Marseille Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Apr)

Rediscovering Marseille's Old Port

#winhkflight In the heart of Marseille, where the azure waters of the Mediterranean embrace the rugged coastline of southern France, lies the historic Old Port – a timeless symbol of the city's maritime heritage and vibrant culture. As I wandered through its cobblestone streets and bustling quays, I felt as though I had stepped into a living tapestry of history and tradition. The Old Port of Marseille has been a hub of activity for over two millennia, serving as a gateway to the Mediterranean and a center of trade, commerce, and exploration. Its storied past is woven into the fabric of the city, with each weathered stone and weathered sail bearing witness to centuries of triumphs and tribulations. As I strolled along the waterfront promenade, I was captivated by the sights and sounds that surrounded me. Fishing boats bobbed gently in the harbor, their colorful hulls painted with the names of their proud owners. Seagulls circled overhead, their cries mingling with the laughter of children playing in the sun-dappled squares. I paused to admire the iconic silhouette of the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, perched high atop the hill overlooking the port. Its golden statue of the Virgin Mary seemed to watch over the city, her outstretched arms offering protection to sailors and travelers alike. But it was not just the landmarks that captured my imagination; it was the people who brought the Old Port to life. Fishermen haggled over their catches at the bustling fish market, while street performers entertained passersby with music and dance. Cafés and bistros spilled out onto the sidewalks, their tables crowded with locals and tourists savoring the flavors of Provence. As the sun dipped below the horizon and the lights of the city began to twinkle, I found myself drawn to the water's edge once more. I watched as the last rays of daylight danced upon the surface of the sea, casting a golden glow over the ancient port and its timeless beauty. In that moment, I realized that the Old Port of Marseille was more than just a historic landmark – it was a living, breathing testament to the enduring spirit of Marseille and its people. And as I bid farewell to this enchanting corner of the world, I knew that its memory would stay with me forever, a reminder of the beauty and magic that can be found in the most unexpected of places.

Ancient Marseille, romantic with a hint of exoticism.

The ancient port of Marseille is no longer bustling, it has become a frame in the lens of tourists. The new port is still the largest trading gateway in France today. The depth of the water in the port of Marseille is surprising, and the sight of giant oil tankers moored opposite the buildings in the city center is a rare sight. Quiet streets and alleys are rarely traveled, do they miss the once endless stream of merchants? Marseille is not only the birthplace of "La Marseillaise", but also an important gateway for Oriental goods to enter Europe. Therefore, Marseille, located in romantic southern France, always has a special exotic flavor.

Marseille | Summer in the Mediterranean Sea

And I believe that the feeling of a city, like meeting a person for the first time, is very important to the eye. Three hours after leaving Paris, standing outside the Marseille train station square, looking at the shimmering blue sea not far away, the dense yachts, the groups of seagulls flying from Notre Dame to Yves Island, the blue sky, and the air is clear as if it were soda water with bubbles, I think that the next few days of getting along will definitely be very good. People always say that the Seine River is Paris's good luck, while the Old Port is Marseille's blessing. As the largest seaport in the Mediterranean region, nearly 200 ships depart here every day to Corsica and other European regions. The numerous yachts and cafes and bars in the port, if viewed from the air on a summer night, are like scattered diamonds falling into the sea. Just like the Ile de la Cite in Paris, because it is too beautiful, Parisians are reluctant to waste a single second of their lives to enjoy the romantic changes of the four seasons, so all the outdoor seats of cafes on the Left Bank face the Notre-Dame de Paris, while all the outdoor seats of the taverns in Marseille's Old Port face the highest point of Marseille - Notre-Dame de la Garde. I made an appointment with a long-lost friend. He left Beijing on the day of the summer solstice music festival in France. This time we met in his country, and the wonderful feeling brought by the distance is no less magical than sitting in the old tavern in the harbor all the time, until the sunset, until the evening glow smears the white stone wall of Notre Dame like dusk.

