Welcome to Marseille, the sun-drenched jewel of the French Riviera. As France’s oldest city, Marseille is steeped in rich history and vibrant culture – from its bustling old port to the quiet charm of its narrow streets. You’ll love its diverse neighbourhoods, stunning coastal views, and a unique mix of old-world charm and modern-day vibrancy.
Wander through ancient quarters, sample the freshest seafood at a local fish market, or explore hidden coves along the Mediterranean Sea. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adventurer, Marseille has something to offer.
We loved Marseille, but we’ve found that it can be a marmite city – some love it, some not so much. While it’s developed a lot in the past few years, it’s dirtier and more rundown than other cities in France. But – that’s what we loved about it, and its contrast to clean and shiny Lyon which we’d just left.
The practical stuff
How long should you stay in Marseille?
To experience Marseille, a minimum stay of three to four days is ideal. This gives you enough time to explore the main attractions like the Notre-Dame de la Garde, the Vieux Port, and Le Panier Quarter while also allowing for some leisurely wandering and to stumble upon some hidden gems. If you’re planning day trips to nearby spots like the Calanques National Park or Cassis, consider extending your stay to five or six days.
Marseille has a lot to offer, and while a shorter visit will cover the basics, a few extra days will help you appreciate its charm.
Where should you stay in Marseille?
If you want to stay in the heart of Marseille, the Vieux Port area is the best choice. This area is full of life, with easy access to restaurants, bars, and major attractions like the iconic Notre-Dame de la Garde and the bustling Quai des Belges. We stayed a few streets back from it, near Estrangin metro station, which was perfect for us.
Also consider staying in Le Panier Quarter, Marseille’s oldest neighbourhood. Here, you’ll find quaint guest rooms tucked into narrow streets, offering a glimpse into the city’s history. Alternatively, the lively Cours Julien area, known for its street art and vibrant atmosphere, is perfect for those looking for a more bohemian vibe.
How do you get to Marseille?
Marseille is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The Marseille Provence Airport is about 30 minutes by bus or taxi from the city centre (take the 91 bus which goes to Marseille Saint Charles train station. You can buy tickets online or at the airport).
Marseille’s Saint-Charles train station offers direct connections to major cities in France, such as Paris, Lyon, and Nice, as well as international connections to Italy and Spain.
Once you arrive, the best way to explore the city is on foot or by using Marseille’s public transport system, including buses, trams, and the metro.
When should you go to Marseille?
The best time to visit Marseille is from May to October, when the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for exploring the city and enjoying the Mediterranean coastline. July and August are the peak tourist months, offering the liveliest atmosphere but also the largest crowds. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting in May, June, September, or October, when the weather is still pleasant but the city is less crowded.
Winter can be a quieter time to visit, and while the temperatures are cooler, they remain mild compared to much of Europe. It’s also a great time to enjoy Marseille’s cultural centres and museums without the summer crowds. However, some attractions, like boat tours to the Calanques, may have limited availability.
What are the best places to go in Marseille?
Notre-Dame de la Garde
Perched on Marseille’s highest point, the Notre-Dame de la Garde is the city’s most-visited icon and a must-see for every traveller. This stunning basilica, with its towering statue of the Virgin Mary, offers panoramic views of the entire city and the Mediterranean Sea. The interior is equally impressive, with intricate mosaics and maritime-themed decorations that pay homage to Marseille’s history as a port city.
The climb to the basilica can be steep, but it’s worth it. Alternatively, you can take a tourist train from the Old Port or hop on a local bus. Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy the best light for photography.
Why go? Panoramic views, architectural marvel, rich history.
How long? 2 hours.
Le Panier Quarter
Le Panier is Marseille’s oldest quarter, filled with narrow streets, colourful buildings, and various shops. It’s a place where you can feel the soul of Marseille – from the scent of freshly baked bread wafting out of boulangeries to the vibrant street art that adorns many of its walls. This historic centre was once home to ancient Greeks and has been the city’s heart for centuries.
Take a walking tour to discover its hidden corners, charming squares, and historic landmarks like La Vieille Charité, a 17th-century mansion-turned-museum. Don’t forget to stop at a local café for a coffee or pastis, the local anise-flavoured spirit (warning: its pretty strong so perhaps have one to share before committing to a round!).
Why go? Historic centre, street art, cultural exploration.
How long? 3 hours.
Vieux Port (Old Port)
Marseille’s Vieux Port is the vibrant heart of the city and a favourite place for both locals and visitors. Surrounded by cafes, bars, and seafood restaurants, this bustling area has been a hub of activity since the ancient Greeks founded the city. Stroll along the Quai des Belges, where you can see fishermen selling their catch at the daily fish market, or take a boat tour to explore the coastline.
The Vieux Port is also home to several landmarks, including Fort Saint-Jean and the nearby MuCEM, Marseille’s intriguing 15,000-square-metre museum dedicated to Mediterranean cultures. For the best experience, visit early in the morning or at sunset when the light reflects beautifully on the water. Also take the Ligne du Ferry boat – perhaps one of the lesser needed boat routes, but lovely nonetheless.
