Holiday rentals in Martigues

Three iconic places to discover in Martigues

Martigues captivates visitors with its landscapes of water and light, which have inspired generations of painters and travellers. Three sites embody the essence of this unique Provençal town, blending architectural heritage with artistic treasures. They form the vibrant heart of your stay.

1. Miroir aux Oiseaux

This junction of canals in the heart of the Ferrières district is Martigues’ most endearing sight. The calm water reflects the colourful façades of the houses surrounding it, creating a perspective that changes with the light of day and the seasons. This site has earned the town its nickname as the ‘Venice of Provence’, and this is hardly an exaggeration when you contemplate the spectacle of the reflections dancing on the water. Photographers and strollers find an inexhaustible source of wonder here, whilst the riverside cafés invite you to linger on their terraces.

2. Sainte-Madeleine de l’Île Church

Built in the 17th century on the island of Brescon, this Baroque church stands as one of the region’s unmissable religious masterpieces. Its distinctive bell tower quickly becomes a familiar sight during your strolls along the canals, a landmark visible from afar that guides visitors through the town. The building’s Baroque architecture and its island setting lend it a majestic presence. Inside, the contemplative tranquillity contrasts with the hustle and bustle of the surrounding streets.

3. Ziem Museum

Founded in the 19th century, this municipal museum recounts the artistic history of Martigues through the eyes of Félix Ziem, a great Orientalist painter who captured the subtle play of light on the city’s waters. The galleries display his paintings alongside archaeological and ethnographic collections that anchor Martigues in its Mediterranean past. A visit to the Ziem Museum reveals why this town has held such a powerful attraction for artists.

These three venues together weave the unique character of Martigues: a harmony between water, architecture and artistic creation that transforms every day of your holiday into a moment of discovery.

The ideal season for booking a holiday let in Martigues

Each season transforms Martigues and its three lakes into different settings. Choosing when to stay depends less on a ‘perfect’ time of year than on the atmosphere you’re looking for.

Spring. From April to May, temperatures rise and the first sunny days draw walkers back to the water’s edge. The terraces come to life without becoming overcrowded. Holiday rentals offer the ideal base for exploring the colourful streets of the town centre and discovering La Camelle and Île Saint-Férréol at a leisurely pace. Flowers adorn the façades, and the cafés come back to life after winter.

Summer. From June to September, Martigues is at its best. The Mediterranean heat is intense, the water inviting. The three lakes become popular swimming spots, whilst painters and tourists flock to the quays. A holiday let offers the flexibility to enjoy the days without the constraints of a timetable, sample local restaurants in the evening and escape the hottest part of the day with a siesta. This is the peak season, with its share of bustling tourist activity.

Autumn. September and October bring back a soothing mildness. The crowds thin out, whilst the water remains warm. Holiday rentals then become a base for more solitary strolls along the cobbled streets, allowing you to savour the scenery without the hustle and bustle. The light changes, becoming softer and more golden. This is when Martigues rediscovers a more authentic rhythm.

Winter. From November to February, temperatures remain moderate for the region (rarely freezing). The days are short, but it’s still possible to get out and about. A holiday let allows you to settle in without a seasonal commitment and enjoy the winter tranquillity, less crowded restaurants, and that more contemplative atmosphere that characterises coastal towns in the off-season.

A holiday let remains the most flexible option: no fixed dates, a home base from which to explore at the pace of the place and according to your own desires, whatever time of year you choose.

3 activities you simply must try during your holiday in Martigues

Martigues offers a wide range of activities centred around the sea and nature. From sailing on calm waters to family swimming and exploring the garrigue countryside, every day of your stay reveals a different facet of Provençal charm. Here are three experiences to add to your itinerary.

1. Sailing on the lakes and the Caronte Canal

The lakes and the Caronte Canal form a unique aquatic world where fresh water meets the influence of the sea. A boat or sailing trip allows you to cruise along the tranquil banks, discover the local wildlife and sail beneath an often mild sky. These waters are home to protected areas where a sense of serenity reigns, far from the hustle and bustle of the coast. It’s an ideal experience for families seeking peace and relaxation on the water.

Address: Port de Martigues, 13500 Martigues.

2. Swimming at Ferrières Beach

Ferrières Beach is the natural destination for holidaymakers wishing to take a dip in the Mediterranean. With its fine sand and clear waters, it’s perfect for swimming as soon as the weather turns fine. In the background, the Provençal coastal landscape creates an authentic Mediterranean atmosphere. Children will find plenty of space and a safe environment here, whilst adults can enjoy the setting for a relaxing moment by the sea.

Address: Ferrières Beach, 13500 Martigues.

3. Hiking in the Nerthe massif

The Nerthe massif dominates the Martigues hinterland and offers trails dotted with pine trees, holm oaks and fragrant garrigue. Hikers can enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the coast, the lagoons and the hinterland. The fresh air and Provençal light make it the perfect spot for walkers of all abilities. The peaks offer spectacular views at sunset, the ideal time to round off a day of exploration.

Address: Nerthe Massif, 13500 Martigues.

Our travellers’ favourite amenities when booking a holiday rental in Martigues

When staying in Martigues, the comfort of your accommodation is just as important as its location. Travellers look for holiday homes equipped with everything they need to make the most of their stay, whether relaxing by the sea or exploring the town’s three picturesque harbours. Good accommodation is also judged by the quality of its facilities and the convenience it offers on a day-to-day basis.

• Air conditioning: essential in summer, it ensures comfortable nights despite the high temperatures of the Mediterranean coast.
• Terrace or balcony: essential for soaking up the sun, admiring the sea or the canals, and enjoying al fresco dining.
• Fully equipped kitchen: allows you to prepare your own meals and sample local produce from the market without having to rely on restaurants.
• Private car park or parking space: a major advantage in a port city where street parking can be tricky, especially in high season.
• Wi-Fi: stay connected to organise your outings, check museum opening times or simply keep in touch with loved ones.
• Washing machine: handy for longer stays or families with children, as it means you don’t have to pack so much in your suitcases.
• Television: useful on rainy evenings, especially with children who enjoy watching their favourite programmes.
• Direct access to the beach or close by: a considerable time-saver for families and regular beach-goers.
• High-quality bedding: a key factor for a good night’s sleep after a day of exploring or relaxing.
• Effective heating: even outside the summer season, evenings can be chilly by the sea.

Every stay in Martigues is unique: choosing a holiday let suited to your holiday style, the number of people and your budget will allow you to really make the place your own and enjoy the experience as if you were at home.

What is the average price of a holiday rental in Martigues?

In Martigues, holiday let prices vary mainly according to the size and standard of the accommodation. For a small studio or a one-bedroom flat, you can generally expect to pay between 45 and 75 euros per night in the low season, and more during the summer. Family flats with three or four rooms tend to cost between 70 and 130 euros per night. Larger properties or those offering high-end facilities, particularly those with a view of the harbour or a private terrace, often exceed 120 euros per night.

Several factors influence these price ranges. Location plays a key role: accommodation in the immediate vicinity of the harbour or the town centre commands a premium compared to a property further out. The length of stay also affects the price: rentals commonly offer weekly or monthly discounts, which can reduce the daily cost by 15 to 25 per cent. Additional facilities and services (parking, air conditioning, outdoor space) also add to the bill.

Martigues experiences marked seasonal variation. Summer months, particularly July and August, see the highest rates. The periods from May to June and September remain relatively expensive, whilst autumn and winter offer more favourable rates. To get the best value for money, comparing several listings and reading reviews from previous travellers helps you gauge the true value on offer. Booking a few weeks in advance also increases your chances of finding accommodation that suits your budget.