THINGS TO DO IN Marseille: 2-DAY ITINERARY

Marseille, a port town in the south of France, offers an eclectic mix of activities. Beach lovers are catered for and so are those who want to go sightseeing, with an interesting and unusual selection of museums. Marseille is a melting pot of cultures with a large immigrant population, particularly from North Africa, and you can find an exciting mix of restaurants, cafes, shops, and markets. It is an ancient town, with a history going back 2,600 years, making it the oldest city in France. The Old Port has been in use since 600 BC and should be included in your visit.

We have prepared a two-day itinerary which takes you to the major highlights of Marseille. However, if you have more time, we have suggested additional things to do both in the city and in the surrounding area.

Day 1

Morning: Cathédrale Sainte-Marie-Majeure

Start your tour of Marseille at the city's major religious site, the Roman Catholic Cathedral of Saint-Marie-Majeure. It is the only cathedral in the country to have been built in the 19th century, with most cathedrals being built centuries before. However, it does sit on the site of a 4th-century religious building. Construction began in 1852, and it took 44 years to complete. It was decided to build it in the Roman-Byzantine style because Marseille was, at that time, the main gateway to the east. The inside is impressive with mosaic floors and white and red marble banners.

Musee Regards de Provence

A three-minute walk takes you to this museum, which showcases graphic art depicting Provence in different ways. Around 800 artworks, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, and drawings by such artists as Paul Guigou and Vincent Courdouan, are on display. The artwork dates from the 18th century to the present day. There is 1,215 m2 of exhibition space, and some of this is taken up with temporary exhibitions.

MUCEM And Fort De Saint-Jean

Another three-minute walk takes you to MUCEM, an exciting contemporary museum founded in 2013 that tells the history of the Mediterranean way of life through exhibitions, artefacts, and photos. It focuses on agriculture, democracy, the sea, and religion. The design of the building is fascinating—it is literally a block of glass that looks beautiful when lit at night.

MUCEM is right next door to the 12th-century Fort de Saint-Jean, built by order of Louis XIV, and your entry ticket includes both attractions. You get to the fort by crossing one of two bridges. It has a 15th-century square tower and a 17th-century round tower that was used to light up the entrance to the port. The fortress was also used as a prison and, during WWII, as a storage centre for the German army’s munitions.

Musée Des Dock Romains

A 12-minute walk takes you to this museum which showcases artefacts from the Roman occupation of France. Interestingly, it has been built on the site of a Roman commercial warehouse, discovered during WWII. Highlights of the museum include dolia, massive ceramic jars which held 2,000 litres of wine or olive oil and remains of the warehouse. There are also Greek artefacts on display, including amphora, because Marseille was a Greek settlement before the Romans occupied the country.

By now you will be ready for lunch and there are a few restaurants in the area including La Piscine, a Mediterranean restaurant, and Le Coin Provencal.

Day 1, morning - marseille Tour Map

Afternoon: The Old Port

Le Vieux Port de Marseille is the first stop of your afternoon exploration and is just an eight-minute walk from the Musee Des Dock Romains. It is a historic port as it has been trading for 2,600 years. There are three quays on three sides of the port with 18th-century former warehouses now housing cafes, bars, and fish restaurants. Most have outdoor seating so you can gaze at the boats in the harbour, nowadays pleasure boats because industry has moved to the modern ports in the north of the city. However, there are still some small fishing boats which bring back fresh catch for the local restaurants.

Abbaye Saint Victor

A 12-minute walk takes you to this abbey, which is steeped in history going back 1,600 years, making it one of the oldest abbeys in Europe. It was founded in the 5th century by Jean Cassien close to the tombs of the Marseille martyrs, including Saint Victor de Marseille. The abbey was destroyed by the Saracens but was rebuilt in the 11th century, fortified in the 14th century, and secularised in the 18th century. Climb the tower for magnificent views and explore the beautiful chapels as well as the crypts and sarcophagi. It is a mixture of styles with the nave being Romanesque and the side aisles and choir Gothic.

Basilica of Notre Dame De La Garde

The basilica is a 22-minute walk from the abbey and the climb is steep. However, there is a tourist road train that goes up the 150-metre climb. It was built in the Neo-Byzantine style in the 19th century. There is an amazing gold statue of Mary with the baby Jesus on top of the tower, supposedly put there to watch over the maritime community. It is not surprising that the views from the basilica are amazing as it towers over the city.

