from all over the world make sure that they’re in Split from 10 to 12 July to play their most explosive sets at Park Mladezi. Confirmed for this year are Calvin Harris, Fisher, I hate models and many more.

Looking for other ideas for the summer? Get some inspiration from the Volare magazine articles on the top Volotea destinations for your holiday!

The days are getting shorter, temperatures are dropping, rain, snow, and grey skies are back, and outdoor plans are becoming less and less attractive. If the bleak winter weather gets you down and you feel like spending some time out of your coat and gloves, here are some destinations for a sunny New Year 2026.

Some people don’t care about the cold and want to spend New Year’s Eve in a lively European capital, see 2025 out on the slopes, or are already thinking of big dinners with friends and family. Then, there are those who miss the summer, keep their suitcase always packed and ready to go, and have decided to end the year in an above-freezing location and wonder off into the sunset. So if you are lucky, you will say goodbye to 2025 with your feet in the sand!

Here are our suggestions for a cozy and warm New Year’s Eve.

New Year’s Eve 2025 in Marseille

Although it may not reach the 25 °C of other warmer capitals for New Year’s Eve, Marseille has a special charm: being by the Mediterranean, its climate remains relatively mild even in winter, and its urban atmosphere —young, lively and cosmopolitan— helps to “warm up” the festive spirit. For instance, on New Year’s Eve a spectacular fireworks display lights up the Vieux-Port, where thousands gather to welcome the new year.

There are also themed parties in iconic spots such as the rooftop of the Les Terrasses du Port shopping centre (“Masquerade” event) or lively bar-crawl routes for a fun and social night. At the same time, Marseille lets you “breathe the Mediterranean” even in December: strolls through the old town, panoramic views from the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, and outdoor activities in the nearby Calanques National Park (not for swimming anymore, but perfect for enjoying the scenery).

If you’re looking for a New Year’s destination that combines city life, the sea, good vibes and mild weather —without giving up on an urban celebration— Marseille is a safe bet to close out 2026.

Useful information:

Find cheap flights to Marseille with Volotea
Average temperature in December–January: 12-7 °C
Must-see: the Vieux-Port with its fireworks display, the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, Le Panier district, and the Calanques National Park (scenic walks).

New Year’s Eve 2026 in Cagliari

Who said Sardinia is only nice in the summer? With a youthful, relaxed atmosphere, a people-friendly centre and, above all, mild temperatures and an almost ever-present sun, Cagliari is an amazing place to see in the New Year. Concerts in the square, Christmas markets, all kinds of performances and trips are more than enough to please both party animals and those who prefer a bit or shopping or exploring nature.

This year it will be Copeland, the historic drummer of the band Police, who will liven up the New Year’s Eve concert in Piazza Yenne, which will be followed by a DJ set until 1:30 a.m. We’d also recommend the Christmas markets in the old town, a panoramic walk along the bastions and venturing out of town to enjoy the wonders of the sea in winter.

And if you want to spend New Year’s Eve in Sardinia but already know Cagliari, you will be happy to know that both Alghero and Olbia have prepared unbelievable concerts for the last night of the year, with artists Gabry Ponte and Marco Mengoni, respectively.

Useful info:

Look for low-cost flights to Cagliari with Volotea
Average temperature December-January: 16-6ºC
Must-sees: castle, fortified quarter, National Archaeological Museum, cathedral, San Benedetto market.

New Year’s Eve 2026 in Malaga

The Andalusian city of Malaga is the perfect destination for those who seek a lively and urban atmosphere, a mild climate, and a beach to take long, relaxing walks. The gorgeous Christmas lights are the perfect backdrop to go shopping and bar hopping down calle Larios. At the port, the restaurants loved by the locals serve the best New Year’s Eve dinners, usually a fish dish. Get your tastebuds ready for the grape-eating tradition, las uvas, when the clock strikes midnight, you swallow a grape with every strike of the clock! If you are fast and concentrated (or sober) enough to succeed, your wishes for the new year will have come true, or at least that’s what they say…

The best place to wait for the campanadas and raise a toast to the new year in Malaga’s Plaza Constitución, a quick walk from beach where you can watch the fireworks.

And if you are still in the city on 5 January, you can’t miss the traditional Wise Men’s parade (Los Reyes Magos), beloved by Spaniards and a favourite for kids.

