Bonjour! Welcome to Marseille, the oldest city in France and one of its most fascinating destinations. Bold, raw, energetic, and full of character, Marseille is a place where ancient history, colorful streets, coastal views, and everyday local life blend into something unique. From the lively old port and historic neighborhoods to dramatic Mediterranean scenery and hidden coves, this Mediterranean city has so much to offer. Whether you’re here for culture, food, nature, or experience something refreshingly different, Marseille won’t disappoint. It’s a place that rewards curiosity and invites you to look beyond first impressions. Ready to dive in? Let us show you the best things to do in Marseille, France.
Note. Marseille is one of those cities you’ll either love or hate – and that’s exactly what makes it special. It won’t be your next picture-perfect Provençal destination but rather an authentic and complex spot with a strong personality. At first, Marseille will probably feel loud, overwhelming, and a little chaotic, but try to look beyond the surface, and you’ll uncover its unique charm and unforgettable atmosphere.
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Marseille, France FAQ
Marseille is the second-largest city in France located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region in the Bouches-du-Rhone department. The city sits on the Mediterranean coast and is close to other popular destinations such as Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, Arles, Cassis, Toulon, and some Provençal villages. Thanks to its location, Marseille is not only a great stop on a French Riviera or Provence itinerary but also a great base for exploring the region.
Marseille is well worth visiting if you enjoy destinations with strong character, rich history, and a lively local atmosphere. It offers a unique mix of culture, coastal scenery, amazing food, and nearby nature, making it one of the most interesting cities in southern France. While it may lack the picture-perfect charm of smaller Provençal towns, the variety of things to do in Marseille makes this city of contrasts absolutely worth exploring.
Marseille is best known for being France’s oldest city (founded by Greeks around 600 BC), its historic Old Port, the iconic Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica overlooking the city, the stunning Calanques National Park, and bouillabaisse – the traditional fish stew that originated here. The city is also known for its multicultural atmosphere and vibrant street life.
You can see most of the main attractions of Marseille in one day as the city is compact and most highlights are within walking distance. However, if you want to get to know the city better and fully appreciate its uniqueness, we recommend staying around 3 days. If you’re short on time, one day in Marseille is still absolutely worthwhile.
Things to do in Marseille, France
Old Port Marseille
The beating heart of Marseille and one of the city’s most iconic landmarks is the Vieux Port (Old Port). For over 2600 years, this rectangular harbor has served as Marseille’s gateway to the Mediterranean, and today it’s a lively gathering place lined with sailboats, yachts, restaurants, cafés, and elegant historic buildings. Simply slowly strolling along the waterfront, admiring the views, and watching the world go by is one of the best things to do in Marseille.
While exploring the Vieux-Port, don’t miss taking a photo under the striking mirrored structure of L’Ombrière. Nearby, you can also visit Le Musée du Savon de Marseille to learn more about the city’s famous traditional soaps.
Another fun experience is taking a short ride on the Ferry Boat – for just €0.5, it takes you across the Old Port from Quai du Port to Quai de Rive-Neuve. This is also one of the main departure points for boat trips and guided tours to Calanques National Park.
Marseille Tourist Office is located right next to the Vieux Port, on La Canebière street. It’s a great place to pick up maps and get helpful sightseeing tips.
Travel tip. In the mornings, stop by the colorful fish market at Quai des Belges, right next to the metro entrance, where local fishermen sell their daily catch. On Tuesday and Saturday mornings, you’ll also find a flower market here.
Saint-Victor Abbey
Just a few steps from the Old Port, you’ll find Saint-Victor Abbey, one of Marseille’s oldest and most historically significant churches. It was founded in the 5th century by the Christian monk and theologian John Cassian (who later became a saint) and has played an important role in the city’s religious history ever since.
From the outside, the abbey looks more like a fortress than a typical church. Its interior is peaceful and beautiful, creating a nice contrast to the lively streets outside. Exploring the abbey, its underground crypts, and learning about its fascinating past is one of the most underrated things to do in Marseille.
Entrance to Saint-Victor Abbey is free during opening hours, but access to the crypts cost €3. For current prices and opening hours, visit the marseille-tourisme.com website.
Parc Émile Duclaux
For some of the best views in Marseille, head to Parc Émile Duclaux located at the entrance to the Vieux Port. From here, you can enjoy stunning views of the city, its main landmarks, and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. It’s a perfect spot for a peaceful and scenic break while exploring Marseille. Within the park, you’ll also find the impressive 19th-century Palais du Pharo. For us, visiting Parc Émile Duclaux became one of the most memorable things to do in Marseille.
Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica
Basilica Notre-Dame de la Garde is one of the most iconic landmarks in Marseille you simply can’t miss. It’s located 154m a.s.l. on a hilltop overlooking the entire city. This stunning 19th-century Romano-Byzantine church is topped with a 11-meter golden statue of the Virgin Mary that watches over the city and its maritime communities.
Inside, you’ll find beautiful mosaics and ex-votos left by grateful sailors, a testament to the basilica’s long history. The only drawback is that the church can get very crowded – you’ll probably move in a queue, make a quick loop, and exit again, without much time for detailed exploration and taking photos.
However, the real highlight of getting here is the absolutely magnificent panoramic views over Marseille, the islands, and the sea. We’re not surprised that the basilica quickly became one of the most visited places in Marseille! History lovers can also explore the basilica’s museum to learn more about the hill, the church, and Marseille’s fascinating past.
You can reach Notre-Dame de la Garde by walking uphill (a bit of a climb but worth it), taking bus 60 from the Vieux Port, or hopping on the tourist train. Entrance to is free during opening hours. To learn more, visit the marseille-tourisme.com website.
Visiting the basilica is without a doubt one of the best things to do in Marseille and a must for anyone looking for spectacular views and a taste of the city’s rich history.
Le Panier District
Le Panier is Marseille’s oldest neighborhood, where the Greeks first settled over 2600 years ago. Today, it’s a delightful maze of narrow cobblestone streets, colorful facades, hidden squares, artisan workshops, and vibrant street art. Around every corner, you’ll find local craftspeople, cozy cafés, vintage boutiques, and small art galleries. To make the most of this quirky place, just wander around and get lost in this colorful open-air museum.
The best way to experience this quirky area is simply to wander, get lost, and soak up the atmosphere of this colorful open-air museum. While exploring Le Panier, don’t miss La Vieille Charité, a beautiful 17th-century former almshouse that now houses museums and cultural spaces. Wandering through Le Panier is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Marseille, especially if you love authentic neighborhoods with a creative, local vibe.
Marseille Cathedral
Marseille Cathedral, also known as Cathédrale de la Major, is an impressive 19th-century church built in the Romano-Byzantine style. With its distinctive striped stone façade, enormous domes, and lavish interior decorated with mosaics and marble, it’s one of the largest cathedrals built in France. The cathedral is especially striking when seen from afar, dominating the waterfront near the Old Port. Entrance to Marseille Cathedral is free during opening hours.
Cours Julien
After Le Panier, Cours Julien is another of Marseille’s most creative and alternative neighborhoods, best known for its street art and lively atmosphere. The area is packed with independent boutiques, vintage shops, cafés, and laid-back bars. One of its main highlights is the Escaliers du Cours Julien, a set of brightly painted steps that have become one of the neighborhood’s most photographed spots.
Wandering around Cours Julien, grabbing a coffee, and admiring the ever-changing street art is one of the most authentic things to do in Marseille, especially if you want to experience the city’s youthful and artistic side.
We personally found the area a bit disappointing – while there were a few interesting art pieces, much of it leaned more toward graffiti, which isn’t really our thing. Still, Cours Julien undeniably reveals a very different, more alternative side of Marseille and may appeal more to travelers who enjoy urban art and edgy neighborhoods.
MuCEM & Fort Saint-Jean
One of Marseille’s most impressive attractions is the MuCEM, the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations. This bold contemporary building sits right at the waterfront and is connected by a suspended footbridge to the historic Fort Saint-Jean. Inside, you’ll find exhibitions about Mediterranean civilizations and cultures from ancient times to the present day. Even if you don’t go inside, the rooftop terrace alone is worth a visit, offering fantastic views over the Old Port and the sea. It’s no surprise that MuCEM has quickly become one of the most visited museums in Marseille.
Fort Saint-Jean is a historic monument dating back to the 17th century, built by Louis XIV to guard the entrance to the Old Port. Today, you can wander through its ramparts and enjoy spectacular views over Marseille – completely free of charge!
Entrance to MuCEM costs €11 for a normal ticket, and €7.5 for a reduced one. The museum is open everyday except on Tuesdays. For current prices and opening hours, visit the marseille-tourisme.com website.
Exploring MuCEM and Fort Saint-Jean together is one of the most interesting things to do in Marseille, combining culture, history, and stunning coastal scenery.
Travel tip. Right next to MUCEM you’ll find another modern museum, Cosquer Méditerranée. It houses a full-size replica of the underwater Cosquer Cave with prehistoric paintings over 25,000 years old.
Château d’If
Château d’If is a historic fortress-prison located on a small island just off the coast of Marseille, made famous by Alexandre Dumas’ novel “The Count of Monte Cristo”. It was built in the 16th century, later served as a state prison, and today it can be visited by boat from the Old Port. Exploring its stone corridors, former cells, and ramparts while enjoying views over Marseille and the Mediterranean is easily one of the best things to do in Marseille, especially for history and literature lovers.
