Marseilles, the Phocaean city, is a destination that leaves no one indifferent. Between its majestic creeks, its rich history and its vibrant culture, a trip to Marseille promises unforgettable memories. Whether you are a fan of gastronomy, passionate about history or simply in search of breathtaking landscapes, this city has everything to please. Prepare to explore its hidden treasures and experience the authenticity of the south of the France!
The city’s must-haves
Marseille is full of emblematic sites that tell its fascinating story. The Old Port is the beating heart of the city, where you can admire the fishing boats and stroll on the lively quays. Do not miss the opportunity to taste a traditional bouillabaisse.
The Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, perched on a hill, offers a breathtaking view of the whole city. This iconic monument attracts visitors from all over the world with its stunning architecture and colorful mosaics.
The Calanques, this remarkable national park between Marseille and Cassis, are a true natural jewel. With their turquoise waters and dizzying cliffs, they invite exploration. Whether hiking or kayaking, it is a must for nature lovers.
The Panier district also deserves your attention with its picturesque streets and vibrant murals. Immerse yourself in this bohemian atmosphere that makes the unique charm of Marseille.
The best places to see these sites
To appreciate the essentials of Marseille, it is essential to choose strategic observation points. Start with the Old Port. This emblematic place offers a breathtaking view of the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica and the colorful boats that animate the port.
Then, head to the heights of Parc Borély. From here, you can contemplate the picturesque architecture of the city while enjoying a green setting ideal for a relaxing walk.
Another must-see place is the Panier district. Its narrow, paved streets are dotted with vibrant urban art. You will also discover small squares where you can enjoy a coffee while admiring the local atmosphere.
Do not forget to explore the Mucem from its panoramic terraces. The fusion between modern and historical architecture makes this site unique.
For those looking for a different perspective, embark on a boat ride around the creeks. The spectacular coastal landscapes are breathtaking and offer a whole new way to discover Marseille.
The most confidential places to discover in Marseille
Very often, most tourists avoid visiting overcrowded places. If this is your case, here are some places not to be missed during your visit to Marseille.
old charity : This site is a 17th century building located in the Panier district. It was built to house the homeless and the poor. The Old Charity is today a museum of history and archeology where you will find a collection of Egyptian, Greek and Roman objects.
Saint-Victor Abbey : This abbey is one of the oldest Christian monasteries in France. It was built in the 5th century on the tomb of Saint Victor, a Roman soldier who converted to Christianity and who was therefore martyred. During your visit to the Saint-Victor Abbey, you can admire its interior which is covered by a splendid mosaic made from marbles of different colors.
Borely Park : If you need a place to relax during your stay in Marseille, do not hesitate to visit Parc Borély. This park was created in 1862 and covers an area of 17 hectares. You will find a museum dedicated to decorative art as well as the Château Borély which houses temporary exhibitions around various themes.
The Calanque of Sormiou : Sormiou is one of the most beautiful creeks located in the immediate vicinity of Marseille. It is accessible by a pedestrian path which begins at the level of the district of Luminy. The turquoise sea, the impressive cliffs and the fine sandy beach will do everything to make your visit unforgettable.
The DIF castle : Situated on Dif Island, opposite the Old Port of Marseille, this fortified castle was built in the 16th century to serve as a prison. He is notably known for having welcomed the famous Count of Monte-Cristo in the novel de Alexandre Dumas. Today it houses a museum and offers a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean.
The Radiant City : Designed by the architect Le Corbusier, the radiant city is considered one of the masterpieces of modern architecture. It houses apartments as well as a hotel, a restaurant and a kindergarten. You can also visit its rooftop terrace which offers panoramic views of the city.
The Vallon des Auffes district : This small traditional fishing port is a real haven of peace in the heart of the city. You can walk along the wharf and admire the colorful boats, as well as enjoy culinary specialties in one of the seaside restaurants.
The Longchamp Palace : This emblematic monument of Marseille was built in 1869 to celebrate the arrival of drinking water in the city. It now houses the Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Natural History, as well as a park where it is good to walk or picnic.
The steps of the sun : Known as the “Marseille Escaliers”, these steps are located in the popular district of Le Panier. They offer a magnificent view of the city and are decorated with colorful mosaics made by local artists.
Marseille gastronomy to discover
If the city of Marseille is known for its old port and its creeks, it is also known for its gastronomy. If you are going on vacation in the Marseille city, be sure to taste some of its typical dishes.
The Bouillabaisse is one of the most famous dishes in Marseille. It is a soup or rather a stew made from fish and shellfish. The main ingredients are fish (Rascasse, Grondin, Vive, Saint-Pierre), small crabs (grondines), molluscs (claws and cuttlefish) and shellfish (gambas). The traditional recipe requires that each fish be cooked separately with a bouquet garni before being mixed in a large pot with white wine, saffron and vegetables (onions, tomatoes).
Feet Packages : Only the real Marseillais dare to taste their feet packets. However, this traditional dish, based on feet and pansettes of lamb stuffed and simmered in a spicy sauce (tomatoes, peppers, garlic and herbs) is a real delight. The packet feet can be served as a starter or as a main course with vegetables.
The Panisses are one of the most popular snacks in Marseille. This is a culinary specialty made from fried chickpea flour. Panisses have a square or rectangular shape and are eaten hot with salt and pepper or different sauces.
To end your meal on a high note, nothing better than the Marseille shuttles. These small dry cookies are shaped like a boat and are flavored with orange blossom. You will find these sweets in all the bakeries of Marseille but do not miss those of the shuttle oven on the old port.
Where to stay in Marseille?
Marseille offers a multitude of optionsaccommodation For all tastes and budgets. Whether you are looking for luxury, comfort or authenticity, the city has something to offer.
For an upscale experience, head to the Old Port where there are elegant hotels with sea views. Enjoying the sunset from your room is a dream come true.
If you prefer a more casual setting, consider youth hostels or Airbnb apartments in busy neighborhoods like Le Panier or Noailles. These places are ideal for meeting other travelers while soaking up the local atmosphere.
Families can opt for hotel residences that offer more space and convenient amenities. Many establishments also offer child-friendly activities.
Don’t forget the charming guesthouses nestled in the city center or around the Palais Longchamp. They often allow a complete immersion in Marseille culture thanks to the warm welcome of the owners.
How to get to Marseille and get around the city?
To reach Marseille, several options are available to you. If you arrive by plane, Marseille-Provence airport is well served by national and international flights. A shuttle service easily connects the airport to the city center.
If you prefer the train, Saint-Charles station is a hotspot that connects Marseille to major French cities like Paris or Lyon. It is a beautiful entrance into the city with its majestic stairs.
Once there, getting around Marseille is simple thanks to its network of transport network In common. The metro and trams are effective in exploring different neighborhoods without stress.
For those who like to walk, the Old Port is an excellent starting point to discover the surroundings. Many emblematic sites are within walking distance.
If you want more autonomy, think about the self-service bikes available anywhere in the city. This makes it possible to fully appreciate the seascapes while moving easily from one place to another.
Photo credit: F. Laffont-Feraud, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, Via Commons Wikimedia
