Introduction
Marseille, France's second largest city and the jewel of the Mediterranean, is a vibrant destination full of history, culture and natural beauty. With its ancient port, colourful markets, and delicious gastronomy, Marseille has something for everyone. If you're planning a visit, this five-day guide will help you make the most of your stay. Get ready to discover the best of Marseille, from its stunning sea views to its rich cultural heritage.
Day 1: Exploring the Vieux-Port and Panier Quarter
Morning: Vieux-Port
Start your adventure in the heart of Marseille, the Vieux-Port (Old Port). This historic port has been the centre of the city for over 2,600 years and is a great place to start exploring.
Recommended Activities
- A walk along the harbourEnjoy a morning stroll along the docks and watch the fishing boats and luxury yachts.
- Fish marketVisit the local fish market to see the catch of the day and sample fresh seafood.
Afternoon: Le Panier
After exploring the port, head to Le Panier, Marseille's oldest neighbourhood. With its cobbled streets and colourful buildings, Le Panier is perfect for getting lost and discovering.
Recommended Activities
- Visit La Vieille Charité: A former hospice converted into a cultural centre and museum.
- Coffee on a terraceRelax on one of the many café terraces and enjoy a coffee while people-watching.
Evening: Dinner at the Vieux-Port
End your first day with dinner at one of the Vieux-Port's waterfront restaurants. Try the famous bouillabaisse, a fish stew typical of the region.
Day 2: History and Culture
Morning: Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde
Start the day with a visit to the iconic Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica. Situated on a hill, this basilica offers panoramic views of the entire city and the Mediterranean.
Recommended Activities
- Ascent to the basilicaYou can get there on foot, by bus or by tourist train.
- Panoramic viewsEnjoy the breathtaking views from the top of the hill.
Afternoon: Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations (MuCEM)
After your visit to the basilica, head to the MuCEM. This modern museum offers exhibitions on the history and cultures of the Mediterranean.
Recommended Activities
- Permanent and temporary exhibitionsExplore the various collections ranging from antiquity to the present day.
- Museum architectureAdmire the impressive architecture of the building and its location by the sea.
Evening: Dinner at Le Panier
Head back to Le Panier for dinner at a local restaurant. Try some typical Provençal dishes and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the neighbourhood.
Day 3: Nature and Adventure
Morning: Calanques National Park
Spend the third day exploring the stunning Calanques National Park, famous for its rugged limestone cliffs and turquoise coves.
Recommended Activities
- HikingThere are several trails of different levels of difficulty that will take you to spectacular views.
- Boat tripIf you prefer a more relaxed experience, opt for a boat trip to see the coves from the water.
Afternoon: Sormiou Beach
After exploring the coves, relax on Sormiou beach, one of the most beautiful in the region. Enjoy a picnic by the sea or simply soak up the sun.
Evening: Dinner in a seafood restaurant
For dinner, choose one of the many seafood restaurants near the harbour. Enjoy a delicious meal with fresh, local ingredients.
Day 4: Modern Art and Culture
Morning: Cité Radieuse by Le Corbusier
Start your day with a visit to the Cité Radieuse, a building designed by the famous architect Le Corbusier. This example of modernist architecture is fascinating both for its design and its history.
Recommended Activities
- Guided tourJoin a guided tour to learn more about the architecture and concept behind this innovative building.
- RooftopDon't miss the rooftop terrace, which offers a unique view of Marseille.
Afternoon: Street Art in Cours Julien
After visiting the Cité Radieuse, head to Cours Julien, Marseille's bohemian quarter. This area is known for its vibrant urban art scene and numerous shops and cafés.
Recommended Activities
- Urban art tourStroll through the streets and admire the murals and graffiti that adorn the walls.
- Shopping and coffeeExplore the local shops and enjoy a coffee on a terrace.
Evening: Dinner at Cours Julien
For dinner, choose one of the many creative and modern restaurants in Cours Julien. The area is known for its culinary variety, from international cuisine to innovative local dishes.
Day 5: Rest and Exploration
Morning: Isle of If
Take a ferry from the Vieux-Port to the Ile d'If, famous for its fortress and its association with the novel "The Count of Monte Cristo" by Alexandre Dumas.
Recommended Activities
- Visit to the fortressExplore the historic fortress and learn about its fascinating past.
- Views from the islandEnjoy panoramic views of the sea and the city from the island.
Afternoon: Noailles market
Head back to the mainland and visit the Noailles market, one of Marseille's most vibrant and multicultural markets. Here you'll find a wide variety of fresh produce, spices and local products.
Recommended Activities
- Market shoppingBuy some fresh produce and local handicrafts.
- Street food tastingTaste some of the local delicacies sold at the market.
Evening: Farewell dinner
For your last night in Marseille, choose a restaurant overlooking the sea for a special dinner. Enjoy Provençal cuisine and toast to an unforgettable trip.
Practical Travel Tips
Transport
Marseille has an excellent public transport network including buses, trams and metro. Consider purchasing a transport pass to save money and time.
Accommodation
From boutique hotels to flats with sea views, Marseille offers a wide variety of accommodation options. Book early, especially during the high season.
Language and Currency
The official language is French and the currency is the euro. Although many locals speak English, learning some basic French phrases can be useful and appreciated.
Conclusion
Marseille is a city that seamlessly blends its rich history with a vibrant modern culture. With this five-day guide, you can experience the best of Marseille, from its impressive historical heritage to its beautiful natural scenery and delicious cuisine. Plan your trip, pack your bags and get ready to discover all that Marseille has to offer - bon voyage!
If you have any questions or need further advice, don't hesitate to contact us - we're here to help you plan the perfect trip!
