Marseille: The Complete Guide

Visit Marseille

Marseille, located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of southern France—not in Germany—is a dynamic port city known for its mix of cultures, sea views, and Mediterranean energy. It offers a completely different vibe from inland Provençal towns, with its bustling harbor, urban sprawl, and access to the sea. The Vieux-Port (Old Port) is the heart of the city, lined with cafés, seafood restaurants, and ferries that take visitors to the nearby Frioul Islands or the Château d’If, made famous by The Count of Monte Cristo.

Visitors to Marseille are often struck by the contrast between its modern edge and its timeless coastal setting. The Calanques National Park, with its dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise coves, lies just beyond the city and offers outstanding hiking, swimming, and kayaking. Back in the centre, Marseille boasts vibrant markets like Noailles, a thriving arts scene in districts like Cours Julien, and beautiful architecture from the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, which provides panoramic views over the rooftops and sea.

The city is also a gateway to exploring other parts of southern France. From here, visitors can travel easily to places like Cassis, Aix-en-Provence, and the Luberon region. Marseille’s cultural diversity is reflected in its food—ranging from the traditional bouillabaisse to North African street food—and its atmosphere, which blends southern French charm with the grit of a working port. It’s an ideal destination for those looking for both energy and authenticity in a Mediterranean setting.

History of Marseille

Marseille in Antiquity and Greek Foundation

Marseille is one of the oldest cities in France, founded around 600 BCE by Greek settlers from Phocaea. They named it Massalia, and it quickly became a prosperous trading port. The city established commercial ties across the Mediterranean and developed into a vibrant hub of Greek culture. Its influence extended inland through trade routes and outposts. Despite remaining independent, Massalia eventually fell under the influence of the Roman Republic as alliances shifted in response to regional conflicts.

Marseille under Roman Rule

In 49 BCE, Marseille sided with Pompey during the Roman civil war and was subsequently captured by Julius Caesar. Though stripped of much of its territory and political power, it remained an important port under Roman control. The city adopted Roman architecture and infrastructure, including aqueducts, baths, and a forum. Christianity began to take root in the later stages of the Roman Empire, preparing the way for its religious significance in the coming centuries.

Marseille in the Early Middle Ages

Following the collapse of the Western Roman Empire, Marseille endured invasions by Visigoths, Franks, and Saracens. It remained a contested but resilient city throughout the Merovingian and Carolingian periods. Its location ensured continued maritime trade, and it became a centre for Christian missionary activity. The influence of local bishops helped maintain the city’s prominence during periods of instability.

Marseille in the High and Late Middle Ages

By the 10th and 11th centuries, Marseille began to regain autonomy under local counts and grew into a thriving commercial and naval city. It became part of the County of Provence and later the Angevin and then Capetian territories. The city played an important role in Mediterranean trade, especially with Italy, North Africa, and the Levant. Marseille’s port supported crusades and pilgrimages, and its merchant class grew powerful and wealthy.

Marseille from the Renaissance to the Revolution

During the Renaissance, Marseille continued to flourish economically, but it also faced outbreaks of plague and periods of unrest. In 1481, the city became part of the French crown lands. The 17th century brought both prosperity and strife—plague devastated the city in 1720, killing a large portion of its population. Despite these setbacks, Marseille remained a crucial port for colonial and Mediterranean commerce.

Marseille in the 19th and 20th Centuries

The Industrial Revolution brought rapid growth to Marseille in the 19th century. Its port expanded dramatically to accommodate trade with North Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. The city attracted waves of immigrants, particularly from Italy and the French colonies, transforming it into a multicultural metropolis. During World War II, Marseille was occupied by German forces and suffered bombings and destruction, particularly in the Old Port area.

Marseille in the Contemporary Era

In recent decades, Marseille has undergone significant urban renewal, especially in preparation for its role as European Capital of Culture in 2013. Projects revitalised the Old Port, built new cultural institutions like the MuCEM, and brought attention to Marseille’s unique identity. Today, the city balances its gritty authenticity with emerging creativity, continuing its historic role as a crossroads of cultures, commerce, and migration.