Day 1, afternoon - marseille Tour Map

Day 2

Morning: Boulevard Longchamp

Start your second day on Boulevard Longchamp which is an upmarket street with many beautiful 19th-century houses and ancient plane trees. It is a step back in time to an elegant and prosperous age.

Longchamp Palais

You will come to Longchamp Palais along the Boulevard, and it is a must-visit. It is a magnificent palace that now houses the Musee des Beaux-Arts and the Musée d'Histoire Naturelle de Marseille. The art museum showcases paintings, sculptures, and drawings from the 16th to 19th centuries. The Natural History Museum is home to around 83,000 zoological specimens, 200,000 botanical specimens, 8,000 mineral samples, and 81,000 fossils dating back millions of years. The park surrounding the palace is well worth exploring as it is beautiful and has been listed as a notable garden by the French Ministry of Culture. Highlights are the French Garden and the English Garden with winding pathways and ancient trees. The palace looks particularly spectacular at night when it is illuminated.

Marche Des Capuchins

A fifteen-minute walk takes you to this lovely market selling fresh vegetables, fruit, herbs, and fish. It is a great place to mix with the locals and if you are staying in self-catering accommodation, the best place to buy fresh food. The market is surrounded by Middle Eastern and North African Restaurants, butchers’ shops, fishmongers, and spice shops. There are also shops selling coloured textiles from Africa, prayer mats and cheap sets of boules, among other things. The market is the best place to buy merguez, a spicy sausage and Mediterranean fish which is less expensive than at the old Port. You can also buy many different types of olives and semolina-based flatbreads. In the back streets, there are shops which sell Indian saris, African spices, and Chinese groceries. You can stop in one of the cafes to enjoy a cup of mint tea and a delicious pastry. Alternatively, as it will be lunchtime you can sample a meal in one of the eateries surrounding the market.

Day 2, morning - marseille Tour Map

Afternoon: Cours Julien

After lunch, head to Cours Julien in the centre of the city. It is an eight-minute walk from the market and is one of the liveliest areas in Marseille. It used to be the place to buy fruit and vegetables but is now full of artists, art galleries, and street art. There are interesting shops and designer boutiques, as well as the La Licome Soap factory which is open from Monday to Saturday. On Wednesday mornings there is a farmer’s organic market and on Tuesdays, there is beautiful organ music in the Church of Notre-Dame Du Mont.

SOMA

One minute away is SOMA, founded in 2020 to showcase visual arts performances, music, dance, and cinema. Artists are welcomed in residence and a programme is created around them which includes exhibitions, concerts, and other performances. Look online to see what is on while you are in the city.

La Plaine Square

This lively square is seven minutes from Cours Julien. It is a trendy part of the city with fashionable bars, bookshops, designer shops, cafes, and restaurants. On Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, there is a market.

Day 2, afternoon - marseille Tour Map

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Other Things To Do In Marseille

• Le Panier: Le Panier is just north of the Old Port and is the site of the Ancient Greek colony of Massalia. It has been inhabited since 600 BC. Until recently, it was one of the poorest areas in the city and was where many immigrants settled from as far back as the 17th century. However, recently it has become trendy with fashionable boutiques and craft shops as well as an eclectic mixture of street art.

• Strade Velodrome: The Strade Velodrome is the home stadium of the football club, Olympique de Marseille. It had a massive refurbishment in the runup to Euro 2016 and is now the largest football club stadium in the country, with a capacity of 67,000 spectators. The undulating roof protects it from the Mistral winds, so it is a comfortable place to sit and watch a game. You can learn about the club on an hour-long tour, visit the dressing rooms, the highest point on the terraces, and go pitch side. It is a must for football lovers.

• Cite Radieuse: This is an apartment building that was constructed between 1947 and 1952 with the idea of transferring a whole community with amenities into an 18-floor concrete building, an idea of Swiss architect Le Corbusier and copied all over Europe. However, it wasn’t a success and only around 1,000 people currently live here. You can take a tour of the building and see one of the apartments which is no longer inhabited. You are also taken to the rooftop terrace which has wonderful views of the city. Together with Corbusier’s other buildings, it is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• L’Estaque: L’Estaque is a northern suburb of Marseille and was formerly a fishing village loved by artists such as Cezanne and other 19th-century painters. Cezanne painted many pieces of art there during different seasons. Another artist who loved the village was Marseille-born Adolphe Monticelli who created many paintings here. There is a museum you can visit housing many of his paintings. Go to the old port where you can buy traditional snacks from the stalls, such as panisses, which are chips made with chickpea flour, and chichi fregi, a simple doughnut fried until it puffs up and then sprinkled with lots of sugar.

