4 Days in Marseille: Explore Castles to Calanques

Experience the southern charm of France in Marseille.

22 April 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to Marseille!

  • Check in to Grand Hotel Beauvau, a charming 4-star hotel with stunning views
  • Walk to Le Panier neighborhood for traditional French breakfast at La Caravelle
  • Visit the historic Musée des Docks Romains, a fascinating museum dedicated to ancient Roman history
  • Take a stroll along the Vieux Port and admire the luxury yachts
  • Enjoy a refreshing Pastis at Bar de la Marine, a beloved local spot with a great waterfront terrace
  • End the day with a dinner at Le Petit Nice, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its stunning seafood dishes
Day 2

From Castles to Calanques

  • Pick up a rental car and drive to Château d'If, a medieval fortress turned prison island featured in The Count of Monte Cristo
  • Explore the stunning Calanques National Park for a hike or a boat tour
  • Cool off with a swim at the secluded Calanque d'En-Vau, a hidden gem with crystal clear water
  • Head back to town for a traditional Marseille bouillabaisse at Chez Fonfon, a rustic restaurant with a local following
  • Finish the night with a visit to La Friche Belle de Mai, a cultural center with exhibitions, concerts, and a rooftop bar
Day 3

Provence in the City

  • Explore Cours Julien, a vibrant neighborhood filled with street art, vintage shops, and trendy cafes
  • Visit the iconic Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica for panoramic views of the city
  • Walk along La Corniche, a scenic coastal road with stunning views of Marseille and the Mediterranean sea
  • Treat yourself to a shopping spree at Les Terrasses du Port, a modern shopping center with local and international brands
  • Have dinner at Le Malthazar, a chic brasserie with delicious Mediterranean cuisine and a great wine selection
Day 4

Farewell, Marseille!

  • Start the day with a coffee and a croissant at Boulangerie Pâtisserie Amandine, a beloved bakery in the heart of town
  • Visit the peaceful Parc Borély for a picnic or a walk around its beautiful gardens and lakes
  • Check out the exhibitions and events at the Musée d'Histoire de Marseille, a must-see museum for history buffs
  • Finish your trip with a farewell lunch at L'Estaque, a charming fishing village with seaside restaurants and a beautiful marina
  • Say goodbye to Marseille and promise to return soon!

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.

More travel plans

Marseilles on a Budget: 3-Day Adventure Guide

Explore the bustling city of Marseille on a limited budget, with plenty of affordable options for accommodation, food, and transportation. Take a stroll through the colorful streets and discover local markets, historical landmarks and cultural museums. Don't miss the opportunity to try the famous Marseille fish soup, bouillabaisse, while enjoying the sunny weather and beautiful Mediterranean coastline.

A Romantic Long Weekend in Marseille

Experience the romance and beauty of Marseille, France with your loved one by exploring the stunning Calanques or strolling hand-in-hand through the Old Port. Indulge in traditional French cuisine at a charming bistro or sip wine together while admiring a breathtaking sunset over the Mediterranean Sea. End the night by snuggling up in a cozy hotel room and expressing your love for one another in this enchanting city.

Marseille in 5: The Ultimate Travel Guide

As a tourist, exploring Marseille in France would mean being able to experience a diverse and metropolitan city with deep cultural roots. By visiting the Old Port and wandering through the narrow streets of Le Panier, one can immerse themselves in the city's rich history and heritage. At the same time, with a variety of interesting museums and galleries, not to mention top-quality restaurants showcasing traditional Provençal cuisine, Marseille offers the perfect city break for many travellers.

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.