France

13 Must Visit Tourist Attractions and Things to Do in Marseille

Marseille is a city situated on the coast of Gulf of Lion in France. It sits where the mouth of river Rhone opens to the Mediterranean Sea. It is considered one of the most beautiful coastal cities in France. Some of the best things to do in Marseille includes exploring beaches, islands, historical sites, museums, art galleries, mountains and forests.

The city was founded around 600 BCE by Greek settlers who arrived from Phocaea. It is the oldest city in France and one of the oldest in Europe. Owing to its long history and strategic significance of its port, there are numerous historical places to visit in Marseille. These sites hail from different cultures and empires which held control over this region at different points in time. The city was called Massalia by Greeks and Massilia by Romans. It was also part of the Byzantine Empire before the French Monarchs took control of it. The port of Marseille has been at the center of city’s history, culture and economy. It was the first port of France, second in the Mediterranean Sea and fifth in Europe. You will find a large variety of things to see in Marseille in and around the old port of the city.

Marseille tourist attractions offer a blend of various culture, which is very different from any other place in France. The Old Port brought in many traders, merchants, visitors and settlers to this city from Europe, Middle East, North Africa and Asia. Over the course of history the city accommodated many aspects of these culture into its own without loosing its inherent French culture. You can explore museums dedicated to these cultures during Marseille sightseeing. You will get to see art and artifacts of these cultures and civilizations as well as their influence on the city’s history.

The city is rich in history, art and culture. But, the top reason for people to visit Marseille is its coastal beauty. The best beaches in Marseille have delighted tourists for ages. The city opens to an archipelago and there are several small and large islands which you can visit to admire the wonders of nature in the Mediterranean Sea.

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The Best 13 Tourist Places to Visit in Marseille in 2 Days (Trip Itinerary)

Day 1

1. Basilica of Our Lady of the Guard (Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde)

This cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks of the city, known for its incredible architecture. It is also one of the best places to visit in Marseille to get a 360 view of the city. You will need about an hour to explore this Romano-Byzantine cathedral.

Basilica of Our Lady of the Guard

2. Abbey of Saint-Victor

This 11th century abbey is named after saint victor, a roman soldier who became a christian martyr. Initially, this place held 2 monasteries built in 4th century. Among the most interesting things to see in Marseille is also known for its underground crypt which displays pagan sarcophagi. You will need about 2 hours to explore this abbey.

Abbey of Saint-Victor

3. Palais du Pharo

This Palace was presented to the city by Napoleon III and was built in the 18th century. It was built for his wife Eugenie and looks towards Chateau d’lf. It is one of the most popular Marseille tourist attractions and you will need an hour or so to explore it.

Palais du Pharo

4. Marseille History Museum (Musée d’Histoire de Marseille)

This museum tells the story of the city from ancient times leading. It is one of the very first Marseille attractions you should visit as it gives a deep perspective on rest of the trip. You will need 2 hours to explore this museum.

Marseille History Museum

5. Old Port of Marseille (Vieux-Port de Marseille)

This port has been the heart and soul of the city for several centuries. The history of this port goes back to greek settlements in 6th century. It is a major highlight of Marseille sightseeing. You will need an hour for this port.

Old Port of Marseille

6. Château d’If

This island fortress is among Marseille must see places. It has had a notorious reputation for being a prison. The fortress was built in 1524 by King Francis I to guard the bay of Marseille. You will need 2 hours for this fortress.

Château d'If

Day 2

1. Palais Longchamp & Musee des Beaux-arts

This opulent palace is one of the most fantastical places to visit during Marseille travel. The palace is known for its fine architecture and landscapes. The palace is home 2 museums, namely Museum of Natural History and Fine Arts Museum. You will need about 2 hours to explore this palace and its museums.

Palais Longchamp

2. La Vieille Charité

This complex was built as an almshouse in 1622 dedicated to Our Lady, Mother of Charity. It now serves as home to 2 museum and a cultural center. It was designed by architect Pierre Puget. The Museum of Mediterranean Archaeology and Museum of Art of Africa, Oceania and Amerindia. You will need need an hour or so to explore this museum when you visit Marseille.

La Vieille Charité

3. Le Panier

Among best things to do in Marseille, France is exploring the cobbled streets of the old neighbourhood. This place has an altogether different vibe to eat. You will see several historical buildings, old cafes, restaurants and more. You will need an hour to explore this area.

I suggest you should do a guided tour of Le Panier District.

Le Panier

4. Marseille Cathedral (Cathedrale de la Major)

One of the most important monument among places to see in Marseille, it is the oldest church in the city. It is renowned for its blend of Romanesque and Byzantine architecture. It is also the seat of Archdiocese of Marseille. You will need 1 hour to explore this cathedral.

