Marseille, France

Marseille Travel Guide

Welcome to Marseille, the second-largest city in France! Located on the Mediterranean coast, Marseille is a vibrant and culturally rich destination that offers something for everyone. From its stunning beaches and picturesque Old Town to its world-class museums and delicious seafood restaurants, Marseille is a must-visit destination for any traveler.

Places to Go

1. Old Town (Vieux Port)

The historic heart of Marseille, the Old Town is a charming and colorful neighborhood that dates back to the 16th century. Take a stroll along the picturesque harbor, admire the beautiful architecture, and explore the narrow streets lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Must-see landmarks:

  • Bourse du Port: A stunning example of 19th-century architecture that now serves as a cultural center.
  • Notre-Dame de la Garde Cathedral: A magnificent Catholic cathedral perched on a hill overlooking the city.
  • Old Town Market: A bustling marketplace selling everything from fresh produce to local handicrafts.

2. Calanques National Park

Located just outside Marseille, Calanques is a breathtaking national park that features turquoise-colored gorges, hidden beaches, and picturesque villages. Take a boat tour or hike through the park’s stunning scenery.

Best places to visit:

  • La Condamine: A tiny village perched on a hillside with stunning views of the Mediterranean.
  • Port Pin: A secluded beach surrounded by towering cliffs and crystal-clear waters.
  • Cassino: A picturesque village nestled in the heart of Calanques.

3. Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations (MuCEM)

This world-class museum tells the story of human civilization through a stunning collection of artifacts, art, and interactive exhibits. Explore ancient cultures, admire the beautiful architecture, and enjoy the panoramic views of the city.

Highlights:

  • The Great Hall: A breathtaking atrium featuring a stunning glass roof.
  • The Archaeological Collection: A vast collection of artifacts from ancient civilizations.
  • The Temporary Exhibition Spaces: Host to rotating exhibitions on various themes.

4. Beaches

Marseille boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in France, each with its own unique charm and atmosphere. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the shore.

Top beaches:

  • La Garde: A popular beach located just outside the Old Town.
  • Prado: A lively beach with plenty of amenities, including restaurants, bars, and water sports.
  • Endoume: A secluded beach surrounded by pine trees and crystal-clear waters.

5. Les Allumettes

A scenic district located on a hill overlooking the city, Les Allumettes features stunning views, beautiful parks, and a vibrant community of artists and creatives. Visit the local market, explore the charming streets, or simply enjoy the panoramic views.

Must-see spots:

  • The Viewpoint: A stunning viewpoint offering breathtaking views of the city.
  • The Market: A bustling marketplace selling everything from fresh produce to local handicrafts.
  • The Gardens: Beautiful parks and gardens perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Activities

1. Boat Tours

Explore Marseille’s coastline on a boat tour, taking in the stunning views of the city and surrounding landscape.

Popular options:

  • Calanques Tour: A guided tour of Calanques National Park.
  • Marseille Harbor Tour: A leisurely cruise around the Old Town harbor.
  • Sunset Cruise: Enjoy a romantic sunset cruise with breathtaking views of the city.

2. Food Tours

Indulge in Marseille’s world-class cuisine on a food tour, sampling local specialties and discovering hidden gems.

Recommended tours:

  • Old Town Food Tour: Explore the historic heart of Marseille and sample its delicious seafood.
  • Calanques Food Tour: Discover the fresh produce and local delicacies of Calanques National Park.
  • Marseille Foodie Tour: A comprehensive tour of the city’s culinary delights.

3. Hiking and Cycling

Explore Marseille’s stunning natural surroundings on a hike or bike ride, taking in the breathtaking views and enjoying the great outdoors.

Popular routes:

  • Calanques Trail: A challenging hike through Calanques National Park.
  • Marseille Coastal Path: A scenic bike ride along the city’s coastline.
  • Les Allumettes Hike: A leisurely hike through the charming district of Les Allumettes.

Where to Eat

1. Seafood Restaurants

Enjoy Marseille’s world-class seafood at one of its many restaurants, each offering a unique dining experience.

Top spots:

  • Chez Lorie: A Michelin-starred restaurant serving fresh seafood and local delicacies.
  • Le Petit Nice: A cozy bistro located in the heart of Old Town.
  • La Baignade: A beachside restaurant perfect for a leisurely lunch or dinner.

2. Local Markets

Visit one of Marseille’s bustling markets to sample local specialties, buy fresh produce, and discover hidden gems.

Must-visit markets:

  • Old Town Market: A lively marketplace selling everything from fresh produce to local handicrafts.
  • Les Allumettes Market: A charming market featuring local delicacies and handmade goods.
  • Le Marché aux Puces: A bustling flea market perfect for finding unique souvenirs.

