Marseille

Marseille: The Vibrant Heart of Provence

Marseille, France's second-largest city, is a captivating blend of history, culture, and stunning Mediterranean coastlines. Founded by Greek sailors in 600 BC, Marseille boasts a rich maritime heritage that continues to shape its cosmopolitan atmosphere.

This comprehensive guide unlocks the best of Marseille, making it easy for international visitors to navigate and discover its hidden gems.

Immerse Yourself in Marseille's Top Attractions

Vieux-Port (Old Port): The bustling heart of Marseille, lined with cafes, fresh seafood restaurants, and boats bobbing in the marina.

Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica: Perched on a hilltop, this iconic landmark offers panoramic city views and stunning mosaics.

Le Panier: Explore Marseille's oldest neighborhood, a labyrinth of narrow streets, colorful buildings, and artisan shops.

MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations): Delve into the cultural heritage of the Mediterranean through captivating exhibits at this modern museum.

Château d'If: Take a boat trip to this historic fortress, immortalized in Alexandre Dumas' novel "The Count of Monte Cristo."

Unwind on Marseille's Dazzling Coastline

Calanques National Park: Hike, swim, or boat amidst the dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise coves of this breathtaking park.

Prado Beaches: Soak up the sun on these expansive beaches, perfect for swimming and enjoying beachside cafes.

Corniche Kennedy: Embark on a scenic coastal drive, walk, or bike ride offering breathtaking Mediterranean vistas.

Explore Marseille's Vibrant Neighborhoods

Noailles: Nicknamed "the belly of Marseille," this bustling neighborhood offers a feast for the senses with its vibrant markets overflowing with spices, fresh produce, and North African delicacies.

Cours Julien: Marseille's bohemian district, brimming with street art, trendy cafes, and independent boutiques.

La Plaine: Unleash your inner night owl in this area known for its energetic bars and clubs.

Tantalize Your Taste Buds with Marseille's Culinary Scene

Bouillabaisse: Savor Marseille's iconic fish stew, a must-try for seafood enthusiasts. Visit renowned restaurants like Le Rhul or Chez Fonfon for an authentic experience.

Les Halles de la Major: Foodies will delight in this gourmet market overflowing with local produce, fresh seafood, and an array of Mediterranean specialties.

Bar de la Marine: Sip a drink with a view at this historic bar located on the Vieux-Port, offering the perfect spot to unwind and watch the sunset.

Unforgettable Day Trips from Marseille

Provence Wine Tour: Immerse yourself in the rolling vineyards of Provence, indulging in wine tastings and discovering the region's winemaking traditions.

Châteauneuf-du-Pape Wine Tour: Explore the prestigious vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, renowned for its world-class wines, and delve into the rich history of winemaking.

Saint-Rémy & Les Baux de Provence: Explore the charming town of Saint-Rémy and the historical village of Les Baux de Provence, surrounded by Roman ruins, medieval architecture, and captivating landscapes that inspired many artists.

Arles: Step back in time with a visit to Arles, known for its Roman monuments like the ancient amphitheater and Roman theater, and following in the footsteps of Vincent van Gogh.

Explore Marseille & beyond with Ophorus Shore Excursions

Planning a cruise that docks in Marseille? Make the most of your time with thoughtfully curated shore excursions offered by Ophorus Tours.

Whether you have a few hours or a full day, explore the best of Provence with these exciting options

1. Unveil the Enchantment of Aix-en-Provence: Journey to the elegant city of Aix-en-Provence, renowned for its grand boulevards, baroque architecture, and charming cafes. Immerse yourself in the city's vibrant atmosphere, browse art galleries, or visit the impressive Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur.

2. Discover the Picturesque Beauty of Cassis: Embark on a scenic drive to Cassis, a charming fishing village nestled between dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear calanques (inlets). Explore the colorful harbor, stroll along the waterfront, or indulge in fresh seafood at a seaside restaurant.

3. Immerse Yourself in the Majesty of the Calanques National Park: For nature enthusiasts, a trip to the Calanques National Park is a must. Marvel at the dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise coves, and hidden beaches. Hike along scenic trails, take a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean Sea, or explore the coves by boat (offered by some tours).

4. Avignon: A Journey Through History and Art: Step back in time with a visit to Avignon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the imposing Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes), the medieval Pont Saint-Bénezet bridge, and wander through the charming streets lined with historical buildings.

5. Provence Wine Country: A Toast to Tradition: Embark on a delightful excursion to the renowned wine regions of Provence. Visit prestigious wineries, learn about the winemaking process, and indulge in tastings of exquisite local wines. Soak up the breathtaking scenery of rolling vineyards and charming villages.

6. Explore the Enchanting Luberon Villages: Venture into the heart of Provence and discover the picturesque villages of the Luberon region. Explore charming towns like Roussillon, known for its ochre cliffs, and Gordes, a beautiful hilltop village with stunning views.

7. Saint-Rémy-de-Provence: In the Footsteps of Van Gogh: Art lovers can visit Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, where Vincent van Gogh spent his final years. Explore the Saint-Paul-de-Mausoleum asylum where Van Gogh resided, and delve deeper into his artistic legacy.

8. Marseille Walking Tour: Unveiling the City's Secrets: For those with limited time, a captivating walking tour of Marseille is the perfect way to discover the city's highlights. Explore the bustling Vieux-Port, admire the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, and delve into the rich history and culture of Marseille.

Finding Your Perfect Marseille Getaway

InterContinental Marseille – Hotel Dieu: This luxurious hotel boasts stunning Vieux-Port views, blending modern amenities with historic charm, while offering an on-site spa and gourmet restaurant.

Mama Shelter Marseille: For a budget-friendly yet trendy stay, Mama Shelter provides stylish accommodations with a lively rooftop bar and restaurant.

Hôtel La Résidence du Vieux-Port: Located right on the Vieux-Port, this hotel offers rooms with balconies overlooking the harbor, perfect for those wanting to be in the heart of the action.

Practical Tips for a Seamless Marseille Experience

Getting Around: Marseille boasts an efficient public transportation system with buses, trams, and metro lines. The city is also very walkable, especially around the Vieux-Port and Le Panier.

Best Time to Visit: April to October offers warm weather ideal for outdoor activities. Summer is particularly lively with festivals and events.

Language: French is the primary language, but English is spoken by many tourism industry professionals. Learning a few basic French phrases will go a long way in enhancing your experience.

Currency and Payments: France uses the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases and markets. ATMs are readily available throughout the city.