As France’s oldest city, Marseille operates at a different rhythm than the rest of the country. It is a place where the salt spray of the Mediterranean mixes with the hum of a bustling, multicultural metropolis. Unlike the manicured boulevards of Paris, Marseille offers a raw, authentic energy that feels distinctly unpolished and deeply human.
Navigating this sprawling city can be overwhelming for first-time visitors who expect a quiet Riviera town. Marseille is massive, gritty, and complex, but it rewards the curious traveler with hidden coves, ancient history, and a food scene that is arguably the most diverse in France. To truly appreciate it, you need to know where to look beyond the Old Port.
From the historic neighborhood of Le Panier to the dramatic cliffs of the Calanques, the city is a collection of distinct villages that happen to share a coastline. Whether you are a history buff, a street art enthusiast, or a foodie searching for the perfect bouillabaisse, Marseille has a specific corner waiting for you.
This guide is designed to cut through the noise and point you directly toward the experiences that define the Phocaean city. We have curated a list of the essential stops that balance the iconic landmarks with the local secrets. By focusing on geography and culture, you can plan an itinerary that flows naturally from the sea to the summit.
Before you start packing your bags, it is worth understanding that Marseille is best explored on foot and via public transit. The terrain is hilly, and the neighborhoods shift character quickly, so comfortable shoes are a necessity. With an open mind and a healthy appetite, you will find that Marseille offers a depth that few other European port cities can match.
Below is a curated collection of destinations that should anchor any visit to the city. These attractions represent the historical, natural, and culinary pillars of Marseille, ensuring you experience the true essence of the capital of Provence.
Notre-Dame de la Garde
| Address | Domaine Notre Dame de la Garde, Rue Fort du Sanctuaire, 13006 Marseille |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 91 13 40 80 |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A truly breathtaking place and an absolute must-visit in Marseille. The basilica is stunning both inside and out, with beautiful mosaics, impressive architecture, and a peaceful atmosphere. The panoramic views over Marseille and the Mediterranean Sea are simply unforgettable. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or just looking for the best viewpoint in the city, this place is well worth the visit. Highly recommended!
A hill on the south side of the Vieux-Port, where the basilica also called la Bonne Mère stands. One of the most visited places in Marseille with a breathtaking view of the entire city. You can get here in various ways, you can easily do it on foot. The interior of the basilica is beautifully decorated with mosaics that have been recently renovated. The number of people depends of course on the season and time. It is probably obvious that it is best to arrive as early as possible in the morning to avoid the crowds. It is definitely worth a visit.
If you collect zero euro banknotes, there is a machine where you can buy yours here.
At the back, at the other end of the promenade, is a modest monument - Monument des disparus en mer. It is a small, inconspicuous stele, on which is placed a large Camargue cross, which seems to point to the sky while looking at the sea. It bears the names of those who never returned from their voyage across the Mediterranean and whose bodies, jealously guarded by the water, were never found. Pope Francis also stopped here in 2023 during his visit to Marseille.
A breathtaking must-see that offers the most spectacular 360-degree views of Marseille and the Mediterranean. Whether you hike up or take the tourist train, the reward at the top is unparalleled.
The basilica itself is stunning, with intricate golden mosaics and a peaceful atmosphere that feels worlds away from the bustling port below. It is a beautiful blend of architectural history and spiritual significance.
The "Good Mother" watching over the city is a powerful symbol, and the detail in the ex-votos—small boats and paintings left by sailors—is incredibly moving.
Pro Tip: Try to visit just before sunset. Watching the sky change colors over the Frioul Islands from this vantage point is a memory you won't soon forget. Free entry, though the climb is steep!
Great views of marseille from the grounds. Well maintained and worth a visit if you like seeing churches. We walked up but was tough in the heat. Take bus or small city train if possible!
The walk is iconic and the views are wonderful! The cathedral itself was turned into too much of a tourist attraction for my liking, though, and it's a much less impressive and unique cathedral than the Saint-Marie, which won't be causing you leg cramps 😂 jokes aside, its beauty is incredible, but I always like cathedrals that have winding halls and more than just one room, and this is mostly just one really pretty room with a great platform for a view of the city.
