Marseille
France · Provence · 12 m
Description
Marseille is the second-largest city in France and one of the country’s oldest cities. This vibrant Mediterranean port metropolis looks back on more than 2,600 years of history and combines cultural diversity, a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle, and a strong maritime tradition. The city is known for its historic Old Port (Vieux-Port), the iconic Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde, its diverse neighborhoods, and the spectacular limestone coves of the Calanques just beyond the city. Marseille blends ancient roots with modern urban life, shaped by art, gastronomy, commerce, and an open-minded cosmopolitan spirit. France’s oldest port city is considered one of the Mediterranean’s most important cultural and maritime centers.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 2 to 4 days (optimal 3 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: July – August
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Vieux-Port (Old Port)
- Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica
- Calanques National Park
- Le Panier Old Quarter
- MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations)
- Fort Saint-Jean
- Château d'If
- Frioul Islands
- Boat Trip to Château d'If and the Frioul Islands
- Calanques Boat Tour
- Calanques Hiking Trails
- Calanque de Sormiou
- Calanque de Morgiou
- Calanque d'En-Vau
- Corniche Président John Fitzgerald Kennedy
- Vallon des Auffes
- Palais Longchamp
- Marseille Cathedral (Cathédrale La Major)
- Abbey of Saint-Victor
- La Vieille Charité
- Cours Julien and Street Art
- Noailles Quarter and Marché des Capucins
- La Canebière
- Porte d'Aix
- Pharo Palace and Gardens
- Plage des Catalans
- Prado Beaches
- Pointe Rouge Beach
- Parc Borély
- Cité Radieuse (Unité d'Habitation)
- Orange Vélodrome
- Marseille History Museum
- Cosquer Méditerranée
- Bouillabaisse and Marseille Seafood
- Marseille Street Food (Panisse, Navettes and Pizza)
Getting there
- Airports:
- MRS
- Train stations:
- Marseille Saint-Charles, Marseille-Blancarde, Arenc-Euroméditerranée
- Seaport:
- Reachable by ship or ferry