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As the cradle of Mediterranean culture, Marseille stands proudly on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, offering its visitors a kaleidoscope of seaside landscapes, vibrant neighborhoods, and rich heritage. From the picturesque Old Port to the crystal-clear calanques, through colorful markets and sun-drenched terraces, this Phocian city is a place of cultural blending and conviviality. The echoes of the singing Marseillais accents resonate in narrow alleys, bearing witness to the richness of a history dating back over 2600 years. Do you have a few days to spend in this Phocian city? Here are 12 essential things to do in Marseille.
🗺️ A little trip to Provence? Here are the most beautiful towns and villages in the region, according to us. And if you want to buy one of the famous santons of Provence, here is our advice.
🗒️ Best time to visit, hotels: the answers to your questions about Marseille
Before starting our list of essential things to do in Marseille, let’s look at two or three of the most frequently asked questions by travelers.
What is the best time to visit Marseille?
To make the most of Marseille, the months of April to June and September to October are the most pleasant. During these periods, the average temperatures range between 15°C and 24°C, which is ideal for outdoor activities. Moreover, these months are less frequented by tourists, allowing you to better appreciate the tourist sites and natural beauties of the city. Summer, from July to August, can be a good time if you appreciate higher temperatures (around 28-30°C) and the festive atmosphere. But beware of the crowds!
How to get around Marseille?
Marseille has a comprehensive public transport network managed by the RTM (Marseille Transport Authority). It includes two metro lines (M1 and M2) that serve the city from north to south and east to west, from approximately 5 a.m. to midnight. The tramway, with its 3 lines (T1, T2, T3), is another option for getting around easily, with a frequency of 5 to 10 minutes during peak hours. The city also has more than 100 bus lines, some of which even operate at night.
Are you more of a two-wheeler? No problem! The Marseille metropolis offers the Le Vélo service (official website) with more than 2000 self-service electric bikes distributed over 130 stations. The rate is 1€ per day or 5€ per week, with the first 30 minutes of each trip free of charge.
Which hotel to choose in Marseille?
For an experience combining luxury and history, the InterContinental Marseille – Hotel Dieu is a very wise choice. Located in a historic building with a breathtaking view of the Old Port, this 5-star hotel promises you a refined stay and impeccable service.
If you are looking for a mix of modern comfort and proximity to major attractions, the Alex Hotel & Spa could also be an option to consider. This 4-star establishment is just a stone’s throw from Saint-Charles station, facilitating travel in and out of the city.
For budget-conscious travelers, the Vertigo Hostel offers an affordable alternative without compromising on location. This friendly youth hostel offers dormitories and private rooms near the Old Port, providing easy access to many attractions.
Booking.com🔝 What are the things to do in Marseille?
We’re now getting to the heart of our topic. Here are 12 must-do things in Marseille during your stay.
Stroll around the Vieux-Port (Old Port)
The Old Port of Marseille is more than just a port, it’s the vibrant historical heart of the city. Every morning, the traditional fish market comes to life with local fishermen selling their catch of the day. It’s an authentic spectacle not to be missed. The port itself is a constant ballet of luxury yachts, sailboats, and traditional fishing boats. The quays lined with cafes and restaurants are the perfect place to sit, grab a drink, and watch Marseilles life unfold (read more about la Canebière below). In the evening, the port lights up, creating a magical urban landscape reflected in the calm waters.
All major events related to life in Marseille, be it football or end-of-year festivities, are celebrated at the Old Port.
Visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde
Overlooking the city from the top of the Garde hill, the Notre-Dame basilica is more than a place of worship, it’s a symbol of Marseille. This 19th-century basilica, affectionately nicknamed the “Good Mother” by the locals, offers a 360° panorama of the city and the Mediterranean. Inside, the ceiling is adorned with sumptuous golden mosaics and the walls are covered with votive offerings from sailors. Don’t forget to make a wish in front of the statue of the Virgin and Child overlooking the city. More information on the official website.
Explore the Panier district
Le Panier is the oldest district of Marseille, full of charm and history. A maze of narrow, winding streets leads to picturesque squares, Bohemian cafés, artisan shops, and art galleries. Among the gems of Le Panier, the Vieille Charité, a former 17th-century hospice, now houses museums and a Baroque chapel. Take a stroll around this district and let yourself be transported by its unique atmosphere and rich heritage. For a preview of the artisans you’ll find there, you can visit this site.