Marseille Cathedral

5. Musee Regards de Provence

This beautiful seafront building is home to a collection of provencal art spanning a 400 year history. This is among the most interesting places to visit in Marseille. The collection of this museum includes 900 artworks from various artists. You will need about an hour to explore this museum.

Musee Regards de Provence

6. Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations (Musée des Civilisations de l’Europe et de la Méditerranée)

This museum as the name suggests is dedicated to the archeological, cultural, and anthropological history of mediterranean civilizations. It is among the 50 most visited museums in the world and hence one of the best known Marseille tourist attractions. You will need 2 hours to explore this museum.

I suggest you should get your Skip-the-Line Ticket of Mucem in advance.

Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations

7. Fort Saint-Jean

This fort was built in 1660 by King Louis XIV to protect the port of the city. It has one of the best views among Marseille sightseeing. You will need an hour to explore this fort.

Fort Saint-Jean

If you are looking to add more places to Marseille travel guide, check out the section below. We have put together an extensive list of attractions and activities in Marseille which you can explore during your trip.

Things to do in Marseille

Monuments, Museums & Historical Places to Visit in Marseille

  1. Museum of Civilizations of Europe and Mediterranean
  2. Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde
  3. Chateau d’lf
  4. Cathedrale la Major
  5. Palais Longchamp
  6. Fort Saint Jean
  7. La Vieille Charite
  8. Abbaye Saint Victor
  9. Musee Cantini
  10. Palais du Pharo
  11. Marseille History Museum
  12. Musee des Beaux Arts de Marseille
  13. Musee Regards de Provence
  14. Museum of Contemporary Arts
  15. Museum of Decorative Arts, Earthenware and Fashion
  16. Fort Saint Nicholas
  17. Museum of Archeology of Mediterranean
  18. Natural History Museum of Marseille
  19. Museum of the Roman Docks
  20. Port Antique
  21. Place Castellane Fountain
  22. Musee Grobet Labadie de la Ville de Marseille
  23. Museum of Foreign Legion
  24. Musee Subaquatique de Marseille
  25. Chateau Pastre
  26. The Marseille Soap Museum
  27. Museum oof African, Oceanic and American-Indian Arts
  28. Villa Valmer
  29. Statue of David by Michelangelo
  30. Porte de L’orient Monument aux Armees
  31. Opera de Marseille
  32. Preau des Accoules
  33. Fort de Niolon
  34. Port d’Aix

Nature & Wildlife Tourist Spots in Marseille

  1. Massif des Calanques
  2. Calanque  d’En Vau
  3. Parc National des Calanques
  4. Frioul Archipelago
  5. Huveaune River
  6. Garlaban
  7. La Grande Candelle
  8. Musee de la Moto
  9. Col de la Gardiole
  10. Pas de la Demi Lune
  11. Pic du Taoume
  12. Massif de I’Etoile
  13. Col de Cortiou
  14. Col de la Gineste
  15. Riou Archipelago

Entertainment & Leisure Tourist Spots in Marseille

  1. Friche Belle de Mai
  2. Magic Park Land
  3. Mont Puget
  4. Ecopark Adventures
  5. Grande Roue de Marseille
  6. Pastre Aventure

Shopping in Marseille

  1. Bourse Commercial Center
  2. Recyclodrome
  3. Les Terrasses du Port
  4. Old Port Market
  5. Les Voutes
  6. Rue Saint Ferreol
  7. Galeries Lafayette
  8. Cours Julien Street
  9. Monoprix
  10. Rue De Rome
  11. Bonneveine Centre
  12. La Panier
  13. The Grand Littoral Retail Park
  14. Rue Paradis
  15. Le Prado Market
  16. Avenue du Prado
  17. Capuchin Market
  18. Rue Grignan
  19. Marseille Flea Market
  20. Rue de la Tour

Beaches in Marseille

  1. Calanque de Sormiou
  2. Calanque de Morgiou
  3. Cananque de Sugiton
  4. Calanque de Port Pin
  5. Plages du Prado
  6. Plages de Catalans
  7. Calanque de Callenlongue
  8. Rotanneau Island
  9. Massif de Marseilleveyre
  10. Ile de Riou
  11. Plage du Prophete
  12. Plage de I’Huveaune
  13. Plage de la Pointe Rouge
  14. Pomegues Island
  15. Cape Croisette
  16. Calanque du Devenson
  17. Escale Borely
  18. Col de la Candelle
  19. Calanque de I’Escu
  20. Ile de Planier
  21. Bonneveine Beach
  22. Calanque de la Crine
  23. Ile Maire
  24. Col de Sugiton
  25. Sommet de Marseilleveyre
  26. Plage Borely
  27. Col de Sormiou
  28. Calanque du Muavais Pas
  29. Cape Morgiou
  30. Calanque des Queyrons
  31. Parc Balneaire du Prado

