Marseille
Country: France · Region: Western Mediterranean · Currency: Euro
Marseille is France's second-largest city and largest Mediterranean port, with a rich multicultural history dating back to 600 BC. Cruise passengers will find dramatic coastal scenery, historic neighborhoods, and vibrant markets within easy reach of the Vieux Port.
Top sights
Vieux Port (Old Harbour), Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde, Le Panier (old town), Calanques, Mucem, Abbey of Saint Victor
Things to do
- Vieux Port
- The historic old harbor where you can watch fishermen selling stock by auction and enjoy views of the city.
- Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde
- A grand church overlooking the city with boat models hanging inside and accessible by bus #60 or tourist train from Vieux Port.
- Mucem
- The first French national museum outside Paris featuring large permanent and temporary exhibitions with contemporary architecture mixed with an old castle.
- Le Panier
- Marseille's historical old town with narrow steep streets, easily accessed from Vieux Port with guided tours available Saturdays at 14:00.
Beaches
- Escale Borely
- A beach venue with numerous restaurants and bars near Château Borély, ideal for watching the sunset.
Where to eat
- Noailles quarter
- An area lined with Arabic and Indo-Chinese shops offering diverse food and shopping options.
Bars and nightlife
- Place Castellane
- A square with excellent cinemas and cafés surrounding a grand fountain and sculpture in the center.
Getting around
Use the metro, trams, or buses (RTM transit system with 10-journey tickets at €15) from the port, or take ferries across the Old Harbour or to nearby areas like L'Estaque and Les Goudes.
What to eat
Browse the Noailles quarter for Arabic and Indo-Chinese shops, or visit the Plaine market on Thursday and Saturday mornings near Place Jean Jaurès for local produce and deals.
Tips
Avoid driving in the city center due to chaotic traffic and one-way streets; stick to public transport and the excellent le vélo bike-hire scheme (€1 weekly subscription, first 30 minutes free per ride).
Best for
History, culture, Mediterranean views