Discover the Mucem
The Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations (Mucem) is a modern architectural feat, with its black concrete lattice that seems to float above the sea. Its exhibits, which explore the various facets of Mediterranean civilisation, are as fascinating as the building itself. The aerial path linking the Mucem to Fort Saint-Jean offers a breathtaking view of the sea and the city. Don’t forget to stop at the rooftop terrace for a coffee break with a panoramic view. More information on the official website.
Take a walk in the Calanques National Park
The Calanques National Park (official website) is a natural jewel at the gates of Marseille – you can easily get there by bus! This park, which extends from Marseille to the town of Cassis, offers breathtaking landscapes of limestone cliffs plunging into turquoise waters. Whether you’re a fan of hiking, climbing, kayaking, or simply relaxing on a secluded beach, the Calanques will surely captivate you.
Don’t forget your swimsuit for a refreshing dip in the crystalline waters of the Mediterranean after a sunny hike. But make sure to respect the rules and not degrade this beautiful landscape!
Visit the Cité Radieuse
The Cité Radieuse, sometimes associated with the name “Le Corbusier”, is an innovative residence designed by the architect of the same name. This building, considered an urban utopia, was a social and architectural revolution when it was built in the 1950s. Today, you can visit this building, walk through its interior streets, admire its colorful facade, and even have a drink on the rooftop terrace with its stunning view of the city. More information on the Le Corbusier Foundation’s website.
Get lost in the Canebière
La Canebière is one of the most famous thoroughfares in Marseille. This street, which extends from the Old Port to the Réformés church, is full of life and history. Stroll along la Canebière, discover the shops, cafes, and restaurants, and let yourself be carried away by the rhythm of life in Marseille. Don’t miss the Capucins market, a popular market where you can sample local specialties.
Explore the Longchamp Palace
The Longchamp Palace, built to celebrate the arrival of water from the Durance canal to Marseille, is an architectural wonder. This palace now houses the Museum of Fine Arts and the Natural History Museum. The park surrounding the palace is a green oasis in the heart of the city, with a monumental fountain, sculptures, a menagerie, and an observatory.
Taste a good bouillabaisse
Marseille is famous for its bouillabaisse, a traditional dish made from local fish, potatoes, onions, and saffron. This dish, once prepared by fishermen with unsold fish, is now a symbol of Marseille’s gastronomy. Several restaurants on the Old Port serve this dish, but the most renowned is probably the restaurant Chez Fonfon.
Visit the Frioul Islands
The Frioul Islands, located off the coast of Marseille, offer a total change of scenery, especially if you’ve stayed in the city so far. After a short ferry crossing, you will discover a wild archipelago with secret coves, limestone cliffs, and Mediterranean vegetation. Don’t miss the Château d’If, made famous by Alexandre Dumas’ novel “The Count of Monte Cristo”.
Shopping at Rue Saint-Ferréol
Rue Saint-Ferréol is the main shopping street in Marseille, where you will find a multitude of fashion, jewelry, decor, and Provencal delicacy shops. Whether you’re looking for the latest trend, a typical souvenir, or a local specialty, you’re sure to find it here. More information on the Tourist Office’s website.
Relax on Prado Beach
Prado Beach is the most popular beach in Marseille. This large expanse of sand and pebbles, artificially created in the 1970s, is the perfect place to relax, swim in the Mediterranean, or practice water sports. In summer, Prado also hosts many concerts and festivals.
⚽ Bonus: attend a match at the Stade Vélodrome
This last experience might deter some supporters of rival teams, but it’s worth the detour!
The Vélodrome Stadium, the home of Olympique de Marseille (see the match schedule), is a must-see for any football fan. The electrifying atmosphere of the matches, with the songs and tifos of the supporters, is an experience to live. The stadium, with its capacity of over 67,000 spectators, is the second largest in France and one of the most emblematic in Europe. Even if you’re not a big football fan, a visit to the stadium, with its impressive architecture and popular past, is quite feasible. More information on the official website.
That’s it, we hope that this small list of must-do things in Marseille has helped you plan your getaway. Any other suggestions? Let us know in the comments.