Entrance to Château d’If costs €11 for a normal ticket, and €7 for a reduced one. For current prices and opening hours, visit the calanques-if.com website.
Marseille surroundings
Although there are plenty of things to do in Marseille, the city also makes a great base for exploring nearby gems in Provence and the French Riviera. Whether you’re craving history, nature, charming villages, or a glass of fine wine, there are countless wonderful places to visit near Marseille that are perfect for day trips.
One destination you simply can’t miss is the Calanques National Park, one of the most spectacular places to see near Marseille. Stretching for around 20 km between Marseille and Cassis, these dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise coves create a landscape often compared to Norway’s fjords. You can explore the Calanques by hiking, joining a boat tour, or kayaking along the coast.
Just a short drive or train ride away, you’ll find vibrant cities like Aix-en-Provence or Avignon, as well as charming towns like Cassis, Toulon, Arles, or Nimes. And if you’re visiting in July, be sure to plan a trip to the lavender fields – the iconic Valensole Plateau is within easy reach and makes for an unforgettable day trip from Marseille.
Explore local attractions
How to get to Marseille, France?
Marseille is located about 35km from Aix-en-Provence, 30km from Cassis, 90km from Arles, 100km from Avignon, 120km from Nimes, 150km from Montpellier, and 190km from Nice. The most convenient way to get to Marseille is by train or by car.
Airports near Marseille
The closest airport to Marseille is located in the city itself (20km from the old town). From the airport you can easily get to the centre by airport shuttle bus, train or taxi. To learn more about your options, visit the marseille-airport.com website.
Other airports close to Marseille are located in Montpellier (165km away) and Nice (190km away). From each airport, you can get to the city by public transportation. To check connections that might interest you, visit rome2rio.com website. At each airport, you can also rent a car for a faster and more comfortable journey.
Where to park in Marseille?
In Marseille we recommend leaving a car in one of the city’s paid parking lots. We can recommend Parking Q-Park Estienne d’Orves located right next to the Old Port. If you plan to stay longer in Marseille, we recommend booking a hotel or apartment with a designated parking space.
To Marseille by train
You can easily get to Marseille by train, especially from other big cities. For example, a trip from Aix-en-Provence will take 45 minutes, 35 minutes from Avignon, 1.5 hours from Montpellier, and 2.5 hours from Nice. To learn more about connections that might interest you visit sncf-connect.com or rome2rio.com website.
Marseille’s train station is located about a 20 minutes walk from the Vieux Port and it’s also well-connected by metro (Lines 1 and 2) and numerous bus routes.
To Marseille by bus
You can also easily get to Marseille by bus. For example, the trip from Aix en Provence will take around 30 minutes, 40 minutes from Cassis, 2.5 hours from Avignon, and 3 hours from Nice. To learn more about bus connections that might interest you visit rome2rio.com or Flixbus website.
Camping Marseille
If you’re traveling by camper, places like Camping la Verdière or Camping Garlaban might interest you. They are located close to Marseille.
Things to do in Marseille, France – Summing up
And that’s a wrap on the best things to do in Marseille. It may not be the next postcard-perfect southern French city you’ll visit, but that’s exactly where its charm lies. With its rich history, magnificent views, unique vibes, and vibrant everyday life, Marseille is a destination that will stay with you long after you leave.
Whether you’re visiting for a short city break or using Marseille as a base to explore Cote d’Azur and Provence, it offers unforgettable experiences you won’t find anywhere else in France. Enjoy your time & bon voyage!
Our opinion about Marseille
For us, a visit to Marseille was a day trip from nearby Bandol where we lived for a few weeks. We visited in late October, and during that time the city was full of other tourists. Exploring everything we wanted took us about 7 hours.
Before our visit, we had often come across negative things about Marseille in the media, which made us a bit skeptical about visiting. But as we expected, wrongly. Marseille is certainly very different from other places we’ve visited in southern France, but it’s definitely far from being as bad as it’s sometimes portrayed – at least in the main tourist areas. We think that the city center is completely fine and feels similar to any large European city.
Overall, Marseille didn’t steal our hearts or leave us eager to return, but we still found the visit to be an interesting and worthwhile experience. What we liked most was strolling around the Vieux Port and admiring spectacular views from Notre-Dame de la Garde. Le Panier and Cours Julien were interesting to explore, although in our opinion there was more simple graffiti than standout street art. Still, they offered an insightful glimpse into a different, more alternative side of Marseille.
Restaurants, accommodations, and map
Check out various recommended places below.
Where to eat in Marseille?
Here are your best, high-rated options in Marseille:
