Marseille Pub Crawl: Explore by Night Meet, Mingle & Party

Planning a night out in a lively city like Marseille? If you’re looking for a way to experience the city’s nightlife while meeting fellow travelers, a pub crawl around the Vieux-Port could be just what you need. We haven’t personally taken this tour, but based on reviews and the itinerary, it looks like a fun, social way to dive into Marseille’s evening scene.

What we love: First, the opportunity to visit 4 different bars in one evening, each with its own vibe and drink deals, means you get a taste of diverse local spots without the hassle of planning. Second, the free shots and VIP club entry add a little extra to the experience, making it easier to loosen up and enjoy the night.

One potential downside? Some reviews suggest that the guides can sometimes be less involved or that not all promised stops happen exactly as planned. So, if you’re after a highly structured or personalized experience, this might not be your ideal choice. However, if you’re happy with a lively, social evening with new friends, it could be a great fit.

This tour is probably best suited for travelers who want to meet new people, enjoy nightlife with drink specials, and explore Marseille’s vibrant riverside scene. It’s less suited for those looking for a more laid-back or solo experience, or anyone with mobility issues considering the walking involved.

Key Points

• A social way to explore Marseille’s bars with international groups.
• Includes free shots and drink specials, making it budget-friendly for a night out.
• VIP club entry at the end of the crawl for those who want to dance.
• Guides facilitate fun challenges and keep energy high throughout the night.
• Tour is roughly 4 hours, starting at 8:30 PM.
• Note that the experience is in English and not suitable for children or pregnant women.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Marseille Pub Crawl

This experience is designed to be a lively, social introduction to the city’s nightlife. It starts at The People Hostel in the heart of Marseille’s Vieux-Port, a central hub for visitors. From there, you’ll be greeted by your guides, who will be easy to spot in red T-shirts or jackets, and quickly get to know your fellow party-goers. Expect to kick off your evening with a welcome shot and some icebreaker games, helping everyone loosen up and get ready for the night.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First stop: The Vieux-Port area – a bustling, scenic spot that’s perfect for starting a night out. This initial gathering sets a relaxed, friendly tone, where you can chat with new friends and learn about the bars you’ll visit.

Next: 3 to 4 bars – each with a unique atmosphere. You might encounter everything from trendy cocktail spots to local dives with live DJ music. The guides will share drink deals and specials, ensuring you get the most out of your night without overspending.

Free shots at each bar – a nice touch that keeps the energy flowing. You’ll often hear the guides encouraging playful challenges and surprises, making sure the night stays lively and engaging.

The finale: a top Marseille club – your night will culminate with VIP entry where you can dance and party until late. Though, as some reviews mentioned, the final club might sometimes be missing or different from what was promised, so keep that in mind.

The Group Dynamics

This tour tends to gather a mixed crowd of international travelers, which is part of the charm. One reviewer noted, “He’s really nailed it,” indicating some guides do a great job creating a fun, inclusive environment. Others, however, mentioned guides sometimes disappear after a bar visit, leaving guests to enjoy themselves on their own. This inconsistency can vary from night to night but is worth considering if you’re expecting a tightly run experience.

The Value of the Experience

At $29 per person, the price is quite reasonable for a 4-hour guided tour that includes free shots, VIP club access, and multiple bar stops. The value largely depends on how much you enjoy socializing and night crawling. If your aim is to meet people and enjoy a lively night, the drink deals and group atmosphere make this a good deal.

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The Group, Drinks, and Atmosphere

The biggest draw of this experience is the international, friendly vibe. You’re likely to meet people from different countries, creating a fun, diverse group dynamic. The drink specials and free shots are typical of pub crawls, but they do help keep costs down in a city where nightlife can get pricey.

While the guide’s involvement varies, most guests seem to appreciate the chance to explore different venues without the stress of figuring out where to go. The final club offers a chance to really dance and let loose, which many find a satisfying way to end the night.

A Word on the Reviews

Some reviews highlight that the initial bar was just a small boathouse with a dance floor, which might not be what everyone expects. Others appreciated how guides quickly adapted or moved the group to different spots when their preferences were clear. However, one reviewer expressed disappointment when the final club turned out to be missing, which can happen, so don’t expect a guaranteed ending.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Meet at The People Hostel inside the lobby, looking for a guide in red.
• Bring your passport or ID for identification.
• Cash is recommended since not all bars accept cards, and some might have a minimum payment.
• The tour begins promptly at 8:30 PM; arriving a little early is a good idea.
• Dress casually but avoid flip-flops or tank-tops, as some bars might have dress codes.
• Remember, this isn’t suitable for children or pregnant women, and those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved.

Who Would Love This Experience?

If you enjoy meeting new people, trying different bars, and dancing the night away, this pub crawl in Marseille offers an energetic and friendly environment. It’s especially suited for solo travelers or small groups wanting a social night out with guaranteed fun. However, if you’re looking for a highly curated, personalized experience, this might be a bit too spontaneous for your taste.

Final Thoughts

The Marseille Pub Crawl provides a lively way to see the city’s nightlife, especially if you’re traveling alone or with friends eager to socialize. The mix of drink deals, group energy, and the chance to explore different venues makes it an appealing option for those wanting to experience Marseille’s evening scene without the hassle of planning each step.

While the experience can sometimes lack consistency—such as the guide’s engagement or the final club’s availability—the overall vibe and the opportunity to meet international travelers still make it worthwhile. It’s a good choice for those who want a fun, social evening with plenty of opportunities for drinks, dancing, and making new friends.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. It’s designed for mingling and socializing, making it a great way to meet others on your own trip.

How long does the pub crawl last?
Approximately 4 hours, starting at 8:30 PM.

Are drinks included?
Not exactly. You get free shots at each bar and access to drink specials, but additional drinks are at your own expense.

Is there a dress code?
There’s no strict dress code, but avoid flip-flops or tank-tops as some bars prefer slightly smarter casual attire.

Can I bring cash?
Yes, it’s recommended since some bars don’t accept cards or have minimum payment amounts.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, the tour is not designed for children or pregnant women.

Will I get VIP access to the club?
Yes, the tour includes VIP entry to the final club.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, and some cash for drinks or tips.

What if the guide is hard to find?
Look for the guide in a red T-shirt or jacket inside The People Hostel or ask at the bar for directions.

This pub crawl offers a lively, social way to get a taste of Marseille’s nightlife, especially if you’re eager to meet new friends and enjoy some drinks along the way. Just keep in mind that the experience can vary depending on the night and guide, but with an open mind, it’s likely to be a fun highlight of your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: