Things to see and do in Marseille
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What should you do in Marseille?
Framed by rugged limestone cliffs and the glittering Mediterranean, Marseille is a vibrant port city where cultures, flavors, and histories converge. Wander through the colorful streets of Le Panier, the city’s oldest district, and feel its maritime spirit at the Vieux-Port, where fishing boats and yachts share the same sunlit waters. Hike or sail through the Calanques, explore bold contemporary architecture like MuCEM, and savor a steaming bowl of bouillabaisse by the sea. In Marseille, every breeze carries the scent of salt, spice, and possibility.
Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde
A sacred hilltop with sweeping Mediterranean views
Calanques National Park
Turquoise coves and limestone cliffs
Cours Julien
Artsy area, known for its street art
Vieux-Port (Old Port)
The heart of Marseille, where sea life meets city life
What to do in Marseille?
Vieux-Port (Old Port)
The beating heart of Marseille for more than 2,600 years, the Vieux-Port is where fishermen haul in their daily catch and locals gather for coffee by the sea. Stroll along the quays lined with cafés and markets, watch sailboats glide into the harbor, and soak in the city’s maritime energy at this timeless meeting place between land and water.
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Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde
Perched high above the city, “La Bonne Mère” watches over Marseille and its sailors. Built in the 19th century, this striking basilica blends Romanesque and Byzantine styles, crowned with a golden statue of the Virgin Mary. Climb or drive to the summit for breathtaking 360° views of the city, harbor, and deep-blue Mediterranean.
Calanques National Park
Stretching between Marseille and Cassis, this coastal park is a natural masterpiece of turquoise waters, towering limestone cliffs, and hidden coves. Hike along dramatic trails, swim in secluded inlets, or explore the Calanques by kayak or boat for a true taste of southern France’s wild beauty.
Le Panier District
Marseille’s oldest neighborhood, Le Panier, is a maze of steep alleys, colorful facades, and sunlit squares. Once home to sailors and traders, it now buzzes with artists’ studios, cafés, and local boutiques. Every corner tells a story of the city’s multicultural roots and Mediterranean soul.
MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations)
An architectural icon at the harbor entrance, MuCEM bridges past and present through glass, steel, and stone. Its exhibits explore Mediterranean history, art, and identity, while its rooftop terrace offers panoramic views over the sea and Fort Saint-Jean.
Château d’If
Set on a small island just off the coast, this former fortress and prison was immortalized in The Count of Monte Cristo. Take a short boat ride from the Vieux-Port to explore its storied cells and enjoy unmatched views back toward Marseille and the surrounding islands.
La Corniche
This scenic coastal road winds along the Mediterranean, offering stunning sea views and access to small beaches and fishing villages. Walk or cycle the stretch between Catalans Beach and Vallon des Auffes, where seafood restaurants perch above the waves and sunsets paint the sky in gold.
Palais Longchamp
Built in the 19th century to celebrate the arrival of water to Marseille, this grand monument houses both the Fine Arts and Natural History Museums. Its ornate fountains, sweeping staircases, and surrounding park make it one of the city’s most elegant landmarks.
Vallon des Auffes
Tucked beneath a stone bridge along La Corniche, this tiny fishing harbor captures the essence of old Marseille. Wooden boats bob in the calm water, colorful houses line the shore, and open-air restaurants serve freshly caught fish—a picture-perfect slice of Provençal life.
Prado Beaches
For a classic Marseille beach day, head to the Plages du Prado, a stretch of sandy and pebbly shores just south of the city center. Popular with locals and families, it’s ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking with a view of the Calanques in the distance.
Practical information for your trip
The best time to visit Marseille is from May to October, when the Mediterranean weather is warm and sunny—perfect for swimming, sailing, and exploring the Calanques. July and August are lively but crowded, while May, June, September, and early October offer pleasant temperatures and fewer visitors.
Plan to spend at least two to three days in Marseille to experience the Vieux-Port, Le Panier, and the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde. With four or five days, you’ll have time to explore Calanques National Park, take a boat trip to Château d’If, and enjoy the beaches and local cuisine.
Marseille’s cuisine reflects its maritime and multicultural heritage. The city is best known for bouillabaisse, a flavorful fish stew traditionally made with fresh catch from the Mediterranean. Also try panisse (chickpea fritters), navettes (orange blossom biscuits), and local rosé or pastis—best enjoyed by the sea.