Marseille Cathedral
| Address | Pl. de la Major, 13002 Marseille |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Marseille Cathedral is an impressive masterpiece of architecture and one of the city’s most beautiful landmarks. The combination of Romanesque and Byzantine styles makes it truly unique. The interior is peaceful, elegant, and full of stunning details, while its location by the waterfront adds to its charm. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply looking for a quiet place to admire, this cathedral is definitely worth visiting. Highly recommended!
This cathedral is absolutely stunning and one of the highlights of Marseille. The architecture is impressive both from the outside and inside, with its grand scale, intricate details, and beautiful light coming through the space. What makes it even more special is that it is free to enter, which is quite rare for a landmark of this size and beauty in Europe. It’s a peaceful and memorable place to visit, especially if you’re exploring the nearby waterfront.
It's an okayish church, beautiful outside but inside I wasn't as surprised compared to other churches! Anyway, you can pass by since it's free and it is quie nicely located! Don't worry, it can be still a nice place to meditation! I thank you so much for this experience! May God bless this church!!!
A stunning 19C cathedral: a wonderful space, in the Romanesque style.
Get the app to understand more - if you don't mind watching through screens of dense text. But it contained the occasional gem - eg that the alter was found in an antique store.
But the building is well worth a visit. And the chapels around the ambulatory are interesting, too.
The Cathédrale de La Major is the only cathedral built in the 19th century. At that time, Marseille was flourishing and experiencing a period of prosperity. Therefore, the construction and materials were the most modern for its time. Also, the interior and exterior decorations give this religious building an original and distinctive look.
This is definitely a must-see.
Next to the cathedral is a bronze statue of Bishop de Belsunce. During World War II, it was hidden and then reinstalled to the left of the entrance. It commemorates the devotion and charity shown by Bishop de Belsunce, Bishop of Marseille from 1709 to 1755, during the terrible plague of 1720.
Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations
| Address | 1 Esp. J4, 13002 Marseille |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 84 35 13 13 |
Other than my fabulous spot at the Parc Longchamp, this museum is my other favorite all around spot and experience throughout Marseille. The walk around within the interior as well as the expositions are wonderful. The best, however, is the incredible roof terrace that overlooks onto the mediterranean sea. The cement sculpted architectural structure envelopping the building is nothing short of creatively spectacular. Grab a chair or lounger and have a bite or drink while contemplating life and enjoying their (free entry) terrace. The bonus is to then walk across the suspended bridge and visit the Fort Saint Jean. Both are must visits in Marseille.
Cultural place, we visited 2 expositions, very well made, very well organised and beautiful.
The museum is huge and free, you pay only if you want to see the exhibits, if you want only to explore is free.
There is a restaurant at the top with a beautiful view to the water.
I recommend you coming with time to view everything and explore all the parts.
Overall a very good experience in a very beautiful place!!
Very big museum close to the old Port... It's near the water... When you come inside there is free places to seat... If you want to see exhibition you must buy ticket... There is few different exhibition on different floors... Every exhibit is independent of other and another theme... On the roof there is little bridge to go across to last room...Also there is restaurant up there to relax if it's hot outside... From there you have beautiful view and Marseille and old Port... All recommendations for visit and take some nice pictures and videos if you are in Marseille
This is another must-see historical site to see when you are in Marseille. Unfortunately, due to the time constraints, we were not able to purchase a ticket and go up on top to walk across for a spectacular view of Marseille. Inside this contemporary museum, I understand it really shows off the beauty of European and Mediterranean culture.
As astounding as all the displays are, one thing visitors should be aware of is the museum's photography policy. They have strict restrictions on photography, which they take very seriously, so adhere to the strict rule during your visit or risk losing your phone or camera.
Very close to the waterfront and a great place to tour inside as well as the outside for stunning visuals. As for ticket prices, I cannot comment on those since my husband handled all of our reservations and admissions throughout the trip.
A smalller, modern museum hosting a permanent and various temporary exhibitions. The permanent exhibition is a bit small and could do with some expansion.