• Prado Seaside Park: Despite Marseille having 42 km of coast, there didn’t used to be many beaches. However, in the mid-1970s a large beach was created in Prado with shingle and sand. It covers 26 hectares and stretches for 3.5 km. It has become the most popular beach in Marseille with locals and tourists alike. An alternative is the Corbiere beaches in the north, just past L’Estaque. They too are man-made.

• L'Ombrière de Norman Foster: Situated at the Vieux-Port, L'Ombrière is a modern architectural installation designed by Sir Norman Foster. This large reflective canopy provides shade and creates intriguing visual effects, mirroring the activities and scenery below.

• Palais du Pharo, once built for Napoleon III, now invites visitors to wander its gardens and admire panoramic sea views. The grand building, set atop a hill, is used as a conference centre today, but its elegant grounds remain open to all, offering one of the best spots to take in Marseille’s coastline.

• Musée Cantini is a hidden gem for lovers of modern and contemporary art. Housed in an elegant 18th-century mansion, this museum showcases a collection of 20th-century masterpieces, including works by Picasso, Miró, and Kandinsky. The exhibitions change regularly, offering a fresh perspective on avant-garde movements. With its quiet, refined atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to escape the city’s bustle and immerse yourself in artistic creativity.

• La Vieille Charité: Tucked away in Le Panier, La Vieille Charité is a peaceful retreat, its arched cloisters and domed chapel now home to museums and cultural exhibitions that celebrate the city’s diverse heritage. Originally built in the 17th century as an almshouse, this historic complex is a haven of art and history, offering visitors a chance to step back in time.

• Opéra de Marseille: A night at the Opéra de Marseille is an elegant affair, where the grandeur of its 18th-century façade is matched by performances of timeless classics. With its impressive acoustics and a programme featuring opera, ballet, and concerts, it continues to be a cultural landmark in the heart of the city.

• Les Docks Village: For a taste of Marseille’s modern charm, Les Docks Village blends industrial heritage with contemporary boutiques, lively cafés, and creative spaces. Originally a 19th-century maritime warehouse, it has been transformed into a stylish shopping and leisure destination while retaining its historic character.

• The Monument Aux Morts Des Orients stands solemnly along the Corniche, a tribute to those who fell in distant campaigns, with the Mediterranean stretching endlessly behind it. A place of quiet reflection, it honours soldiers from Marseille who lost their lives in conflicts in the East during World War I.

• Rent A Boat: A lovely day out is to rent a boat and visit places like the Frioul Islands and the Calanques de Marseille. However, you do need to have a permit allowing you to skipper boats at sea. If you don’t have one, it is possible to hire a boat with a professional skipper. This is a very popular activity in the high season so book well in advance.

• Les Goudes: Les Goudes is a beautiful fishing village to the south of the city but is still considered part of greater Marseille. It is in the National Park of the Calanques so is protected from new building works. It is like stepping back into the past with authentic fishing houses, craggy hillsides, and beautiful views. You can go for a hike or take advantage of the beach and the clear waters. However, there is little shade so bring a hat and sunscreen as the temperature can reach 35 C in the summer.

• Guided E-Bike Tour: A great way to acquaint yourself with the city is to go on a guided e-bike tour. It lasts for around three hours, and you get to see the highlights of the city and learn where everything is. The guide will also entertain you with stories about the city.

• Valon Des Auffres: Valon des Auffres is a lovely fishing port close to the Corniche Kennedy an situated between two cliffs. There are lovely fishermen’s cottages and brightly coloured boats to be admired. There are also lots of little creeks to explore. You can walk there from the Vieux Port in around 25 minutes or there is a bus.

• Le Cabaret Aléatoire: Le Cabaret Aleatoire is a concert hall and music club. It holds around 150 shows each year with room for 900 spectators. Music styles include electro, hip-hop, rock, soul, and funk. If you attend a concert, you are able to use other facilities at the venue including a skate park, library, and restaurant.

