48 rue Roux de Brignoles , 13006 Marseille
Just steps from the Old Port, at the intersection of Marseille’s past and urban renewal, the C2 Hotel discreetly stands out in the landscape. Housed in a majestic 19th-century mansion, this unique place does not aim to impress with opulence but to charm with its coherence and sincerity. The carefully restored building retains its moldings, frescoes, and marble staircases while incorporating contemporary materials such as raw concrete, Corian, and steel. Nothing has been artificially recreated: the traces of time are visible, embraced, and fully contribute to the atmosphere of the place.
From the moment you enter, the contrast works. The volume of the grand salon is surprising, the interplay of light from the paper and metal suspensions warms the history-filled walls, and the chosen furniture evokes both 20th-century design and discreet modernity. The grand piano, period sliding doors, and stone columns create a setting that is both noble and accessible, where one can move about with pleasure.
The hotel has only twenty rooms, spread over several floors. Each room stands out for its layout, ceiling height, or orientation. The guiding principle remains constant: open, bright, and streamlined spaces. The furniture, signed by iconic designers, never clutters the space. Wood, white Corian, and neutral tones help create a calming ambiance. Some rooms overlook the inner garden, others the Cours Pierre Puget, and two rooms feature balconies with an unobstructed view of Notre-Dame de la Garde.
On the ground floor, one room stands out thanks to the complete preservation of its original décor: coffered ceiling, antique fireplace, painted frescoes. The entire space has been restored with particular care. Far from being flashy, the rooms at the C2 focus on light, silence, and understated elegance.
To extend the experience, the wellness area in the basement invites guests to take a genuine break. Amid the original walls, a narrow and deep pool stretches in an atmosphere reminiscent of ancient baths. The subdued lighting, dark materials, three sensory showers, hammam, and treatment room form a sober yet refined ensemble. A relaxation area opens onto a discreet terrace, furnished with loungers and armchairs. The space, also accessible to external visitors, remains quiet even during the busiest hours.
The bar, located in the former salon, welcomes travelers at any time of day. Guests can enjoy breakfast in the dining room or their room, a late-morning coffee, or an evening cocktail. The menu offers a selection of light dishes, allowing guests to fully enjoy the space without having to leave. The service, smooth and attentive, complements the hotel's atmosphere without being intrusive.
The hotel is not just a pleasant setting; it comes alive weekly with concerts and cultural events. Jazz, classical music, temporary exhibitions, DJ nights... The C2 actively participates in the local art scene. On Wednesday evenings, the grand salon and patio become a meeting place for guests and curious Marseillais.
During the warmer months, the hotel offers visitors an unexpected getaway. Departing from the Old Port, you can access the Île Degaby, a former fortress now privatized by the hotel. With a picnic basket in hand, you can spend the day on the rocks or on the mattresses set up by the sea. Still relatively unknown to the general public, the spot offers a unique view of the Marseille harbor and surrounding landscapes.
The C2 also offers a brunch on the first Sunday of every month. Served in the grand salon, it then extends to the landscaped patio, sheltered from the city's hustle and bustle. The atmosphere is relaxed, without any trendy pretense. This is how the hotel operates: by creating a natural connection between spaces and uses, between visitors and the city.
The team, available at all times, prioritizes genuine hospitality. Here, there is no overuse of codes or posturing: discretion, attentiveness, and adapting to each guest’s desires are key. This approach gives the place a human dimension rarely found in establishments of this caliber.
In addition to the meeting room overlooking the Cours, the hotel offers services that make daily life easier: luggage storage, concierge, valet parking, room service, Wi-Fi connection, elevator, air conditioning. Every detail is designed to simplify your stay without weighing down the experience.
From the C2, urban strolls are immediate. By descending a few steps, you’ll reach the Old Port. More than an iconic location, it serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the entire city. Walking along the quays, you’ll reach the Mucem, whose bold architecture blends into the port landscape. Inside, the programming combines art, society, and major exhibitions.
You can also climb up to Notre-Dame de la Garde, accessible on foot for the more motivated or by a small tourist train. The panoramic view of Marseille and the Frioul Islands is spectacular. The visit helps to understand the locals' attachment to this emblematic site.
Closer by, the Panier district charms with its lively atmosphere and colorful alleyways. You can wander among galleries, workshops, and independent shops. Street art interacts with the old facades, and the stairs offer beautiful views of the sea.
For an immersion in contemporary Marseille, the Docks district and La Joliette hold surprises: museums, galleries, events, not to mention the FRAC installations and the new Pernod-Ricard museum.
If you’re a fan of unique outings, the underwater museum off the Catalans beach allows you to discover an exhibition of submerged statues, visible while swimming or light diving. An artistic and ecological project to explore between sunbathing sessions.
By choosing to stay at the C2 Hotel, you enter a place that combines heritage, simplicity, attention to detail, and openness to the city. Nothing aims to dazzle you; everything is designed to offer you a balanced, gentle experience perfectly in tune with Marseille’s rhythm.
Activities
General
Services
Dining
Pool and wellness area
Shared spaces
Entertainment
Miscellaneous
From 189 EUR per night