Visit Marseille: History, culture and the Mediterranean
Marseille, France‘s second largest city, is a must-see destination in the south of the country. With its historic heritage, spectacular calanques and cosmopolitan atmosphere, it attracts millions of visitors every year in search of authenticity and cultural diversity. From the Old Port to the Panier district, not forgetting the majestic Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, Marseille boasts a wealth of unique architecture and natural beauty.
Marseille’s must-sees: A rich and diverse heritage
The Old Port: the beating heart of the city
The Vieux-Port is the ideal starting point for exploring Marseille. For centuries, it has been the city’s nerve center, welcoming fishermen, merchants and travelers. Today, it’s home to lively cafés where locals and tourists alike gather to sip a coffee or savor a pastis while watching the moored boats. Markets are also lively, offering fresh fish, seafood and local produce. In the evening, the atmosphere is even more festive, with lively terraces and street musicians.
Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica: A symbol of Marseille
Perched on a hill, the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde is the highest point in Marseille. This emblematic edifice, nicknamed “La Bonne Mère” by the locals, is both a place of worship and a must-see tourist attraction. From its esplanade, the panorama of the city is nothing short of spectacular. Inside, gilded mosaics and ex-votos tell the story of Marseille’s maritime history. Every year, thousands of devotees and visitors flock here to admire the architecture and enjoy the breathtaking view over the port and the Frioul islands.
Le Panier: Marseille’s oldest district
Le Panier is Marseille’s oldest district. Its narrow streets, colorful facades and street art frescoes give it a picturesque charm. This bohemian district is a veritable open-air museum, where you can stroll between art galleries, craft stores and shady squares. Le Panier is also a meeting place for artists and designers, attracting a cosmopolitan population that contributes to its warm, friendly atmosphere.
Things to do in Marseille: Between nature and culture
The Calanques: A natural paradise
Marseille’s calanques are one of the region’s most spectacular natural treasures. These steep rock formations plunge into turquoise waters, offering breathtaking scenery. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the steep paths leading to secret coves and secluded beaches. The more adventurous can also take up diving or kayaking to explore sea caves and seabeds populated by colorful fish.
MuCEM: Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilization
Inaugurated in 2013, the MuCEM is Marseille’s emblematic museum, located at the entrance to the Old Port. Its contemporary architecture, blending concrete and glass, contrasts with the medieval fortifications of Fort Saint-Jean, to which it is linked by a footbridge. The museum offers temporary and permanent exhibitions on Mediterranean civilizations, covering such varied themes as migration, cultural exchange and maritime heritage. The MuCEM terrace also offers a breathtaking view of the sea.
Gastronomy of Marseille: Southern flavors
Marseille’s culinary specialities
Marseille’s cuisine is a veritable voyage to the heart of Mediterranean flavors. Among its emblematic dishes, bouillabaisse occupies pride of place. This fish and shellfish stew is a staple of Old Port restaurants. Gourmets will also appreciate panisse, a galette made from chickpea flour, and navettes, a cookie flavored with orange blossom. Each dish tells the story of the city, blending Provencal and Mediterranean influences.
Emblematic markets
Marseille is a city where markets are an integral part of daily life. The centrally-located Noailles market is a multicultural melting pot of spices, exotic fruits and local produce. Nearby, the Vieux-Port fish market offers fresh produce fished directly from the Mediterranean. These markets are meeting places where you can talk to local producers while discovering the authentic flavours of the region.
Marseille and its cosmopolitan atmosphere: a cultural melting pot
The Cours Julien district: art and nightlife
Cours Julien is Marseille’s trendy district, a place where street art rubs shoulders with the lively terraces of cafés and bars. Here, street artists express themselves on the walls, creating colorful frescoes that tell the story of the neighborhood. In the evening, the Cours Julien becomes the center of Marseille’s nightlife, with concerts, exhibitions and themed evenings attracting a young, cosmopolitan clientele.
Annual festivals and events
Marseille is a city where cultural events punctuate the year. In September, the Fête du Vent brings together giant kites on the Prado beaches, offering a colorful aerial spectacle. In summer, the Festival de Marseille offers concerts, theater and dance performances in the city’s most emblematic venues. These events contribute to making Marseille a festive city open to the world.
Practical tips for visiting Marseille: Getting around and accommodation
Getting around Marseille
Marseille has a well-developed public transport network, including metro, bus and boat buses. To explore the calanques, we recommend renting a car or taking the maritime shuttles. Cyclists can also take advantage of the cycle paths along the coast.
Where to stay in Marseille
Marseille offers a wide range of accommodation to suit all budgets. The Old Port is ideal for those who want to be in the heart of the hustle and bustle, while the Panier district offers a more authentic and artistic atmosphere. The Prado beaches, meanwhile, attract families and water sports enthusiasts. Youth hostels and vacation apartments are also attractive options for travelers on a budget.
Marseille is a multi-faceted city, combining historical heritage, unspoilt nature and a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Whether you come to hike in the calanques, stroll in the Panier or enjoy a bouillabaisse on the Old Port, every visit is an invitation to discover the vibrant soul of this port city. Marseille is a city that never ceases to surprise and seduce, a place where the Provencal art of living blends with influences from all over the world.