Fun Classes for Expats Living in Marseille

Marseille, a vibrant port city on the southern coast of France, is a cultural melting pot that offers a plethora of classes and workshops for English-speaking expats and digital nomads. Whether you're looking to dive into the local culture, pick up a new hobby, or enhance your skills, there's something for everyone. From cooking classes that allow you to savor the flavors of Provence to language courses designed to help you navigate daily life, these classes are not only educational but also a fantastic way to meet like-minded individuals and integrate into the Marseille community. Below is a curated list of classes that cater to English speakers or those still mastering the French language.

L'Atelier des Chefs Marseille

Type of Class(es): Cooking Classes
Location: 19 Rue Saint-Saëns, 13001 Marseille

At L'Atelier des Chefs, you can immerse yourself in the culinary world of France with hands-on cooking classes. They offer a variety of courses from beginner to advanced levels, where you can learn to prepare classic French dishes or explore international cuisine. The classes are designed to be accessible even for those with limited French language skills, as the chefs are accustomed to an international clientele.

Alliance Française Marseille Provence

Type of Class(es): French Language Courses
Location: 310 Rue Paradis, 13008 Marseille

The Alliance Française is renowned for its high-quality French language courses. They offer a range of classes from intensive courses to evening sessions, tailored to suit different levels and schedules. The friendly environment and cultural activities provide a supportive space for expats to improve their French while getting to know the local culture and other international residents.

Le Château de la Buzine

Type of Class(es): Wine Tasting and Oenology Classes
Location: 56 Traverse de la Buzine, 13011 Marseille

Le Château de la Buzine offers wine enthusiasts the chance to learn about French wines through tasting classes and workshops. The sessions are designed to be informative and enjoyable, with a focus on discovering the rich wine heritage of the Provence region. English-speaking sommeliers make these classes accessible to those still learning French.

Atelier Canopé Marseille

Type of Class(es): Art and Craft Workshops
Location: 31 Boulevard d'Athènes, 13001 Marseille

Atelier Canopé provides a creative outlet for adults with a variety of art and craft workshops. From painting to pottery, these workshops are often led by bilingual instructors, making them suitable for English speakers. It's a great way to express your creativity and meet fellow art enthusiasts in the city.

Marseille Provence Greeters

Type of Class(es): Cultural Exchange and Walking Tours
Location: Various locations in Marseille

While not a traditional class, Marseille Provence Greeters offers walking tours with local volunteers who share their love for the city. This is an excellent opportunity for expats to learn about Marseille's history, culture, and hidden gems from a local perspective. Tours can be conducted in English and are a unique way to learn outside of a classroom setting.

Provence Gourmet

Type of Class(es): Cooking and Market Tours
Location: Various locations in and around Marseille

Provence Gourmet combines cooking classes with market tours, offering a full culinary experience. You'll start by exploring local markets to select fresh ingredients, followed by a cooking session where you'll prepare a traditional Provencal meal. The classes are small and intimate, with English-speaking guides, making it easy for non-French speakers to participate fully.

SpeakEasy Marseille

Type of Class(es): Language Exchange Events
Location: Various bars and cafes in Marseille

SpeakEasy Marseille organizes language exchange events in relaxed settings such as bars and cafes. These gatherings are perfect for practicing language skills in a social atmosphere. While not a formal class, these events are a valuable resource for expats looking to improve their French and meet locals and other expats in an informal setting.

Atelier-Visa

Type of Class(es): Photography Workshops
Location: 19 Rue Francis Davso, 13001 Marseille

Atelier-Visa offers photography workshops for all levels, focusing on technique, composition, and editing. The workshops are often led by professional photographers who speak English, making them accessible to expats. It's a great way to explore Marseille through the lens and capture the beauty of the city.

Maison de l'Artisanat et des Métiers d'Art

Type of Class(es): Artisanal and Craft Workshops
Location: 21 Cours d'Estienne d'Orves, 13001 Marseille

The Maison de l'Artisanat et des Métiers d'Art is a hub for traditional crafts and offers workshops in various artisanal techniques. These workshops are often available in English or are visual enough for non-French speakers to follow along and learn a new skill while appreciating the local craftsmanship.

La Boîte à Sardine

Type of Class(es): Seafood Cooking Classes
Location: 2 Boulevard de la Libération, 13001 Marseille

La Boîte à Sardine is a well-known fish market and restaurant that offers cooking classes focused on seafood. The classes are a fantastic way to learn about local seafood preparation and Mediterranean cooking styles. With chefs experienced in hosting international guests, language barriers are minimized.

Please note that while these classes and workshops are recommended for English-speaking adults, it's always a good idea to confirm the language of instruction and any language support available before booking. Enjoy your learning experience in Marseille!