Vieux-Port (Old Port)
Ideal for: first visit, couples, families
The historic centre, departure point for boats and close to the main sights. The most practical choice for a first stay.
Marseille
An authentic port city, gateway to the Calanques and Provence.
Plan your stay in Marseille
Best areas to stay in Marseille
Le Panier
Ideal for: couples, heritage lovers
The city's oldest district: sloping lanes, workshops and small squares just above the Old Port.
Cours Julien and Notre-Dame-du-Mont
Ideal for: solo, budget, nightlife
An alternative area full of street art, bars and small restaurants, well connected to the centre by metro.
Endoume and the Corniche
Ideal for: couples, sea lovers
By the sea, more residential and quiet, with small harbours such as the Vallon des Auffes. Less central: plan on buses or walking.
Practical info about Marseille
Marseille is a large, spread-out city: choose your area according to your priorities (historic centre or seaside). Saint-Charles station is linked to the Old Port by metro.
For the Calanques, check access conditions before you go: Sugiton and Pierres Tombées coves require a free booking on some summer days, and the hills may close when the wildfire risk is high. See the official Calanques National Park website.
What to see in Marseille
- The Old Port and its fish market;
- Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde, the “Bonne Mère”, overlooking the city;
- Le Panier, the oldest district;
- the Mucem and Fort Saint-Jean;
- the Calanques, on foot or by boat (some require booking in summer), and the Château d’If.
All our tips in Travel in France.