Visiting Marseille for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Marseille on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

This website uses affiliate links which earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Powered by GetYourGuide

24 Best places to See in Marseille

This complete guide to Marseille not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Marseille and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Musée d'Archéologie Méditerranéenne (MAM)

Musee Darcheologie Mediterraneenne Marseille
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Onceinawhile
The Musée d’Archéologie Méditerranéenne (Mediterranean Archaeology Museum), located on the first floor of La Vieille Charité in Marseille, is divided into two main sections: one dedicated to Egyptian antiquities and the other to classical antiquities. The museum's regional archaeology collection was previously housed here but has since been transferred to the Marseille History Museum at the Centre Bourse. Meanwhile, the…
Location: Musée d’Archéologie Méditerranéenne, Rue de la Charité, Marseille, France | Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. | Price: Free | Website | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Musée d'Archéologie Méditerranéenne (MAM)

We recommend to rent a car in France through Discover Cars, they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies. Book your rental car here.

La Vieille Charité

Chapelle Et Hospice De La Vieille Charite
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Charliemoon
La Vieille Charité, originally constructed between 1671 and 1749 in Marseille’s historic Panier quarter, has evolved from its initial function as an almshouse into a vibrant museum and cultural center. This remarkable building is crafted from pink and yellow-tinted molasse stone quarried from Cap Couronne, forming a rectangular structure (112 x 96 meters) without outward-facing windows but featuring three arcaded…
Location: Centre de la Vieille Charité, Rue de la Charité, Marseille, France | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting La Vieille Charité

Here are all your hotel options in Marseille.

Porte d'Aix

Marseille   Porte DAix
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Marianne Casamance
Porte d'Aix, also known as Porte Royal, is a majestic triumphal arch that historically served as the gateway to the city from the road leading from Aix-en-Provence. Designed by Michel-Robert Penchaud, the arch's architecture is reminiscent of the majestic triumphal arches from the Roman Empire, with its main facades beautifully adorned with scenes from significant battles such as Fleurus, Héliopolis,…
Location: Porte d'Aix, Place Jules Guesde, Marseille, France | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 0.5km
Visiting Porte d'Aix

Explore Marseille yourself with our self-guided walking tour!

Church of Notre-Dame-des-Accoules

Marseille Paroisse Notre Dame De La Major Tour
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Zairon
The Notre-Dame-des-Accoules church and its bell tower, designated as a Historic Monument on July 7, 1964, stand as significant historical relics. These structures are what remain of the medieval church demolished in 1794. The site also features a Calvary established in 1820 and a newly built church completed between 1824 and 1826. According to legend, the church was built atop…
Location: Église des Accoules, Place Daviel, Marseille, France | Distance: 0.5km
Visiting Church of Notre-Dame-des-Accoules

Cathédrale de la Major (Marseille Cathedral)

Marseille   Cathedrale Sainte Marie Majeure
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Fred Romero
Also known as Cathédrale Sainte-Marie-Majeure de Marseille, the site comprises both the old and new cathedrals. In the late 19th century, Napoleon III, the Emperor of France, decided to replace the 12th-century Provencal Romanesque cathedral known as "Vieille Major." He demolished almost all of it, saving only the choir and one bay of the nave following public protests against the…
Location: Marseille Cathedral, Place de la Major, Marseille, France | Hours: Daily 7 am to 6 pm | Distance: 0.5km
Visiting Cathédrale de la Major (Marseille Cathedral)

Maison Diamantée (Diamond House)

Maison Diamantee
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Guiguilacagouille
La Maison Diamantée, standing just behind the City Hall in Marseille, is one of the city's oldest residences, akin to the Hôtel de Cabre. The exact date of its construction remains uncertain, but it is estimated to have been built between the late 16th and early 18th centuries. Positioned on the site of the former garden of the ‘Palais de…
Location: Maison Diamantée (La), Rue de la Prison, Marseille, France | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Maison Diamantée (Diamond House)

Église Saint-Cannat (Saint Cannat Church)

