In my opinion, Marseille is an underrated city. Situated on the French riviera, it is home to beautiful coastlines and a bustling city. Equally, it is far enough away from places like Monaco that it isn’t overly expensive. You can also usually find very cheap flights direct to the city. So, if you’re planning a holiday itinerary to Marseille, France, you need to know the best things to do. Whether you enjoy architecture, history, art, food, incredible coastlines, natural beauty or a bustling night life, there is something for you. So, grab a cuppa and get ready to start planning an amazing holiday.
7 Best Things to Do in Marseille, France.
1. Vieux Port. The heart of Marseille.
Vieux Port (Image by Quentin Guiot)
On of the best things to do in your Marseille holiday itinerary, is to visit Vieux Port. Although it is a huge city, Vieux Port is most definitely the heart and soul of Marseille. Accordingly, you will find quaint little fishing boats gently bobbing in the turquoise waters, running back and forth to bring fresh seafood. Which the locals then sell at the Vieux Port market. Marseille is also home to quite an impressive contrast. You will see the humble feel of the market supported by a backdrop of elegant yachts filling up the port. There is a lot to do around this area. You can find yourself a chic cafe or gelato pod and feel the vibrant pulse of Marseille. This is definitely one of the most authentic experiences and one of the best things to do in Marseille.
2. Le Panier. Feel the heritage of Marseille.
You can’t have a Marseille holiday without taking a wander through Le Panier. In this historic district, you will find yourself winding through charming, narrow streets. These artistically, graffiti-covered walls and vibrant facades tell stories of this neighborhood’s rich history. Of course, you should take your time to enjoy the character of Le Panier. You will also stumble upon many cosy cafés, where you can enjoy a vast selection of French cuisine. Le Panier is, without question, one of the best things to do in Marseille, France. Especially if you enjoy getting to know the heritage and culture of new places.
7 Best Things to Do in Marseille, France.
3. Notre-Dame de la Garde. The awe inspiring overwatch of Marseille.
Notre-Dame de la Garde (Image by Waltc)
Notre-Dame de la Garde is a must on your list of things to do in your Marseille holiday itinerary. Imagine, you’ll be standing at the highest point in the city, with absolutely stunning panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean coast of the south of France. Equally, the basilica’s stunning architecture and sense of serenity are just as beautiful and make for a truly special experience. The Notre-Dame de la Garde has overlooked the city of Marseille for almost 200 years and is a breathtakingly beautiful building. This is most definitely one of the best things to do in Marseille, France.
You can get entry tickets and extended tours here.
4. MuCEM: Dive into Mediterranean Culture.
If you enjoy the cultural experiences that destinations have to offer, you need to head to MuCEM. You will find yourself exploring the museum’s modern exhibits and celebrating the rich tapestry of Mediterranean cultures. The contradiction of the contemporary architecture and ancient artifacts is an incredible experience which shouldn’t be missed. MuCEM takes you on an in depth journey through the various cultures that have contributed to shaping the Mediterranean into the unbelievable place it is today. This a must for any Marseille itinerary.
The queue to this can be quite long but you can pay to skip the line.
7 Best Things to Do in Marseille, France.
5. Parc National des Calanques: Nature’s Masterpiece.
Parc National des Calanques (Photo by SlimMars13)
The Parc National des Calanques is most certainly one of the best things to do in Marseille, France. Especially if you enjoy walking, natural beauty or wildlife. Honestly, this is somewhere you can get lost for hours, with a breathtaking hike. Here, you will find a vast national park, introduced by winding paths that weave you through tall conifer trees and low lying ferns. As you make your way through the Parc National des Calanques, you will find yourself peering over huge cliffs (calanques). These calanques also overlook gorgeous inlets where the Mediterranean sea comes in against the shore. Whether you decide to continue your adventure through the seemingly never ending network of paths, climb higher up the cliffs for a greater view, or head downwards to the beautiful hidden beaches, there is an incredible amount of exploration to be done.
To get to the national park, you can drive in about 30 minutes. Or, take public transport which takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. You will need to take the M2 metro towards Sainte-Marguerite Dromel, getting off at the final stop. Then, take the B1 or 24 bus towards Luminy PN des Calanques, getting off at Luminy Kedge BS. I would also suggest a city pass and transport card, for your Marseille holiday.
6. Culinary Adventures: A Feast Awaits.
Now, let’s talk food! Marseille’s culinary scene is legendary and you can’t visit without trying a bowl of bouillabaisse, the iconic fish stew. Whether you’re at a bustling market or a cozy bistro, enjoying french food or world cuisine, the flavors of Marseille provides an amazing experience for your taste buds! I can’t even give you any recommendations to be honest. There are just so many different things for you to try. Really, you just need to go and see for yourself!
You can book check out a variety of food tours here.
7 Best Things to Do in Marseille, France.
7. Château D’If and Frioul.
Frioul, Marseille (Image by Djé Marseille)
Château D’If and Frioul is a great day out, and one of the best things to do on your Marseille holiday. Firstly, these activities can be done together or independently of one another. So, if you enjoy historical artefacts then Château D’If will be of great enjoyment. This former prison is located on a rock in the middle of the Mediterranean sea and was the inspiration for the count of Monte Cristo movie. Despite the sentiment and historical significance found here, it is also simply a magnificent piece of architecture. Also, it is surrounded by absolutely stunning scenery. Therefore, I would definitely suggest this to be on any Marseille itinerary.
Secondly, Frioul is an equally beautiful island where you will find unbelievably picturesque calanques and beaches, incredible views and the impressive ruins of an old hospital. Unlike the chateau D’If, Frioul does not have a specific attraction as such. However, the beauty of the island is more than sufficient for it to be added to your Marseille itinerary.
All in all, I would suggest visiting both islands. Both are incredibly beautiful places with combined heritage as well as their own story. However, if budgets are tight I’d advise Frioul as it only costs the ferry whereas it’s also €12 for the Château. Contrastingly, if time is tight I would suggest visiting chateau D’If due to the additional history behind it. Also, Frioul is bigger so takes more time!
All in all, I would suggest visiting both islands. Both are incredibly beautiful places with combined heritage as well as their own story. However, if budgets are tight I’d advise Frioul as it only costs the ferry whereas it’s also €12 for the Château. Contrastingly, if time is tight I would suggest visiting chateau D’If due to the additional history behind it. Also, Frioul is bigger so takes more time! Grab your tickets here.
7 Best Things to Do in Marseille, France
So, it’s clear there are plenty of things to do in Marseille. Each of these activities will paint a vivid picture of Marseille’s charm, leaving you with many incredible memories. Now it’s simply down to you to decide which of these things to do in Marseille are for you. Alternatively, if you would prefer a ready made itinerary, you can read the ultimate 4 day itinerary for Marseille. You can also find other things to do in Marseille here.
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