Useful info:

Find low-cost flights to Malaga with Volotea
Average temperature December-January: 16-13ºC
What you shouldn’t miss: Picasso Museum, Malaga Cathedral, Alcazaba, Gibralfaro Castle, Carmen Thyssen Museum, Roman Theatre, botanical garden.

New Year’s Eve 2026 in Fuerteventura

If you decide to spend 31 December in the Canary Islands, you will feel that you are experiencing an exotic early summer just a few hours from home. Any island in this archipelago in the Atlantic ocean, across from Northwestern Africa, is perfect to enjoy the sun, sea, nature, do sport and leisure activities, or relax during your new year’s holidays. And they all have their own peculiarities that travellers love.

Today, we will tell you about an island that has become famous among young people for its fantastic beaches, ideal surfing conditions, relaxed atmosphere, and its beautiful wild landscapes. We are talking about Fuerteventura, a natural paradise that attracts so many visitors every year, drawn by its unique rhythm.

While the south of the island is the area most visited in the summer by beach lovers, the north side is home to Corralejo, a tourist resort that has retained its fishermen’s village soul. We recommend using it as your base and renting a car to explore the area once you have recovered from the New Year’s Eve dinner and drinks. Other two island towns with a high level of fun (even if you won’t find Tenerife-level excesses here) are Jandia and Puerto Rosario.

The grape-eating tradition is also sacred in Fuerteventura, so grab a bottle of sparkling wine and celebrate by the sea as the clock strikes midnight with your friends or better half.

Useful info:

Find low-cost flights to Fuerteventura with Volotea
Average temperature December-January: 22-14ºC
Don’t miss: Puerto del Rosario, the island’s capital, the church dedicated to the Virgin of the Rosary, Unamuno’s house, the town of Antigua, the Corralejo Dunes Natural Park, the Costa Calma beaches. To find out more, read our article with the itinerary to discover Fuerteventura in 4 days.

New Year’s Eve 2026 in Athens

Spending New Year’s Eve in Athens is a great idea for three reasons: its unique art heritage, mild climate that is ideal for cultural visits and outdoor celebrations, and its low prices, which make it one of the most low-cost European capitals. It’s a great destination for Christmas traditions: the Greek Orthodox Church celebrates differently from Catholics, and, even though Christmas decorations are everywhere, you will experience the traditions associated with Saint Basil, whose feast is 1 January and is the most important day for the Greeks. Saint Basil is the equivalent of Santa Claus, and in New Year’s Eve Athens children go door to door signing carols (calanda) and are given Christmas sweets.

Even though many Greeks spend New Year’s Eve at home with their family, Athens is a lively metropolis which offers tonnes of entertainment to visitors. If you’d like to toast outdoors, go to Syntagma o Thisseio Square, where DJ parties and concerts are held every 31 December. If you prefer to stay indoors, no problem: you’ll find dozens of parties in discos, bars, and pubs.

Useful info:

Find low-cost flights to Athens with Volotea
Average temperature December-January: 15-8ºC
What you shouldn’t miss: the Acropolis, the Agora, Plaka and Monastiriki districts, Filopappo and Licabetto hills, and the National Archaeological Museum.

New Year’s Eve 2026 at Palermo

Palermo is one of those destinations oozing with personality which are impossible to ignore. It’s an inspired choice for New Year’s Eve, because it combines the weather and atmosphere of the Mediterranean seaside and the stimulating, fascinating appeal of a large European city full of history, culture, and nightlife. In addition to its gorgeous Baroque and Art Nouveau wonders, visiting Palermo in New Year’s Eve is also a gold mine for the foodies, because the local gastronomy alone is worth the trip!

It’s easy to find the perfect activity to spend New Year’s Eve in the best way possible in Palermo, whose fascinating lanes, churches, theatres, and venues host concerts and all kinds of events. In particular, the four districts in the historic centre, Kalsa, Vucciria, Capo, and l’Albergheria, are full of little squares, corners, and nooks where you will find music, parties, and street food. And if you feel like enjoying the sea and fresh fish on New Year’s Day, you can always take the bus to Mondello, a few kilometres from the city, which offers a gorgeous beach and so many delicious eateries.

