Best Travel Guide Marseille | ArrivalGuides.com

MarseilleGuide was updated: 2024-09-16

Marseille is the undiscovered jewel in the crown of France’s Mediterranean coastline. The rocky hills of Provence look down onto the ancient port and the thousands of boats docked in its clear blue waters. Countless artists have been seduced by the sunny climate and the hustle and bustle of the town. France’s second city has all you could ask for — beautiful beaches, ancient buildings, thriving arts, and a dynamic nightlife.

Do & See

Marseille is an urban cultural hot spot, a French city with historical and maritime museums, lovely architecture and beautiful nature in the form of parks and a stunning beach. Visit the main harbour and take a stroll around the Abbaye Saint Victor, explore the narrow streets of the old quarter, or make time for one of the beaches not too far from the city centre.

Château d'If

Château d'If was, historically, France’s very own Alcatraz, built in 1527 and used as a prison in the 17th century. This place was the inspiration for Alexandre Dumas's novel "The Count of Monte Cristo", and occupies an island of its own 1.5 km offshore.

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Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde

The defining symbol of Marseille towers on a hilltop 154 metres above the city, with the gilded statue of the Virgin Mary stretching skywards. The views from up here are simply stunning. Take the shuttle for convenience or embark on a just-under-an-hour-long hike up from the old port.

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Vieux Port Fish Market

There is a bustling fish market in the Vieux Port (old port) well worth exploring. The intense smell of fish and salty sea breeze contributes to making this experience engaging to the senses. Why not buy some fresh fish and try your hand at the local speciality fish stew (bouillabaisse)?

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Saint Victor Abbey

Abbaye Saint Victor is Marseille's oldest church. The abbey is built by the graves of Marseille’s first martyrs. Throughout history, the building was used as a church, prison, warehouse and barracks. Entry is free of charge, but a small fee is collected for seeing the crypt containing important historical artefacts and sarcophagi.

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Marseille History Museum

Musée d'Histoire de Marseille is an interesting and well-visited museum with historical and archaeological artefacts dating back to the city's founding times. You can find it ideally located next to the Old Port. An English audio guide is available to visitors.

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Prado Beaches

Located at the end of the corniche are the Plages du Prado, Marseille’s stretches of sandy beaches. With a steady sea breeze, the beaches are excellent for kite-flying or a first windsurfing lesson. Prado encompasses several compact beaches with multiple shopping and dining opportunities in the vicinity.

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