Marseille Travel Guide: Tourist Places & Activities
Located on the Mediterranean coast, this port city is known for its historic Old Port, diverse culture, and as the gateway to the Calanques National Park. It's the second-largest city in the country and a hub for trade and immigration.
- Population
- 870,000
- Size
- 240 square km
- Airport
- Marseille Provence – Int'l
- Train Station
- Gare Saint-Charles
- Subway
- Marseille Metro
- Est. Visit Days
- 3 days
Overview
Marseille, located on the southern coast of France, is the country's second-largest city and a major Mediterranean port. It offers a rich cultural heritage, including the iconic Notre-Dame de la Garde and the historic Le Panier neighborhood. The city is known for its diverse population and pleasant arts scene. However, Marseille struggles with issues like crime and urban blight in some areas. Additionally, it can be crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Traffic & Transport
Traffic in the city can be dense, especially during peak hours in the morning and late afternoon. The best means of transport for exploring the city include using the comprehensive public transit system, which consists of buses, trams, and a metro. For more scenic routes, renting a bike or using the bike-sharing service can provide a leisurely and enjoyable experience. Additionally, walking is a viable option in the more compact areas and historic districts. For taxi services, reliable companies include Taxi Radio and Les Taxis Marseillais. Tourists can also conveniently book rides through popular apps like Uber, which operates extensively in the area.
History
Founded by Greek traders around 600 BC, the city quickly became a major port in the Mediterranean. Throughout its history, it has been a crossroads of commerce and culture, influenced by various civilizations including the Romans and later the French monarchy. It was heavily impacted during the French Revolution and was a site of significant resistance during World War II. Post-war, the city became a gateway for immigrants, enriching its cultural diversity. Today, it is celebrated for its attractive arts scene and as a major center for trade and industry in France.
Itinerary Sample
Here's a sample 3-day itinerary for exploring Marseille, France:
– First day: Start with a morning visit to the Old Port, then explore the historic Le Panier neighborhood in the afternoon. Enjoy dinner and views at a seaside restaurant in the evening.
– Second day: Visit the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde in the morning for panoramic city views, spend your afternoon at the MuCEM, and relax in the evening at the Plage des Catalans.
– Third day: Morning trip to the Calanques National Park for hiking or a boat tour, afternoon stroll through the Cours Julien district for street art and shops, and conclude with an evening at the Marseille Opera.
Near Excursion
This city offers several interesting day trips within a short distance. Here are some suggestions:
– Aix-en-Provence at 33 km: A charming town known for its historic architecture and pleasant markets.
– Cassis at 30 km: A elegant fishing village famous for its fascinating calanques and clear waters.
– Avignon at 100 km: Home to the impressive Palais Des Papes and the famous Pont d'Avignon.
– Arles at 90 km: Rich in Roman history with well-preserved ruins and a strong Van Gogh connection.
– Luberon at 80 km: A beautiful region with hilltop villages, lavender fields, and scenic landscapes.
Attraction
Known for its rich history, magnificient culture, and beautiful coastal views, this city offers a variety of attractions for tourists.
– Old Port: A historic harbor area with lively markets, seafood restaurants, and boat tours.
– Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde: A beautiful basilica offering panoramic views of the city and sea.
– Le Panier: The oldest neighborhood, filled with narrow streets, colorful buildings, and artisan shops.
– MuCEM: The Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations, showcasing diverse cultural exhibits.
– Château d'If: A fortress and former prison made famous by "The Count of Monte Cristo."
– Calanques National Park: A natural park with dramatic cliffs, clear blue waters, and hiking trails.
Activity
Marseille offers diverse experiences from coastal adventures to historical explorations in a lively urban setting.
– Calanques National Park: Explore remarkable bright cliffs and crystal-clear waters by hiking or boat.
– Street Art Tour: Explore beautifull street art in Cours Julien area.
– Vallon des Auffes: Visit this charming fishing village for scenic views and seafood dining.
– Notre-Dame de la Garde: Hike or drive to this basilica for panoramic city and sea views.
– Soap Workshop: Learn to make traditional Marseille soap in a local workshop.
Cuisine
The city boasts a rich culinary heritage influenced by Mediterranean flavors, with a strong emphasis on seafood. Some of the city's most famous dishes include:
– Bouillabaisse: Traditional fish stew with various fish, shellfish, and aromatic herbs.
– Aioli: Garlic mayonnaise often served with boiled vegetables and fish.
– Panisse: Chickpea flour fritters, crispy on the outside and soft inside.
– Navettes: Boat-shaped biscuits flavored with orange blossom.
– Pissaladière: Savory tart topped with caramelized onions, anchovies, and olives.
– Pastis: An anise-flavored aperitif, often enjoyed before meals.
Shopping
For a unique shopping experience, visit the Vieux Port area where you can find local artisan shops offering a variety of handmade goods. The markets here are ideal for picking up Provence herbs, soaps, and lavender products, which make perfect gifts. Another great gift option is the famed Santons, traditional clay figurines used in Christmas nativity scenes. For food enthusiasts, purchasing some local olive oil or tapenade provides a taste of the region to take home. The Centre Bourse and Les Terrasses du Port also offer a wide range of stores from local boutiques to international brands.
Arts & Culture
The city hosts several notable cultural events, including the Fête de la Musique, a lively celebration of music every June 21st, featuring performances across various genres and venues. The Marseille International Film Festival is another key event, attracting filmmakers and enthusiasts from around the world to celebrate international cinema. The city is also home to the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations (MuCEM), which offers extensive exhibits on Mediterranean history and culture. Additionally, Le Corbusier's iconic modernist building, the Cité Radieuse, often hosts art exhibitions and cultural events.