Boat-shaped biscuits in Marseille

Do you want to try a recipe from even before the French Revolution (1789)? Then Le Four des Navettes in Marseille is the place to be! The navette biscuits (biscuits shaped like a boat) is the specialty here and "according to legend, these oval biscuits represent the boat that brought Mary Jacobs, Mary Salome, their maid Sara and Lazarus, the Patron Saint of Marseille, to Saintes-Maries de la Mer." In Provence, Christmas usually lasts for around 40 days, from 4th December (La Sainte-Barbe) to 2nd February (Candlemas). The Candlemas celebration (Fête de la Chandeleur) remains popular in Marseille till today and the festival lasts 9 days and takes place in the Abbey of Saint Victor. One of the procession includes the Archbishop going to the famous Le Four des Navettes and blesses the biscuits le navettes.#marseille #france #history

THE PALAIS LONGCHAMP.

The ‘Palais Longchamp’ is a must-see in Marseille: with a beautiful surrounding park, this historical monument was built to bring water to the city and is a true architectural achievement. In 1835, a cholera epidemic hit the Phocaean city because of a water shortage. After this tragedy, the architect Franz Mayor de Montricher – educated at the very prestigious Ponts et Chaussées – was chosen to implement a project dating back to the 16th century: the excavation of an 85km canal to bring water from the Durance river all the way to Marseille. #familytrip #mytravelhacks #freehotelstay #historicallandmarks #localguides #familytrip #paris #falltrip #couplestrip #2023 #holidayvacation #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2024travelwish #passionpassport After 10 years of hard work, 18 aqueduct bridges were built to bring drinkable water to Marseille. The architect Henry Espérandieu – the famous builder of the Notre-Dame Basilica – staged the arrival of water on the Longchamp plateau, a striking architectural monument from 1682 to 1869.

Palais Longchamp Marseille 🏰

#2024wish Hey there! 🌎 I came back from the best holiday in Marseille. A must-see was Palais Longchamp – the highlight of our trip! The admission price was fair, about €8 euro to the beautiful architecture and green gardens. 🎟️🌳 The palace is a historical treasure, nestled in beautiful fountains and sculptures – an idyllic retreat from the urban madness. 🏰✨ Do not also forget to walk in the gardens - they are some kind of a secret, botanic refuge inside an urban jungle. 🌺🍃 The most interesting aspect, however, was the ambiance; so calm and tranquil. Perfect for a relaxing day immersed in culture and aesthetics. 🤩 In addition, there are some cool places around such as the Museum of Fine Arts for art enthusiasts. 🎨 #PalaisLongchamp #MarseilleMagic #VacayVibes

Journey through Parc Longchamp's Zoological

#winhkflight In the heart of Marseille, where the vibrant colors of Provence dance in the sunlight, lies a sanctuary of nature and beauty – the Zoological Gardens of Parc Longchamp. As I stepped through its ornate gates, I was transported into a world of wonder and enchantment, where the majesty of the animal kingdom awaited. The Zoological Gardens of Parc Longchamp are a testament to Marseille's commitment to conservation and education. Spread across lush greenery and manicured gardens, the zoo is home to a diverse array of species from around the globe, each one a symbol of the rich biodiversity of our planet. As I wandered through the winding paths of the zoo, I encountered creatures great and small, from graceful giraffes grazing on leafy branches to playful monkeys swinging from tree to tree. Every enclosure was thoughtfully designed to mimic the animals' natural habitats, allowing them to thrive in an environment that closely resembles their native homes. One of the highlights of my visit was the opportunity to witness the majestic big cats up close. I stood in awe as a pair of lions lounged in the shade, their golden coats shimmering in the sunlight. Nearby, a family of tigers prowled gracefully through the tall grass, their eyes gleaming with intelligence and curiosity. But it was not just the animals that captivated me; it was the sense of serenity and tranquility that permeated the air. As I sat on a bench overlooking a tranquil pond, I listened to the gentle rustle of leaves and the distant calls of birds, feeling a profound connection to the natural world around me. As the day drew to a close and the sun dipped below the horizon, I reluctantly bid farewell to the Zoological Gardens of Parc Longchamp, knowing that I had experienced something truly magical. But as I walked away, I carried with me memories of a journey through the wilds of Marseille – a journey that had touched my soul and left an indelible mark on my heart.

