France’s southern port city of Marseille is a melting pot of traditions and cultures. Its sprawling suburbs edge onto the beautiful Calanques national park and there are endless corners to uncover in its historic centre. If you’d like a more personal feel to exploring somewhere new, stay in a B&B – here are the five best bed and breakfasts in Marseille.
Un Mas en Ville
Bed and Breakfast
Guestroom at Un Mas en Ville | Courtesy of Un Mas en Ville/Hotels.com
Set in a traditional Provençal house, the characterful Un Mas en Ville offers visitors to Marseille a little oasis in the city. The décor is traditional and you’ll find nice touches such as bunches of dried lavender in the bedrooms. The kitchen can be used by guests who wish to prepare their own meals and a homemade continental breakfast is served in the dining area, looking out onto the courtyard swimming pool. Exposed beams, arched windows and original tiles have been preserved throughout; it’s a real authentic southern French base from which to explore Marseille.
A traditional bed and breakfast in a renovated Marseille house in the attractive historic district of Panier, Maison Boa has just two guest rooms and is located in a quite alley, providing an intimate, calming stay among the bustle. The renovations to this 18th-century townhouse have been carried out to a high standard, and the rooms with private bathrooms are spacious and comfortable. A continental breakfast is served each morning. Ask the host about recommendations on sights in Marseille; they’re always very happy to assist.
Caroline’s retro-styled bed and breakfast lies right next to Marseille’s train station. From the street, you can’t miss it; green, red and black tiles adorn its façade, standing out compared to its neighbours. The colourful scheme continues throughout the property, with rooms decorated in bright wallpaper and furnishings. Caroline lives here with her family, so staying at Casa Ortega is a really personal affair. Each room has a private bathroom, and breakfast is served in the equally characterful lobby.
Outdoor seating area at Casa Ortega | Courtesy of Casa Ortega/Booking.com
A lovely bed and breakfast in the oldest part of Marseille, BnB Vieux Port Panier Jardin is set in one of the historic bell towers of the city. It has a large, leafy terrace and its beautifully decorated rooms are just what you hope to find in the south of France, with colourful ceramic tiles throughout and heaps of character retained alongside the modern facilities. There are lots of different room options here, ranging from a double room to a three-bedroom apartment that can sleep eight, so if you’re looking for somewhere special to book for your stay in central Marseille, whatever the occasion, you might have just found it.
In Marseille’s leafy 13th arrondissement, Le Clos du Jas offers travellers two tranquil guest rooms, whilst still being in easy reach of the buzzy city centre. The Mediterranean garden is what makes this place so special; to be able to explore the city by day, then have a glass of local wine among lavender and olive trees in the evening is very appealing, especially in the hotter months. The views over Marseille, its cathedral and the Mediterranean are simply stunning. Breakfast is included in the price of the room and parking is also free at the house.
