Alexis Steinman

It’s that time again. Every year, we ask thousands of city-dwellers to tell us the coolest spots in their cities. What are the places locals love and visitors flock to? Where are the exciting new openings across food, drink and culture? Where are people going out, hanging out and having fun? For the sixth year running, the results are in. Over 12,000 people had their say in this year’s shortlist, naming the neighbourhoods in their hometowns where everyone wants to be right now. Then, we narrowed down the selection with the insight and expertise of city editors and local experts who know their cities better than anyone else. To create and rank the final list, we considered factors including community and social ventures, access to open and green space, and thriving street life. In 2023, our neighbourhoods are more global than ever before. The rise and rise in post-pandemic digital nomadism has led to an explosion of brand-new community spaces, multi-purpose culture centres and more cafés than we can count on two hands. But while most of these neighbourhoods have experienced a transformation over recent years, they remain resolutely local at heart. Slick new developments and cool cafés might bring in new crowds, but neighbourhood stalwarts – from old pubs to family greengrocers – keep it real.  The world’s coolest neighbourhoods this year are, therefore, places with big personalities. Each area’s diversity is reflected in its food, culture and festivals. Community is key: local

Thanks to its prime perch on the Mediterranean, one of the best ways to see Marseille is by boat. Hit the high seas and it won’t take long to see why Protis – the legendary sailor said to have founded Marseille in 600 BC – was so smitten with the location. Whether you fancy an all-day jaunt to the turquoise coves of the Calanques National Park or a quick ride to one of the charming fishing villages that lie in the port city’s outskirts, there’s an outing for everyone. And thanks to Marseille’s temperate climes, you can boat year-round. Just be sure to check the weather before you plan a trip: the famous mistral wind that speeds along this part of the coast can occasionally leave you landlocked. RECOMMENDED: 📍 The best things to do in Marseille😋 The best restaurants in Marseille

‘Calanques’ in French translates roughly as ‘rocky inlet’. But the calanques of Marseille aren’t just any rocks: they’re staggeringly beautiful limestone cliffs that spill into turquoise coves, like the Mediterranean’s (much warmer) answer to the Norwegian fjords. A total of 26 make up the Calanques National Park (Parc National des Calanques), a 200-square-mile treasure trove for hikers, boaters, swimmers, and nature lovers. Sprawling across Marseille and Cassis, Europe’s largest peri-urban park seduces in all seasons. Every Marseillais has their calanque of choice. Whether you’re craving a killer hike, a cool dip or a charming port to amble around, this handy guide will help you find yours – along with some advice on how to tread lightly to protect the park’s precious flora and fauna. RECOMMENDED: 📍 The best things to do in Marseille😋 The best restaurants in Marseille