CityTouring
City trip to Marseille
FranceMarseille, France’s oldest city and a historical Mediterranean port, boasts a marvelous blend of vibrant multiculturalism and rich history. As the country's second-largest city, Marseille is nestled on the southeast coast, basking in over 300 days of sunshine annually. Its stunning Old Port area, Vieux-Port, is lined with yachts and bustling with waterfront cafes, offering a picturesque starting point for visitors. Further exploration reveals the charm of Le Panier, the oldest neighborhood with its colorful cobblestone streets, quaint boutiques, and charming Provençal atmosphere.
The iconic Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica towers over the city providing panoramic vistas of the terracotta rooftops, azure waters, and nearby Frioul islands. With its burgeoning arts scene, dynamic gastronomy spotlighting Provençal flavors fused with international influences, and access to dazzling coastal landscapes like the Calanques National Park, Marseille offers an engaging combination of modern vitality and storied past.
Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde
A stunning basilica offering panoramic views of Marseille's picturesque landscape and harbor, famous for its Neo-Byzantine architecture.
Vieux-Port
The historic Old Port of Marseille, bustling with vibrant markets, seafood restaurants, and picturesque views of the Mediterranean.
Calanques National Park
Stunning limestone cliffs and turquoise waters perfect for hiking, boating, and enjoying natural beauty on the city's outskirts.
Marseille is an excellent destination for travelers who crave sun-soaked coastal adventures intertwined with cultural and historical exploration. Ideal for history buffs, the city's ancient architecture, museums, and historical sites, like the Musée d'Histoire de Marseille, provide abundant context and stories of the past. Foodies will relish the variety of dining experiences showcasing local seafood delicacies such as bouillabaisse. Nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers are catered for with activities like hiking in the Calanques, enjoying the stunning Mediterranean waters, or taking a boat trip to the Château d’If.
Art and culture aficionados will find the contemporary and traditional arts to their taste, with attractions like the MuCEM highlighting Marseille's standing as a dynamic cultural hub. While nightlife exists, the focus on Marseille is about immersion in local life, culinary delights, and proximity to nature rather than vibrant clubbing scenes, making it a more fitting destination for those seeking daytime exploration and relaxed evenings.
Best time to visit Marseille
The best time to visit Marseille is during spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, avoiding the peak summer heat and tourist crowds.
More activities and things to see in Marseille:
Château d'If
This fortress-turned-prison on a small island off Marseille's coast inspired 'The Count of Monte Cristo'. Enjoy memorable views.
MuCEM
The Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations, showcasing diverse exhibitions in a striking modern building.
Le Panier
Marseille's oldest district, known for its colorful streets, quaint shops, artists' studios, and rich cultural history.
La Canebière
A historic boulevard running through the heart of Marseille, lined with boutiques, cafés, and rich in local culture.
Palais Longchamp
A grand monument housing natural history and fine arts museums, set within a lush park ideal for leisurely strolls.
Saint-Victor Abbey
An ancient abbey with crypts dating back to the Early Christian period, known for its deep historical significance.
Getting around in Marseille
Marseille is a vibrant city with diverse modes of transport to get around. Public transport, managed by RTM, includes metro lines, buses, and trams, providing extensive coverage across the city. The metro is efficient for reaching key locations swiftly. Despite being a large city, specific areas like the Vieux-Port and Le Panier are pedestrian-friendly and well-suited for exploration by foot. Additionally, the city's bike-sharing system, Le Vélo, offers a sustainable option for getting around, with numerous stations throughout the city. While Marseille's layout can make driving less efficient due to traffic congestion, having a car can be beneficial if you plan to explore the broader Provence region. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available, complementing the public transport network. Overall, Marseille provides a mix of transport options that suit various traveler preferences and needs.
Getting to Marseille
To reach Marseille, flying is a convenient option, with Marseille Provence Airport located approximately 27 kilometers northwest of the city. It accommodates numerous international flights, providing solid connections to European hubs like Paris, London, and Amsterdam. Once at the airport, the city center can be accessed via shuttle buses, taxis, or car rentals. For train travel, the Gare de Marseille-Saint-Charles station is a significant hub, offering TGV services to cities like Paris, Brussels, and Barcelona, making it a viable choice for travelers from nearby European countries. Additionally, long-distance bus services are available, with companies like FlixBus and Ouibus connecting Marseille to major European cities, offering a budget-friendly travel alternative. These options make Marseille accessible, whether you're arriving by air, train, or bus, catering to diverse travel needs and preferences.