Useful info:

Find low-cost flights to Palermo with Volotea
Average temperature December-January: 16-11ºC
Don’t miss: the Cathedral, Teatro Massimo, Palazzo dei Normanni, Monreale Cathedral, Quattro Canti, Palazzo Reale and Cappella Palatina, the Capuchins’ Catacombs, and Mondello beach.

New Year’s Eve 2026 at Marrakech

Spending New Year’s Eve in Marrakech is a great idea for three main reasons: its fascinating mix of culture and tradition, its mild climate, ideal for enjoying the outdoors, and its lively nightlife, which offers unique experiences to greet the year. It is also an inexpensive destination compared to other tourist cities, making it an attractive option for travellers with different spending options. At this time of year, Marrakech is filled with lights, markets and music, offering a special version of festivities in which Berber, Arab and international influences merge.

Although New Year’s Eve is not a traditional celebration in Moroccan culture, the city adapts to welcome visitors with offerings ranging from dinners in luxurious riads, where traditional dishes such as couscous and tagine are served, to dance and music performances in the famous Jemaa el-Fna square. Those who prefer a more exotic setting can opt for a desert tour, with dinner under the stars and fireworks in a Berber camp.

Useful info:

Search for cheap flights to Marrakech with Volotea
Average temperature in December-January: 20-10ºC
Attractions not to be missed: the Medina, the Majorelle Gardens, the Bahia Palace, the Koutoubia, the souks and the Atlas Mountains.

We hope you have found our suggestions useful and you have a wonderful New Year’s Eve travelling. If you are looking for ideas for your Christmas trips, take a look at our top 10 European cities to visit at Christmas.

Let your children become pirates and explorers and watch their imagination run wild as they discover the more playful side of Marseille!

France’s second largest city, Marseille is modern and multicultural, and its nonconformist nature, its cosmopolitan air and its interesting cuisine make it a fascinating place to visit… even for kids!

Located in the sunny region of Provence, this port city has been one of the main gateways to the Mediterranean for centuries, but whilst it tends to be associated with its famous port and maritime history, Marseille is also an amazing destination for a family break, with numerous educational and fun activities for the younger ones.

bambino di spalle guarda panorama porto marsiglia

Why Marseille is an ideal destination for families

Marseille has all the right ingredients for an unforgettable family holiday: stunning landscapes, a rich culture, beaches and a wide range of outdoor activities. Although its traditional reputation as a somewhat “decadent” port has continued to prevail in many people’s minds, the city has actually now evolved into a modern, vibrant and safe destination.

Marseille is also the capital of Provence, a region full of natural wonders, such as the Calanques National Park. Its multicultural vibe and range of museums make this city an exciting and diverse place to visit. The best thing about Marseille is that it’s a place where children can learn about history and culture as they enjoy outdoor adventures and unique activities.

What to do in Marseille with children: 6 essential plans

1. Explore the Calanques National Park

The Calanques National Park is a natural gem just a few kilometres outside of Marseille. This protected space has idyllic landscapes with white cliffs overlooking turquoise waters. Families can enjoy child-friendly excursions, with paths of moderate difficulty and stunning views.

A practical tip: you can opt for a boat trip to explore the coves from the water, a fascinating experience for little adventurers.

2. Visit If Castle

The Château d’If, standing on a small island off the coast of Marseille, is famous as the setting of the novel The Count of Montecristo by Alexandre Dumas. This historical place is ideal for sparking your children’s imagination as they learn about its past as a prison. You can get there by taking a ferry from the Old Port. The boat trip is a thrilling experience in itself, especially for the younger ones.

A tip for families: remember to take some warm garments with you, as the wind on the island can be a bit chilly, even in summer.

3. Visit the History Museum of Marseille

To find out more about the city’s wealth of history, a visit to the History Museum of Marseille is a must. This interactive museum is designed to appeal to both adults and children, with exhibitions including models, games and historical objects to explain the city’s past.

A recommendation: take advantage of the special activities that are regularly organised for families, such as workshops and guided tours suitable for children.

4. Have fun at Ecopark Adventures – Marseille Saint-Jérôme

If your kids still have some energy left, Ecopark Adventures is a great option. This adventure park has circuits of zip-wires and ropes for all ages, allowing the little ones to climb and play in a safe environment, enjoying nature.

