Marseille is the oldest city in France and a lively place by the sea. It mixes old and new in a way that feels real and exciting. You’ll find historic forts, colourful streets, sunny squares, and a busy harbour filled with boats. It’s a popular destination stop for cruise lines. The Vieux-Port (Old Port) is the heart of the city, perfect for morning walks and fresh seafood. Above the city, the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde offers amazing views of the rooftops and the blue Mediterranean. Wander through Le Panier’s narrow lanes to see street art, small shops, and cosy cafés. If you love nature, the Calanques—rocky coves with clear water—are just a short trip away. Marseille is also famous for bouillabaisse, its traditional fish stew. Whether you’re here for history, food, beaches, or culture, Marseille is easy to enjoy and full of surprises.
See also our full video on Marseille when you sign up for exclusive access to our private videos.
Top 10 things to do in Marseille
1) Vieux-Port (Old Port)
The Vieux-Port is Marseille’s beating heart and the perfect first stop. For over 2,600 years, boats have moored here, and today the quays buzz with fishmongers, buskers, and terrace cafés. Start early at the daily fish market to see fishermen unload their catch, then stroll under Norman Foster’s mirrored canopy (Ombrière) for playful reflections and shade. Panoramic viewpoints await at Fort Saint-Jean and Fort Saint-Nicolas, which guard the harbour’s entrance and frame postcard views of masts, limestone hills, and the distant basilica. This is also the launch point for ferries to Château d’If and the Frioul archipelago. Linger for a bouillabaisse lunch, try a pastis at golden hour, and watch the port glow at sunset as street performers animate the esplanades. It’s easily accessible via Metro Line 1 (Vieux-Port), with lively evenings and a relaxed, photogenic vibe at dawn.
2) Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde
Perched 162 meters above the city, “La Bonne Mère” (Notre-Dame de la Garde) looks over Marseille and its people. This neo-Byzantine church shines with colourful mosaics, striped stone walls, and small ship models and thank-you offerings from sailors. Outside, a gold statue of the Virgin Mary and Child stands on the dome. From the terraces, you get spectacular 360-degree views: the Old Port, the Frioul Islands, the rocky calanques, and rows of terracotta rooftops leading to the sea.
You can get there by bus 60, hike up from the port, or take a taxi if you want to save your energy. Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid heat and large tour groups—the golden light is perfect for photos. Dress modestly, as it is an active church. After your visit, enjoy a coffee on the way down or stop in the Saint-Victor area to try navettes—boat-shaped cookies flavoured with orange blossom.
3) Le Panier District
Le Panier is Marseille’s oldest neighbourhood. It’s a maze of narrow streets, steps, and sunny little squares, with colourful murals and plants everywhere. Once a Greek settlement, today it’s full of artisan workshops, small independent shops, and cosy cafés. Laundry hangs between pastel buildings, and everyday life unfolds around you.
Wander without a plan—there’s street art, pretty shutters, and local scenes at every corner. Stop by Place des Moulins and Place de Lenche, and visit La Vieille Charité, a beautiful 17th-century almshouse that’s now a cultural centre.
It’s an easy walk from the Vieux-Port, or just one Metro stop to Colbert. During the day, galleries and shops are open; in the evening, it’s quieter and more romantic. Wear comfortable shoes, bring a camera, and stay curious. The area is generally safe, but stay alert in quieter alleys. Finish your walk with artisanal ice cream or a glass of pastis in the late-afternoon shade.
4) MuCEM & Fort Saint-Jean
MuCEM is a modern museum with a unique lace-like design, linked by bridges to Fort Saint-Jean. Inside, changing exhibits explore Mediterranean history, traditions, travel, and food. Even if you’re not into museums, the building is worth a visit for its shadows, sea breeze, and rooftop views of the basilica and the port. Walk over to Fort Saint-Jean to see old walls, gardens, and small galleries, then return for a coffee by the water. Weekdays are quieter. Book tickets online in busy seasons to skip lines. It’s a great spot for photos, a harbour walk, or a sunset at the fort. Ticket prices are reasonable at around 11 euro each.
5) Château d’If
I’ve read the book and seen the film so it was great to see this in real life. This was at the top of my list of things to do in Marseille. It’s a short ferry ride from the Old Port and takes you to this 16th-century island fortress, made famous by The Count of Monte Cristo. Explore echoing prison cells, rough stone walls, and exhibits about its past as a defence post and prison. The views of Marseille and the Frioul islands are fantastic. Ferries are popular in summer—book ahead and check the weather, as trips depend on wind. Spring and autumn are calmer; summer is beautiful but busy. Wear sturdy shoes, bring water and sun protection. Add a swim or picnic on Frioul beaches for a perfect half-day. You can take a self-guided tour from around 7 Euro and 3 times per day there will be staff proving commentary around its history.
6) Palais du Pharo (Convention & Event Area)
Palais du Pharo is a 19th-century palace built by Napoleon III, sitting above the harbour. Its lawns offer one of the best views in Marseille: Vieux-Port, Fort Saint-Jean, and MuCEM all in one. The nearby area hosts events and exhibitions in modern buildings. Check local listings for what’s on. Even without an event, it’s a lovely place to walk, relax, and take photos—especially at sunset. It’s a short bus ride or about a 20-minute walk from the Old Port. Bring a picnic and enjoy the sea air. If you have tickets for an event, arrive early to enjoy the gardens.
7) Calanques National Park
Between Marseille and Cassis, the calanques are dramatic white cliffs and deep blue coves. Hike to Sugiton, Morgiou, or En-Vau for amazing views and quiet beaches. You can swim, snorkel, or relax on warm rocks. Trails range from medium to hard—wear good shoes and bring water, snacks, and sun protection. In summer, access can be limited because of fire risk. Buses to Luminy and shuttles help, and some calanques can be reached by boat or guided kayak. Spring and early autumn have the best mix of weather and crowds. Stay safe near edges and take all your trash with you.