Marseille Eglise Saint Cannat
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Marianne Casamance
The Église Saint-Cannat is a Roman Catholic church located in the 1st arrondissement of Marseille, one of the city's 16 districts. This majestic church is dedicated to Saint Canus Natus, a revered French Roman Catholic saint from the fifth century. Its construction began on December 31, 1526, and the church was consecrated on May 18, 1619. The facade, designed by…
Location: Église Saint-Cannat, Rue des Prêcheurs, Marseille, France | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Église Saint-Cannat (Saint Cannat Church)

Musée des Docks Romains

Musee Des Docks Romains
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Robert Valette
The Museum of Roman Docks in Marseille is an extraordinary archaeological site, prominently featuring the well-preserved remains of a Roman commercial warehouse. Discovered in 1947 during the post-war reconstruction of areas destroyed by German occupation, these significant historical remnants were preserved on-site, largely thanks to the efforts of Fernand Benoit, a distinguished historian and archaeologist. Opened to the public in…
Location: Musée des Docks romains de la Ville de Marseille, Place Vivaux, Marseille, France | Hours: Daily 09:00 - 18:00 Closed Mondays | Price: Free | Website | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Musée des Docks Romains

Le Musée d'Histoire de Marseille (MHM)

Musee Dhistoire De La Ville De Marseille
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Cover 2020
The Marseille History Museum, dedicated to preserving the rich history of Marseille, was established in 1983 and underwent a comprehensive renovation, reopening on September 14, 2013, to coincide with the Marseille-Provence 2013 event. Situated in the Center Bourse close to the Old Port, the museum is home to the site of the Ancient Port and features a permanent exhibition space…
Location: Musée d'histoire de la Ville de Marseille, Rue Henri Barbusse, Marseille, France | Hours: Daily 09:00 - 18:00 Closed Mondays | Price: Free | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Le Musée d'Histoire de Marseille (MHM)

Hotel de Ville (City Hall), Marseille

Marseille Hotel De Ville
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Bjs
The Hotel de Ville in Marseille is not an accommodation facility but the city's town hall. Constructed in 1656, it has served as the civic heart of Marseille since its completion, taking over from the "Maison de Ville," which had fulfilled this role since the 13th century. This building is made of pink stone and designed in the Genoan Baroque…
Location: Ville de Marseille, Place Villeneuve-Bargemon, Marseille, France | Hours: It can not be visited, except for official business. | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Hotel de Ville (City Hall), Marseille

Jardin des Vestiges (Ruins Garden)

Jardin Des Vestiges Marseille
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Carl Ha
The Jardin des Vestiges is a remarkable garden in Marseille that preserves the archaeological remains of the city’s ancient port. Located in the 1st arrondissement, behind the Centre Bourse shopping arcade, this site was classified as a French historical monument after its excavation in 1967 and was officially opened to the public on October 17, 2009. It forms a crucial…
Location: Jardin des Vestiges, Rue Henri Barbusse, Marseille, France | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Jardin des Vestiges (Ruins Garden)

Église of Saint-Ferréol les Augustins (Church of Saint Ferreol)

Eglise Saint Ferreol Les Augustins
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Georges Seguin (Okki)
The Church of Saint Ferreol in Marseille is a Roman Catholic church steeped in rich history. Originally under the ownership of the Knights Templar, the church was handed over to a community of Augustinian hermits in 1369. Driven by a commitment to their faith, these hermits began constructing a new church in 1447, which was consecrated in 1542, though its…
Location: Église Saint-Ferréol les Augustins, Quai des Belges, Marseille, France | Distance: 0.8km
Visiting Église of Saint-Ferréol les Augustins (Church of Saint Ferreol)

Eglise Saint-Laurent (Saint-Laurent Church)

Marseille Eglise Saint Laurent
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Zairon
Situated at 16 Esplanade de la Tourette, Saint Laurent Church is a historic site in Marseille, constructed in the Provence Romanesque architectural style. Initially established as a parish for fishermen, it stands on the foundations of what was once a temple dedicated to Apollo. While direct evidence of Apollo’s temple is scarce, a significant discovery was made—a capital that is…
Location: Eglise Saint Laurent, Esplanade de la Tourette, Marseille, France | Distance: 0.9km
Visiting Eglise Saint-Laurent (Saint-Laurent Church)

Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations (MuCEM)

Mucem Villa De La Mediterannee Marseille
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Sébastien Bertrand
The Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations (Musée des Civilisations de l'Europe et de la Méditerranée), located in Marseille, opened its doors on June 7, 2013, coinciding with the city's designation as the European Capital of Culture for that year. This prestigious institution was honored with the Council of Europe Museum Prize in 2015 for its commitment to showcasing the…
Location: Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean, Esplanade J4, Marseille, France | Hours: Daily 10 a.m. — 6 p.m. Closed Tuesdays | Price: €11.00 | Website | Distance: 0.9km
Visiting Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations (MuCEM)
Powered by GetYourGuide

Fort Saint-Jean

Marseille   Fort Saint Jean Scaled
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Christophe.Finot
Fort Saint-Jean, established in 1660 by Louis XIV at the entrance of Marseille’s Old Port, stands as a historic fortification built on centuries of legacy. Its construction incorporated two earlier structures: a 12th-century Commandry of the Knights Hospitaller of Saint John of Jerusalem, initially a monastic hospice during the crusades, and a 15th-century tower erected by René I, King of…
Location: Fort Saint-Jean, Promenade Louis Brauquier, Marseille, France | Hours: Daily 10 a.m. — 6 p.m. Closed Tuesdays | Price: €11.00 | Website | Distance: 1.0km
Visiting Fort Saint-Jean

Vieux Port (Old Port), Marseille

Vieux Port Old Port Marseille Scaled
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Zairon
The Vieux-Port (Old Port) of Marseille, nestled at the base of the iconic Canebière, stands as one of the city’s quintessential symbols, alongside Notre-Dame de la Garde. This historic hub is a gathering place for major events, celebrations, and fireworks, embodying the spirit of the people of Marseille. Tracing its origins back to the ancient Greek colony of Massalia, the…
Location: Vieux Port, Rue Breteuil, Marseille, France | Distance: 1.0km
Visiting Vieux Port (Old Port), Marseille

Fort Saint-Nicolas

Fort Saint Nicolas Marseille
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Ainars Brūvelis
Fort St-Nicolas, a star-shaped fortress from the 17th century, stands watch over the southern side of Marseille’s harbor. Built by Louis XIV, this formidable structure was designed to guard the city and, notably, to keep its occasionally rebellious citizens in check—a fact underscored during the Revolution when locals attempted to destroy it. History of Fort Saint Nicholas Constructed between 1660…
Location: Fort Saint-Nicolas, Montée du Souvenir Français, Marseille, France | Hours: Approx: Winter: Saturday/Sunday Summer: Wednesday - Sunday 12 p.m. - 10 p.m. See their website. | Price: €12 Booking Required | Website | Distance: 1.3km
Visiting Fort Saint-Nicolas

Palais du Pharo (Pharo Palace)

Palais Du Pharo Et Vieux Port
CC BY-SA 1.0 / Benoît Prieur
The promontory on which Pharo Palace stands is aptly named "Pharo," taking its name from the western bay. Historically, the hill was known as "Tete de More." Situated at the entrance of Marseille’s Old Port, the Pharo Palace is a grandiose structure originally intended as an imperial residence. The concept for the palace began in 1852 when Prince Louis-Napoleon commissioned…
Location: Palais du Pharo, Boulevard Charles Livon, Marseille, France | Hours: The Pharo garden is open all year round to the public from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. | Price: Free | Distance: 1.3km
Visiting Palais du Pharo (Pharo Palace)

Abbaye Saint-Victor

Abbaye Saint Victor Marseille France E1714561436235
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Philippe Alès
South of the Old Port, perched above the sea, stands the historic Abbaye Saint Victor, a site that has been spiritually significant since around 415 AD. Tradition holds that the abbey was established by the monk John Cassian, who is said to have founded separate monasteries for men and women across the old harbor. These were later destroyed by Saracen…
Location: Abbaye Saint-Victor, Place Saint-Victor, Marseille, France | Hours: Daily 09:00 - 18:00 | Price: €2 to visit crypts | Distance: 1.4km
Visiting Abbaye Saint-Victor