N.B.: Make sure you book in advance, especially in high season. The circuits are designed according to age and ability, so there’s something for every member of the family to enjoy.

5. Enjoy the thrills at Le Bois des Lutins amusement park

Le Bois des Lutins is a unique theme park combining outdoor attractions with a fairytale setting. Children can explore treehouses, giant toboggans and interactive play areas.

Ideal for families: this park offers a magical leisure experience for children, while the parents can enjoy a peaceful day surrounded by nature.

6. Cycle through central Marseille

One of the best ways of exploring the centre of Marseille is by bike. There are several companies that rent out bikes suitable for families, including child seat or trailer options.

Ride through iconic sites such as the Old Port, the neighbourhood of Le Panier with its colourful streets and the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde, from where you can enjoy some spectacular views of the city.

A suggestion: plan stops for ice cream or crêpes at the local cafés, a perfect way to keep the children happy along the route.

More ideas for families in Marseille

Family-friendly beaches: the Prado beaches are great for a relaxing day out. With play areas and calm waters, they’re perfect for young children.
MUCEM (Museum of the Civilisations of Europe and the Mediterranean): this museum combines art and archaeology, with interactive exhibitions, and its modern architecture will fascinate both adults and children.

Local markets: take a look round markets such as the one in Noailles, where the children can find exotic ingredients and learn about different cultures.

If you’re looking for a place where your children can learn, explore and have fun while you marvel at the beauty of the Mediterranean, Marseille is the perfect choice. And if you’re not yet convinced, get inspired by our articles on this amazing destination!

Today, I’ll be taking you to the city of sunshine, to Marseille and its famous Calanques National Park.

But first of all, what does “Calanques de Marseille” refer to? In essence, they’re magnificent creeks and coves dotted along the Mediterranean coastline, flanked by white limestone rocks that plunge into the turquoise sea, making them the pride of Marseilles’ inhabitants.

The Calanques National Park stretches along approximately 20 km of coastline: from Goudes to the south-east of Marseille up to Cassis, and covers an area of over 8,000 hectares.

Renowned for their limestone cliffs formed by the mistral (a strong wind that blows regularly in the region), they are a favourite spot for climbers and swimmers. Each calanque is an outstanding spot with secluded beaches where you can bask in the sun, surrounded by stunning views of the deep blue Mediterranean, the green pine trees and the orange-white rocks.

I would recommend hiking as one of the best ways to discover and explore the Calanques. There are many paths with spectacular views of the Mediterranean and surrounding mountains. For more information, visit the Calanques13 website.

Besides trekking, snorkelling is a very popular activity in the Calanques. The crystal-clear waters of the park are teeming with brightly coloured fish and corals, providing an amazing display for divers and snorkellers.

For history buffs, Marseille’s Calanques provide a glimpse into the region’s past: the limestone cliffs have witnessed many historical events, including the fortifications built to protect the city of Marseille against invasions. The ruins of these fortifications are still visible today and bear witness to the region’s rich history.

For those who prefer something more leisurely, you can hire a kayak and explore the hidden coves and caves along the coast. Kayaking is a fun and original way to explore the Calanques, and you can even have your picnic on a secluded beach.

And don’t forget to take a lunch break at one of the Calanques’ restaurants to discover Marseille’s gastronomy, with its delicious panisses (a speciality made from chickpea flour) and its unmissable bouillabaisse (a traditional local dish made from fish and vegetables). A tip from me: Ask for the fish of the day, you won’t be disappointed! (Bream, sardines and fried sand smelt, a delicacy)

Places to eat in the Calanques

Le Château de Sormiou: traditional Provençal cuisine with fresh local ingredients. Accessible on foot or by car, with permission.
Le Nautic Bar: located in the Calanque de Morgiou, this restaurant serves creative Mediterranean cuisine. Its star attraction is the magnificent terrace with sea views.

La Baie des Singes aux goudes: a seafood restaurant on the beach, accessible by a 15-minute walk and overlooking spectacular rock formations.

How to get to the Calanques

By land:

Take the metro line with destination “Sainte Marguerite Dromel” and get off at “Castellane” or “Rond-point du Prado” depending on your destination.

Place Castellane:

To get to Sugiton: Take a B1 or 21J bus and get off at “Luminy PN des Calanques”.
To get to Callelongue: Take the no 19 bus to “La Madrague de Montredon” terminal (GR98 starting point). Then take a no.20 bus which will leave you in Callelongue.