Marseille citywalk

The gateway to the south of France, Marseille, is the second largest city in France after Paris and the oldest city in France. The main attraction here is the old town of Marseille, known as the heart of Marseille, from the ancient park, the city hall to the Catholic Cathedral. The La Canebière Avenue to the east of the old port is the street that Marseille is most proud of, comparable to the Champs Elysées in Paris. Continuing east along the street, passing the Avenue of Liberty, you will reach the famous Longchamp Palace, with an art gallery on one side and a natural history museum on the other, and a garden behind the palace. On a hill protruding from the southern part of the old port city, is the highest point of the city, where the Notre-Dame de la Garde is built. This is an excellent place to overlook Marseille and the sea view.

#notre-Dame de la garde# Marseille# one most biggest catholic Church in Marseille. Spledid view of the port of Marseille

Here, another famous attraction outside Marseille is located in Marseille. It is also the most amazing church in Marseille: the Church of Our Lady of Marseille. Not looking at the church itself, as the commanding heights of Marseille, you can take a high-profile panoramic view of Marseille here, regardless of which direction you look at, have an invincible view. There are a lot of tourists coming here, but they are not crowded. They are not as boring as the domestic scenic spots and the messy environment. Everyone is quietly standing on the edge of the wall, or talking, or enjoying the scenery, or relatives, or Playful. This church, also built in the 19th century, is still a gorgeous Byzantine style, with a striking faade that gives it a strong visual impact. On the top of the bell tower is a statue of the Virgin Mary, which is 9.7 meters high. It feels shining all the time in the sunshine.

Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde

#winhkflight The Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde in Marseille, France, holds not only architectural magnificence but also a remarkable tale of resilience and faith. Legend has it that during World War II, Marseille faced relentless bombings as part of the broader conflict. Amidst the chaos and destruction, the Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde stood tall, serving as a beacon of hope for the people of Marseille. As the city endured the horrors of war, locals sought refuge within the basilica's walls, praying fervently for protection and salvation. Despite being a prime target for enemy bombardment due to its prominent position overlooking the city, the basilica miraculously remained unscathed throughout the duration of the war. The story goes that during one particularly intense bombing raid, a bomb fell directly onto the roof of the basilica. Yet, by some divine intervention or stroke of luck, the bomb failed to detonate. Instead, it remained lodged in the roof, a potent symbol of the basilica's resilience in the face of adversity. In the aftermath of the war, as Marseille began to rebuild and recover, the Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde emerged not only as a symbol of faith but also as a testament to the enduring spirit of the people. It served as a focal point for reconciliation and renewal, reminding the citizens of Marseille of the power of faith and unity in times of darkness. Today, visitors to the basilica can marvel at its stunning architecture and breathtaking panoramic views of Marseille and the Mediterranean beyond. But more than just a tourist attraction, the Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde stands as a living testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of hope in the face of adversity.

Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde 🏛️

#2024wish This past visit to the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde in Marseille was nothing short of spectacular. The entrance, entirely gratis, was a soul’s gift at the sight of such amazing offers. #NotreDameDeLaGarde #MarseilleMagic The basilica that stands on top of a hill offers the most glorious view of Marseille imaginable. The Byzantine architecture and mosaics inside are a demonstration of the effort that has gone into making this place of spiritual refuge. 🌅🎨 The hike up to the basilica is a part of this adventure. However you will climb by foot or use the tourist train, excitement is achieved with every step and breathtaking panoramas of Marseille reveal as one gets to the peak. 🚂🚶♀️ The terrace that surrounds the basilica provides a calming oasis for contemplation, with both sea and city on either side. It is a perfect place to enjoy the view of Mediterranean and admire boats in harbour. 🌊⚓ Following your visit, stroll around the pretty streets of Le Panier quarter that is nearby. The narrow alleys, interesting street art and cozy cafes make for a lively space. 🏰🍽️ Notre-Dame de la Garde is a religious and artistic delight, with the best bit – it’s free. This places one of the most magnificent viewpoints, astounding architectural wonders along with a number of attractions it is an absolute must-visit place in Marseille! #MarseilleMarvel #SpiritualJourney

