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Explore the French Riviera: A Guide to Visiting Marseille,

About Marseille, France

Discover the vibrant port city of Marseille, France. With its stunning coastline and rich cultural heritage, Marseille is the perfect destination for those seeking a unique and authentic French experience. From its bustling markets to its historic architecture, Marseille is sure to captivate and inspire visitors. Explore the best of Marseille with our travel guide.

Marseille is one of France's most fascinating cities and a hub of culture, history, and seaside charm. It is the second-largest city in France and the largest commercial port on the Mediterranean Sea, making it an important center of commerce, industry, and tourism.

Marseille's rich history can be traced back more than 2,000 years, and it has been shaped by a range of cultures, from the ancient Greeks and Romans to the Phoenicians and Arabs. This wealth of cultural heritage is reflected in the city's architecture, cuisine, and traditions.

One of the most famous landmarks in Marseille is the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, a Catholic basilica located on a hilltop overlooking the city. This stunning edifice offers spectacular panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. Other popular attractions include the Musée d'Histoire de Marseille, the Palais Longchamp, and the Château d'If, an island fortress made famous by the novel "The Count of Monte Cristo."

Marseille is also renowned for its cuisine, which features fresh seafood, olive oil, and a range of Mediterranean herbs and spices. Visitors can sample local specialties such as bouillabaisse, a fish soup that originated in Marseille, or navettes, a type of cookie flavored with orange blossom water.

In addition to its rich cultural heritage and delicious cuisine, Marseille is also known for its stunning natural beauty. The city is surrounded by pristine beaches, rugged cliffs, and azure waters that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Whether you're interested in history, culture, food, or simply soaking up the Mediterranean sun, Marseille is a must-visit destination that offers something for everyone. Come explore this vibrant and exciting city and discover all that it has to offer!

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Popular Stays in Marseille, France

Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in Marseille, France

General view
Business hotels

Residence Du Vieux Port

Ideally located in the centre of Marseille and facing Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica, the Hôtel La Résidence du Vieux-Port**** enjoys exceptional luminosity, thanks to its south orientation. Perfectly situated on Marseille old port, with its great sunlight, The Hôtel La Résidence du Vieux-Port will let you experience a chic 50s retro feel, blending style and comfort. Based on an inspiring family adventure, this hotel is above all a place where service is not a business but a promise. Our diligent teams and our solid etiquette leave nothing to chance! Our 51 rooms and suites have balconies overlooking the old port and face the magnificent basilica Notre Dame de La Garde, also called “La Bonne Mère”. Luxurious while simple, you are sure to find a room that meets your requirements.
General view
Business hotelsHotels with charm

Mercure Marseille Bompard La Corniche

This charming beach hotel boasts a delightful peaceful setting in Marseille. The hotel is located just a short distance away from the sea, enjoying an air of peace and serenity. Guests will find themselves just a few steps away from links to the public transport network. The hotel is situated just 26 km away from Marseille Airport. This delightful hotel enjoys a charming architectural design, greeting visitors with warm hospitality and excellent service. The guest rooms are beautifully appointed, and come complete with modern amenities for added comfort and convenience. Guests can enjoy a leisurely swim in the pool, for the perfect way to unwind, while those seeking a more energetic experience can enjoy a game of tennis or golf.
General view
Business hotels

Hôtel Mercure Marseille Centre Vieux Port

Located right next to the World Trade Center Marseille Provence, Mercure Marseille Centre Vieux-Port is the ideal place for hosting your professional events. With 1,350 m² of meeting spaces and a private car park, you can organise your business function with peace of mind. Our hotel in Marseille is also designed for couples and fLamilies, who appreciate the lounge bar, fitness centre and views of Notre Dame de la Garde. Be sure to sample the local cuisine and regional specialities served during breakfast.
General view
Business hotelsHotels with spa

