What are the Best Things to do in Marseille?

Marseille is one of the oldest and most colorful cities in France. Situated on the Mediterranean coast, Marseille is an amazing place to explore due to its stunning beaches and incredible cuisine. Whether you are a beach worshipper, history buff, foodie, or just looking for a unique place to explore, there are plenty of great activities and attractions for everyone to enjoy in Marseille.

Visit the Old Port of Marseille

The Old Port of Marseille is one of the oldest parts of this amazing city, having been inhabited since 600 B.C. The old port is small in comparison to its neighboring city, Nice, but it is still a thriving center of activity. Take a romantic walk by the sea, take a boat tour around the port, or simply enjoy the views from the many restaurants and bars that line the promenade. Many festivals and events are held here throughout the year and it’s definitely worth exploring the old port for its unique atmosphere.

Explore the Frioul Archipelago

The Frioul Archipelago is part of the larger Bouches-du-Rhône department and is easily accessible from Marseille. The archipelago consists of four islands, each of which can be reached by ferry from the shore. It’s a great place to go to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and explore some of France’s beautiful coastline. The islands offer great diving spots, kayaking, canoeing, sailing and other outdoor activities.

Experience Marseille Cathedral

The Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde is one of the most stunning churches in all of France. Dominating the Marseille skyline, this Gothic-style cathedral dates back to the 12th century. The interior of the church is just as impressive as the outside; it has richly decorated stained glass windows, flying buttresses and an intricate marble floor. Have a picnic on the terrace for a truly unique experience!

Enjoy some Local Cuisine

Marseille is known for its fantastic cuisine, so it’s definitely worth sampling some of their local dishes during your visit. Loukoumades—deep-fried dough balls served with honey and cinnamon are a favorite in Marseille. Bouillabaisse is another Marseille classic; it’s a fish stew made with several varieties of fish. Of course, you can’t visit Marseille without having some Mediterranean seafood such as shrimp and mussels.

Visit Calanques National Park

Calanques National Park is located around 15 kilometers from Marseille along the coast. It’s a wonderful place to explore with stunning scenery and dramatic coves enclosed by white cliffs. If you are up for some hiking then you can enjoy a path that will take you up high above the sea level where you can admire stunning views. If you’re not keen on walking then take advantage of the boat tours which will take you around some of the most stunning areas of this beautiful park.

Shop at La Canebière

La Canebière is one of the most well-known streets in Marseille and it’s definitely worth visiting for some shopping. You’ll find everything from designer fashion stores to local artisan markets. Make sure you don’t miss out on stopping by some of the cafes and restaurants which serve up some amazing traditional French cuisine.

Visit Palais Longchamps

The Palais Longchamps is an impressive building located in central Marseille which once used to be part of the city’s fortifications. Now it houses Marseille’s Natural History Museum and Fine Arts Museum which are definitely worth a visit if you’re interested in the city’s rich history and culture. But you can also just admire this incredible building from outside and take in its grandeur!

As you can see, there is no shortage of amazing things to do in Marseille if you want to explore this incredible city! With so much to offer such as stunning beaches, historical sites, delicious food and vibrant nightlife, you won’t be short on activities during your time here. For more information about Marseille and its attractions, you might want to have a look at France-Voyage, which provides a wealth of information about this charming French city.

The Insider’s Guide to Marseille: Unlocking the Hidden Gems of France’s Port City

Marseille may not be the most obvious choice when it comes to cities to visit in France, but there’s more to this ancient port city than meets the eye. Behind the hustle and bustle of the port and the rows of cafes and shops, there are hidden corners and unique experiences that you won’t find in a typical guidebook. Here’s an insider’s guide to Marseille, revealing some truly unique and authentic experiences that will give you a new perspective on the city.

Discover Hidden Gems

While Marseille has its fair share of popular attractions, such as the iconic Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica, there are many lesser-known gems that only locals tend to know about. One such place is the Palais Longchamp, a stunning neoclassical building that houses both a museum of fine arts and a natural history museum. Another hidden treasure is the Abbaye Saint-Victor, a 5th-century abbey that boasts some of the city’s oldest architecture and a serene courtyard. Explore the winding streets of the Le Panier district, where colorful buildings and street art abound, and enjoy the views from the Corniche Kennedy, a scenic coastal road that offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.

Cuisine and Dining Spots

Marseille’s cuisine is heavily influenced by its location on the Mediterranean coast, with seafood naturally taking center stage. Sample classic dishes like bouillabaisse, a hearty fish stew served with a saffron-infused broth, or try a typical street food snack: a panisse, a chickpea fritter that’s popular throughout the south of France. For an authentic experience, head to Le Café des Épices in the Noailles district, where you can taste traditional North African-influenced dishes like couscous and tagine, surrounded by an exotic bazaar-like atmosphere. Or stop by Les Arcenaulx, a bookstore-cafe hybrid located in an old warehouse, to enjoy a coffee and a pain au chocolat while browsing through antique books and local literature.

Cultural Experiences

Marseille is a city with a rich cultural heritage, influenced by a mix of Mediterranean, North African, and European traditions. Visit the vibrant markets in the Noailles and La Plaine districts, where vendors sell everything from fresh seafood to exotic spices and textiles. Take time to explore the city’s street art scene, discovering colorful murals and sculptures in unexpected places. In the summer, catch a performance at the open-air Marseille Jazz des Cinq Continents festival, or immerse yourself in the stunning architecture of the Palais de la Bourse, a neoclassical building that houses a variety of cultural exhibitions throughout the year.

Local History

Marseille’s colorful past is evident throughout the city, from the narrow alleyways of the Old Port to the ancient ruins of the Greek and Roman periods. One must-see historical site is the Château d’If, a fortress prison located on a small island off the coast of Marseille that was made famous by Alexandre Dumas’ novel, The Count of Monte Cristo. Another place to explore the city’s varied history is the MuCEM, a modern museum that houses exhibitions on everything from Mediterranean civilizations to contemporary art.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a truly unique Marseille experience, venture off the beaten path and explore some of the city’s quirkier corners. Visit the Rove Tunnel, a remarkable engineering feat built in the 1920s to link the port and the industrial area to the north of the city, or take a sea kayak tour of the calanques, the stunning limestone cliffs that line the coast. Finally, head over to the Cours Julien district, a bohemian area that’s home to some of the city’s trendiest shops, cafes, and bars, and soak up the local atmosphere.

In conclusion, while Marseille may not have the same level of fame as some of France’s other cities, if you look past the stereotypes, you’ll see a captivating city full of hidden treasures, local experiences, and rich culture. Using this insider’s guide, you’ll be able to explore the best of Marseille, unlocking the true nature of this unique and beautiful city.