Why go? Vibrant atmosphere, seafood, maritime history.
How long? 2-3 hours.
Château d’If
Immortalised by Alexandre Dumas in “The Count of Monte Cristo,” the Château d’If is a must-visit. This fortress, located on a small island in the bay of Marseille, served as a prison for political and religious detainees. Take a short boat trip from the Old Port to explore this fascinating site and enjoy beautiful views of the city from the sea.
Inside, discover the dark history of the prisoners held here and the legend of the man in the iron mask. Be sure to check boat schedules as the frequency can vary, especially in the off-season.
Why go? Literary history, boat trip, panoramic views.
How long? 2-3 hours.
Calanques National Park
For those seeking natural beauty, the Calanques National Park is a must. This stunning stretch of coastline, with its limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and hidden beaches, is perfect for hiking, rock climbing, or simply relaxing by the sea. The Calanque de Sugiton is one of the most beautiful places in the park, easily accessible by a marked trail from Luminy.
Remember to bring plenty of drinking water and wear sturdy shoes, as some trails can be challenging. For a different perspective, consider a boat tour from the Vieux Port to explore the calanques by sea. To get there via public transport is a bit convoluted but definitely doable, so do your research first. Or, consider an organised tour.
Why go? Natural beauty, hiking, water activities.
How long? Half-day to full day.
Cours Julien
The Cours Julien area is Marseille’s bohemian quarter, known for its vibrant street art, quirky shops, and lively nightlife. During the day, explore various shops selling everything from vintage clothes to handmade jewellery. In the evening, relax at a table outside the bars watching the world go by, or enjoy live music at one of the many bars or restaurants.
This area is perfect for those looking to experience a different side of Marseille, away from the typical tourist attractions. Don’t miss the colourful murals that cover many of the buildings here.
Why go? Street art, nightlife, shopping.
How long? 2-3 hours.
Marseille Cathedral (Cathédrale de la Major)
Marseille Cathedral, an imposing 19th-century Roman Catholic church, is located near the waterfront on the southern side of the Vieux Port. Its Byzantine architectural style makes it stand out (you’ll see what we mean when you get there), with its striking green and white marble façade.
Step inside to admire the beautiful mosaics and explore the crypt, which contains the remains of several bishops. The cathedral also offers beautiful views of the city and the sea, making it a fantastic spot for photography.
Why go? Architectural marvel, historical landmark, photography.
How long? 1-2 hours.
Palais Longchamp
The Palais Longchamp is one of Marseille’s most beautiful buildings and houses the city’s Natural History Museum and Museum of Fine Arts. This 19th-century palace was built to celebrate the completion of a canal bringing water to Marseille from the Durance River.
Wonder round the ornate fountains, or explore the museums. Behind it is Parc Longchamp, but we found this to be a bit rundown when we visited. It’s a great spot to spend a peaceful afternoon, away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre.
Why go? Museums, picturesque park, architectural beauty
How long? 2-3 hours
Vallon des Auffes
This small, picture-postcard fishing village located just a short distance from the city centre offers a taste of old Marseille. The Vallon des Auffes is a charming cove lined with colourful fishing boats, quaint restaurants, and traditional fishermen’s houses. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or a romantic dinner by the sea.
Come here to enjoy fresh seafood, including the local speciality, bouillabaisse. Don’t miss the beautiful view of the Sainte Marie Lighthouse and the harbour, especially at sunset. It’s small, but part of the fun was the coastal walk to get there (Google Maps will be your friend).
Why go? Authentic charm, seafood, picturesque setting
How long? 1-2 hours
MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations)
The MuCEM is Marseille’s newest national museum and an icon of modern Marseille. It sits at the entrance to the Vieux Port and is dedicated to the history and culture of the Mediterranean.
It includes exhibits on everything from ancient civilisations to contemporary art, featuring works by Andy Warhol and Jean-Michel Basquiat. Don’t forget to head to the rooftop terrace for one of the best panoramic views in the city. It’s a nice area to wonder round too, as it also contains Fort Saint-Jean which dates back to the 12th century.
Why go? Cultural exploration, contemporary art, panoramic views
How long? 2-3 hours
Day trips from Marseille
Stay a bit longer in beautiful Marseille and visit some of the following, easily accessible and visitable in a day.
- Cassis: A charming coastal town known for its cliffs and calanques, ideal for a relaxing day by the sea or wine tasting.
- Aix-en-Provence: Explore the historic centre, enjoy the markets, and visit the atelier of painter Paul Cézanne.
- Les Baux-de-Provence: A beautiful medieval village perched on a hilltop, with stunning views and ancient ruins.
- Avignon: Visit the Pope’s Palace and the famous Pont d’Avignon, and explore the historic streets of this former papal city.
- Calanques de Cassis: A perfect spot for hiking, swimming, or taking a boat tour to explore the rugged coastline.