Marseille is the second most populated city in France and has definitely nothing to envy to the country’s capital. Besides offering a wide range of cultural, historical and gastronomic offerings, it also provides an advantage that can’t be refused: its fantastic Mediterranean climate – and that’s just the beginning of everything to see and do in Marseille!
As one of the favorite French destination for those who love the seaside, Marseille has become a paradise for anyone who wants to enjoy both city life and a good rest by the sea.
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Basilique of Notre-Dame in Marseille France
This church is probably the most appreciated by the inhabitants of Marseille, as well as being one of the most impressive monuments there. It is located at the highest point of the city, offering really impressive views of Marseille once you are at the top.
You can access it either on foot or by taking the bus. Another alternative to get to the church is to take the tourist train; it can be the most entertaining option if you are traveling with children.
MuCEM Museum in Marseille France
The modern MuCEM museum is directly connected to the Fort Saint-Jean by a long walkway.
Dedicated mainly to the exhibition of anthropological heritage, this museum also offers a more dynamic and participatory section where visitors can initiate discussions, as well as enjoy presentations on current social issues.
Enjoy this peculiar museum for a very affordable price!
Fort Saint Jean
Especially recommended if you find yourself on an excessively hot day, a visit inside this fortress will certainly brighten up your day.
Located at the entrance of the Port Vieux, the views offered by this site are really worth it; along the way you will also find some curious sculptures and pleasant terraces.
Le Panier Quarter in Marseille France
This curious neighborhood, although its history was not always so positive, is now considered one of the most visited and charismatic spots in the city.
This neighborhood represents the pure essence of Marseille, being an area full of little streets where you can find the most authentic people of the place, as well as numerous craft workshops, urban art stalls and shops of all kinds that you should definitely visit.
Enjoy getting lost in its streets and live the experience of feeling like a real Marseillaise!
@maggiecorluk | @angiegamero | @angiegamero
Unite d’Habitation de Le Corbusier
Definitely one of the most amazing places in Marseille. Despite not being in the center, it is worth a walk to discover its wonders.
The work of the renowned architect Le Corbusier, this building is not so much what it shows on the outside but the alternative world it hides inside: a vastness of apartments and stores, as well as offering its own educational, sports and health areas. You will feel as if you were in a city within a city!
Longchamp Palace
This stunning baroque palace, besides being a true architectural beauty, contains two of the most representative museums of the city of Marseille: the Museum of Natural History and the Museum of Fine Arts.
Regardless of whether you preffer art or natural history, both places are worth a visit. You won’t regret it.
What to do in a cruise to Marseille France
A stopover in Marseille during your cruise can be a great adventure if you plan it well. As time is probably limited, here are three must-see places you can’t miss.
Marseille City Hall
Located in the heart of the Port Vieux, the City Hall of Marseille, also known as Hôtel de Ville, is an imposing monument of baroque architecture.
Being one of the few emblematic places of the city that survived the bombings of the war, today it is one of the most appreciated monuments by its citizens. Definitely a site to visit during your short stop in Marseille.
Port Vieux in Marseille France
In addition to being a favorite spot for visitors and locals alike, the Port Vieux is one of the liveliest places you will find in the city.
You can stroll around while enjoying the views, learn about the fishing trade or watch the continuous maritime activity that takes place in the Port Vieux every day – there is always something to do near the sea!
Abbey of Saint Victor
The Abbey of St. Victor is one of the oldest and most historic buildings in the city. Being a monument of religious character, its interior houses elements such as chapels and sarcophagi; its exterior is considered an authentic architectural jewel.
Every year, thousands and thousands of people gather at the Abbey during the festivities of Candlemas Day. It must be an event to behold, right?
When you are thinking of stopping for lunch, stop by some of the most traditional restaurants in the area to try the most typical Marseille dish: the Bouillabaisse. If you can’t decide on a place, we recommend Côte Rue and Une Table au Sud.
To finish your day in the city, don’t forget to visit the local soap shops in Marseille. Among the most popular are Savonnerie Marseillaise and La Maison du Savon de Marseille – you can’t get a more authentic and natural souvenir than this.
Calanques in Marseille France
One of the main attractions that make Marseille a paradise are its numerous beaches and coves, better known as Calanques. Characterized by their crystal clear waters, many travelers flock to them to enjoy the Mediterranean climate and scenery.
No matter if you have a lot or little time in your trip, you should not leave Marseille without taking at least a walk on the sands of the Plage des Catalans or Plage du Prado. You will be completely amazed.
La Corniche
For those who love walking, La Corniche route can be the ideal option to get to know some of the most visited places in Marseille.
During a walk of just over 4 kilometers, you will enjoy the opportunity to swim or stroll along the beaches at the beginning and end of the path, as well as contemplate the famous islands of Frioul and the If Castle.
Port Vieux in Marseille France
Marseille’s Port Vieux is the real heart of the city. Despite its age, it is still fully operational and full of life. A stroll around the area will immerse you in its fishing customs, as well as the constant activity of its boats, souvenir shops and cozy cafes. We recommend a stroll through the port at sunrise or sunset!
In addition, the port is home to several historical monuments of Marseille, such as the forts of Saint Jean and Saint Nicolas, which are located at its entrance, or the beautiful Place Thiars, ideal place to find a restaurant or bar for lunch or dinner.
If you want to relax and have fun for a while without leaving the area, you are also in the right place. You can go to La Crièe theater and enjoy one of their plays at a very good price. If you are more into attractions, you can also enjoy a quiet moment at La Noria while admiring the Mediterranean landscape. Sounds great, doesn’t it?
@roxanne | @angiegamero | angiegamero
Travel Tip: To organize your trip we recommend using Passporter totally free. You can be inspired by the experiences of other travelers, choose the places that interest you most, create the travel route with a geolocated map, upload all important documents such as reservations and invite your friends so that everyone can participate in the organization of the trip.
What to do with children in Marseille France
Traveling with children can be a challenge, but it can also be a lot of fun. And luckily, Marseille is a city that makes things easy so that you can make the most of your trip while the little ones have a great time.
Prado Beach
A good way to start the day with the little ones is by going to enjoy the sun and the outdoors at the Prado Beach, where you can find the Prado Maritime Park.
There you will find numerous beaches and facilities for the kids to have a great time; among the different activities you can try skating rinks, volleyball courts, and even climbing walls! They will have a great time.
Explore If Castle
The little ones love exciting adventures, and what better adventure than a trip to a terrifying 18th century prison?
This castle is an invaluable part of Marseille’s history, and the views once you get there are simply spectacular – don’t forget to bring your camera!
Petit Train in Marseille France
Naturally, the little ones get tired of walking and sightseeing more quickly. That’s why taking the little tourist train Le Petit Train in Marseille can be an excellent plan.
Not only will the little ones be more comfortable and relaxed, but the adults will also be able to enjoy the different emblematic places of the city without taking a single step!
Borely Park
This park is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful to be found in the whole city. The most fun thing about this place is that you can tour it in several ways: on foot, by bike, or even taking a boat ride on the lake.
In addition, it has several activities dedicated exclusively for the little ones to have fun, such as a playground or even a merry-go-round. They will love it!
Itineraries for your trip to Marseille France
Things to do in Marseille in 2 days
Marseille offers so many places to see that it is difficult to visit them all in 2 days. That’s why we have made a list for you of those things you must see.
- Visit the Notre Dame de la Garde Basilica
- Walk around the Le Panier district
- Visit the Marseille City Hall
- Visit the Port Vieux
Things to do in Marseille in 3 days
Three days give us a little more time to get to know Marseille in more detail, don’t you think? Here are some of the must-see places to expand your list.
- Contemplate the Longchamp Palace
- Stroll up yo the If Castle
- Spend a day at the Prado Beach
- Visit the Corniche
Things to do in Marseille in 4 days
Four days is the ideal number to get to know Marseille in depth and even have time to relax. Complete your itinerary with these sites that are sure to delight you.
- Stroll trough the Borely Park
- Admire Saint Mary Major’s Cathedral
- Inmerse yourself in the Cite d’Habitation by Le Corbusier
- Visit the MuCEM Museum in Marseille France
Map of Marseille France
How to plan the itinerary of the places you want to visit in Marseille France?
Download the Passporter app and plan your trip in the most organized way and according to the days and places you want to see in Marseille France.
With the app you will be able to:
- Get inspired by the experiences of other travelers.
- Save information about the destinations you want to visit and that you have found on the internet. Just install the Chrome extension and save everything useful for your trip.
- Save tickets and reservations.
- Organize your route on google maps having as a starting point your accommodation or any other that you indicate.
- Get the best travel option for each place.
- Save and publish your own pictures and experiences as you go s and experiences, so as to when someone asks you “How was your trip in Ibiza? Visit my traveler profile on Passporter.
If you’re interested in learning more about how to use and get the most out of the Passporter app, you can read our post: How to create a travel itinerary in Passporter.
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