☰Stade Vélodrome

The Stade Vélodrome is the beating heart of football in Marseille and home to Olympique de Marseille since 1937. Originally designed by architect Henri Ploquin, its name recalls its origins as a cycle-racing track, and the elliptical shape is still visible in the ground plan. A major renovation completed in 2014 added a dramatic undulating roof and expanded capacity to around 67,000, making it the largest club stadium in France. On match nights the atmosphere is electric, driven by the passionate ultras in the Virage Sud. Even if you are not a football fan, the stadium tours offer a look at the architecture and a feel for what the sport means to this city.