How to get to Marseille
Marseille has several options to get there. The fastest is by plane, since the airport is only 30 minutes away from the city center.
Another option is to arrive by train from different European cities. You can also arrive by car.
Once in Marseille, it is important to think about where to stay. We tell you the good and the not so good about it.
Where to stay in Marseille
The good thing is that Marseille is one of the cheapest cities to stay in France, with a lot of accommodation on offer. We recommend you to look for accommodation near the Old Port area.
Now, the not so good. Marseille is considered the most dangerous city in France. This does not mean that it is really dangerous, as you will surely not have any problems. But it is better to take precautions and not to go out at night in areas far from the Old Port.
What to see in Marseille
Marseille has many attractions not to be missed. Starting with the Old Port, the heart of the city where all the action is concentrated. It is ideal to visit in the morning, when the fishermen sell their freshly caught fish.
Near the Old Port are the Museum of History of Marseille and the Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean, although you should check opening times and dates, sometimes they are closed.
Another landmark is the Cathedral of Marseille, a mixture of Byzantine and Romanesque styles, a 15-20 minute walk from the Old Port. Its interior is spectacular.
We also recommend visiting the House of Charity, an 18th century building with beautiful courtyards and a chapel. It was a place to shelter elderly and homeless people.
A more distant point is the Longchamp Palace, accessible by metro. It has museums of art and natural history, and the monumental fountain Château d’Eau.
Notre Dame de la Garde Basilica
The Basilica of Notre Dame de la Garde is another emblematic point, although far from the center. We recommend you go by car or public transport, as the walking slope is steep.
Built in the 19th century, its Byzantine exterior and interior with mosaics and marble is spectacular. From the square in front of the basilica you will have the best panoramic views of Marseille.
Excursions around Marseille
Take advantage of your visit to Marseille to visit nearby places, between the Côte d’Azur and Provence. Highlights include cities such as Nimes, with Roman temples and amphitheater, and Avignon, known for the Palace of the Popes and its medieval bridge over the Rhone.
The Côte d’Azur offers spectacular coves, such as Calanque de Sormiou and Calanque de Port-Miou, accessible after a short walk. The turquoise water and rock formations are breathtaking.
The Camargue National Park is home to the largest population of flamingos in Europe. You can also visit the Ornithological Park of Pont de Gau.
Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)
Practical advice for your trip
To get to know Marseille well, we recommend you to dedicate 2 quiet days. If you include excursions to other places, you will need 5 to 7 days.
It is best to travel in mid or low season, avoiding the summer months with more tourism and heat. The best times are April-May and September-October.
Don’t forget to buy the famous Marseille soap as a souvenir, made with olive oil and natural fragrances.
We hope this guide will help you discover Marseille and its surroundings. Let us know in the comments if you have more recommendations for other travelers.