Sofitel Marseille Vieux Port

The 5-star Sofitel Marseille Vieux Port hotel, known as the best address in Marseilles, is an ideal stopover not far from the Calanques. The decor in this luxury hotel is inspired by the history of Marseilles, reminiscent of a sumptuous yacht on the Medit erranean. Admire the best views over Old Port from the terraces of Le Carré Bistromanie brasserie, Les Trois Forts gourmet restaurant and Dantès Skylounge Bar. Beach nearby
Restaurant
Family hotelsBusiness hotels

Le Drips

The Drip's hotel is situated near the Beaches of Prado just a step from Creeks, from the Orange Velodrome stadium and of the Park Chanot. We propose you a quality accommodation with a warm welcome. We provide you with our swimming pool (May-Sept), our terraces and garden. We also have a closed and secure internal and outside Parking lot (extra payment). Our very spacious rooms, recently renovated are quite air-conditioned with room bath privative understanding bathtub or shower. They possess quite flat-screen television. Our restaurant is a place of serenity or you can take a snatch, in the green setting of our terrace and its garden. All the team of the Drip's will indulge to welcome you to spend an unforgettable stay. Enjoy your stay.
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Business hotelsSustainable Hotel

Novotel Marseille Centre Prado Vélodrome

Novotel Marseille Centre Prado Vélodrome welcomes you to its modern, spacious and comfortable rooms, some of which have a little terrace with views of Notre Dame basilica. An ideal partner for hosting your business events, our hotel in Marseille has four versatile and renovated meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 250 people. In your downtime, indulge in a platter of delicious seasonal products from our bar-restaurant, or relax in the cosy lounge area of the hotel lobby.
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Business hotels

Hôtel Mercure Marseille Centre Prado Vélodrome

Open the doors of Mercure Marseille Centre Prado Vélodrome, located in one of Marseille's most beautiful residential areas. Admire its magnificent renovations. Discover its fully renovated rms, 3 fully equipped meeting rms and workspace. Wake up to the aroma and delicious flavors of breakfast. Enjoy cocktails & tapas in the bar or on the terrace lined with olive trees, bathed in sunlight and calm
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Business hotelsBeach hotelsFamily hotels

Novotel Marseille Est

Novotel Marseille Est welcomes you to verdant surroundings and spacious guest rooms. We have a large outdoor area with swimming pool, tennis court, children's playground and terrace, where you can enjoy the traditional dishes of our restaurant. All this makes our hotel in Marseille the ideal pied-à-terre for a family stay in this Mediterranean city. In the south of France on business? We offer nine conference rooms and a peaceful coworking space.

Things to do in Marseille, France

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in Marseille, France

In Vau from the belvedere is
Digital Voucher390 minutes

In Vau la Magnifique

Easy hike to discover the most famous Calanques between Marseille and Cassis. An unforgettable show accessible to all! Specialist in the massif, we will share with you our knowledge of the fauna, flora and history of the Calanques.
Cassis Calanques
Digital Voucher240 minutes

Cassis 4 hours

Discover the beautiful and charming Cassis town. You'll have a breathtaking scenery from the second highest cliff in Europe, have a stroll along the fishing and leasure port, see the famous National Park of Calanques (rocky inlets) and more...
Aix-en-Provence, Cassis, Marseille
Digital Voucher480 minutes

Aix-en-Provence, Cassis, Marseille

Aix en Provence is the most romantic town of Provence, Cassis, colorful village by the sea and a drive thru Marseille, the oldest town in France.
Marseille and Cassis Tour
Digital Voucher480 minutes

Marseille and Cassis Tour

Explore Marseille and discover the port of Cassis with its National Park. Spend your day by the sea and get some opportunities for a swim in the Calanques National Park in Cassis. Enjoy a private guided tour in Marseille to see the best of the Capital city of Provence. Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral and see the Château d'If in the middle of the bay. Stop by the Old Port and the Longchamp palace for pictures. Drive across the National Park to reach Cassis. On the road you can stop for pictures as much as you want. Visit the lovely port of Cassis, enjoy its pristine beaches or take a boat tour inside the fjords of the National Park. We provide the best professional tour guides in the south of France.
5-Hour Private Sightseeing Tour of the Provence from Marseille in Luxury Car
Digital Voucher300 minutes

