Why Go to Marseille
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Marseille is France's oldest city and one of its most exciting. Founded by Greek sailors about 2,600 years ago as a Mediterranean port, it went through some tough years, but since serving as European Capital of Culture in 2013, France's second-largest city has had a remarkable revival, with new museums, a polished waterfront and a handful of Michelin-starred restaurants.
Marseille's charm is in its character. Whitewashed buildings and lively streets tumble down hillsides to the yacht-filled Old Port. Climb to the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde for panoramic views, explore the striking MuCEM museum and the historic Le Panier neighborhood, and taste authentic bouillabaisse, the city's famous fish stew. Take a boat out to the Chateau d'If, made famous by The Count of Monte Cristo, or explore the dramatic turquoise inlets of Calanques National Park just outside the city. Marseille still feels like a place where you can discover something of your own.
Marseille is a major Mediterranean cruise port and a gateway to Provence. I'll plan your stay or shore excursion and connect Marseille with Aix-en-Provence and the Riviera.
BEST FOR
Foodies, history fans, urban explorers and coastal hikers
BEST MONTHS
April–June and September–October
EXPLORE
The Vieux-Port is the historic harbor; Le Panier has narrow streets and galleries; the Corniche follows the waterfront; the Calanques lie to the southeast.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Marseille
Europe › Western Europe › France › Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur
Mediterranean harbor life and vibrant Provençal culture
Urban & Culture
Mediterranean
History
Seafood
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Plan Calanques outings around fire restrictions and weather, and budget time for steep streets near hilltop sights.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Plan Calanques outings around fire restrictions and weather, and budget time for steep streets near hilltop sights.
Vieux-Port
The historic Old Port remains a lively waterside hub for boats and markets.
Plan Calanques outings around fire restrictions and weather, and budget time for steep streets near hilltop sights.
Notre-Dame de la Garde
A hilltop basilica and landmark overlook with sweeping views across Marseille.
Plan Calanques outings around fire restrictions and weather, and budget time for steep streets near hilltop sights.
Le Panier
Narrow lanes, colorful facades and small galleries define this historic district.
Plan Calanques outings around fire restrictions and weather, and budget time for steep streets near hilltop sights.
Mucem
The Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations connects modern architecture with the waterfront.
Plan Calanques outings around fire restrictions and weather, and budget time for steep streets near hilltop sights.
Fort Saint-Jean
A fortified waterfront site linked by pedestrian bridge to Mucem.
A luxury hotel in a restored historic hospital overlooking the Old Port, convenient for walking into Le Panier and the central waterfront. Verify room views and vehicle access.
InterContinental Marseille – Hôtel Dieu
Le Panier / Vieux-Port
Hotel Tags
An upscale hotel overlooking the harbor near Palais du Pharo, suited to travelers wanting dramatic waterfront views. Expect some hillside walking to the port.
Sofitel Marseille Vieux-Port
Pharo / South Side of Vieux-Port
Hotel Tags
An intimate boutique hotel in a historic city building, a useful base for arts, shopping and central sightseeing. Confirm special excursion availability separately.
C2 Hotel
Central Marseille / Cours Pierre Puget
Hotel Tags
A design-oriented seafront hotel on Corniche Kennedy, best suited to travelers who prioritize coastal scenery. Plan a separate taxi or transit ride for Old Port sightseeing.
nhow Marseille
Corniche Kennedy / Seafront
Hotel Tags
A historic hotel next to Marseille’s Old Port, convenient for boat departures, restaurants and central sightseeing. Ask about noise and port-facing rooms.
Grand Hôtel Beauvau Marseille Vieux-Port – MGallery
Vieux-Port / Quai des Belges
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Marseille
High 60°F · Low 46°F · Rain 2.4 in
The Foire aux Santons, a traditional Provençal nativity fair, opens.
Spring and fall suit walking and coastal excursions; summer brings beach demand and heat.
Best Times to Visit Marseille
WHEN TO GO
06
Walking and Hillier Districts
The Old Port and Le Panier are walkable but include slopes and steps. Consider public transport for distant beaches.
05
Rail and Regional Journeys
Marseille Saint-Charles is the principal rail hub for many regional services. Allow time to reach platforms and confirm station.
04
Vieux-Port and Boat Excursions
Shuttles and excursion boats depart from specific berths around the Old Port. Calanques access depends on weather and conservation rules.
03
Metro, Trams and Buses
RTM operates local metro, tram and bus routes. Validate tickets and check route disruptions before crossing the city.
02
Local Travel Strategy
Plan Calanques outings around fire restrictions and weather, and budget time for steep streets near hilltop sights.
01
Arrival & Main Connections
Metro, trams, buses, walking and ferries cover many sights; boats and trails to the Calanques depend on weather and access controls.
Metro, trams, buses, walking and ferries cover many sights; boats and trails to the Calanques depend on weather and access controls.
Getting Around Marseille
GETTING AROUND
KEEP EXPLORING
You Might Also Like