However, the museum itself is impressive and offers some exceptionally views and easy access to Fort Saint-Jean, which is considered part of the museum.
Abbaye Saint-Victor
| Address | Pl. Saint-Victor, 13007 Marseille |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 96 11 22 60 |
Fortified church that is centuries old, free entrance, 3€ to visit the crypt. Well worth the visit when in Marseille.
This is worth a visit just to go down to the crypt. It was 3 euros to enter the crypt, and worth it. It has a fascinating history. And the areas of the crypt are well documented and explained. It was hard to believe that there is a huge church above it.The church itself is also beautiful.
This is a must-go sanctuary if you're visiting Marseille, considering it dates back to the 3rd century. For a ticket of 3e, you can enter the crypt that's bellow the Abbey which shows you an authentic early Christian atmosphere. It's one of the few antique religious monuments in Marseille. In 5th century AC San Giovanni Cassio, builds a monastery above the thombs of the martyrs, and in the 11th century, superior church has been built. In the crypt is a statue of La Nostra Signora di Penitenza, which was admired and venerated especially during the Candelora holidays.
In the second half of XX century the Abbey of St. Victor received an honorary title of the basilica.
The crypt itself is separated in couple of spaces which serve as an exhibition rooms also. Absolutely stunning place.
Has a mural of Mary Magdalene. A cave of Lazarus. The place was when the group of Magdalene arrived in Marseille by boat from Palestine in the first century. An important place for Christians who believe in legends, and for secular history buffs like me 🙂
The Abbaye Saint-Victor (St. Victor's Abbey) is a fortified Romanesque landmark in Marseille, widely considered one of the oldest Christian sites in France. Founded in the 5th century by Saint John Cassian, it was built over an ancient necropolis housing the remains of early Christian martyrs, including its namesake, Saint Victor. Today, it serves as an active Catholic basilica and is a major historical monument overlooking the Vieux-Port (Old Port).
Fort de Ratonneau
| Address | Île Ratonneau, 13007 Marseille |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
A nice place to visit if you're in Marseille. The boat ticket (both sides) costs around 11€ for adult and there is a boat every 45 minutes in average. Island is not very big and there are not a lot of shops/cafes there but there are a lot of places with beautiful views. It's a good place for hiking or you can go to the beach and relax there. The colour of the water is just incredible
Amazing views. Not crowded. Used the boat to come back and forth.
Nice island the boat rake around 20 min to arrive from the old port. From the port it takes like 40 min slow walk to reach to the highest point and you get a nice view of the castle of If. Be aware that the boat schedule might change due to climate or the different weather seasons.
This is located on a small little island off the coast of France near Marseilles. The island is popular with locals for its isolated beaches, and there are some shops and restaurants near the harbor.
The beaches are not the soft sandy beaches of Valencia, they are small stones and rocks and you need to wear foot protection when going into the water.
I took a short hike up the hillside to the ruined fort and found it to be a pleasant walk with the just the right amount of exertion. The views from the top were breathtaking.
Amazing visit, highly recommended. It's on an island of Frioul. Really beautiful island, couple of small beaches (if you visit on the right day with less tourists it could be private beaches 😉 ) we visited last week and were lucky to get a sunny morning. Although there's only a bit of fort left, but the hike till there is amazing with great views all around especially of the port and the city of Marseille.
Old Charity Center
| Address | 2 Rue de la Charité, 13002 Marseille |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 91 14 58 80 |
Wauwawiewa, what an incredible place! For free!
Amazing expositions and collections, it felt like a mini Louvre but with way better info pannels. So many and diverse beautiful things to see (the quality blew my mind), from the ancient Greece to oceania and back, and from below to seas into the air (loved the colored sheets artwork). Amazing building too. What a great team they have here, thank you very much!