3. Cafes and Bakeries

Indulge in Marseille’s delicious pastries, sandwiches, and coffee at one of its many cafes or bakeries.

Recommended spots:

  • Cafe de la Paix: A charming cafe located in the heart of Old Town.
  • Le Pain Quotidien: A popular bakery serving fresh bread and pastries.
  • L’Atelier: A cozy cafe perfect for a leisurely coffee or snack.

Where to Stay

1. Hotel Le Petunia

A stylish boutique hotel located in the heart of Old Town, offering comfortable rooms and stunning views.

Room types:

  • Classic Room: A cozy room with a private balcony.
  • Deluxe Room: A spacious room featuring a separate living area.
  • Suite: A luxurious suite perfect for special occasions or long stays.

2. Hotel La Résidence

A modern hotel located near the beach, offering comfortable rooms and easy access to the city’s attractions.

Room types:

  • Standard Room: A cozy room with a private balcony.
  • Superior Room: A spacious room featuring a separate living area.
  • Apartment: A fully-equipped apartment perfect for families or long stays.

3. Hostel La Villa

A charming hostel located in the heart of Old Town, offering affordable rooms and a lively atmosphere.

Room types:

  • Dormitory Room: A shared room with bunk beds.
  • Private Room: A cozy room featuring a private bathroom.
  • Studio: A fully-equipped studio perfect for solo travelers or couples.

Things to Know

1. Language

While French is the official language, many Marseillais speak English, especially in tourist areas. However, it’s still a good idea to learn some basic French phrases to enhance your experience.

Useful phrases:

  • Bonjour: Hello.
  • Merci: Thank you.
  • Au revoir: Goodbye.
  • Pouvez-vous m’aider?: Can you help me?

2. Currency

The official currency is the Euro, which can be exchanged at banks, currency exchange offices, or ATMs.

ATM locations:

  • Old Town: Many ATMs located throughout the historic district.
  • La Bourse du Port: A large ATM located near the Old Town market.
  • Les Allumettes: An ATM located in the heart of this charming district.

3. Transportation

Marseille has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses and trams. You can also take taxis or ride-sharing services to get around the city.

Recommended modes of transport:

  • Metro: A convenient way to explore the city’s attractions.
  • Bus: A reliable option for traveling longer distances.
  • Tram: A scenic route that passes through some of Marseille’s most charming neighborhoods.

4. Safety

Marseille is generally a safe city, but it’s always a good idea to take necessary precautions, especially at night.

Safety tips:

  • Be aware of your surroundings: Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas.
  • Avoid displaying valuables: Don’t flash cash or expensive jewelry in public.
  • Respect local customs: Be mindful of cultural differences and traditions.

5. Weather

Marseille has a Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and mild winters. Pack accordingly to enjoy the city’s stunning beaches and outdoor activities.

Weather tips:

  • Summer: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and light clothing for hot weather.
  • Winter: Pack layers for cooler temperatures and potential rain showers.
  • Spring and Autumn: Enjoy mild temperatures perfect for outdoor activities.

Tips and Tricks

1. Learn Some Basic French

While many Marseillais speak English, it’s still a good idea to learn some basic French phrases to enhance your experience.

Useful apps:

  • Duolingo: A popular language-learning app.
  • Google Translate: A handy tool for translating text and speaking with locals.

2. Explore the City on Foot

Marseille is a city best explored on foot, with many hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

Recommended walking routes:

  • Old Town: Wander through the historic district’s narrow streets.
  • La Bourse du Port: Visit this charming area featuring beautiful architecture and street performers.
  • Les Allumettes: Explore this cozy neighborhood featuring local shops and cafes.

3. Try Local Cuisine

Marseille is famous for its delicious seafood, but there’s more to the city’s cuisine than just fish and chips.

Recommended dishes:

  • Bouillabaisse: A hearty fish soup originating from Marseille.
  • Tartare de poisson: A fresh fish tartare perfect for a light lunch or snack.
  • Daube provençale: A rich beef stew featuring local flavors and ingredients.

4. Visit the Local Markets

Marseille’s markets are a shopper’s paradise, offering everything from fresh produce to local handicrafts.

Recommended markets:

  • Old Town Market: A bustling marketplace selling everything from fresh produce to local delicacies.
  • Les Allumettes Market: A charming market featuring local handicrafts and handmade goods.
  • Le Marché aux Puces: A popular flea market perfect for finding unique souvenirs.

5. Enjoy the City’s Nightlife

Marseille has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from.

Recommended spots:

  • Old Town: Explore this historic district’s charming bars and cafes.
  • La Bourse du Port: Visit this lively area featuring street performers and local bars.
  • Les Allumettes: Enjoy the city’s best nightlife in this cozy neighborhood.

We hope you have a wonderful time exploring Marseille!