· FR

Marseille

Marseille, Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur, France

Dive into the vibrant soul of Marseille: France's untamed beauty Marseille, nestled on the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean, is a city that pulses with raw energy. Forget Paris's polished elegance; here, you'll f…

#Marseille#Provence#Côte d’Azur#France#Coastal city

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Marseille.

Top Hotels in Marseille

Top Flights to Marseille

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Marseille.

Tours

Explore the Old Port of Marseille

Discover the historic Old Port of Marseille, with its vibrant fish market and waterfront cafes.

Shopping

Shopping at Le Panier District

Enjoy a shopping spree in Le Panier, the oldest district with a variety of shops and boutiques.

Outdoor

Hiking in Calanques National Park

Take a hike through the Calanques National Park, known for its limestone cliffs and Mediterranean beaches.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Marseille.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

Not Available

Average weather

Marseille

Jan

11°3°

Feb

12°4°

Mar

15°6°

Apr

18°9°

May

22°13°

Jun

26°17°

Jul

29°20°

Aug

29°20°

Sep

26°17°

Oct

21°13°

Nov

15°8°

Dec

12°4°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Marseille.

What people love

Marseille, located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of France, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are some pros of traveling to Marseille:

Rich History: Marseille is one of the oldest cities in France, with a history dating back over 2,600 years. Visitors can explore historical sites such as the Vieux Port (Old Port), Fort Saint-Jean, and the historic Panier district.
Cultural Diversity: Marseille is known for its diverse population, which has influenced the city's vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can experience a mix of French, Mediterranean, and North African cultures through the city's cuisine, music, and art.
Stunning Coastline: Marseille is located on the Mediterranean coast, offering breathtaking views of the sea and stunning beaches. Visitors can relax on the sandy shores of Plage du Prado or explore the rugged calanques (inlets) along the coast.
Culinary Delights: Marseille is a paradise for food lovers, with a wide range of delicious dishes to sample. From fresh seafood to traditional Provencal cuisine, visitors can indulge in the city's culinary offerings at local markets, cafes, and restaurants.
Outdoor Activities: The surrounding region of Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. From hiking in the nearby Calanques National Park to sailing in the Mediterranean Sea, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors.

Overall, Marseille is a vibrant and diverse city with a rich history, stunning coastline, delicious cuisine, and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. It is a great destination for travelers looking to experience the best of French culture and the Mediterranean lifestyle.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Marseille, France, include:

Safety concerns: Marseille has a reputation for being a city with some areas that may have higher crime rates compared to other parts of France. Travelers should be cautious and aware of their surroundings, especially in certain neighborhoods known for criminal activity.
Traffic and congestion: Marseille is a large city with a high population density, which can lead to heavy traffic and congestion on the roads. This may impact travel times and make getting around the city more challenging.
Language barrier: While many people in Marseille do speak English, the primary language spoken is French. Travelers who do not speak French may encounter communication challenges, especially in more local or less touristy areas.
Tourist crowds: Marseille is a popular tourist destination, especially during the peak travel season. This means that popular attractions and areas may be crowded, making it harder to fully enjoy the experience.
Limited public transportation options: While Marseille does have a public transportation system, it may not be as extensive or efficient as in other major European cities. Travelers may find themselves relying more on taxis or rental cars to get around.

It's important to note that these cons should be balanced with the many positives of visiting Marseille, such as its rich history, vibrant culture, beautiful coastline, and delicious cuisine.

Marseille, located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of France, has a rich and diverse history dating back over 2,600 years. It is the second-largest city in France and has long been an important hub for trade, culture, and maritime activities.

Founded by the Greeks around 600 BC, Marseille was originally known as Massalia. It quickly became a key trading port in the Mediterranean, connecting the Greek world with Gaul (modern-day France).
In Roman times, Marseille flourished as a major center for trade and commerce. The city became an important Roman colony and a key port for the Roman Empire's Mediterranean fleet.
Marseille has a long history of immigration and cultural exchange, with influences from various civilizations including Greek, Roman, North African, and Italian.
The city played a significant role in the French Revolution, with several important events taking place in Marseille during this period. It was also a key center for resistance during World War II.
Marseille is known for its vibrant cultural scene, including its diverse cuisine, music, and arts. The city has inspired many artists, writers, and filmmakers over the years.

Significant historical figures associated with Marseille include the Greek explorer Pytheas, the Roman general Julius Caesar, the French writer Alexandre Dumas, and the French filmmaker Robert Guédiguian.

Important landmarks in Marseille include:

The Old Port (Vieux Port): The historic heart of the city, where visitors can see traditional fishing boats and enjoy fresh seafood at the many restaurants.
Notre-Dame de la Garde: A basilica located on a hill overlooking the city, offering panoramic views of Marseille and the Mediterranean Sea.
The MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations): A modern museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Mediterranean region.
The Calanques: A series of stunning limestone cliffs and coves along the coast, perfect for hiking and swimming.
The Abbey of Saint Victor: A historic abbey with a crypt dating back to the 5th century, known for its Romanesque architecture.

Overall, Marseille is a city with a fascinating history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty, making it a popular destination for visitors from around the world.