The surrounding building contains historical expositions on Egypt, Africa, The Mediterranean and Mexico. The dyed curtains are part of an art exposition that continues in the centre building. The staff was very friendly and patient explaining the history of the place despite it being closing time at the main/centre building. Other stuff not so friendly cause it was near closing time.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A beautiful and peaceful place full of history and character. The architecture is impressive, and the courtyards create a calm atmosphere away from the busy streets of Marseille. The exhibitions are well presented and offer a fascinating insight into the city’s history and culture. It’s a perfect spot to spend a couple of hours exploring, taking photos, and enjoying one of Marseille’s most remarkable landmarks. Highly recommended!
Cultural place with several expositions, they were free when we came, however, you still need to get a ticket.
Most rooms were closed but we were able to visit the Egypt one, it was really interesting and worth the while.
There are lockers you can put your things in if have too many bags, and there is also a restaurant at the entrance next to the ticket office.
Hopefully this place is run by people who really believe in culture and in the future of young community. Keep having free expositions this is great!
Overall if you are near, I recommend passing by.
Interesting experience! Quite nice but a bit confusion sometimes and annoying that tou have to show the ticket everytime you enter a new room! Some exhibitions were quite boring, other quite creative! Thriller to watch other cultures! What else can I say? It's free so yeah, 2hy you have to still show the ticket, lol...Anyway, nice staff and hope you will pass by! You will enjoy it! Thank you so much for this experience!!
Palais Longchamp
| Address | Bd Jard. Zoologique, 13004 Marseille |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | 07 61 71 01 76 |
The architecture is absolutely breathtaking, elegant, grand, and full of artistic details. The fountains and sculptures are especially stunning — every statue seems to tell a story. Walking through the palace and gardens felt peaceful and inspiring at the same time.
The combination of history, art, and beautiful scenery makes this place unforgettable. If you visit Marseille, this is definitely a place you should not miss.
Interesting park, the front waterfall and fountain are very well maintained and beautiful but further into the park you can see signs of neglect. It was a welcome break from our touring that day regardless.
Easily one of the most magnificent landmarks in Marseille. Even if you don't plan on going inside the museums, the monumental fountain and colonnades are a masterpiece of architecture and a perfect backdrop for photography.
The scale of the "chateau d'eau" is breathtaking, and the way the water cascades down is incredibly peaceful. Behind the palace, the Parc Longchamp is a beautiful green escape—ideal for a relaxed stroll or just to sit and people-watch. It’s well-maintained, full of history, and offers a much-needed breath of fresh air.
Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or just looking for a stunning place to walk, this is an essential stop. Truly a jewel of the city!
Great monument in Marseille... One of the main things what to see in this city... When you walk around such a great feeling... Beautiful architecture, big waterfall, big park, come, look and enjoy... Inside you have two museums one with pictures and one with animals, both are amazing... Sometimes it's very crowded and I recommend to come early in the morning, and take nice pictures and videos... All recommendations for visit and enjoy if you are in Marseille
An experience not to be missed. The most magnificant fountain and park I ever laid eyes on. It was difficult to leave this place. I wanted to know more about it and it seems that the water flowing through this fountain comes from a river whereby the water served the population of Marseille. I could sit, listen and gaze at this masterpiece forever. A must on your Marseille bucket list. Tip: take the Tram line 2 straight to the Palais Longchamp stop and wait to be surprised as you step off the tram to get faced with stunning wonder.
Le Maregraphe
| Address | 174 Cor Président John Fitzgerald Kennedy, 13007 Marseille |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | 01 43 98 80 00 |
Nice place for tanning, also can walk a lot when enjoying the sun, sea, etc...
A very interesting place by the sea. We were there in a sunny day and it was lovely. I missed some kind of posters explaining where the exact point is (I guess protected inside the building).
Interesting.
Being a tide geek, I had to visit, shame it wasn't open for touts. I understand why, but I would have loved to see inside
Great to find the place where the height above sea level is measured. Not sure about the claim of the world's longest bench though. It has a lot of gaps.
hidden place to visit. nice view from this point
Parc national des Calanques
| Address | 13008 Marseille |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | 04 20 10 50 00 |
On of the most memorable nature trips of my life. We took a boat tour from the port of Marseille and we could not believe our eyes, every corner was filled with the most amazing views. A must do when in Marseille.