Rond-point du Prado

To get to Sugiton: Cross boulevard Michelet and take a B1 or 21J bus and get off at “Luminy PN des Calanques”.
To get to Sormiou: Take the no 23 bus to “La Cayolle” stop and continue on foot for 700m along the road to the car park next to the treatment plant.
To get to Morgiou: Take the no. 22 bus to “Les Baumettes” terminal and continue on foot for 400m to reach Parc des Baumettes.

By sea:

You can reach the Calanques by private boat, on individual excursions (booking required here) from the Vieux Port or the Port de la Pointe Rouge.

Since 2022, regulations and permits have been put in place to restrict the number of visitors to the park. You can find all the information here.

Which calanque to choose?

It’s hard to choose, each one has its own distinctive characteristics and charm. Here are some of the most popular ones you might consider visiting:

Calanque de Sormiou : The most popular

It’s my personal favourite but also the most popular: it’s famed for its fine sand, crystal clear waters and stunning natural setting.
It’s main advantage: You can get there by car if you have a reservation at the restaurant below.

Calanque de Morgiou : The most authentic

One of the prettiest, with its charming fishing port and turquoise waters.

It is also home to a renowned seafood restaurant (Le Nautic) where you can enjoy fresh and delicious dishes while taking in the breathtaking view of the cove. Accessible on foot or by boat.

Calanque de Sugiton : The most original

Marseille’s hidden gem, just a few kilometres from the city centre offering a secluded and quiet beach experience. The calanque is nestled between stunning white cliffs, pine forests and rocks sculpted by erosion.
Accessible by walking from the university campus of Luminy or by car.

Calanque d’En-Vau : The most spectacular

With its emerald-coloured water and steep cliffs, it can be reached on foot from the calanque of Port-Miou or Cassis, or by boat from the Marseille’s Vieux-Port. Very popular with climbers too, with challenging cliffs for all levels.

Calanque de Port-Miou : The largest

Renowned for its stone quarries, which provided material for many of Marseille’s historic buildings, it stands out from the others with its winding contour and long coastline. Reachable by car, it offers an easily accessible beach experience for families and groups of friends.

More details on the website of the Marseille Tourist Office.

In short, the Calanques of Marseille are a true gem in the south of France, a must-see for all nature lovers, water sports enthusiasts and history buffs.

They are open all year round, but the best months to visit are May and September, to avoid the crowds while enjoying warm and sunny weather.

As I’ve shown you in this article, whether you are visiting as a family, with friends or as a couple, Marseille has a calanque for everyone ☺ Read all the news about the park in real time here or with the new “mes calanques” mobile app

Make sure you visit our section on Marseille too!

Are you thinking of travelling to Marseille soon? We would like to accompany you with music! We have created a special Marseille music playlist with only local artists.

To learn more about this beautiful city in the Provence region, we got in touch with hit electro-pop artist, Kid Francescoli. As he’s a local, we asked him a few questions about what he thinks of your next destination and if he has any recommendations.

Hi, Matthieu, or Kid Francescoli, I should say! Thanks for taking the time to come and chat with us while you and your band are on tour! You’ve been busy these past few years, releasing multiple hit albums (With Julia, Play Me Again, Lovers…) and your tours have been huge successes both in France and abroad. Some of your songs have even appeared in different ad campaigns for companies like Chanel, Lanvin, and many more. But anyway, how would you describe yourself to readers of Volare Magazine who still don’t know who you are?

I’m a musician from Marseille, and I’d say I produce electro-pop music. Electro because I mainly use machines, synthesisers and drum machines, which make what I produce sound more electronic, and pop because the most important element of my music is the melody, which defines pop music for me.

You’re originally from Marseille. Marseille is more generally associated with hip-hop, but your sound is more electro-pop. Despite that, do you think Marseille has had an influence on your music in some way?

Yes, especially on my last album, ‘Lovers’. We’d just finished a huge tour for ‘Play me Again’, which took us all over the world for a really long time. We were on tour for two years, making our way through Indonesia, South Korea, China, Turkey, Lebanon, South Africa, and lots of different places in Europe. And on this tour, every time we went back to Marseille, it was so healing for me and let me see the beauty of my home town: the sun, the sea, the light… It made me realise how lucky I was to live here, and I think that shows on the album. It’s the album of a musician who’s spent time in the sun, watching the sea.

