Marseille Marvel: 4 Days of Family-Friendly Fun!

Discover the enchanting culture and endless adventures of Marseille, France, perfect for a memorable and family-friendly getaway.

19 July 2023

Marseille, France offers an ideal family-friendly destination with its blend of charming architecture, sun-soaked beaches, and diverse cultural experiences. Take a stroll through the bustling Vieux Port, where you can admire colorful fishing boats and enjoy delicious seafood at the waterfront restaurants. Explore the Calanques National Park, where crystal-clear turquoise waters and impressive limestone cliffs create a wonderful backdrop for hiking, picnicking, and swimming, providing endless fun for the whole family.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

A Stroll Through Old Port: Discover Marseille's vibrant heart and indulge in its maritime charm.

  • Start your day with a leisurely walk along Old Port's lively promenade, lined with colorful fishing boats and bustling cafes.
  • Explore the iconic Fort Saint-Jean, a historic fortress featuring stunning views of the harbor and entry to the picturesque MuCEM museum.
  • Treat your taste buds at Le Panier neighborhood, known for its quaint streets filled with charming boutiques and mouthwatering local cuisine.
  • Admire the stunning Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, perched atop a hill, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
  • Unwind at Plage des Catalans, a family-friendly beach where you can dip your toes in the refreshing Mediterranean waters.
Day 2

Cultural Delights and Calanques Expedition: Dive into Marseille's rich history and explore its stunning natural landscapes.

  • Immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance of the bustling Cours Julien district, renowned for its vibrant street art and trendy shops.
  • Unearth the treasures of the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations (MuCEM), showcasing various exhibitions and cultural events.
  • Embark on an unforgettable adventure to the nearby Calanques National Park, boasting rugged limestone cliffs and turquoise waters.
  • Enjoy a refreshing hike to the Calanque de Sormiou or take a boat tour to admire the breathtaking Calanque d'En-Vau.
  • Complete your day with a scrumptious seafood dinner at Chez Etienne, a popular local spot known for its authentic Bouillabaisse.
Day 3

Historic Marseille: Delve into Marseille's fascinating history, from ancient ruins to vibrant marketplaces.

  • Start your day at the Roman Docks Museum, showcasing the city's ancient maritime heritage through fascinating exhibits.
  • Lose yourself in the narrow streets of Le Panier, the oldest neighborhood in Marseille, filled with charming cafes and boutiques.
  • Discover the grandeur of Marseille Cathedral, a stunning 19th-century church adorned with intricate mosaics and breathtaking stained glass.
  • Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Noailles Market, a sensory delight offering an array of colorful spices, exotic fruits, and local delicacies.
  • Raise a glass of Pastis, a traditional anise-flavored drink, at Bar de la Marine while gazing at the picturesque Vieux-Port.
Day 4

Day Trip to Château d'If and Frioul Archipelago: Embark on an enchanting island adventure.

  • Catch a ferry to Château d'If, renowned for inspiring Alexandre Dumas' "The Count of Monte Cristo," and explore this historic fortress.
  • Continue your island escapade to the breathtaking archipelago of Frioul, boasting wild landscapes and crystal-clear waters.
  • Discover the Isle of Ratonneau, where you can visit the picturesque fishing village and enjoy a delightful seaside lunch at Le Restaurant du Petit Marseille.
  • Indulge in a leisurely swim or sunbathe on the pristine beaches of Archipel du Frioul.
  • End your day with a scenic hike to the Phare du Planier, a charming lighthouse offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean.
  • Safe travels and enjoy your marvelous Mediterranean adventure in Marseille!

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Marseille

Ah, Marseille. Where the sea meets the sky and the wine meets the mouth. You'll feel like a true Frenchman once you're lost in its charming streets and asking for directions in broken French.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

4 Days in Marseille: Explore Castles to Calanques

As a tourist in Marseille, France, visitors can immerse themselves in one of the country's most vibrant port cities. With its old town filled with narrow streets and colorful houses, visitors can explore landmarks such as the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde or eat at the bustling Vieux-Port de Marseille. Additionally, the city offers various cultural experiences including its renowned Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations.

Romantic Marseille: A 3-Day Coastal Getaway

Explore the romantic French port city of Marseille, where stunning coastal views and charming cultural experiences await. Stroll along the Vieux-Port and discover a range of exceptional seafood restaurants and atmospheric cafes. Fall in love over the vibrant street markets, historic museums, and winding cobbled streets of this idyllic destination.

Discovering the Colorful Charm of Marseille

Explore the charming port city of Marseille, France on a budget without compromising on the experience of your trip. Wander through the historic Old Port, visit the picturesque Calanques, and discover the iconic Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica. Enjoy local street food and budget-friendly accommodations to get a truly authentic experience of Marseille.

Discover Marseille's Best on a Budget

A visit to Marseille on a limited budget is still full of delightful experiences. From exploring the Vieux-Port and savoring local cuisine to wandering through historic neighborhoods like Le Panier, there is plenty to see without spending a fortune. Must-sees on a shoestring budget include the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, Calanques National Park, and the stunning views from the Marseille Cathedral.