Parc national des Calanques is an amazing place for hiking! I went in the end of March, weather was perfect - not too hot, not too cold, clear sky. Always good to have shorts in the backpack in case it's warmer, also an extra layer in case it's cold and windy - the Mistral wind can be brutal. Hiking from Cassis to Callelongue via GR98 in 1 day is totally doable if you're fit for it and start early. Amazing experience, I'm so glad I went! 😊
Beautiful.
But 4 starts as there are no toilets!
So many people attending, there should be public toilets at the entrance.
Luckily there is the Uni close by!
Did the La traversée des Calanques (1/3): Marseille - Luminy and what fantastic views, it was challenging but the perfect way to relax and unwind, especially woth no cell reception. I used Mes Calanques app to find a trail and the map worked perfectly.
One of the best national parks I have been to; do yourself a favor and spend the whole day here starting early to avoid midday heat!
Port Antique
| Address | 2 Rue Henri Barbusse, 13001 Marseille |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 91 55 36 00 |
It's a nice tour... Love the history & flag wall. Seing Taye Taiwo on the wall gave deja vu feeling of a reckoning force he was as LB. May visit again hopefully to watch a UCL match.
Interesting and you can view from the walkway.
The Musée d'histoire antique de Marseille, is a very good museum with an amazing collection of the oldest village from France! There is no cost to see the fixed exposition, however you need to pay to see the others expositions. It is located next to the mall "centre bourse".
We started our walking tour with MSC Excursions here. The area was restored to remember the ancient Roman Port. The metal ship structures are a good way to imagine the ancient ships.
Good for day visit with family. Specially museum. Lots of navel learnings across centuries.
Canebière-vieux port
| Address | La Canebière, 13001 Marseille |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
Magnificent Marseilles, what's not to like, the opulent buildings around the vieux port, the poverty just a few streets back, the fashiin houses, the nightlife and cafe`s, Marseilles has it all, 😳... but it's a big "BUT" I preferred it for 20 years, ago when it was in my mind smaller and more cultural, no great big excusrion boats. Small fishing boats in the harbour, local fayre, no bloody great big bus stops!. Huge paved area's..
For me, of course yes it's worth a visit, but it has been over improved, and lost its quintessential harbour feel
Relaxing
The famous port of Marseille! 🌊
Located at the very end of La Canebière.
👉🏻 Fish market in the mornings
👉🏻 Flower market on Tuesdays and Saturdays
🛥 🛥 Shuttle service departing from L'Estaque, Pointe Rouge, and Les Goudes
⚠️ Only in spring and summer 👉🏻 Please check the dates in advance
〰〰〰〰〰
Iconic landmarks:
👉🏻 MUCEM
👉🏻 Cathédrale de la Major
👉🏻 Club Pernod Ricard
Visit the Old Port, take a little train to Notre-Dame, and explore the city center. My advice is to use public transportation; I'll take you everywhere, including to the surrounding beaches.
A city center gone shabby, a place to live that no longer has any meaning; everything is very expensive...there are hardly any people left.
Château d'If
| Address | Embarcadère Frioul If, 1 Quai de la Fraternité, 13001 Marseille |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 10:10 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 10:10 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 10:10 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 10:10 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 10:10 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 10:10 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | 06 03 06 25 26 |
Took the ferry out to see this beautiful historic castle. Took a ferry to the island spent roughly 90 minutes there then took another ferry else where. The ferry schedule is posted and easy to plan your day around had no issues when we visited. There are stairs and a hill to walk up. Saw other people struggling with kids strollers.
We enjoyed visiting Chateau d'If a lot.
The cost for the ferry ride is very reasonable and the entry ticket is also not bad, total is 18 euros per person for everything.
If you are a fan of "The Count of Monte Cristo," then this is a must visit place - otherwise, the view alone from the island is amazing!
Such a small island with a Castle, but well worth the visit, the views from Marseille and Frioul Island is amazing from here. The boat trip stops here for some minutes.
