Marseille, located on France’s southern coast, is the country’s oldest city and its largest port. Known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning Mediterranean scenery, Marseille offers travelers a unique blend of tradition and modernity.
Explore the historic Old Port (Vieux-Port), where colorful fishing boats dock alongside lively markets and cozy cafés. Don’t miss the impressive Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, perched atop a hill with panoramic views of the city and sea.
Marseille’s neighborhoods showcase a vibrant multicultural atmosphere, reflected in its delicious cuisine — especially fresh seafood dishes like the famous bouillabaisse. The city also serves as a gateway to the beautiful Calanques National Park, perfect for hiking, swimming, and boat tours.
Whether you’re seeking cultural exploration, seaside relaxation, or outdoor adventures, Marseille is a dynamic destination worth visiting on your trip to France.
Top 5 attractions in Marseille
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Old Port (Vieux-Port) | Historic harbor with markets, boats, and waterfront cafés. |
| Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde | Hilltop basilica offering panoramic city and sea views. |
| Calanques National Park | Stunning limestone cliffs and turquoise waters for hiking and boating. |
| Le Panier | Marseille’s oldest neighborhood with narrow streets and street art. |
| MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations) | Modern museum showcasing Mediterranean culture and history. |
Top 3 Michelin-Starred Restaurants
The city, boasts a rich culinary scene, highlighted by its exceptional Michelin-starred establishments. Among them, two restaurants have achieved the prestigious three-star rating, placing them among the elite in global gastronomy.
| Restaurant Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Le Petit Nice Passedat | Located on the Corniche, 3 Michelin stars since 2008. Famous for innovative Mediterranean seafood dishes by Chef Gérald Passedat. |
| AM par Alexandre Mazzia | Awarded 3 Michelin stars in 2021. Creative cuisine blending global flavors with Chef Mazzia’s unique style. |
| La Villa Madie | 3 Michelin stars since 2022. Located in Cassis near Marseille, known for refined dishes with fresh regional seafood by Chef Dimitri Droisneau. |
Top 3 beaches in Marseille
| Beach Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Plage des Catalans | Popular city beach close to the Old Port, great for swimming and sunbathing. |
| Plage du Prado | Large sandy beach with parks, sports facilities, and family-friendly areas. |
| Plage de la Pointe Rouge | Quiet beach with calm waters, ideal for relaxing and water sports. |
5 tips before visiting city
| Tip Number | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Use public transport — buy a day or multi-day pass for buses, trams, and metro. |
| 2 | Explore on foot — wear comfortable shoes to enjoy neighborhoods like Le Panier. |
| 3 | Try local cuisine — don’t miss bouillabaisse and fresh seafood. |
| 4 | Visit Calanques early — avoid crowds and find parking by going early. |
| 5 | Learn basic French phrases — simple greetings improve your experience. |
