12 Beautiful Places to Go in Marseille, France, Marseille, France

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.

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. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).