• La Corniche JF Kennedy: This beautiful promenade stretches for 3.7 km from Catalans Beach near the Old Port to the Prado Beaches. All along the way are stunning 19th mansions as well as some gourmet restaurants which serve Provencal dishes. This is the area where you should try bouillabaisse as it is the best. There are spectacular views from the promenade towards the Frioul archipelago.

• Food Tour: Many companies offer food tours of Marseille which are a great way to discover different Provencal dishes. You could get to taste panisses which are deep-fried chickpea cakes, poulpe which is octopus, charcuterie, and pastis, an anise-flavoured spirit. However, Marseille has many immigrants so you will also get to try North African and Middle Eastern dishes.

• Brewing And Beer Tasting: Brewery visits and tastings are also on offer in Marseille during which you will visit three micro-breweries. Taste four very different local beers and visit a couple of trendy bars.

• Pavillion Southway: This is a 19th-century house belonging to artist, historian, and curator, Emmanuelle Luciani. It is located in Mazargues, a district of Marseille, and in addition to Emanuelle’s artwork, it showcases the work of local artists. Emanuelle rents out a room so you can immerse yourself in art.

• Château Pastré is located about 7 km southwest of Marseille’s city centre. This grand 19th-century estate, surrounded by lush parkland, offers a peaceful retreat from the city. Nestled between the sea and the hills, it was once the residence of the wealthy Pastré family and now serves as a cultural venue. The 120-hectare park is perfect for a relaxing stroll or a picnic, with panoramic views of the Mediterranean.

Day Trips From Marseille

• Calanques National Park: The eastern and southern suburbs of Marseilleare next to the Calanques National Park, a place of great beauty. The Calanques are enormous white limestone cliffs which you can enjoy either by hiking or by taking a boat trip. The hike is difficult so don’t attempt it unless you are experienced. It takes 11 hours, so it is not for the faint of heart, but the scenery and views are amazing. If this is not for you, take a cruise from the Old Port or experience a guided kayaking tour. The Calanques look amazing from out at sea.

• Cassis: Cassis is one of the most attractive and interesting coastal towns in the area. It is about 32 km from Marseille and is a historic port town. It once attracted artists who created many paintings of the town and of the views of the nearby mountains. Now it is a hotspot for visitors from Marseille, including both locals and tourists. Trains travel here from Marseille each hour. There are some interesting historical attractions close by such as a 14th-century chateau, the Fontaine des Quatre Nations, and the Calanques National Park.

• Chateau D’If: The Chateau D’If is a former prison and fortress on the smallest island of the Frioul archipelago. You can get there by boat from the Old Port in Marseille. It was built between 1524 and 1531 to defend the coastline but it didn’t see any battles. There is a restaurant in the fortress so you can have lunch there.

• Avignon: Avignon is 102 km from Marseille, but it only takes 35 minutes by TGV train. It is a historic city and there is plenty to keep you occupied for a day. It was where the popes of the Roman Catholic Church were located during the 14th century. Don’t miss visiting the splendid Palais des Popes where they lived, and which is the largest Gothic palace in Europe. Avignon was named the European Capital of Culture in the year 2000 and you will find many art galleries, museums, cinemas, and theatres in the city. It holds many festivals, the most famous being the Avignon Theatre Festival in July.

• Aix-En-Provence: This beautiful city is only 29 km from Marseille and is well worth a day trip. It was once the capital of Provence and is still filled with elegance and style. It has so many fountains that it is called The City of Fountains. See how many you can find. The city is full of busy squares and amazing museums including the Musee Granet which showcases works by Cezanne. There are many eateries for you to have lunch including stylish restaurants and cosy bistros so you can easily spend the day here.

• The Luberon Villages: These villages are around 70 km north of Marseille and are beautiful and picturesque, with wonderful views as they are perched on hilltops. In addition, you will find vineyards and lavender fields in the area so you can stock up on delicious wines and lavender perfume and soap.

• Frioul Islands: These four islands, Pomegues, Ratonneau, If, and Tiboulon are four km from the coast of Marseille and can be reached by boat from the Old Port. There is plenty of flora and fauna to be seen on these islands, and you can hike and swim. You can have a drink or a meal on the islands, but they tend towards the more expensive side.

• Arles: Arles is a city 90 m northwest of Marseille. There is plenty to do here for at least a day or even two. Its roots lie in Ancient Rome, and you can visit the Roman arena and the theatre. You will find many art galleries and museums telling you about the history of the area. Van Gogh lived in Arles for one year and there are two centres telling you about his life, though unfortunately, you can’t see many of his paintings as they are showcased in other galleries throughout the world.

