Things to do in Marseille – 4 Unbelievably Authentic Days.

This is your ultimate 4 day itinerary of things to do in Marseille on a short getaway. Marseille is a beautiful coastal city in the South of France 🇨🇵. For me, these are the highlights and therefore, the best things to do in Marseille. However, you can replace them with any of the 10 best things to do in Marseille to cater to your own interests.

Things to do in Marseille Day 1 – Vieux Port. A staple in any Marseille itinerary.

No matter when you arrive, you should spend your first day around the Old Port of Marseille. Vieux Port is the hub of the City and is a great place to start your Marseille itinerary. Here, there is so much for you to do and should be on any list of things to do in Marseille. You could be wandering the winding streets or exploring the local culture. As well as experiencing the bustling, port-side fish and flower markets, or enjoying the cities historical, artistic and architectural brilliance. Ultimately, you will struggle to find an experience in any Marseille itinerary that is more representative of the city.

Honestly, you will feel the true personality of Marseille at Vieux Port. On the whole, you will see that it is lively and loud in Marseille. Equally, I found it to feel surprisingly localised despite the tourism and is completely free for those budget travel activities.

As a place for you to stay, Vieux Port is the ideal hub to base yourself in Marseille. Honestly, the public transport system is one of the best I’ve experienced so you can reach many areas of interest. Subsequently, I would not advise anybody to use a rental car. Truly, I imagine the Vieux Port area is just too busy and, unless you are experienced driving the area, could potentially be dangerous. Equally, if you value a good night sleep, I would not suggest to stay in the heart of Vieux Port. Simply, it is far too loud and lively late into the night.

Day 2 – Cassis

After your first day of travel, settling into your accommodation and getting to know the city, day 2 of your Marseille itinerary should be more relaxed. So, you need to take yourself to one of the abundant local cafes and indulge yourself in some delicious local produce and the ever so popular espresso. Once you have refuelled and are ready to go, make your way to Cassis. Cassis, I found to be an incredible addition to any list of things to do in Marseille. Cassis is one of the most colourful and vibrant little towns I’ve ever seen. Pleasantly situated on the coast of the south of France, to the east of Marseille. I wouldn’t miss the opportunity to see this delightful port.

You may think it seems a simple place but honestly, Cassis is so beautiful with colourful architecture and an exciting but relaxed bustle.
To travel, you can catch the bus for just under an hour from Marseille. However, you should find this incredibly easy, due to the sophisticated public transport networks. It should cost you 3€50 to get to Cassis and the same to return, and is more than worth it. Not to mention, if you are using this means of transport, it will provide an extremely authentic experience for you.

You will need to catch the bus back to Marseille by 7.30pm. So, you can still enjoy an evening dinner in Cassis before returning. Alternatively, you could stay the night and return in the morning. Although you will pay a substantial premium for accommodation here.

Day 3 – Parc national des Calanques.

Day 3 of your Marseille itinerary will be somewhat more strenuous than day 2. You should experience the breathtaking hike around Parc National des Calanques. 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. Simultaneously, you will be overlooking 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.

The Parc National des Calanques is an absolute must for things to do in Marseille. Especially, if you enjoy walking, natural beauty or wildlife. Honestly, you could get lost for hours. On the other hand, due to the location, you can merge this with a trip to Cassis on the same day if you are looking for a shorter Marseille itinerary.

To get to the Parc National des Calanques you take the same public transport as you do to Cassis but it is only around half the distance.

Things to do in Marseille Day 4 – Château D’If and Frioul.

Finally, whether you have a full final day or have to return home later in the day, you can definitely squeeze Château D’If and Frioul into your Marseille itinerary. Equally, these activities can be done independently of one another but should definitely be on your list of things to do in Marseille.

D’If

Firstly, 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. Alongside the sentiment and history, it is also simply a magnificent piece of architecture surrounded by absolutely stunning scenery. Therefore, I would definitely promote this to be on any Marseille itinerary.

Frioul

Frioul is an equally beautiful island where you find unbelievably picturesque Calanques and beaches, incredible views and impressive ruins. 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 €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!

Things to do in Marseille – Summary

If you are looking for things to do in Marseille, these activities have to be considered. This is a great itinerary for anybody to have a fun filled and experiential short trip to the South of France. Equally, there are some things that you should know before you visit Marseille. Alternatively, if you are not decided on your destination, you should consider Krakow or Amsterdam for a different city break experience.

Things to do in Marseille – 4 Unbelievably Authentic Days.