Marseille france and the entire Aux en province is a Beautiful area in the South of france . The food is wonderful, the people are nice.and the weather is absolutely stunning. full of small clothing shops, pastries eateries etc.

The fear that I have never had before in my travels made me feel really in Marseille, France. This is the capital of Provence, which is the place where the petty bourgeoisie of the world is longing for. It was also known to me in the history textbook of the student era. I didn't think that I would arrive here one day. What I didn't expect was that after arriving here, I reported the case and applied for a travel visa to the police station where the stolen things happened during the trip. When the friend went through the formalities, he sat in the car and waited for him. He took the camera and went to shoot the famous harbor city. Only a few photos were taken with a mobile phone. This place where the population is mixed, I don't have a sense of security. After I got a good travel visa, we fled here. ## ##

Marseille is the largest port in France and the largest port in the entire Mediterranean region. There are 200 fixed voyages connecting Corsica and North Africa every year. Today's Marseille has become one of France's largest tourist reception ports in the Mediterranean region. The number of tourists is increasing every year, and there are more than twenty of the world's most important maritime travel agencies. The port of Marseille receives more than two million visitors each year.

Marseille, located in the south of France, must arrive in summer on the northern shore of the Mediterranean Sea, on a railway line, 836 km northwest of Paris and 350 km from Lyon. Marseille's topography is undulating, surrounded by limestone hills on three sides. The southeast is surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea. The water depth is wide and the port is no rapids. The 10,000-ton ship can be unimpeded. In the west, there are Rhone rivers and flat river valleys that connect with Northern Europe. The location is unique.

The first city in France - Marseille

Marseille, the second largest city in France, is also the oldest city in France, a ancient city with a history of 2,500 years. Marseille is not only the largest port in France, but also the largest port in all Mediterranean coastal areas. During the French Revolution in 1792, the people of Marseille sang the 'Rhein River War Song' marching into Paris, which later became the French national anthem, known as 'La Marseillaise'. The main building of the Notre-Dame de la Garde Cathedral has a golden gilded Madonna statue that is 9.7 meters high. It is said that this shining Madonna statue can be seen from almost any angle in Marseille, and the cathedral has therefore become a symbol of Marseille (Figures 1, 8, 9, 10). The cathedral is built on a hill 150 meters high, from where you can overlook the entire city of Marseille and the Mediterranean scenery, which is very spectacular (Figures 6, 7). The old port of Marseille is the true center of Marseille, where you can experience the pure southern French style (Figures 4, 13, 14, 15). The palace of Napoleon III - Longchamp Palace, built in 1862, is a garden building that combines Baroque, Roman and Oriental architectural styles (Figures 2, 11, 12). The Marseille Cathedral is magnificent (Figure 5), and the Marseille train station is like a museum (Figure 18). The last 2 pictures are due to the French bus driver taking the wrong way, allowing us to see another side of Marseille.

Cathédrale La Major

Awesome place! Luv the old architecture and the majesty of this cathedral in Marseille. Once inside the chuch the huge space is simple amazing! #france #summer

Marseille, the second largest city in France, is not a big old town. It takes about 15 minutes to walk from the old port of Marseille. You can see this magnificent Catholic church with Byzantine Romanesque style in the distance. It may be on the coast and it is very windy from the slope. This Marseille landmark building was built in 1856 and was built using unique materials, green Florentine stone and white marble, until 1896. The interior of the church is simple and exquisite, and the sculptural murals are not as gorgeous as other French churches.