Things To Do With Kids In Marseille

• Prado Beaches: The Prado Beaches which we have mentioned before are kid friendly. They stretch for three km so there is plenty of space for playing on the beach and swimming. There are also recreational facilities for children to enjoy, including volleyball courts, a skating rink, and a climbing wall. There are also food stalls and restaurants in the area so you can easily spend a day here.

• Ecopark Adventures - Marseille Saint Jérôme: The Ecopark is five km from the city centre and is a tree-climbing adventure. There are eight routes, and your kids can climb from branch to branch using safe lifelines. The most exciting route has a zipline with a freefall of 170 metres. If you also have younger children, there is a mini park for them to enjoy.

• Le Bois Des Lutins, Peypin: This is an adventure park for younger children as it has been inspired by elves. Here you will find pedal cars, child-friendly zip lines, water slides, and tree-climbing trails. Special events are held during school holidays.

• Marseille Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus: Kids will love the hop-on-hop-off bus as they can ride up top and see everything in the open air. You will enjoy it as well as you can get off at many of the sights whenever you want and can then get back on a bus. You can get a one or two-day ticket and the bus is available from early morning until late afternoon.

• Borely Park: Just south of Marseille is this beautiful garden of 17 hectares where you and your family can rent bikes, take a boat ride on an artificial lake, and enjoy a stroll on a walking trail. There are also playgrounds for younger children and a castle for all of you which teaches you about ceramics, fashion, and decorative art.

• Petit Train De Marseille: Younger children will love this road train that runs through the main tourist areas of Marseille and along the coast. There is interesting commentary from a knowledgeable guide which will help you to decide where you want to spend more time. Book in advance as it is a popular attraction.

• OK Corral: The OK Corral is the largest amusement park in the south of France. It is just a 30-minute drive from Marseille and has enough attractions to keep you entertained for the day. It is based on the American Wild West and offers rides and horse-riding shows.

• Musée D'Histoire De Marseille: This museum is situated on an archaeological site near to the Old Port and teaches you about the history of the city. Children will love it as many of the exhibits are interactive.

• Musee De Illusions: Illusions amaze both the old and young so the whole family will have fun here. Nothing is as it seems. Enjoy optical illusions, mirror games, and sensory challenges, walk on a ceiling or defy all the laws of gravity. There is nothing that is impossible.

Wineries Near Marseille

• Domaine du Paternel: Just 20 km from Marseille (around a 30-minute drive), this family-run vineyard in the heart of the Cassis AOC is one of the region’s most renowned wineries. Specialising in white wines made from Marsanne and Clairette, it is known for its crisp, mineral-rich flavours that capture the essence of the Mediterranean terroir. With a strong focus on sustainability and tradition, visitors can enjoy an intimate tasting experience while taking in stunning views of the Mediterranean coastline.

• Château La Coste: Just 40 km from Marseille (around a 50-minute drive), this exceptional estate in the Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence AOC is far more than just a vineyard. A seamless blend of wine, contemporary art, and architecture, it features striking installations by world-renowned artists and architects like Renzo Piano and Tadao Ando. Producing organic rosé, red, and white wines, the estate offers wine tastings, vineyard tours, and an immersive art walk, making it a one-of-a-kind experience for wine enthusiasts and culture lovers alike.

• Domaine Terre De Mistral: This winery is 40 km northeast of Marseille and was set up by two families who love Provence. It not only produces wine but olive oil as well, and has a gourmet restaurant. There is a choice of three tours. The first is a tour of the vineyards, the cellar, and a tasting of five wines. The next is a tasting of wines and of olive oil. The third is a meal in the restaurant based on Mediterranean cuisine.

• La Dona Tigana: Founded in 1998 by former footballer Jean Tigana, this winery near Cassis spans 14 hectares of vineyards. It specialises in white and rosé wines, reflecting the unique coastal terroir. Visitors can enjoy a guided cellar tour with a tasting or opt for a simpler three-wine tasting session. Located approximately 25 km (35 minutes by car) from Marseille, it’s an easy and worthwhile trip for wine enthusiasts.

• Domaine de la Bégude: This winery is 50 km east of Marseille and covers 40 hectares with the vines planted 410 metres above the Mediterranean, the highest point in the area. You can do a simple tasting, a tour of the vineyards in a 4 x 4 jeep followed by a tasting, a gourmet tour with a tasting accompanied by tasting boards, and a picnic lunch with a tasting.

