Marseille With Autistic Children

Marseille with autistic children is a really enjoyable experience. Marseille has a lot to see and do, even just walking around there is so much to see and spectacular views to enjoy. This guide should help you plan an enjoyable trip to Marseille with your family.

Getting To Marseille

Traveling to Marseille with autistic children is manageable, especially with Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) offering accessibility services and priority boarding for families. Direct flights from major cities make the journey convenient. Upon arrival, consider pre-booking a taxi or private transfer to ensure a smooth trip to your accommodation, reducing stress and waiting time.

Here are the transport options from Marseille Provence Airport to the city:

• Train: A shuttle bus connects the airport to the Vitrolles Aéroport Marseille Provence station, where you can take a train to Marseille’s Saint-Charles station.
• Bus: The Airport Shuttle (Navette) runs directly from the airport to Saint-Charles station in the city center, taking about 25 minutes.
• Taxi: Taxis are available outside the terminal, offering a direct and convenient option.
• Private Transfer: Pre-booked private transfers offer a personalized and stress-free service.
• Car Rental: Several car rental agencies operate at the airport, providing flexibility for exploring the region.

We visited by cruise ship, there is a short shuttle bus from the cruise ship to the edge of the port. We then walked into Marseille, exploring as we walked.

Where to Stay

Marseille provides a variety of family-friendly accommodations suited for autistic children. Look for hotels or apartments with spacious, quiet rooms and kitchen facilities. The neighbourhoods of Prado and Vieux Port are ideal, offering proximity to parks and family-oriented attractions.

I have no personal recommendations because our trips to Marseille have been by cruise ship.

Family-Friendly Activities in Marseille

Explore Parc Borély

Enjoy walking paths, a lake, and a beautiful botanical garden.

Visit the Mucem

A kid-friendly museum with interactive exhibits on Mediterranean cultures. You can book a skip-the-line ticket here before you go.

Calanques National Park

Take a boat trip to explore stunning cliffs and turquoise waters. You can prepare for your trip in advance and book a boat tour here with GetYourGuide online.

Château d’If

Visit this historic fortress made famous by “The Count of Monte Cristo.” It is located on a small island near Marseille.

Old Port (Vieux-Port)

Stroll along the waterfront and watch boats come in. When we went there was a market on because it was so close to Christmas. It was a really beautiful place to walk around.

Plage des Catalans

A small, family-friendly beach close to the city centre. We always try to find little spots like this to take a break from all of the chaos.

Le Panier

Wander through this historic district with colourful streets and local shops. You can book a tour of this district with a treasure hunt – fun!

Palais Longchamp

Visit the beautiful gardens and the Natural History Museum inside.

These activities offer a mix of nature, history, and culture, making Marseille a great destination for families.

Our Favourite Sensory-Friendly Experience in Marseille

Museum of Illusions Marseille

We did not get to visit the Museum of Illusions in Marseille when we went – I didn’t even know about it! But what I can tell you is that we went to the Brussels branch of the Museum of Illusions and our kids loved it so much that they still talk about it and have been planning more illusion world visits. You can book your Marseille Museum of Illusion tickets here.

Getting Around Marseille with Autistic Children

Public transportation in Marseille includes buses, trams, and the metro. While these options are efficient, they can get crowded, so consider using them during off-peak hours. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber offer more flexibility and comfort, especially if your child needs breaks. Renting a car is another option, providing the freedom to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace.

Is Marseille Autism-Friendly?

Marseille, like many large cities, has been making efforts to become more inclusive, including for individuals with autism.

• Some museums, cultural institutions, and recreational areas in Marseille have started implementing autism-friendly practices. For instance, certain museums may offer quiet hours or sensory-friendly activities specifically designed for individuals with autism.
• Public transportation in Marseille is generally accessible, but navigating it might require preparation. While there may not be widespread autism-specific accommodations, the city’s metro, trams, and buses are accessible, and staff are often trained in helping people with various needs.
• The city’s healthcare system is equipped to provide support for neurodiverse individuals, although access and quality can vary.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

1. Plan Ahead: Research each location and contact them to discuss any special accommodations your child might need. If you can plan to arrive after check-in time you should, or try to arrange an early check-in.
2. Sensory Tools: Bring along sensory tools and comfort items that help manage sensory needs, such as noise-cancelling headphones, sensory toys, and a sensory toolkit.
3. Clear Communication: Ensure that everyone involved in the trip understands the needs and preferences of the neurodiverse individual. Clear communication can prevent misunderstandings and enhance the travel experience. Consider using PECS or an AAC. We have a free pack of travel PECS available for download. Consider using our France PECS to add to your experience.
4. Safety: Consider getting an autism card for your child, or even better – use our emergency passport for medical information and important contacts. Our absolute must have safety item for travelling with an autistic child is a TinyTags wristband or tag that can be tapped or scanned by a mobile phone – giving the person who tapped it all of the information they need to get your child back to you. TinyTags also feature a location alert to help you find your child.

Marseille is a vibrant and welcoming destination for families with autistic children. With careful planning, you can enjoy a memorable and relaxing holiday. From tranquil parks to sensory-friendly museums and accessible accommodations, Marseille offers a variety of options to suit your family’s needs. Embrace the city’s rich history, natural beauty, and create lasting memories with your loved ones.

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