Magical Marseille: A 3-Day Family Adventure on a Budget!
Discover the vibrant charm of Marseille - an unforgettable family adventure awaits!
19 July 2023
Raymonde Gagnon
France Travel Writer
Embark on a family-friendly adventure in Marseille, France, an enchanting coastal city known for its vibrant culture and rich history. Discover the stunning calanques, limestone cliffs, and crystal-clear beaches that surround the city, perfect for swimming, hiking, and picnicking. Explore the bustling Vieux-Port, where kids can enjoy boat rides and indulge in delicious seafood while parents bask in the lively atmosphere and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.
Travel plan
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- Check into the charming Hotel de Ville and soak in the vintage vibes.
- Wander around the Vieux Port and get mesmerized by the colorful boats and buzzing atmosphere.
- Grab a delicious fish stew at Chez Fonfon, a local institution since forever!
- Climb up to the stunning Notre-Dame de la Garde to admire the panoramic views of the city.
- Unleash your inner culinary genius at a Provencal cooking class, where you'll learn the secrets of bouillabaisse!
- Make your way to the captivating MuCEM, where you can discover Mediterranean civilizations through intriguing exhibits and displays.
- Stroll through the picturesque Le Panier neighborhood, with its narrow streets and vibrant street art.
- Savor a traditional Marseille lunch at La Cantinetta, where the chef will delight your taste buds with authentic flavors.
- Visit the magnificent Cathedral of Sainte-Marie-Majeure, a true architectural masterpiece.
- Explore the awe-inspiring Château d'If, the infamous prison island made famous by Alexander Dumas' "The Count of Monte Cristo."
- Take a relaxing boat ride to the idyllic Calanques National Park and frolic on the sandy beaches.
- Indulge in a delightful seafood feast at Le Miramar, a local favorite known for its fresh catches of the day.
- Meander through the quirky neighborhoods of Cours Julien and La Plaine, where street art and bohemian vibes rule.
- Discover the vibrant flavors of Marseille at the colorful Marche des Capucins and sample local delicacies.
- End your trip gracefully by indulging in a show at the breathtaking Opéra de Marseille. Marvel at the talent and passion on stage!
- Note: This itinerary is subject to seasonal changes and your personal preferences. Enjoy your whimsical adventure in Marseille!
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How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Marseille, France by plane is to fly into Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) from major cities across Europe and North Africa. Airlines such as Air France, Ryanair, and EasyJet operate regular flights to Marseille.
Car
Travelers can drive to Marseille by renting a car or driving their own vehicle. Major highways such as the A7 and A55 connect Marseille to Lyon, Nice, and other cities in France. However, traffic in Marseille can be congested, so it's recommended to travel outside of rush hour.
Train
Travelers can take a train to Marseille from major cities across Europe, with the Marseille Saint-Charles train station serving as a major hub. The TGV offers connections to Paris, Lyon, Nice, and other cities in France, while the Eurostar offers connections to London.
Boat
Travelers can also reach Marseille by boat, with the Marseille Cruise Terminal serving as a popular port for cruise ships. Direct ferry services to Marseille are also available from cities such as Algiers, Tunis, and Corsica.
Bus
Taking a bus is a cost-effective way to get to Marseille. Eurolines and Flixbus operate regular services to Marseille from various cities across Europe. The bus station in Marseille is located at Gare routière Saint-Charles.