Golf Courses Near Marseille

• Bastide De La Salette:  This golf course is 13 km east of Marseille and offers a course with 18 holes. Obstacles include water features, buttes, rocks, and bunkers. The golf club has a restaurant open to visitors, serving traditional French cuisine. Set within a peaceful, wooded landscape, the course provides scenic views of the Marseille countryside. A driving range and practice facilities are also available, making it a great spot for both seasoned players and those looking to refine their game.

• Golf d'Aix-Marseille: Just 30 minutes from Marseille, Golf d’Aix-Marseille is one of the region’s most prestigious courses. This 18-hole, par-72 layout in Les Milles combines scenic fairways with technical challenges, featuring well-placed bunkers and fast greens. A favourite for regional tournaments, it offers top facilities, including a clubhouse with a terrace and restaurant, a driving range, and a pro shop, making it a perfect golfing escape.

• Golf de la Cabre d’Or: Just 25 minutes from Marseille, Golf de la Cabre d’Or is a scenic 18-hole, par-72 course in Cabriès, offering stunning views of Montagne Sainte-Victoire. Designed to challenge all skill levels, it features undulating fairways, water hazards, and well-placed bunkers. The course blends seamlessly into the Provençal landscape, with excellent year-round playing conditions. Facilities include a clubhouse with a terrace and restaurant, a driving range, and a pro shop, making it an ideal spot for both serious golfers and those looking for a relaxed round in a picturesque setting.

• Golf d'Allauch:  This 9-hole course is just 10 minutes' drive from Marseille's centre. It also offers a driving range, equipment rental, tennis, a swimming pool, and a restaurant. Set against the backdrop of the Garlaban hills, the course provides scenic views and a mix of open fairways and technical holes. The clubhouse features a terrace, making it a pleasant spot to relax after a round.

Racecourse In Marseille

• Hippodrome Marseille Borely: This horse racing course was opened in 1860. It is seven km south of Marseille, right by the sea at the foot of Borely Castle. It presents both galloping and trotting races, and there is a track for each. It is flat racing, with no jumps. Make a day of it and have lunch at the restaurant.

Where To Eat In Marseille

Marseille is a food lover's dream. With a melting pot of cultures, cuisines are varied and delicious. Situated by the Mediterranean, restaurants serving fresh seafood are to be found, mainly overlooking the sea. There are Michelin-starred restaurants, cosy brasseries, and patisseries serving mouth-watering cakes and pastries.

Michelin-Starred

• AM Par Alexandre Mazzia: This restaurant serves innovative and contemporary cuisine, fusing French and African tastes. There isn’t a written menu but instead tasting selections ranging from 10 to 30 small dishes. The kitchen is open so you can watch the chefs at work.

Seafood

• La Boite A Sardine: Decorated in maritime style, La Boite a Sardine serves creative dishes such as sea anemone beignet and sardine balls. The food is outstanding nd reasonably priced Book in advance as it gets busy.

• L’Epuisette: This restaurant is in a lovely position by the sea on a stone peninsula with magnificent views. It serves a seafood-focused fixed-price menu from which you can choose five, six, seven, or nine courses. Dishes include aspic of rockfish soup, line-caught Mediterranean swordfish, and beetroot ravioli with horseradish sauce and dill.

Bistros and Brasseries

• Ourea: This is a modern bistro serving exciting Mediterranean-inspired food, paired with organic wines. They use local produce as much as possible and dishes include aubergine and toasted brioche to start, freshly caught swordfish for the main course, and pastry filled with plums and sweet cream for dessert.

• Brasserie Les Fenêtres: This Brasserie is in the InterContinental Hotel Dieu and offers southern French and Provencal dishes. Try the black tomato gazpacho or the sea bass ceviche. There is a breakfast menu with vegan, vegetarian, lactose-free, and gluten-free choices. A good selection of organic and local produce is used in the dishes.

International Restaurants

• Chez Etienne: This Italian restaurant is located in the historic Le Panier district and serves traditional Italian cuisine. You can enjoy wood oven-baked pizzas, cuttlefish prepared with garlic and parsley, and steaks.

• Chez Yassine: This popular Tunisian restaurant started off as a snack bar but has developed into a trendy restaurant. It serves traditional Tunisian fare such as ojja stew, merguez sausage, and couscous with lamb or fish.

