Marseille in a Day: History, Seafood, and Sunsets.

Discover the vibrant port city of Marseille, where history and culture meet the Mediterranean.

22 April 2023

Marseille is a vibrant coastal city in southern France that offers a unique blend of rich history and modern culture. Tourists can explore ancient landmarks such as the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica and the old port, as well as indulge in delicious local cuisine and enjoy the city's bustling nightlife. Outdoor enthusiasts can also look forward to scenic hikes and stunning views from nearby Calanques National Park.

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Day trip plan

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Day

Marseille Mashup

  • Start your day with a flaky croissant and strong coffee from Pâtisserie Plauchut.
  • Take a stroll through Vieux-Port and admire the colorful boats and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Visit the iconic Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica and take in the panoramic views of the city from the hilltop.
  • Head to Le Panier, Marseille's oldest neighborhood, and wander through the narrow streets filled with vibrant street art and charming boutiques.
  • Stop for a fresh seafood lunch at Chez Etienne, a local institution known for its bouillabaisse.
  • Finish off the day with a sunset swim at Plage des Catalans, a beautiful beach located only a few minutes away from the city center.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

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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.

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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