Provence, France
Begin your morning at the Vieux-Port, observe the daily fish market, and enjoy coffee. Explore the historic Le Panier district, its narrow, colorful streets, and artisan shops. Lunch in Le Panier or near the Vieux-Port.
In the afternoon, visit MuCEM and Fort Saint-Jean for architecture and views. For sunset, take bus 60 or the Petit Train to Notre-Dame de la Garde for panoramic city views. Dinner in Saint-Victor or back at the Vieux-Port, followed by a final stroll.
Extend your visit with these structured itineraries for more comprehensive discovery.
Day 1: Arrive, check in. Spend the afternoon exploring Vieux-Port, MuCEM, and Fort Saint-Jean. Wander Le Panier. Dinner in Old Town. Day 2: Morning visit to Notre-Dame de la Garde. Afternoon boat trip to Calanques National Park or ferry to Frioul Islands and Château d'If. Evening: Explore Cours Julien for dinner and nightlife.
Days 1-3: Follow the Weekend Getaway itinerary, allowing more time for each site. Day 4: Full-day excursion to Cassis and the Calanques. Choose an extensive hike or a full-day boat tour with swimming stops. Day 5: Day trip to elegant Aix-en-Provence. Explore Cours Mirabeau, Cézanne's studio, and the historic center. Enjoy a Provençal lunch.
Day 6: Day trip to Avignon to visit the Palais des Papes and Pont d'Avignon, exploring its papal history. Alternatively, visit Arles to explore its Roman heritage (amphitheater, theater) and its connection to Vincent van Gogh. Day 7: Enjoy a relaxed morning, perhaps revisiting a favorite cafe or market. Some final souvenir shopping. Depart from Marseille.
Combine the one-week Marseille itinerary with exploration of the wider Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. Week 1: Focus on Marseille and its immediate surroundings, including the Calanques, Aix, Avignon, and Arles. Week 2: Extend your journey to the Luberon villages (Gordes, Roussillon), the Camargue Regional Natural Park (for unique wildlife and landscapes), or head east along the French Riviera (Nice, Cannes, Monaco) for a different coastal experience.
For stays exceeding a few weeks, consider renting an apartment in a local neighborhood like Saint-Victor or Le Roucas Blanc. This allows you to experience daily life, visit local markets regularly, and truly immerse yourself. Join local cooking classes, language courses, or explore more niche museums and local events. Discover favorite local cafes and shops.
An apartment rental provides a local daily life experience.
Frequent local markets and niche cultural sites for true immersion.
Enroll in cooking or language courses to connect locally.
Tailor your itinerary to focus on specific passions during your visit.
In Marseille, explore the Vieux-Port, Le Panier, Marseille History Museum (with Jardin des Vestiges), Fort Saint-Jean, Abbaye Saint-Victor, Notre-Dame de la Garde, and Cathédrale La Major. For day trips, consider a full day in Arles for its Roman ruins and Avignon for the Palais des Papes.
Participate in a cooking class focusing on Provençal or Marseillaise dishes. Enjoy a Pastis tasting. Visit the morning fish market. Explore the food scene, from traditional bouillabaisse to street food. Sample local wines and cheeses. Discover regional specialties in various neighborhoods.
Dedicate significant time to the Calanques National Park for hiking, kayaking, or climbing. Take a boat trip to the Frioul Islands for swimming and coastal exploration. Walk or cycle along the Corniche Kennedy. Explore hidden coves and dramatic cliffs. Consider a guided climbing excursion for an unique perspective.
Spend time at Plages du Prado for beach fun. Explore Parc Borély with its playgrounds and lake. Take the Petit Train to Notre-Dame de la Garde. Visit MuCEM, which often has child-friendly exhibits. Take a boat trip to the Frioul Islands for a fun excursion. Many casual eateries offer kid-friendly options. Enjoy gelatos and playgrounds around the city.
In Marseille, visit MuCEM for its architecture and exhibits, Centre de la Vieille Charité, Palais Longchamp, and Musée Cantini for modern art. Day trip to Aix-en-Provence to see Cézanne's studio and explore the city's artistic connections. Discover street art in Cours Julien. Visit numerous art galleries.
In Marseille, visit the peaceful Abbaye Saint-Victor and the contemplative Notre-Dame de la Garde. Enjoy tranquil walks in the quieter sections of the Calanques or along the coast. Consider spa treatments at a luxury hotel. Explore local markets for fresh, healthy produce. Find serenity in gardens and parks.
Focus on history, food, adventure, family, or art for a personalized journey.
Mix and match suggestions to build your perfect Marseille adventure.
Engage with unique local experiences that fit your chosen theme.
Marseille can be enjoyed on various budgets, and each season offers a different feel.
Accommodation: Stay in hostels or budget-friendly private rooms. Transport: Rely heavily on the RTM public transport system (metro, tram, bus) and walk often. Food: Self-cater meals from supermarkets and local markets. Enjoy affordable street food (panisse, pizza slices) and bakeries.
Accommodation: Stay in comfortable 3-star hotels or well-located Airbnb apartments. Food: Mix of restaurant meals (using "formule midi" lunch deals) and some self-catering from markets. Transport: Utilize RTM multi-day passes. Occasional taxi or ride-share for convenience.
Accommodation: Stay in 5-star hotels with panoramic views (e.g., InterContinental). Food: Indulge in fine dining experiences, including Michelin-starred restaurants. Transport: Utilize private transfers, taxis, and pre-booked luxury car services.
Travel during shoulder or low season for better prices on flights and accommodation. Book these well in advance. Take advantage of set lunch menus ("formule midi"). Consider purchasing the Marseille City Pass if your planned activities align with its inclusions.
Summer (July-August) Highlights: Best for beaches, swimming in the Calanques (if access is permitted), boat trips, and lively outdoor festivals. Be ready for high temperatures and crowds. Winter (November-March) Highlights: Offers fewer crowds, lower prices, and a more authentic local experience. It's a good time for museums, indoor cultural activities, and enjoying city cafes.
Enjoy uncrowded museums and lower accommodation prices.
Hiking in the Calanques is more pleasant in cooler months.