Let’s talk a little bit about Marseille. We’re curious about your favourite spots, and if you have anywhere to recommend. For example, where would you tell music lovers to go if they wanted to see bands perform live in Marseille? And where would you go if you wanted to go out dancing?

In terms of concert venues, I’d say le Cabaret Aléatoire, I recently saw Odezenne there. Or even l’Espace Julien, we just performed there and it was a really intense experience, as always. There are also some incredible festivals such as Marsatac, Le Bon Air or Avec Le Temps. There are also lots of amazing places and rooftops (like the one at La Friche, for example), if you want to enjoy some music this summer. Marseille has changed a lot over the past few years in that sense, it’s really nice to have lots of different places to go to in the city.

Are there any good exhibitions or art galleries you’d suggest seeing at the moment?

I haven’t been in Marseille much recently, but I’ve heard loads about the immersive exhibition on the Mona Lisa at Palais de la Bourse, and there’s also the Musée Cantini, the Frac, Le Mucem. The Carrières de Lumières in Baux-de-Provence and the Caumont Hotel in Aix, which I really like, are located around the outskirts.

If a friend came to visit, what local dish would you suggest they try and at which restaurant?

If you wanted to eat something really typical, you could try anything from the panisses – chichis combo (chickpea fritters and deep-fried sweet fritters) at l’Estaque to bouillabaisse (fish stew) from Rhul, but we also have some amazing pizzerias in Marseille. Paule & Kopa comes to mind, which is in the old town, or Chez Etienne in Panier.

Now summer’s on its way, where’s best to go for a swim – in Marseille or somewhere nearby? Do you have a beach you’d recommend in particular?

I prefer Marseille’s rocky beaches, especially the ones in Malmousque or Petit Nice. Apart from that, there are two good spots in Le Prophète: there’s a beach there and a great spot for rock diving too. And then if you still have time, you can take one of the shuttle boats that go all the way out to Frioul, it’s absolute paradise over there.

What other activities, either in or around Marseille, would you suggest to anyone visiting the region?

A walk through the calanques (rocky inlets) or going to see a match at the stadium. There are so many activities around Marseille that there’s no way I could tell you them all now. There’s Porquerolles, the entire coast all the way to Bandol, passing through Cassis and La Ciotat, and on the other side there’s the Côte Bleue with Carry, Carro, Martigues, and the inland region where you’ve got the Baux de Provence, Saint Remy, Le Luberon… The list goes on!

And finally, if you had to go on holiday somewhere in Europe tomorrow, is there a Volotea destination that you’d like to visit, and why?

I’ve already been to Venice with Volotea (and it was incredible, by the way, right from the moment I arrived at the airport). For my next trip, I’d say Constantine or Palma de Mallorca.

Fancy a cultural trip to Marseille? From 6 April to 22 August, Le Mucem will be hosting an unreleased exhibition all about Abd el-Kader, “the thoughtful, ferocious, and gentle Emir”, as Victor Hugo once called him.

Marseille is the perfect place for a cultural city break, and the right bank of the Old Port is a winning combination of tradition and modernity. Just a stone’s throw from Le Panier, the oldest district in France, you’ll find the city’s ‘golden triangle’ of museums. In June 2022, a replica of Cosquer Cave will join Le Mucem and the Regards de Provence Foundation under the watchful eye of the magnificent Cathédrale de la Major. Le Mucem, that is, the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations, is the closest you’ll find to the sea and other banks of the big blue, promising a wonderful trip through time and space during spring and summertime in Marseille.

From 6 April to 22 August, Le Mucem is offering a stop-off in Algeria, in the Maghreb, with the “Abd el-Kader” exhibition. This year, the country is celebrating 60 years of independence. However, the project to reunite these two coasts of the Mediterranean dates back to 2019, when creator Christian Delorme, who’s been interested in Abd el-Kader for some fifteen years, met Jean-François Chougnet, the president of Le Mucem.

expo Abd el Khader mucem — Henri-Félix-Emmanuel Philippoteaux, *Portraits présumés du Chérif Boubaghla et de Lalla Fatma n’Soumer conduisant l’armée révolutionnaire,* 1866, oil on canvas

On the second floor of the museum, there are close to 260 works and documents from French and Mediterranean collections both public and private, retracing the life of Emir Abd el-Kader, born in the south of Oran in 1808. He was a combat leader, exiled prisoner, and learned religious Sufi, but his life, nevertheless, is little known. This exhibition is testament to his harmony of contradictions.

