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Marseille: Savor Bouillabaisse, Calanques, and MuCEM Wonders

Olena Ilnytska, Mucem et Cathédrale Sainte-Marie-Majeure de Marseille, CC BY-SA 4.0
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Hello and welcome to my website. My name is Thorsten. I'm a software engineer living in Germany and I love to travel. So I created a site for anyone starting to plan a trip.
What this site is about

✔ Are you planning a self-organized trip to Marseille? Then you've come to the right place. Here you will find information to help you plan your perfect stay in Marseille.

✔ The most important start information for a trip to South France, can be found on the overview page.

✔ And when it comes to the actual planning, you will find the perfect planner for your trip to South France here.
Attraction
Park / Garden

Culture and history, explore and discover

Marseille offers a rich tapestry of history and culture, reflecting its status as a vibrant port city with a diverse population. Visitors can expect to encounter a blend of ancient history and modern urban life, with influences from various cultures that have passed through over the centuries. The city is known for its unique architectural styles, bustling markets, and a lively arts scene that showcases both traditional and contemporary works.

All sights sorted by distance from center
1. Mucem, Marseille: A museum of European and Mediterranean civilizations, offering a contemporary architectural design and panoramic views of the sea. Distance in km: 0.92
2. Vieux Port (Old Port): ⭐ The heart of the city, lined with bustling cafes and seafood restaurants, offering a picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll or a boat ride. Distance in km: 0.98
3. Fort Saint-Jean, Marseille: A historic fort at the entrance of the Old Port of Marseille, offering exhibitions and stunning views of the city and the Mediterranean. Distance in km: 1
4. Palais Longchamp: ⭐ A grand 19th-century palace housing the Museum of Fine Arts and the Natural History Museum, surrounded by beautiful gardens and cascading fountains. Distance in km: 2.08
5. Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, Marseille: Sitting atop a limestone outcrop, this basilica offers panoramic views of Marseille and the sea. Its architecture and interior mosaics are stunning. Distance in km: 2.08
6. Château d'If, Marseille: ⭐ ⭐ Famous for being one of the settings of Alexandre Dumas' novel 'The Count of Monte Cristo', this fortress turned prison is located on a small island. Distance in km: 4.38
7. Parc Borély: A sprawling park with lush gardens, a lake, and a rose garden, providing a peaceful retreat from the city buzz and a perfect spot for picnics and leisurely walks. Distance in km: 4.82
8. Cité Radieuse, Marseille, UNESCO World Heritage: Designed by Le Corbusier, this modernist residential building is considered an architectural masterpiece and a prototype for urban living. Distance in km: 5.1
9. Calanques National Park, Marseille: ⭐ ⭐ A breathtaking national park known for its dramatic cliffs, azure waters, and scenic landscapes, perfect for hiking and boating. Distance in km: 11.18
10. Monaco: Though not in France, its proximity makes it a popular destination for visitors in the South of France, known for its luxury casinos, yacht-lined harbor, and the Grand Prix. Distance in km: 14.27
11. Cassis: ⭐ A charming fishing port famous for its cliffs and sheltered inlets called calanques, offering picturesque views and a quaint village atmosphere. Distance in km: 16.74
12. Sainte-Victoire Mountain, Aix-en-Provence: ⭐ ⭐ Celebrated in numerous works by Paul Cézanne, this limestone mountain range offers hiking trails with stunning views of Provence. Distance in km: 32.25
13. Château de Vauvenargues: Located near Aix-en-Provence, this castle is known for being the final resting place of Pablo Picasso and offers views of the Sainte-Victoire Mountain. Distance in km: 33.81
14. Salon-de-Provence: The hometown of Nostradamus, this picturesque town is known for its medieval and Renaissance architecture, and the Château de l'Empéri. Distance in km: 43.54

Parks, Gardens & Green Areas in the city, relax and enjoy

Marseille offers a diverse range of opportunities for relaxation, combining natural beauty with urban charm. Visitors can expect a mix of tranquil coastal areas, green spaces, and wellness facilities that provide a serene escape from the bustling city life. The Mediterranean climate enhances the experience, allowing for outdoor activities and leisurely strolls almost year-round.

1. Parc Borély: A historic and popular public park in Marseille.

Parc Borély is one of Marseille's most famous parks, offering expansive lawns, a beautiful lake, and a botanical garden. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, picnics, and even rent bicycles or boats. The park also features a stunning 18th-century château and is close to the Prado beaches.

Type: park | Fee: free
2. Jardin des Vestiges: An archaeological garden in the heart of Marseille.

Jardin des Vestiges is a unique garden located near the Old Port, featuring the ancient remains of the Greek and Roman port of Marseille. Visitors can explore the ruins and enjoy a peaceful environment amidst historical artifacts. It's a perfect spot for history enthusiasts and those seeking a quiet retreat in the city center.

Type: garden | Fee: free
3. Parc Longchamp: A picturesque park with a grandiose palace and fountains.

Parc Longchamp is renowned for its magnificent Palais Longchamp, which houses the Museum of Fine Arts and the Natural History Museum. The park features beautifully landscaped gardens, impressive fountains, and statues. It's an ideal place for a relaxing stroll and offers stunning views of the palace and its surroundings.

Type: park | Fee: free
4. Parc du 26ème Centenaire: A modern park celebrating Marseille's 2600th anniversary.

This contemporary park was created to commemorate the 2600th anniversary of Marseille. It features themed gardens representing different continents, a large pond, and a children's play area. The park is perfect for families and offers a blend of cultural and natural attractions.

Type: park | Fee: free
5. Jardin de la Colline Puget: A charming hillside garden with panoramic views of Marseille.

Jardin de la Colline Puget is a lesser-known gem offering breathtaking views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. The garden is located on a hill and features lush greenery, walking paths, and quiet spots for relaxation. It's an excellent place for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Type: garden | Fee: free

Tourist Information Offices

Here you can find the main tourist information offices where you can get maps, brochures, and assistance with planning your visit.

1. Office of Tourism & Conventions

Tourist information center

Address: 11 La Canebière, 13001 Marseille, France
2. FRance travel premium tours and transfers

Tourist information center

Address: 9 Rue des Muettes, 13002 Marseille, France
3. DmcTouch

Tourist information center

Address: 9 Rue de Toulouse, 13005 Marseille, France
4. guidemecity

Tourist information center

Address: MPCT, 13002 Marseille, France

What's the best way to get around as a tourist in Marseille?

Marseille offers a variety of mobility options for residents and visitors. The city is quite walkable, especially in the central areas where many attractions are located close to each other. Public transportation is well-developed, with buses, trams, and a metro system connecting different parts of the city. Ride-sharing services provide additional flexibility for those who prefer private transport. Cycling is also an option, with dedicated lanes and bike-friendly routes available.

In central Marseille, areas like the Vieux-Port are pedestrian-friendly, making walking an enjoyable way to explore. The RTM (Régie des Transports Métropolitains) operates the city's public transport, including two metro lines, several tram lines, and an extensive bus network. Tickets can be purchased at stations or via mobile apps. Ride-sharing services like Uber are available for more personalized travel. For cycling enthusiasts, bike rental services such as Le Vélo offer convenient access to bicycles, with numerous docking stations throughout the city. It's advisable to check for bike lanes and paths to ensure a safe ride. Additionally, Marseille's topography can be hilly, so electric bikes might be a practical choice for longer distances.