Istres

Discover the pretty town of Istres between the lagoons and the Mediterranean

55 km from Marseille and 40 km from Aix-en-Provence, Istres is strategically located between the Étang de Berre lagoon and the Crau plain. With three natural lakes nearby (Étang de Berre, Étang de l'Olivier, and Étang d'Entressen), Istres is a pleasant town offering a wide range of cultural and sporting activities.

A Provençal town on a human scale, it combines a lively historic center, unspoiled natural areas, and direct access to the water. Here, you can go from a stroll along the quays to a walk among the salt marshes in just a few minutes.

A setting shaped by water

Istres lives to the rhythm of its three lakes: the Étang de Berre, vast like an inland sea; the Étang de l'Olivier, nestled in the heart of the town; and the Étang de Rassuen, which is wilder. The presence of water creates a milder microclimate than in the hinterland and attracts a rich fauna, including pink flamingos.

The old town, built of blonde stone, winds around narrow streets dotted with shady squares. The colorful facades reflect the light, and the weathered shutters hint at the age of the houses.

Stroll through the town

Start at the Porte d'Arles, a remnant of the medieval ramparts, then walk up Rue Alphonse-Daudet. Your footsteps echo on the cobblestones, and the smell of warm bread wafts from the bakeries. At Place Bellevue, the view opens up onto the Étang de l'Olivier, with swans gliding slowly across the water.

A footpath runs along its banks for over 7 km, dotted with gardens, playgrounds, and sculptures. In the afternoon, families stroll along the path and fishermen wait patiently with their rods. Further on, in the Parc de l'Olivier, you can enjoy the shade of pine trees and the scent of lavender.

Iconic sites

Étang de l'Olivier and water fountain

In the heart of the town, this lake is home to a 50-meter-high water fountain that can be seen from several neighborhoods. Fun fact: it only works when there is no mistral wind, to prevent the water from dispersing.

Old town and Arles gate

A listed medieval monument, it is a reminder that Istres was once a fortified town and a stop on the road between Arles and Marseille.

La Romaniquette

A beach on the banks of the Étang de Berre, with lifeguards on duty in summer. The water is calm, ideal for families.

Domaine de Sulauze

An organic vineyard that also produces craft beer. You can enjoy a glass on the terrace, surrounded by vines and scrubland.

Chapelle Saint-Sulpice

Perched on a point of the Étang de l'Olivier, this 9th-century chapel offers a peaceful view of the water and the town.

Local life & events

Markets

• Town center: Tuesday and Saturday mornings, Place des Arcades and adjacent streets

• Rassuen: Thursday mornings

• Top products: Fresh fish from the lagoon, melons from La Crau, local olive oils.

Annual events:

• Istres Feria in June: bullfights, concerts, bodegas

• Street Arts Festival in July

• Shepherds' Festival and Traditions in December

• Water sports competitions and regattas on the lagoon