Musée des Beaux-Arts de Marseille

Palais Longchamp
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Vicuna R
The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Marseille stands as one of the primary cultural institutions in Marseille, located in the picturesque Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. Housed in a dedicated wing of the majestic Palais Longchamp, the museum showcases a rich collection of paintings, sculptures, and drawings spanning from the 16th to the 19th centuries. This diverse assortment highlights significant works that capture…
Location: Musée des Beaux Arts de Marseille, Palais Longchamp Aile gauche, Rue Edouard Stephan, Marseille, France | Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. | Price: Free | Website | Distance: 2.0km
Visiting Musée des Beaux-Arts de Marseille

Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle (MHM), Marseille

Museum DHistoire Naturelle Marseille Scaled
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Tanya Dedyukhina
The Natural History Museum of Marseille (Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle de Marseille) is among France's most visited museums, originally established in 1819 by Jean-Baptiste, Marquis de Montgrand, and Christophe de Villeneuve-Bargemon, the then-prefect of the Bouches-du-Rhône department. It found a permanent residence in the stunning Longchamp Palace, located in the 4th arrondissement and designed by Henri-Jacques Espérandieu. Over the years, the…
Location: Muséum d'histoire naturelle de la Ville de Marseille, Palais Longchamp, Rue Espérandieu, Marseille, France | Hours: Daily 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Closed Tuesdays | Price: Permanent collections: Free | Website | Distance: 2.1km
Visiting Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle (MHM), Marseille

Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde

Notre Dame De La Garde Marseille Scaled
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Ajay K
Also known as Cathedrale Sainte-Marie-Majeure de Marseille, this site comprises two distinct cathedrals, old and new. In the late 19th century, Napoleon III, Emperor of France, chose to replace the 12th-century Provencal Romanesque cathedral known as "Vielle Major." Most of it was demolished, except for the choir and a section of the nave, preserved after public outcry halted further destruction.…
Location: Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, Rue Fort du Sanctuaire, Marseille, France | Hours: Daily 07:00 - 18:00 | Price: Free | Distance: 2.1km
Visiting Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde

Château d'If

Chateau D If France Scaled
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Acediscovery
Nestled on the Île d'If, the smallest island of the Frioul archipelago and only 1.5 kilometers off the coast of Marseille, the Château d'If stands as a formidable fortress with a storied past. Constructed in the 16th century, it initially served as a prison until the late 19th century. In 1890, the fortress was demilitarized and opened to the public,…
Location: Château d'If, Marseille, France | Hours: April 1 to September 30 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.October 1 to March 31 10 a.m. - 5.15 p.m. Closed on Mondays | Price: Adults €7 | Website | Distance: 4.3km
Visiting Château d'If
Powered by GetYourGuide

Parc Borély

Marseille Chateau Borely
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Charliemoon
Borély Park, located in Marseille, is a celebrated public municipal park recognized as one of the Notable Gardens of France by the French Ministry of Culture. Covering 17 hectares, the park features three distinct gardens, each offering its unique charm and beauty. The park's origins date back to the 17th century when Joseph Borély, a French ship owner and merchant,…
Location: Parc Borély, Avenue du Parc Borély, Marseille, France | Distance: 4.8km
Visiting Parc Borély

Best Day Trips from Marseille

A day trip from Marseille offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Marseille provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Parc national des Calanques

Calanque D En Vau Scaled
CC BY-SA 4.0 / GabrielleMerk
Calanques National Park (Parc national des Calanques) is a stunning national park located along the Mediterranean coast in the Bouches-du-Rhône region of Southern France. Established in 2012, the park covers an expansive area of 520 km² (201 sq mi), with 85 km² (33 sq mi) of it being terrestrial and the remainder marine. The park encompasses parts of the Massif…
Location: Parc national des Calanques, Marseille, France | Website | Distance: 11.2km
Visiting Parc national des Calanques
Powered by GetYourGuide

Aix en Provence

Aix En Provence
Aix-en-Provence, commonly pronounced as "X," is a stunning town in the far south of France, easily accessible by TGV high-speed train. It takes about three hours from downtown Paris and three and a half hours from Charles de Gaulle Airport. Located just 30km north of Marseille, Aix could well have been the central hub of Provence if not overshadowed by…
Visiting Aix en Provence
Powered by GetYourGuide

