Marseille

France, Europe

Marseille, France's vibrant second city, is a melting pot of cultures and history. Famous for its breathtaking coastline and vivid markets, it offers iconic sights like the historic Old Port, the dramatic Calanques National Park, and the stunning Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde. The city boasts a rich culinary scene with its seafood and bouillabaisse. As a hub for art, sports, and multicultural festivals, Marseille invites travelers to experience its dynamic energy and picturesque Mediterranean views.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

Active

Airport

Provence

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Marseille

1

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Vieux-Port

Discover the lively harbor and its stunning views.

No booking required
2

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde

Admire the spectacular views from this iconic church.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through Le Panier district

Wander the charming streets of Marseille's oldest neighborhood.

No booking required
4

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Relax at Calanques National Park

Explore stunning coastal cliffs and pristine beaches.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Sample local cuisine at Les Halles de la Major

Savor delicious food from various local vendors.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Palais des Congrès et de la Culture

Enjoy art exhibitions and cultural events in this venue.

No booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Château d'If

Explore the famous prison island from 'The Count of Monte Cristo'.

Booking required
8

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover the MuCEM

Visit the unique museum dedicated to Mediterranean culture.

No booking required
9

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Shop at Le Centre Bourse

Browse a variety of shops in this bustling mall.

No booking required
10

Est. 2.5 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend a match at Stade Vélodrome

Experience the excitement of a live football game.

Booking required
11

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Enjoy the beaches of Plage des Catalans

Relax on the sandy shores of this popular beach.

No booking required
12

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Palais des Papes

Discover the history of this stunning historic palace.

No booking required
13

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Take a boat tour to the Calanques

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the coast by sea.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

8 (#21 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Euro

Majority religion

Christian

Language

French

(50-80% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Pot-au-Feu

French beef stew with vegetables. (National dish)

Coq au Vin

Chicken braised with wine and mushrooms.

Bouillabaisse

Provençal fish stew with herbs and spices.

Ratatouille

VE

Vegetable medley with herbs and olive oil.

Crème Brûlée

Creamy custard dessert with caramelized sugar.

Phrases to learn

English

French

Hello

Bonjour

(Bohn-zhoor)

Yes/No

Oui / Non

(Wee / No)

Thank you

Merci

(Mehr-see)

Excuse me

Excusez-moi

(Ex-kew-zay mwah)

How much?

Combien?

(Kohm-byen)