8) Abbaye Saint-Victor
Founded in the 5th century, this abbey is a key part of Marseille’s religious history. Inside, you’ll find a simple Romanesque church, cool crypts, and ancient tombs—peaceful and atmospheric. Visit in the morning for a calm experience, and dress modestly. From outside, you can see the Old Port and the Pharo headland. Nearby bakeries sell traditional navettes—try the orange blossom flavor. Occasionally, there are concerts and events, especially around Candlemas. It’s easy to reach on foot or by bus and offers a quiet break from the busy city.
9) Rue de la République
This wide 19th-century boulevard links the port to the Joliette docks. It mixes classic Paris-style buildings with modern shops. You’ll find big international brands, French labels, and local stores, plus cafés for coffee breaks. Architecture fans will enjoy the arcades and iron balconies, and the renewal of the Euroméditerranée area near Les Docks and the Terrasses du Port mall. Weekdays and mornings are quieter. Watch your belongings in busy spots. For a full shopping day, add Rue Saint-Ferréol and finish at Les Terrasses du Port with a sea-view drink.
10) Parc Borély & Château Borély
Parc Borély is a beautiful city park with lawns, gardens, and a small lake—perfect for picnics, walks, bike rides, or family time. You can also paddle on the lake. Inside the park, Château Borély hosts the Museum of Decorative Arts, Fashion & Ceramics, a nice cultural stop during your visit. The nearby Prado beaches are great for a swim, making this an easy half-day of park and sea. Mornings and weekdays are quieter; weekends are lively with locals. Bring snacks, sunscreen, and a blanket, and enjoy a slow afternoon in the shade. Buses and trams from the centre make it easy to reach.
Day trips and other things to do in Marseille
-
Cassis: A pretty harbor town with pastel buildings, cliffs, and nearby vineyards. Walk along the waterfront, take a boat to the calanques, taste local white wines (AOC Cassis), and relax on sandy Bestouan Beach.
-
Aix-en-Provence: A stylish city with many fountains, cafés on Cours Mirabeau, Cézanne’s studio, and busy markets. It’s a more elegant contrast to Marseille—perfect for art, pastries, and people-watching.
- Arles: Known for its Roman amphitheater, the Alyscamps, and memories of Van Gogh. Discover Roman history and visit the Camargue nearby, with white horses, pink flamingos, and bright salt marsh landscapes.
Where to stay (in or outside the CBD)
- Vieux-Port (CBD): Central, lively, perfect for first-timers. Steps to ferries, MuCEM, and dining. Expect higher prices and nighttime buzz.
- Le Panier: Atmospheric lanes and boutique stays; artistic vibe. Hilly streets, quieter nights, authentic feel.
- La Joliette/Euroméditerranée: Modern hotels, good transport, near Les Docks and Terrasses du Port; convenient and business-friendly.
- Corniche & Prado: Sea views, access to beaches and Parc Borély; relaxed, residential feel.
- Outside the city: Cassis (romantic harbour, nature access) or Aix-en-Provence (elegant base with frequent buses/trains to Marseille).
See all places to stay in Marseille here:
Travel costs (typical per person, per day)
- Accommodation: Budget €35–€80 (hostel/guesthouse), Mid-range €90–€180 (3–4★), Luxury €220–€450+ (5★/sea view).
- Food & drink: Budget €20–€35 (boulangeries, markets), Mid-range €35–€60 (bistros), Splurge €70–€120+ (seafood, bouillabaisse).
- Transport: €5.80 (24h RTM pass), €10.50 (48h), €15.50 (72h); single tickets ~€2.
- Attractions: MuCEM ~€11, Château d’If ferry + entry ~€20–€30, guided calanques boat/kayak €25–€70.
Suggested budgets (per person, per day)
- Shoestring: €70–€90 (hostel bed, transit pass, free sights, market picnics).
- Comfortable mid-range: €140–€200 (3★ hotel, museum entries, sit-down meals, ferry to If).
- Indulgent: €300–€500+ (4–5★, private tours, premium dining, taxis).
Money-saving tips
- Get the Marseille City Pass (24/48/72h) for unlimited transport, Château d’If ferry, museum entries, and discounts.
- Visit major museums on the first Sunday of the month when many are free.
- Eat main meals at lunch—set menus offer excellent value; shop markets for picnic supplies.
- Use RTM day passes; walk between central sights; rent self-service bikes for the Corniche.
- Book ferries and popular tours in advance for better rates and guaranteed slots.
- Travel in shoulder seasons (Apr–Jun, Sep–Oct) for lower hotel prices and fewer crowds.
Best time to go
- Spring (April–June) and Autumn (September–October): Ideal weather, swimmable seas, lighter crowds.
- Summer (July–August): Beach-perfect but hot (30°C+), busy; book early and start days early.
- Winter (November–March): Mild, fewer tourists, lower prices; expect some Mistral wind and shorter days.
How to get around
- Metro & Tram (RTM): Two metro lines + trams cover key areas; day passes are great value.
- Bus: Essential for beaches and calanques trailheads (e.g., Luminy).
- Ferries: From Vieux-Port to Château d’If and Frioul; weather-dependent.
- Cycling & Scooters: Self-service bikes and e-scooters along the Corniche and boulevards.
- Walking: Central sights cluster around Vieux-Port, Le Panier, MuCEM.
- Taxis & Ride-hailing: Handy late at night or for luggage; more expensive than transit.
- Driving: Not recommended in the centre; useful only for broader Provence day trips.
Check out other nearby places to visit here