I absolutely do not recommend it to anyone. You will simply waste your time and money. There is absolutely nothing interesting on the island—just a few stone-walled cells. A few information boards and a flyer at the entrance are the entire exhibition. You can see everything in no more than 10 minutes.
It’s a shame you can’t ask for your money back.
The transportation is terrible as well. There may not be enough space on the boat, so you could end up waiting another hour—or even two—for the next one.
Don’t waste your time and your money.
Amazing ferry ride out to the Château. Amazing place to visit! Loved the dome at top where the voice echos when you talk. We also loved the old graffiti from the prisoners.
Marseille
| Address | 13002 Marseille |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
Fantastic city, its port, restaurants..., its nearby St. Chares station; train and bus together.
Visite guidée Marseille - Balade d'une Marseillaise
| Address | 5 Bd d'Arras, 13004 Marseille |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | 06 35 12 70 04 |
Museum with great views
Incredible
A must see place
Beautiful sights. An impressive historic fountain. At the time of our visit, there was a free exhibition on historical wildlife. Highly recommended.
We decided to visit this place during our one-day stay in Marseille, and it was a great choice. It's beautiful, atmospheric, and definitely leaves a lasting impression. Besides the stunning photos, we experienced a sense of calm and dignity in the heart of a metropolis of millions. Importantly, admission is free, and there's plenty of room for everyone.
Place d'Armes
| Address | Esplanade du Fort Saint-Jean, 13002, 1 Quai du Port, 13002 Marseille |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
This fort adjoining the Mucem has been redeveloped into gardens and art displays. A walk along the ramparts provides wonderful views of the city and harbor.
The multi floor museum itself presents items and histories of Mediterranean cultures. Beyond Europe it particularly emphasizes Egypt and Tunisia.
The supplemental exhibits focusing on similarities among cultures, in astrology or pottery for example, present insightful comparisons and fascinating example objects. The museum will probably never run out of topics for comparative exhibits (cooking, gardening, print making, etc), so living nearby and being able to see them all is enviable.
The museum's ground and top floors both feature cafes, and there is an entertaining gift shop at bottom.
Free entry to a ruin fortress. You can cross the bridges to go via city centre and the musuems. Free public toulet here as well. Can chill here and enjoy the view.
Oooh how I loved that place! Really nice views, it’s free and also they have the cleanest toilets I’ve ever seen!😀 don’t thank me. It’s like the only toilet in Marseille that you can use during their lockdowns etc 🤣
Amazing views of the harbour, it's completely free to visit and it leads you over to the Musium.
Must see area. Spend 30 mins to have a beautiful walk along will make you feel blessed
La Joconde de Marseille
| Address | 68 Av. Roger Salengro, 13003 Marseille |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
The Mona Lisa of Marseille, created using 6,207 points, measuring 8 meters high and 6 meters wide by the artist Kan Da Mental Vaporz, is the 7th artwork at the MauMA (Museum of Urban Arts of Marseille), inaugurated in June 2022 at 68 Avenue Roger Salengro in the 3rd arrondissement of Marseille.
As part of the exhibition "Mona Lisa, an Immersive Exhibition," which ran from March to August 2022 at the Palais de la Bourse in Marseille and was co-produced by the Grand Palais Immersif and the Louvre Museum, the MauMA gave artist Kan/DMV free rein to create the artwork "Mona Lisa of Marseille."
It's not worth it, it's not in a nice neighborhood. Very dirty.
It was worth seeing, but nothing amazing.
I have now visited this place and the people here in France are very kind.
Life's curiosities 👍🏻
Les Petits Trains de Marseille
| Address | 174 Quai du Port, 13002 Marseille |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 91 25 24 69 |
We took Tour 1 with our two toddlers and it was a great choice! The kids had a blast, and it was a very convenient way to see the upper part of town and the church on the hill without a long walk. Overall, a fun experience and we’d definitely recommend it to families.
Option 2: Relaxed & Descriptive (Great for TripAdvisor)
Title: Fun and easy for families with small children
We opted for Tour 1 and it was a solid experience. Traveling with two small kids can be exhausting, but the train made it easy for us to see the sights, especially the church at the top of the town. The kids were entertained the whole time. Overall, it’s a lovely way to get a feel for the city. Recommendation!