Jean Baptiste Ange Tissier, *Abd el-Kader, en pied*, 1853, oli on canvas

A key figure in Algeria’s history

Camille Faucourt, one of the exhibition’s two commissioners, introduces Abd el-Kader as “a multi-faceted character. The goal of this exhibition is to collect a large range of objects and records, so we can compare sources from the two different banks of the Mediterranean and shed light on this character, who seemingly led a thousand lives. […] Abd el-Kader was one of the great minds of his time.”

When France made the Regency of Algiers surrender in 1830, extending its conquest to other territories, Abd el-Kader spent fifteen years leading the resistance in the West of the country. He laid down his weapons in 1847, but in 1860, he played an active role in saving thousands of Christians from being massacred in Damas.

Léon Belly, *Pèlerins allant à la Mecque*, 1861, oil on canvas

As Emir in Algeria, he fought to resist the conquest. Thanks to his creation of independent capitals outside of the Ottoman Empire, he’s considered the founder of the first national State. This accolade was enshrined in 1966 in a ceremony organised by President Boumédiène, positioning him as a central figure in Algeria’s history.

A Marseille-Algeria round trip in one exhibition

It’s not just Abd el-Kader’s military past that history has remembered. He was learned, religious man and said to be a mystical person with a fascinating charisma, as well as a figure of tolerance and political clairvoyance. The Suez Canal is just one of many notable examples. As Florence Hudowicz, commissioner of the exhibition, recalls: “He became interested in the Suez Canal project after meeting Ferdinand de Lesseps, who shared his belief that opening up a new path for exchange between East and West would allow relations between these two worlds to rebalance, thereby bringing harmony. That was the visionary aspect of this individual. So, it’s fair to say that for his time period, even if it were not considered so, Abd el-Kader was a figure of mediation and reconciliation. He tried to establish dialogue at every step.”

Marie Éléonore Godefroid, *Abd el-Kader (1807-1883)*, 1843-1844, oil on canvas

Shedding light on this great man establishes yet another form of dialogue between France and Algeria. In a unique political context, the writing, photos, artifacts, and newspapers from the era – some of which have never been unveiled – pass down a treasure trove of memories and a message of unity.

Pilgrimage canteen, Algeria, 18th-19th century, terracotta

So, why not head to Marseille during the May bank holidays? Don’t miss the exhibition events from 5 to 7 May, such as the Acid Arab concert on 5 May at Fort Saint-Jean. From Wednesday 25 to Friday 27 May, the literary festival “Oh ! Les Beaux Jours” will be recounting its own connection to Algeria.

Le Mucem, a museum facing the Mediterranean

After all this cultural (re)discovery, why not take the chance to explore the rest of the capital of architecture and nature that is Le Mucem? This cultural site, which opened in June 2013 when Marseille was the European Capital of Culture, links tradition with modernity. On one side there’s the J4, a gem of architecture from Rudy Ricciotti and Roland Carta. You can easily get lost in this perforated labyrinth, with its unique views of the sea. Have a drink or relax on the deckchairs for a chilled-out break on the rooftop terrace, something the locals really enjoy doing.

After braving the dizzying footbridge over the water, it’s time for some history. Fort Saint-Jean was constructed in the 15th century, and was classed as a historic monument in 1964. Firstly, the Tour Carré was constructed by King René, and it offers one of the most beautiful views of Marseille’s Old Port. The Tour du Fanal came later, which is the one you can see in all its splendour from Palais du Pharo, which faces it, or from the gardens of Fort Saint-Jean. The food and shopping market, which only takes place in the summertime, isn’t the only reason the locals love this part of Le Mucem – it’s also because of its gardens.

The “Jardin des Migrations”, overhanging the sea, is a change of pace from the nature in the city. During spring and summer, your stroll along these fortifications will be punctuated by the aromas of the flowers and the brush here.

It’s an unmissable location, perfect for visiting with your partner or family during your trip to Marseille!