Marseille is an old city, with plenty of things to do that will keep visitors entertained for days. We’ve compiled a list of the best attractions in the city, so those who are pressed for time can pick and choose what they like best.
This church is one of Marseille’s most famous landmarks, situated on the top of a hill overlooking the city and the sea. It is most easily accessed by bus, since going there on foot means having to face the weary climb to the top, and there are buses that depart every twenty minutes or so from the Vieux Port and take you right up to the church’s doors. It is free to visit, and the mosaic interior, like the beautiful views of the city, are incredibly impressive.
Weather permitting, a relaxing boat ride to the beautiful Calanques – a stretch of coast between Marseille and Cassis – is a must for anyone visiting the city, especially in the summer. Stunning views, beautiful beaches and a refreshing sea breeze are some of the highlights that travellers will be able to enjoy whilst visiting the Parc National des Calanques. Another option is to cycle around the area and look at the landscape on your own, or even to ride a bike to one of the beaches and then rent a kayak or canoe and paddle out to the cliffs.
The Vieux Port (Old Harbor) is probably the most important part of Marseille, where all tourists head to take photos, eat some fresh fish, watch the boats or ride the Ferris wheel. It is part of the city’s old town and a great location from which to head to all of the city’s main attractions, so it’s definitely worth a visit. Sunsets during the summer are particularly awe-inspiring, so stick around the area until early evening for some beautiful views.
Also known as the MuCEM, this is the city’s best museum. It explores Mediterranean civilisations and history, and provides an insightful look into the way they developed until they became what they are today. Apart from exhibitions, there are also mini films or lectures to help visitors better comprehend Mediterranean culture, and the museum spans three entire buildings. Gods, spices, travel routes and gardens are just a few of the diverse topics covered in this eclectic museum.
Marseille’s cathedral is of course worth visiting, being one of the city’s most important buildings. Overlooking the sea, this spot is perfect for views and photographs. Its imposing structure, composed of several domed towers, with the highest reaching a height of 16 metres (52ft), and the use of green and white limestone might remind some of Florence’s Duomo, but the interior has been decorated in a completely different style. Fortunately, the cathedral is also free to visit.
Marseille’s Old Town is one of the most picturesque neighbourhoods visitors will find anywhere in France. It is easily accessible from the Vieux Port, as it is situated on a nearby hillside. It was first inhabited in 600 BC, when the Greeks settled here, so it truly is the oldest part of the city. The colourful neighbourhood is known for being the most multicultural part of the city, making it a unique place to spend an evening or to go for a walk.
The majestic Palais Longchamp is the site of the city’s Musée des Beaux Arts, the oldest museum in Marseille. The gallery is home to an impressive collection of work by Italian and Provençal artists, and most of the paintings and works of art date from the 17th century to the present day. Apart from the beautiful artwork, the palace also has a splendid park that locals flock to when they want to enjoy the good weather, as it is one of the few green areas in the city centre.
Those who have read Alexandre Dumas’ The Count of Montecristo will undoubtedly find the name of this island familiar. Although some guides suggest the events actually happened, the fictional count was never actually imprisoned here, although this makes Château d’If no less fascinating: visitors will be able to learn all about the 16th-century castle’s history as a prison for real life political enemies of the state. There are boats that leave daily from the Vieux Port.
Whilst France in general might be known for its elegant and sophisticated cuisine and drinking scene, Marseille is particularly well-known for its pastis– an anise-flavored apéritif. Also known as ‘pastage’ by Marseille’s residents, there are plenty of spots across the city to sample this traditional tipple. Typically the apéritif is served with a jug of water, so drinkers can dilute the beverage to make it as strong or weak as they like. For an extensive selection, head to Pastis and Olives, where you can choose from 16 variations.
Close to the Vieux Port and Le Panier, La Canebière is another of Marseille’s most important areas. It is the city’s biggest avenue, and it represents the wealth that Marseille once possessed. The huge, ornate buildings and elegant hotels that once stood on each side of the street have now mostly been converted into restaurants, shops or offices, but they still conserve some of their previous grandeur. The avenue stretches almost one kilometre from the Vieux Port, and leads to the lively Capucin neighbourhood, among others.