Option 3: Quick "Pro-Tip" Style
Great experience for families! We did Tour 1 with two little ones and they loved it. It’s the perfect way to reach the church on the hill and see the upper town without the climb. Fun, easy, and worth the ride. Recommended!
If you're at the port and have not yet been up to the Cathedral, this is the best way to get there. If you've been up already, take the second petit train for a great tour of Old Marseille. It's a bumpy ride but a nice little tour of the town. It's not very expensive, so we did the train tour through the old port after we were done exploring the rest of the area. It was really nice.
It was a great experience.
You can ride around, enjoy the atmosphere, get off near the cathedral, and hop back on again, so I’d recommend it. The fare is also discounted for children up to age 11
We had a great ride on le Petit Train de Marseille, but to be honest I wasnt blown away. We took the 2eme route, as we already had visited Notre Dame de la Garde and wanted to see another side of the city. We took a 30 minute stop in Le Panier, which was nice, but other than that we didn’t get to see much else of the city. The guided narration didn’t really teach us that much, and it felt like the route we took was down the most random streets. But, it’s still a fun activity if you’re wanting to get around town a bit. (TBH the Petit Train of Pau is way better…)
Perfect way to visit the city, hear about history. Nice for children. You can see nice views. Main station where you can buy tickets is in old port.
Place des moulins
| Address | 13 Rue des Moulins, 13002 Marseille |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
KNOW YOUR HISTORY.
Named for the presence of windmills at the end of the 16th century. Climb via the Accoules, discover two towers integrated into the houses in the Place des Moulins, the last archaeological vestiges of the town's 15 windmills. In the 19th century, the town razed everything, giving this square the appearance of a village square. It houses an old cistern in its basement, a veritable underground monument (closed to the public).
It looks like an abandoned square. Does not invite to sit and relax
It's like straight out of a painting! 😍
Top
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Tips for Visiting Marseille
While the list above gives you the “what,” a few strategic insights will drastically improve the “how” of your trip. Understanding the local logistics, safety nuances, and cultural etiquette will allow you to move through the city with the confidence of a local rather than a disoriented tourist. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind during your stay.
First, invest in a public transport pass that covers the Metro, tram, and bus systems. Marseille is spread out, and while the Vieux-Port is walkable, reaching destinations like the Velodrome stadium or the northern districts requires transit. The RTM network is efficient, but you must validate your ticket upon boarding to avoid fines.
Second, be cautious of pickpockets, especially on Metro Line 1 and around the Saint-Charles train station. Keep your backpack on your front and avoid flashing expensive jewelry or phones near the curb. Marseille is generally safe for tourists, but it requires the same street smarts you would use in Barcelona or Naples.
Third, do not limit your dining to the tourist terraces directly facing the Old Port. These locations often serve overpriced, mediocre food designed for one-time visitors. Walk a few blocks inland to the Cours Julien or the Noailles district, where the prices drop, the quality rises, and the atmosphere becomes genuinely local.
Fourth, dress for the terrain and the culture. Marseille is hilly and the sidewalks are often narrow and uneven, so leave the high heels at home. Additionally, when visiting religious sites like the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered as a sign of respect.
Finally, learn a few basic French phrases. While Marseille is a tourist hub, the service staff appreciates a polite “Bonjour” before switching to English. A little effort in the local language goes a long way in receiving warm service in a city that prides itself on being direct and honest.
Marseille is not a city that tries to seduce you with perfection; it seduces you with personality. It is a city of contrasts, where a 12th-century fortress sits next to a modern museum, and where the smell of fresh fish mixes with the exhaust of scooters. By embracing the chaos and the beauty in equal measure, you unlock an experience that feels less like a standard vacation and more like a genuine adventure.
As you watch the sunset from a rocky outcrop or share a pastis with a stranger at a zinc bar, you will understand why so many travelers fall hard for this city. Marseille asks for your patience, but in return, it gives you a story you will tell for years to come.
