3 Days of Fun in Marseille, France

Experience the colorful and vibrant coastal city of Marseille, the heart of Provence.

03 May 2023

Marseille is a port city in the south of France that offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern day amenities. As a tourist, you can visit its historic landmarks, like the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica and the Vieux-Port, or explore its fantastic beaches and top-notch restaurants. Additionally, Marseille is a great base for exploring the surrounding countryside, including the Calanques and Cassis.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arriving in Marseille

  • Check into Mama Shelter Marseille, a funky hotel with bold, whimsical decor.
  • Head to the Old Port to take in the stunning views and grab some lunch at one of the many seafood restaurants.
  • Explore the historic Le Panier neighborhood, known for its colorful alleyways and street art.
  • Visit the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations, or MuCEM, to learn about the city's rich cultural heritage.
  • Enjoy sunset drinks at the stylish rooftop bar of La Friche la Belle de Mai, a cultural center converted from an old tobacco factory.
Day 2

Beach Day in Marseille

  • Hop on a bus to Prado Beach, a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing.
  • Stop by the Parc Borély, a lovely green space with botanical gardens and a lake.
  • Wander through the charming Vallon des Auffes fishing village, tucked away on the rocky coastline.
  • Indulge in a traditional bouillabaisse, a hearty seafood soup, at Chez Fonfon, a local institution.
  • Take a scenic boat tour of the Calanques, a series of stunning rocky cliffs and coves along the coast.
Day 3

Art and Architecture

  • Start the day with a croissant and café at La Mère Germaine, a cozy cafe near the hotel.
  • Explore the striking Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, perched on a hill overlooking the city.
  • Visit the contemporary art museum, MAC, to see works by regional and international artists.
  • Wander through the outdoor market of Noailles, a bustling neighborhood known for its North African and Middle Eastern flavors.
  • End the day with drinks and tapas at Le Comptoir Dugommier, a trendy wine bar with a lively atmosphere.

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.

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