Toulon

Toulon France
Toulon is a lively port city known for its mix of maritime heritage, sunny Mediterranean ambiance, and relaxed coastal vibe. Visitors can enjoy the bustling harbor, stroll along the waterfront promenade, and explore local markets filled with Provençal flavors. The city also offers a great balance of culture and leisure, with museums, theaters, and charming old town streets waiting to…
Visiting Toulon
Powered by GetYourGuide

Cavaillon

Cavaillon
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Julien Pelissier
Visiting Cavaillon offers a delightful mix of small-town charm and access to the beautiful landscapes of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. The town is known for its stunning surroundings, including the nearby Luberon mountains and vast fields of fruit orchards, particularly its famous melons. With its warm Mediterranean climate, Cavaillon is an excellent spot for those who enjoy outdoor activities like…
Visiting Cavaillon
Powered by GetYourGuide

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

France St Remy De Provence
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is a picturesque town in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of southern France, beloved for its sun-drenched charm, winding stone streets, and atmospheric markets. Surrounded by olive groves and vineyards at the foot of the Alpilles mountains, it's an ideal destination for those looking to experience the slower rhythms and sensory pleasures of Provençal life. Weekly markets fill the town…
Visiting Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
Powered by GetYourGuide

Arles

The Amphitheatre Of Arles
Positioned along the River Rhône in the heart of Provence, Southern France, Arles captivates with its blend of elegant 18th and 19th-century mansions and ancient Roman architecture. Arles is one of the most underrated cities in France. Its fame was significantly heightened by Vincent van Gogh, whose time in Arles left behind an array of scenes that continue to draw…
Visiting Arles
Powered by GetYourGuide

Avignon

Avignon
Avignon is one of those places that instantly makes you slow down and look around. The stone streets, shaded squares, and dramatic medieval architecture feel like something out of a film set. Walking through the old town is a joy in itself—cafés spill into plazas, musicians play under centuries-old archways, and the golden light bouncing off the Rhône makes everything…
Visiting Avignon
Powered by GetYourGuide

Nimes

Nimes France
Nîmes, in the Occitanie region, is a city where Roman grandeur meets southern French charm. Its sun-drenched streets, leafy boulevards, and relaxed pace make it a pleasant place to explore on foot. The architecture is striking, blending ancient stone with classical French facades, and there's a strong local culture centered around food, markets, and outdoor living. The city is also…
Visiting Nimes
Powered by GetYourGuide

Uzes

Uzes France
Uzès is a charming town in the Occitanie region, known for its beautiful medieval architecture, lively markets, and tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can explore the picturesque streets, lined with boutiques, cafés, and art galleries, all while soaking in the town’s relaxed, small-town feel. The town's central square, Place aux Herbes, hosts a popular market where you can sample local produce and…
Visiting Uzes

Bagnols-en-Foret

Bagnols En Foret
Public Domain / Patricia.fidi
Bagnols-en-Forêt is a peaceful escape tucked into the hills above the Côte d’Azur, offering a slower, more scenic pace compared to the coastal buzz. Wandering its quiet stone streets, shaded squares, and terraced cafés, you feel like you're stepping into a secret corner of Provence. It’s the kind of place where you can spend an afternoon sipping rosé under the…
Visiting Bagnols-en-Foret

Montpellier

Montpellier France
Montpellier, located in the Occitanie region of southern France, is a vibrant and youthful city with a unique blend of old-world charm and modern energy. Its sunny Mediterranean climate, bustling town squares, and lively street culture make it a perfect destination for both relaxation and exploration. The city feels alive with students, art, and music, giving it an effortlessly cool…
Visiting Montpellier
Powered by GetYourGuide

Where to Stay in Marseille

For a luxurious stay, InterContinental Marseille – Hotel Dieu stands out with its historic architecture and panoramic views of the Old Port. Another top-tier option is Le Petit Nice – Passedat, offering a serene seaside setting and a renowned Michelin-starred restaurant.