Offbeat Places, Tours, & Adventure in Marseille

  1. Island Hoping
  2. Boat Cruise
  3. Scuba Diving
  4. Snorkeling
  5. Surfing
  6. Kayaking
  7. Swimming
  8. Hiking
  9. Trekking
  10. Les Patits Trains de Marseille

Sightseeing in Marseille

  1. Old Port
  2. Parc Borely
  3. Caneiere Street
  4. Vallon des Auffes
  5. Cours Julien Street
  6. Parc du 26e Centenaire
  7. Domaine de la Font de Mai

Food, Dining, Restaurants, & Street Food in Marseille

  1. Le Patit Nice Passedat
  2. Chez Fonfon
  3. Les Bords de Mer
  4. L’Epuisette
  5. Chez Michel
  6. La Boite a Sardine
  7. Douceur Piquante
  8. I’Inattendu
  9. Schilling
  10. Aux Antipodes
  11. Sepia
  12. Le Perroquet Bleu
  13. Le Cafe des Epices
  14. L’Eau Vive
  15. Chez Etienne
  16. Le Souk
  17. Copper Bay
  18. Le Bouchon Provencal
  19. Ourea
  20. Le Grain de Sel

Where to Stay in Marseille?

Here we have listed Top Rated Luxurious, Mid-Range and Budget Hotels in Marseille. You can check below listed hotels for your perfect stay in Marseille.

Luxurious Hotels

  1. nhow Marseille
  2. InterContinental Marseille – Hotel Dieu, an IHG Hotel
  3. Radisson Blu Hotel Marseille Vieux Port
  4. Mercure Marseille Centre Vieux Port
  5. Sofitel Marseille Vieux-Port
  6. Novotel Marseille Vieux Port
  7. New Hotel Of Marseille
  8. Hotel La Residence du Vieux Port
  9. Grand Hotel Beauvau Marseille Vieux-Port-MGallery
  10. NH Collection Marseille
  11. Escale Oceania Marseille Vieux Port
  12. Staycity Marseille Centre Vieux Port

Mid-Range Hotels

  1. Golden Tulip Marseille Euromed
  2. Alex Hotel & Spa
  3. Hotel Carre Vieux Port Marseille
  4. B&B HOTEL Marseille Prado Parc des expositions
  5. Ibis Marseille Centre Euromed
  6. Ibis Marseille Centre Gare Saint-Charles
  7. Holiday Inn Express Marseille – Saint Charles, an IHG hotel
  8. Adagio Marseille Prado Plage
  9. Ibis Styles Marseille Centre Prado Castellane
  10. Citadines Castellane Marseille
  11. Mama Shelter Marseille
  12. Residhotel Vieux Port

Budget Hotels

  1. ResidHotel Grand Prado
  2. Kyriad Marseille Palais des congres – Velodrome
  3. Ibis Marseille Timone
  4. Ibis Budget Marseille Vieux Port
  5. B&B Hotel Marseille Centre La Joliette
  6. Montempo Marseille Centre Dome
  7. Montempo Marseille Centre Euromed
  8. Kyriad Marseille Blancarde – Timone
  9. B&B Hotel Marseille Prado Velodrome
  10. Ibis Budget Marseille Est Saint-Menet
  11. B&B HOTEL Marseille Parc Chanot
  12. Hotel Ibis Budget Marseille la Valentine

TripAdvisor

Custom Tours Package in Marseille

How to Reach Marseille?

By Air

The fastest option for Marseille travel is the city’s international airport which sits about 30 km away from the city center. You can get direct flights from Athens, Dublin, Moscow, Paris, Lille, Algiers, Batna, Chlef, Calvi, Rennes, Lyon, Toulouse, Malta, Montreal, London, Brussels, Tel Aviv, Dusseldorf, Madrid, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Munich, Istanbul, Luxembourg, Casablanca, Manchester, Naples, Porto, Palermo, Prague, Rome, Valencia, Venice, Vienna, Zurich and many more. You can get buses, shuttle buses, and cabs to get around to places to visit in Marseille, France.

By Road

You can get a direct train to visit Marseille from several cities in France as well as a few cities in Europe such as Frankfurt, Geneva, Brussels, Barcelona, Strasbourg and many more. If you are not getting direct trains, you should opt for connecting ones to reach the city.

The bus network is more widespread and you can get buses, direct and connecting, from several cities in Europe. If you plan to travel by car, you should head towards routes A50, A507, A55 or A7. If you are looking to explore the best beaches in Marseille, then route A55 is the perfect choice. It runs almost parallel to the coast and is directly connected to several seaside attractions near the city.

By Water

You can get ferry and boat rides to reach Marseille ports of Ajaccio, Bastia, Porto Torres, Propriano and Porto Vecchio.


Image Reference

Mustafa Natalwala

Mustafa is a content writer and digital marketing expert at WideWorldTrips.com His mainly interests are into travelling, photography, film-making

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