Patisserie

• Patisserie Sylvan Depuichaffray: This patisserie is both a shop and a tearoom. It serves a delicious selection of cakes and pastries such as macarons, cheesecake, fruit tarts, and all sorts of chocolate-based desserts. For something different, try the fig biscuit with anise caramel cream, pear confit, and vanilla mousse.

Where To Stay In Marseille

• InterContinental Marseille - Hotel Dieu, An IHG Hotel: This five-star hotel is in a beautiful 18th-century building, 350 metres from the Old Port. The decor is contemporary and stylish throughout the hotel and in the rooms. There is a brasserie serving traditional dishes and a bar offering an excellent range of cocktails. At extra charge, you can use the Clarins spa which has a sauna, hammams, sunbeds, a gym, and an indoor swimming pool. Wi-Fi access is available.

• Grand Hotel Beauvau Marseille Vieux Port-MGallery: The rooms in this four-star hotel have beautiful Emperor Napoleon III furniture. There is air-conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, a TV, and a large private bathroom with bathrobes, slippers, and toiletries in the rooms. Breakfast is Provencal style prepared with many local products. Hot and cold snacks are available from room service anytime day or night. The hotel has a bar which overlooks the Old Port and the Mediterranean, offering beautiful views.

• Mercure Marseille Centre Vieux Port: This four-star hotel is a five-minute walk from the Old Port. The rooms have free Wi-Fi access, air conditioning, a radio, a private bathroom, and room service. A full breakfast buffet is available each morning and you can enjoy a drink and light snack at the bar all day and evening. Other facilities include a gym.

• Ibis Marseille Centre Euromed: The Ibis has been completely renovated so you can expect stylish and modern rooms. They have free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a TV, and a private bathroom. The Joliette restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine seven days a week and offers a buffet breakfast every day. Reception is open 24 hours a day and gives out free newspapers. It is a three-star hotel.

• Hotel Belle Vue Vieux Port: This three-star hotel is in the Old Port area and is eco-friendly. It has views of the Notre Dame de la Garde and Saint Jean Fort. The rooms have air conditioning, a TV, free Wi-Fi, and are ensuite. There is a continental breakfast on offer each morning and the restaurant serves traditional cuisine from southern France the rest of the day. There is also a cocktail bar and newspapers are available every morning.

Best Time To Visit Marseille

Summer is the best time to visit Marseille if you want to enjoy the beach as the sea is very warm, the beaches offer outdoor action, and people party the night away. However, it can be crowded, and it can be very hot, reaching 35C. It is uncomfortable if you have come to sightsee rather than lie on the beach. If this is your plan, April, May, September, and October are the best times to visit museums and cathedrals. The weather is still warm, but not burning hot and if you do want to swim, the sea is warm enough. November to March isn’t a good time to visit as the bitterly cold Mistral wind often whips through the city.

Festivals

• Good Air Festival: Le Bon Air Festival is held in May for two nights. Around 50 artists from different backgrounds perform a variety of music, including techno, trance, hard dance, EBM, house, dance hall, and minimal.

• Marsatac: This festival is held in June for three days and is non-stop partying on Parc Borely lawn. It is one of the biggest festivals in southern France and features famous French hip hop, EBM and electro artists.

• Freestyle Cup: This festival is held for six days in June in Borely Beach. There are water sports, like SUP, windsurfing, and kayaking, yoga, breakdance, and skateboarding, all enjoyed with electronic and house music.

• Festival De Marseille: This festival is the highlight of the year in Marseille. It is held in June and July and has a programme of concerts, dance performances, cinema, and talks. Both famous and emerging artists perform at 15 venues throughout the city including theatres, gardens, and heritage sites.

• Jardin Sonore: This is four days of music, workshops, and animations held in Vitrollais Parc in July. The music includes rock, indie, pop, and afro punk.

• Delta Festival: Music festivals abound in France, and this is another one which is held in September. It takes place by the Prado beaches and features well-known artists.

• Fiesta Des Suds: This is an enormous festival which takes place on a Saturday and Sunday in October. There are 300 artists from 20 countries, 35 concerts and 45 hours of music. It is on the Esplanade du J4, with an after-party at the Dock des Suds on Saturday night. On Sunday, there is a parade of 100 Camargue horses at the Old Port.