Discovering the Colorful Charm of Marseille

Discover the charm of Marseille without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

Day trip plan

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Day

Moody Marseille

  • Start your day with a cheap breakfast of croissants and coffee at La Baker's House.
  • Head to the Old Port to watch the fishermen unloading their catch of the day.
  • Stroll through the colorful streets of Le Panier, Marseille's oldest neighborhood.
  • Visit the MuCEM Museum a striking building with exhibitions exploring Mediterranean culture.
  • Indulge in a hearty lunch at Chez FonFon, a Mediterranean restaurant known for its bouillabaisse.
  • Finish the day with a climb up Notre Dame de la Garde, a hilltop basilica offering panoramic views of the city.
  • Note: Don't forget to try the local drink, pastis, a liqueur made with anise and herbs. It's an acquired taste, but worth a try!

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

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.

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.

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.

Romantic Marseille: A Day Trip Itinerary

A romantic trip to Marseille, France is the perfect opportunity to explore the city's charming architecture, stunning coastline, and vibrant cultural scene. Enjoy romantic walks through the historic Old Port, take a sunset cruise along the Mediterranean coast, and savor the city's delicious cuisine and wine. Don't forget to experience the local art scene and discover hidden gems like the Calanques National Park.