5-Hour Private Sightseeing Tour of the Provence from Marseille in Luxury Car

Enjoy a private tour around Marseille and the beautiful Provence area in a comfortable luxury car. Take this opportunity to discover the provençal lifestyle and learn from your your driver/guide's local knowledge about the area and its landscape, food and wine.
Escapade Drive a convertible from Marseille to Cassis La Ciotat
Digital Voucher420 minutes

Escapade Drive a convertible from Marseille to Cassis La Ciotat

Discover the French Riviera differently on an unforgettable excursion departing from Marseille Cruise Port. Drive a VW Beetle convertible or a Fiat 500 and travel the spectacular Route des Crêtes (if open), offering breathtaking views of the Cassis Calanques at an altitude of 394 meters. Visit the charming village of Cassis and admire the Calanque de Figuerolles painted by Pablo Picasso. A guide accompanies you in a 9-seater van, ensuring your safety and sharing anecdotes about the region. This excursion is ideal for cruise passengers, return between 16:00 and 16:30, back to your ship. Whether you are traveling with Royal Caribbean, MSC or a luxury yacht ilma, this adventure adapts to your schedule. Key information: departure and return to Marseille Cruise Port, driving license required, one driver per vehicle, reservation recommended. A unique experience combining driving, magnificent landscapes and cultural discovery.
Guided Tour in Marseille: Vieux Port & Old City
Digital Voucher180 minutes

Guided Tour in Marseille: Vieux Port & Old City

Marseille is the oldest port in the Mediterranean and the oldest city in France over 2600 years old! With such a rich history and a multitude of colorful faces, it is an exciting and vibrant city. From early barbaric tribes, the Phoenicians, the Romans, The Crusaders, to kings, Napoleons, the wars, battles, triumphs and her glorious ascent to the Capital of Provence and European Capital of Culture. Marseille, eternal.
Palais Longchamp
Digital Voucher240 minutes

Marseille Shore Excursion: City Sightseeing Tour of Marseille

In this half-day tour, explore the city of Marseille: its old port and the historical center. Observe the Palais Longchamp (Water Castle), which was inaugurated in 1869 to bring water from the Durance river to Marseille. Climb up to the iconic basilica of Notre Dame de la Garde (usually called la Bonne Mère) that was built in Roman-Byzantine style in 1864 to replace the old chapel with the same name. There observe the fabulous view over Marseille. Finally, go to the charming point a view on Chateau D’if , before returning back to your port of cruise terminal of Marseille. Very important : This tour can be in Big or Small group from 1 to 35 Personnes.

Why People Love Marseille, France

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in Marseille, France

F
FredDrezet
5
Aug 2020
In Vau la Magnifique
In Vau la Magnifique
In Vau la Magnifique
In Vau la Magnifique
Superbe après 1h40 à pied depuis le parking de la Geneste. Le belvédère d’En Vau est également accessible sans difficulté pour marcheurs habitués.
F
Fenschois
5
Jun 2024
In Vau la Magnifique
In Vau la Magnifique
In Vau la Magnifique
In Vau la Magnifique
Les mots manquent pour décrire cette calanques. Difficile d’accès et la plage n’est pas agréable avec ces cailloux. Sinon le reste est majestueux
V
Vickie_L
5
Oct 2022
Cassis 4 hours
Cassis 4 hours
Cassis 4 hours
Cassis 4 hours
What a beautiful day! Cassis is a charming town and the calanques were beautiful. Our guide, Silvio, was fascinating to talk to. He was knowledgeable about France and much of Europe as well. We would definitely recommend this tour.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Marseille

What are some must-see attractions in Marseille?

