Marseille-2-day-itinerary

Marseille Itinerary: 2 Days of Exploration

Day 1: Old Town and Beaches

Morning

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Old Port (Vieux-Port)

  • Start your day by exploring the picturesque Old Port, a historic harbor filled with boats, cafes, and street performers.
  • Visit the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, a stunning Catholic basilica perched on a hill overlooking the city.

Lunch

12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

Le Petit Navire

  • Grab lunch at this cozy seafood restaurant, located right on the waterfront.
  • Try their famous fish soup or one of their fresh seafood dishes.

Afternoon

2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Castre d’If

  • Take a short ferry ride to Île d’If, a small island connected to the mainland by a pedestrian bridge.
  • Visit the 16th-century fortress, which inspired Alexandre Dumas’s novel “The Count of Monte Cristo.”

Evening

7:00 PM - 10:00 PM

La Garde

  • Head to this trendy neighborhood for dinner and drinks.
  • Try Le Café de la Gare, a charming cafe with great food and atmosphere.

Day 2: Culture and History

Morning

9:30 AM - 12:00 PM

Museum of Mediterranean Archaeology (Musée d’Archéologie Méditerranéenne)

  • Visit this museum, located in the historic district of Panier.
  • Explore the collection of ancient artifacts and learn about the history of Marseille.

Lunch

12:30 PM - 2:00 PM

Le Relais de la Marine

  • Grab lunch at this restaurant, located near the Old Port.
  • Try their Mediterranean-inspired dishes with a focus on fresh seafood.

Afternoon

3:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Château Borély

  • Visit Château Borély, a beautiful park and castle built in the 19th century.
  • Explore the gardens, fountains, and views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Where to Stay

  • Hotel La Residence du Vieux-Port: A stylish hotel located right on the Old Port, with stunning views of the sea.
  • Appartement en Résidence Panier: A cozy apartment in the historic district of Panier, perfect for families or groups.

Transportation

  • Metro: Marseille has an efficient metro system that connects major attractions and neighborhoods.
  • Bus: Bus services are also available throughout the city.
  • Walking: Walking is a great way to explore the narrow streets and alleys of Old Town and other historic districts.

Tips and Other Things of Interest

  • Language: While many locals speak some English, it’s still appreciated when visitors make an effort to speak French.
  • Dress Code: Marseille has a relaxed dress code, but it’s always best to dress modestly when visiting churches or other places of worship.
  • Food: Try the local specialties, such as bouillabaisse (fish soup) and tapenade (olive paste).
  • Beaches: Marseille has several beautiful beaches, including Plage du Prado and Plage de la Garde.