Boutique hotel enthusiasts might appreciate Hotel C2, a 19th-century mansion blending historic charm with modern design. For a more artistic vibe, Mama Shelter Marseille offers quirky interiors and a lively atmosphere.

Travelers on a budget can consider Hotel 96, a charming hotel set in a 19th-century house with modern amenities. Another affordable option is Hôtel Hermès, offering comfortable rooms and a rooftop terrace with views over the city.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Marseille. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Marseille Accommodation Map

Best Time to Visit Marseille

Marseille in Spring

Spring (March to May) is a great time to visit Marseille, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Temperatures gradually rise from around 15°C in March to 22°C in May, making it perfect for exploring the Vieux-Port, seaside promenades, and outdoor markets. The city begins to buzz with activity, and events such as the Fête du Panier and early music festivals offer cultural flavour. Wildflowers and fresh produce bring a burst of colour to the city’s parks and markets.

Marseille in Summer (Best)

Summer (June to August) is the best time to visit Marseille for beach weather, festivals, and a vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere. Daytime temperatures often range from 27°C to 33°C, with nearly constant sunshine. The city hosts the Festival de Marseille, a month-long celebration of dance, music, and theatre held in outdoor venues and historic spaces. It’s also the ideal season to swim in the Calanques, enjoy open-air cinema, and dine late at waterfront restaurants.

Marseille in Autumn

Autumn (September to November) brings milder weather and fewer tourists, with temperatures ranging from 25°C in early September to around 14°C by November. The sea remains warm enough for swimming well into October, and the city’s cultural life stays active. Events like the Fiesta des Suds, a popular world music festival, take place in October, drawing visitors and locals alike. The season offers a relaxed pace with great light for photography and comfortable conditions for hiking in the surrounding hills.

Marseille in Winter

Winter (December to February) is the quietest season in Marseille, with daytime temperatures typically between 10°C and 14°C. Though it’s not beach weather, the city remains lively with winter markets, festive lights, and the annual Fête de la Saint-Barbe. Restaurants and museums are less crowded, and visitors can enjoy a more local rhythm. Winter is also a good time to explore cultural sites, warm up with Provençal food, and enjoy views of the sea without the summer crowds.

Annual Weather Overview

  • January 12°C
  • February 12°C
  • March 14°C
  • April 16°C
  • May 21°C
  • June 26°C
  • July 30°C
  • August 28°C
  • September 25°C
  • October 21°C
  • November 15°C
  • December 12°C

How to get to Marseille

Getting to Marseille, a major city in southern France, is quite straightforward due to its well-connected transportation infrastructure. Here’s how you can reach Marseille by various modes of transport:

By Air: Marseille is served by Marseille Provence Airport (MRS), which is located about 25 kilometers (15 miles) northwest of the city center. It is the fifth busiest French airport by passenger traffic and offers numerous domestic and international flights. From the airport, you can reach the city center via shuttle buses, taxis, or rental cars. The shuttle bus service links the airport to Marseille Saint Charles Train Station every 15-20 minutes.

By Train: Marseille Saint Charles Train Station is the main railway hub in Marseille and is well-connected to many French cities and other European destinations. High-speed TGV trains can take you from Paris to Marseille in about 3 hours. There are also regular regional trains and services from other major cities like Lyon, Nice, and Toulouse.

By Bus: Various national and international bus services, such as FlixBus and Eurolines, connect Marseille with other French cities and neighboring countries. The main bus terminal is located near Saint Charles Train Station, making transfers between bus and train relatively seamless.

By Car: Marseille is easily accessible by road and is well-connected to the French motorway system. The A7 motorway links Marseille to Lyon and Paris, the A50 connects it to Toulon and Nice, and the A55 links to Montpellier and Spain. Driving to Marseille can be a good option if you plan to explore the Provence region at your own pace.

By Boat: Marseille has a large port that accommodates cruise ships and ferries. There are regular ferry services between Marseille and Corsica, Sardinia, and other Mediterranean destinations. The ferry terminal is close to the city center, making it convenient for travelers arriving by sea.

These various transport options make Marseille accessible for both domestic and international travelers, providing a range of choices depending on your starting point and preferences.

Powered by GetYourGuide