Marseille has plenty of attractions to explore, but some of the must-see places include the Old Port, Notre-Dame de la Garde, Le Panier neighborhood, and the Chateau d'If. The Old Port is a bustling hub of activity and a great place to start exploring the city. Notre-Dame de la Garde is a stunning basilica that offers panoramic views of the city. Le Panier is a picturesque neighborhood full of colorful buildings and charming streets. And the Chateau d'If is a historic castle located on a small island just off the coast of Marseille.

What are some outdoor activities to do in Marseille?

Marseille is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. You can take a hike in the Calanques National Park, go for a swim at the beaches of Prado, or take a boat tour of the Frioul Islands. The Calanques National Park is a stunning natural park with cliffs, rocky inlets, and crystal-clear waters. The beaches of Prado are a great place to relax and soak up the sun, and the Frioul Islands offer plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and exploring.

What is the best time of year to visit Marseille?

The best time to visit Marseille is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are thinner. However, if you're looking to take advantage of the beaches and outdoor activities, summer is the best time to visit. Just be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices.

What are some local dishes to try in Marseille?

Marseille has a rich culinary tradition, with plenty of local dishes to try. Some of the must-try dishes include bouillabaisse (a fish stew), pieds et paquets (stuffed sheep's foot and tripe), and panisse (a chickpea flour fritter). You should also try the local seafood, which is incredibly fresh and delicious.

What are some family-friendly activities in Marseille?

There are plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy in Marseille. You can take a boat tour of the Calanques, visit the Marseille History Museum, or explore the Marseille Zoo. The Marseille History Museum is a great way to learn about the city's rich history, and the Marseille Zoo is home to over 2,000 animals from around the world.

What are some romantic things to do in Marseille?

Marseille is a great place for a romantic getaway. You can take a sunset cruise along the coast, stroll through the gardens of the Palais Longchamp, or enjoy a candlelit dinner at one of the city's many restaurants. The Palais Longchamp is a stunning 19th-century chateau with beautiful gardens and fountains, and the city's many restaurants offer plenty of opportunities for a romantic meal.

What are some budget-friendly accommodations in Marseille?

Marseille has plenty of budget-friendly accommodations to choose from. Some of the best options include the Mama Shelter Marseille, the Vertigo Hostel Vieux-Port, and the Aparthotel Adagio Access Marseille Prado Perier. The Mama Shelter Marseille is a trendy hotel with a great location, while the Vertigo Hostel Vieux-Port offers affordable dorm-style accommodations. The Aparthotel Adagio Access Marseille Prado Perier offers apartment-style accommodations with kitchenettes, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers.

What are some luxury accommodations in Marseille?

If you're looking for luxury accommodations in Marseille, you won't be disappointed. Some of the best options include the InterContinental Marseille - Hotel Dieu, the Sofitel Marseille Vieux-Port, and the Hotel C2 Marseille. The InterContinental Marseille - Hotel Dieu is a stunning 18th-century hotel with panoramic views of the city, while the Sofitel Marseille Vieux-Port is a luxurious hotel with a great location. The Hotel C2 Marseille is a boutique hotel with a chic, contemporary design.

What is the nightlife like in Marseille?

Marseille has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and music venues to choose from. Some of the best places to check out include Le Pointu, L'Intermdiaire, and La Dame Noir. Le Pointu is a trendy bar with a great wine selection, while L'Intermdiaire is a cozy bar with a laid-back atmosphere. La Dame Noir is a popular club with a great selection of electronic music.

What are some cultural experiences to have in Marseille?

Marseille has a rich cultural heritage, with plenty of museums, galleries, and historic sites to explore. Some of the must-see cultural experiences include the MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations), the Muse d'Histoire de Marseille, and the Abbaye Saint-Victor. The MuCEM is a stunning museum that explores the history and culture of the Mediterranean region, while the Muse d'Histoire de Marseille is a great way to learn about the city's rich history. The Abbaye Saint-Victor is a historic abbey that dates back to the 5th century.